Life can sometimes feel like you're chasing after a whale. It’s giant, intimidating, and you have no idea how to chase it. Stress, life problems, and any other trouble you're facing can prevent you from finding your goal in life. This is where a counselor comes in. A New Bedford-based counselor help. 

New Bedford is known as the Whaling City. In life, we are all chasing after our own metaphorical Moby Dick, and a counselor can help you find it by giving you advice and narrowing down how you can catch it. Speak to a therapist and see how they can help. 

This is Sharon Dinges's avatar and link to their profile

Sharon Dinges

Offering therapy in MA
License: M.Ed.,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepression
13 years of experience

Hi there! My name is Sharon and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts. I have been working in the mental health field for over ten years. I have experience working on an inpatient psychiatric unit, as a crisis clinician in the emergency rooms and in the community, and as an individual outpatient therapist in a mental health clinic. I have worked with clients of all ages and with a variety of diagnoses. I have experience working with mood disorders like Depression, Anxiety, and Bipolar Disorder, and I have also worked with many people who have serious and persistent mental illnesses like Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Disorder, and other psychotic disorders. I enjoy working with clients who have addiction issues, as well. I like to use a solution-focused approach in my counseling work and tend to be pretty straight-forward. Therapy that is person-centered is my goal, so being honest and being genuine are also things that are important to me. Counseling with me is always judgment-free, and establishing a mutual respect is something that I strive for early in our interactions. I think that for a therapeutic relationship to work, there needs to be trust, and so helping you to trust me will be an important task. Asynchronous messaging through the BetterHelp platform is my preferred method of communication. I have limited live sessions available on a weekly basis for people who feel that they need live sessions to communicate. I am always willing to do a phone or video session to get started (so that you can be comfortable and confident that you are talking to a real person), as well, but I prefer to maintain communication through messages a majority of the time. Presently, I have availability for live sessions on most Sundays and on one or two afternoons/evenings during the week. I look forward to getting to know you better and to getting to work on the things that are important to you! Setting goals will be critical to our success, and I am eager to be your biggest cheerleader throughout the process. I am glad you have made the decision to seek some support at this time, and I hope that through working together, you can get your life to where you want it to be!

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This is Catherine Eccles 's avatar and link to their profile

Catherine Eccles

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

Hello! I'm Catherine (she/her), and I'm a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Massachusetts. I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Mount Holyoke College, and my Master's Degree in Social Work from New York University. I have over 14 years of direct clinical experience and have worked in various settings, including a secure residential program for adolescent girls, group homes for adults with major mental illness, and outreach for clients living independently in the community. I absolutely love providing services remotely, through BetterHelp. My background is in Psychiatric Rehabilitation, which means I'll help you build skills and access resources to help you work through your current circumstances. It's important to note that you'll take the lead in our work - I'm here for support and guidance, but you're in the driver's seat. You decide what we work on, and how we do it. I can give you concrete tools to help you start working towards specific goals today. At the same time, if you'd rather just talk, we can do that too. Clients have said that they appreciate my willingness to help, my abilities in providing help, and doing so with a healthy sense of humor. In summary, I will strive to help you by providing empathy, reminding you of your strengths, and helping you acquire skills and access resources to handle life's curve balls. Let's get started!

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This is Ronald Desnoyers's avatar and link to their profile

Ronald Desnoyers

Offering therapy in MA
License: MSW, LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsBipolar disorderDepressionCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the States of Maine and Massachusetts. I am authorized to provide diagnostic and treatment services to adults, 18 years and older, including the aging population, 65 and older. I have held this level of expertise for over 25 years. I am also recognized , and certified to provide these services under the federal Medicare program. My practice has been primarily at the acute hospital level of care and this has included: in the emergency room setting providing evaluation and crisis treatment services; in the acute care medical setting in a consultant role providing evaluation and treatment services to inpatients presenting with significant non-medical health problems; and in acute psychiatric care units as member of the Multidisciplinary Treatment Team of psychiatrists, nurses and other clinical therapist, providing evaluation and treatment services to both patients and their families. I have also specialized in treatment services to persons with problems of addiction and have provided treatment in the acute care detoxification setting, and also outpatient treatment services, including court ordered, group treatment to men and women. I have enjoyed considerable success in these various treatment settings, and I feel this is primarily due to my approach to treatment. Early on in my career I settled into the client centered Rogerion technique of treatment developed by Carl Rogers in the 60's. This is a non-judgemental approach, and emphasizes the focus of treatment is always where the client "is at" during any point. The process is to first in understand what is happening for them at the time of my intervention, and then in providing ongoing support and guidance based on extensive experience, through the treatment process. I have natural interest in people and sincere desire to be in a helping role towards the patients/clients that I become involved with. For me there is a certain spiritual element to my work, and a personal benefit that I receive in being able to helping others to improve their quality of life as a result their work and my assistance.

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Toni Aiduk

Offering therapy in MA
License: MA,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker whose work focuses on you and the place in your life where spiritual health and mental health meet. There’s lots of help for our minds and bodies, but sometimes we forget the part our souls play in making positive changes. If you are feeling some kind of way about your life experience, shame, or guilt over past life choices, and want a safe place to work through stuff- you don’t have to do it alone. I am here to walk with you, to support your hope for change and help in the middle of all that's happening, all that you are feeling. Let’s get to the root of what you're feeling and figure out the best practical support and real-life solutions that will help you find a way forward with God. You can experience healing and transformation for a hurting heart and become the person God created you to be. As we work together around relationships, identity, your experience of life…whatever is troubling you now, our time together will always be both clinically and biblically informed. Every therapist has their own personality or “style” of interacting – I am direct, solution-focused, use humor and am committed to caring well for you and your unique experiences.

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This is Dr. Mary Barlow's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Mary Barlow

Offering therapy in MA
License: PhD,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

Hi! Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I am a licensed clinical social worker. My personal mission is to help others find their path to happiness and define what happiness looks like for them; everyone is different. I followed my passion for supporting others by pursuing a BS in Psychology at the University of Houston and an MSW at Walden University. I also hold a Ph.D. in Human and Social Services. I have worked in several clinical settings in nonprofits. I have experience in counseling couples, individuals (adults and young adults), and facilitating groups. I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and a client-centered approach. It is so wonderful that you are taking the next step towards change to improve your well-being and mental health. My goal is to help you identify and achieve your goals by providing a safe, authentic, and supportive individualized therapy experience. Please let me know how I may support you. Thankfully, Dr. Elizabeth Barlow

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This is Dr. Sandra Diaz's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Sandra Diaz

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida and Massachusetts with 20+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Julie Barzal

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with Supervisory designation in Ohio and a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Massachusetts with over 6 years of professional therapy experience. I have experience helping adult and adolescent clients with issues involving LGBTQ-IA concerns, stress, anxiety, depression, anger management, low self esteem/self confidence, grief, blended family concerns, Substance use disorders and family management of SUD disorders. In practice, I utilize many forms of therapy, inclusive of cognitive behavioral therapy , solution focused therapy, problem solving techniques, motivational interviewing, Affirmation and Commitment therapy, client centered therapy and strengths based therapy. I have always been passionate about helping and advocating for others and have always strived to be the positive change I wish to see in the world. I have experience in diagnosing DSMV mental health disorders, providing direct counseling and telehealth therapy, crisis and case management services with adolescents and adults. From a personal perspective, I embody empathy, engagement, advocacy, a tireless work ethic, active listening skills, critical thinking skills, cultural humility, gender and identity inclusion, and a client centered, strengths based focus that strives to always meet my clients where they are at. I want my clients to know that their time with me provides an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started and making your mental health a priority. I am mindful that each person’s story is unique, reinforcing the importance for meeting clients where they are in their own personal mental health journey. It is my hope that our work together will be challenging, insightful and empowering because YOU are worth it. Fun Facts: I am left-handed but am ambidextrous. I became a mom as a teenager. I did not attend college until I was 40 years old (earned Bachelors and Masters ) because I believe it is never too late to pursue your dreams.

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This is Isabel Villegas's avatar and link to their profile

Isabel Villegas

Offering therapy in MA
Trauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
23 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, parenting issues, depression, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Andrew Miller's avatar and link to their profile

Andrew Miller

Offering therapy in MA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
5 years of experience

Hello. My name is Andrew Miller, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Indiana. I earned my Bachelor's in Psychological Science At Ball State University in 2013, and my Master's of Social Work (MSW) at Indiana University of South Bend in 2016. I have 5 years of clinical experience in Northern Indiana, and received my LCSW in 2019. In 2023, I obtained my LICSW allowing me to serve clients in MA. I utilize an eclectic approach to counseling, including client-centered therapy, problem solving, empowerment approach, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, and Mindfulness. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I am always eager to learn new modalities and strategies to best serve the population, and am looking to become certified in Play Therapy. I always ensure my clients are comfortable in sharing their problems without feeling judged. I am a big fan of Star Wars, Marvel comics, Disney and literature. I also enjoy learning about philosophy and spirituality. I look forward to helping you become aware of yourself, and identify helpful resources you can use to be a fully functioning member of society.

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This is John Livick-Moses's avatar and link to their profile

John Livick-Moses

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am a fully licensed (LICSW) in Massachusetts with 4 (plus two years of internships) years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I also have a second masters in Theological Studies, and this has helped me be able to address spiritual needs on top of your psychological ones! I believe that you are the expert on your story and have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find counseling in New Bedford

Finding the best therapist close by in New Bedford can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in New Bedford. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in New Bedford, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in New Bedford or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater New Bedford area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of New Bedford, elsewhere in Bristol, or in the greater state of Massachusetts.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the New Bedford area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed New Bedford therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in New Bedford due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in New Bedford may not take health insurance, some in the state of Massachusetts may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Massachusetts you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in New Bedford, Massachusetts working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in New Bedford above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in New Bedford helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified New Bedford therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a New Bedford therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A New Bedford therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in MA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 02744 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a New Bedford counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A New Bedford licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in New Bedford, Massachusetts can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

New Bedford has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of New Bedford.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in New Bedford:

02740, 02741, 02742, 02744, 02745, 02746

Popular cities near New Bedford, MA

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