This is Cathy O'Brien's avatar and link to their profile

Cathy O'Brien

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
6 years of experience

Hello, my name is Cathy O'Brien. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Michigan. I earned my LMSW from Michigan State University in 2011 and have over 10 years experience working in the mental health field in numerous capacities. My experience includes, but is not limited to, working with children, families as well as individuals with a wide range of concerns including: depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, relationship and/or self esteem issues. I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and have worked with many people who have experienced trauma such as abuse or grief. In addition, I have worked with people to help them establish stress management skills to help them overcome challenges and cope with whatever life throws their way. One of my favorite quotes by Catherine Pulsifer that I like to share says "We are all faced with challenges at some point in our life, challenges that we did not create. Challenges that happened beyond our control. The difference is how we respond to these challenges. You can adopt the attitude that there is nothing you can do, or you can see the challenge as your call to action." I understand that talking to a stranger can be very uncomfortable and a scary and it is for that reason that I begin by developing a trusting therapeutic relationship in an effort to make you feel more safe and comfortable. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and empathy. My approach combines a mixture of therapies (CBT, TF-CBT, MI, Solution Focused) based in the needs of the individual I am working with. As a result of COVID and some of the changes it brought, I have done this work both face-to-face in an school/clinic setting as well as virtually. It takes a lot of courage to step outside your comfort level, acknowledge and ask for help. If you are ready to take the first steps toward your 'call to action', I will offer you support. I look forward to working with you!

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Dominique Watkins

Offering therapy in MI
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in the state of Virginia and Michigan with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, & family conflict. 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. 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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Malaika Ward

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionADHD
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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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Nicole Flores

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping teens with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with adolescents to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Allison Johnston

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Allison is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 8 years experience. Her education background includes a variety of topics including corrections, substance abuse, career counseling, and child/adolescent counseling. Her work experience includes adolescent and young adult outpatient counseling, and working with individuals involved with the criminal justice system. Allison has experience helping clients with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and various other mental health and challenges. Allison uses a person-centered approach, along with cognitive-behavioral therapy. She understands the importance the therapeutic relationship has on achieving client goals. Allison will help the clients challenge their thought patterns and gain confidence their problem solving skills. She will work with clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Allison is aware that taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and she is here to support you in that process.

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Rebecca Gauchet

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan and Ohio with over 9 years of professional work experience. I specialize in helping clients with stress and anxiety, setting boundaries, navigating systemic barriers, relationship issues, motivation, self-worth, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in finding wellness and increased contentment in your life. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and wisdom, and I am excited for you to begin this journey!

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Brandon Mitchell

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Arizona and Michigan with 3 years of professional work experience providing individual therapy. I have been in the social work field for a total of 10 years, with experience in primary care, school social work, private practice, and University settings. My experience comes from helping clients with stress, anxiety, LGBT+ related issues, relationship issues, & depression. My approach to therapy includes using modalities such as cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapy. I am trained and experienced in using both approaches and will tailor our sessions to meet your individual needs and goals. I believe the therapy space should be safe and open for you to share as we build our therapeutic relationship, and I will respect your decision to work on what's most important for you. I am passionate about supporting others on their journey towards living a wholesome life, and believe in creating a non-judgmental space to move from surviving to thriving. I know firsthand how difficult it can be to reach out and ask for help. That's why I like to make the process of starting your journey an easy one. If you are ready to make that step, I am here to empower you.

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Shaa-Ista Simmons-Wilcox

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 3 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, & career difficulties. 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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Kelly Hayes

Offering therapy in MI
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteem
30 years of experience

I am a Licensed Master Social Worker in Michigan with over 30 years of experience working as a child and family counselor, Special Education Social Worker, Behavioral Intervention Specialist, and life coach. I have worked with clientele with a wide range of concerns including, early childhood trauma leading to: relationship challenges, abandonment and attachment issues, as well as anxiety, depression, fear/guilt. marital issues/concerns, and issues relating to substance use. My experience has also centered around clientele living with OCD, AD/HD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Developmental Delays, Emotional Impairments, Behavioral challenges due to Learning Disabilities, School phobias, and severe aggression. My therapy approach focuses on building positive, strength-based relationships. I believe in creating an open, honest and direct line of communication with active listening and encouragement to share thoughts and feelings in a safe non-threatening environment. Together we will create an individualized plan tailored to meet your specific needs. Kelly

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Karen Owens

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsEating disordersParenting issuesDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, eating disorders, & parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.

How to find 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 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 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 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. 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 Akron 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 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 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.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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 compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Akron 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 Akron 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 Akron may not take health insurance, some 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 BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Michigan 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 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. 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 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. 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 or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

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.

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 Akron 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 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 lot of people in MI, 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 48701 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 Akron 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 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 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 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?

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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Akron.

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

48701

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