Jessica Short-Slack
Hello and welcome! What a wonderful and courageous step you have made! My name is Jessica Slack, I am a clinical therapist and a licensed master of social work (LMSW) through the state of Michigan. I acquired both my bachelors and masters of social work through the University of Michigan, and have been practicing as a counselor for individuals, couples, and families for the past 8 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including personality disorders, mood disorders (including bipolar disorder and depression), anxiety disorders, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, substance use and addiction, relationship issues, parenting problems, and career challenges. I have worked with victims of trauma and loss, as well as those struggling with impulsive behaviors, eating disorders, and problems managing anger. My therapy style is empathetic, validating, and encouraging, with a healthy mixture of solution-oriented, motivational, and change-based approaches. Balancing both acceptance and change, I encourage others to identify their personal goals, and work together to build their most authentic life. I use a holistic and strengths-based approach and a variety of therapeutic techniques and interventions tailored toward your unique strengths and needs. I have practiced a variety of treatment modalities, with my expertise being in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PET), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy. I also utilize solution-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing techniques. I utilize a mixture of theoretical approaches, with a foundation being in the holistic biopsychosocial approach. Integrating biological, psychological, and socio-cultural perspectives, I work toward determining and understanding behavior and cognitive processes as a result of a combination of biological processes, past experiences, and social-cultural norms. I focus on a variation of a strengths-based approach, mindfulness approach, and problem solving approach to develop insight, build skills and enhance mastery, and empower you to be most effective in solving problems and managing emotions. I believe in treating every individual with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and empowering against stigmatizing labels. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and joyful life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Therese Kaufman
Welcome! If you are here, you have probably decided its time to get some counseling. Life throws us situations we don't anticipate or have encountered before and we need help getting through. You are here because you or someone you care about is in pain. You have come to the right place. We have all had those times when we need someone besides family and friends to talk to. My name is Therese Kaufman and I earned my Masters in Social Work from Grand Valley State University. I have provided outpatient counseling services for all ages at a local outpatient clinic, worked as a behavioral health provider for Medicare funded clients, and I see all ages in my own private practice. People come to me for a variety of reasons: anxiety and depression, relationship problems, family issues, emotional and social struggles, rebuilding self-esteem, general life transitions, and grief and loss. I have had great success in helping individuals overcome their difficulties and unresolved issues that are affecting their day-to-day lives. I assist people in gaining insight as to what issues may be causing them anguish and making changes that are within their control. I am honored to have the opportunity to be part of someone's journey to healing. I like to address issues holistically, utilizing strategies such as mindfulness, mind/body activities such as yoga and walking, and healthy eating, healthy sleep hygiene. I offer safe, respectful and nonjudgmental support and a wealth of strategies to put in your 'toolbox". I look forward to meeting with you.
Regina Ambs
I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Michigan and New Jersey. I have over 12 years experience in working with children, adults, families and individuals (including the LGBT community) seeking support on a variety of levels. A few of my preferred theoretical approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solutions Based Counseling. However, I have found that tailoring a treatment plan to the specific needs and concerns of each person is important for progress. I have experience in working with clients in the areas of anxiety, depression, transitional life challenges, family systems and relational concepts. I look forward to working with you and appreciate and respect your decision to pursue and engage in this counseling experience!
Amy Matelic
I am a licensed Master’s Clinical Social Worker in Michigan and Nevada with over 20 years of experience working in the field of medicine and social work. I am a registered yoga teacher so I practice yoga and meditation for personal wellness. I have worked with clients with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, mood and thought disturbances. I have helped many people who have experienced legal, family, and financial problems. My therapeutic style is person centered and relationship based. I believe in treating people with kindness and empathy. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. I believe people have choices; you can choose to take a different path or not. My goal is not to judge you for who you are or who you want to become. I am a person centered therapist so what that means to you is I allow you to direct the treatment as you deem fit and necessary. I will not force you to do something you don't want to do or talk about. I respect a person's boundaries. I also practice mindfulness so what this to you is I don't always have the answers. I believe thoughts can come and go; they only have meaning unless we give them meaning. I am educated in addiction medicine. I have done research on weight issues and mental health. I have worked with people with substance abuse issues. I enjoy treating both children, adults and families. I enjoy happiness in my sessions and I also enjoy music. However if you are struggling, I will be there to support you and provide you a empathetic bedside manner. My goal is to make you feel better at the end of the session than when you came into it. However, at times that requires your participation and allowing yourself to feel enjoyment through positive communication. My goal is to listen and reflect. I like to keep things simple. I look forward to our journey! Are you ready to start it?
Angela VanSchoick
Congratulations on taking that first step, it's usually the hardest one to take. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in Michigan and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Colorado. I have over 14 years experience working with professionals dealing with life stressors and over 5 years providing support and coaching. A main focus in my treatment is establishing a therapeutic alliance with the client. I believe having a good connection helps facilitate effective counseling and provides the best outcomes. I am supportive, compassionate, and am present. I make sure to meet each individual where they are at and actively listen to and respect where they would like to see themselves in the future with the help of therapy. I have found that there are times when all of us need an ear to lean on - I am an expert at being that ear. There are areas of our lives that we may find we are stuck or just need to sound it out - and our family and friends have heard it so many times that they tend to agree with us, rather than provide new insights. My wish is to be able to provide those insights for you to break through whatever may be holding you back - be it work situations, self-concept issues, or clouded thinking. I have successfully used cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), emotional freedom techniques (EFT), and self-assessments and questioning to help others move through blocks and obtain greater clarity in their lives.
Marcia Blake
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 15 years of experience helping people navigate the difficult seasons of life. I have experience in group and individual counseling in residential, community mental health, and private practice settings. I place a high value on rapport building and strongly believe that each client is an expert on themselves. I have a wide range of skills helping adolescents and adults with issues such as depression, bipolar, generalized anxiety, grief and loss, borderline personality disorder, trauma, school related issues, adjustment and substance use disorders. I use an eclectic approach that includes CBT, DBT, solution-focused, strengths-based, and motivational interviewing strategies. These approaches can be complemented with creative techniques such as using poetry, journaling, music, and art! My approach involves expanding your self-awareness, unraveling those negative core beliefs that shape your worldview and influence your mental health. Together, we'll embark on a journey to understand your history, identify triggers, and develop practices that pave the way for a better version of yourself. Reach out today to get started!
Michael Kubiak
I am licensed in Michigan with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Susan Russell
I am licensed in Michigan with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am here to help you help yourself. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Joan Brown
I am licensed in Michigan with 50 years of professional work experience as a Registered Nurse and Licensed Masters Social Worker. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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.
Kristen Gennety
I am licensed in Michigan with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence, as well as depression and ADHD. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment that suits their strengths and is tailored to their needs. I believe humor and personal strengths are crucial to the therapy process, and strive to create a compassionate and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. You know your experience best, and I am here to help you in the effort for change. Taking the first step to reach out for therapy can be extremely hard, so I appreciate you taking the chance and look forward to speaking!
How to find a therapist for counseling in Akron
Finding the best therapist close by in Akron 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 with therapists in Akron that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Akron. 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 with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Akron, 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 for therapists. 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 therapists able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Akron region and in the state of Michigan. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Akron or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Akron therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Akron area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find Akron 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 Akron, elsewhere in Tuscola, or in the greater state of Michigan. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Akron area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Akron therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Akron due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Akron may not take health insurance, some therapists in the state of Michigan may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Michigan you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.
How is a licensed therapist on this Akron online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Akron, Michigan 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Akron psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?
BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Akron 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 while working with BetterHelp therapists. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Akron helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched with one of BetterHelp's therapists today.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified Akron 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.
Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
- EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
- Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
- Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
- Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
- Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
- Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
- Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
- Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
- Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
- Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
- Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
- OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
- ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
- Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
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 Akron therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Akron?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Akron 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions in Akron therapy sessions.
Akron therapists 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 Akron 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 Akron 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 psychotherapist.
With a lot of people in MI, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 48701 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Akron counselor?
Before seeing your Akron 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. Akron therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Akron.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. A Akron 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 with a Akron counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.
Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?
Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Akron, Michigan 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.
Akron 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 during telehealth appointments?
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 for Akron, Michigan
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 Akron 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 to customer service 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Akron:
48701