Erin McDaid
Hi, I am Erin McDaid. I have been working for over eight years as a clinical therapist with adults, older adults, and older adolescents. I use a goal-oriented therapy style, focusing on areas of strength or need that are determined by the client. My style is no-nonsense and direct. I use a wide variety of skills and techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, narrative therapy, and motivational interviewing. I often assign homework for clients to complete between therapy sessions (however, I try not to make it complex or overwhelming). I do not believe in stereotyping, labeling, or stigmatizing people. I welcome working with people of all faiths, genders, sexual orientations, political affiliations, and ethnicities. At an initial interview clients should expect to discuss with me their background (how they grew up, what they have done since high school, any relationship status), their current symptoms, any drug or alcohol use or history, any legal history, and their hopes for what they will get from therapy. During this discussion I will work to clarify any questions that occur to me and to reassure the client that both the client and I are understanding the client’s needs and history. We will also discuss what the specific issues are that brought you to therapy. Be ready to be open and forthcoming. Clients may leave their initial session with a simple homework assignment that will begin to move them forward with their treatment.
Jill Rountree
Hello! My name is Jill, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience providing therapy services. I have worked in a wide range of settings including Correctional Facilities, Outpatient Care, and Integrated Health Care settings. I work with clients affected by anxiety, depression, adjustment, substance use and trauma. I was raised in Southeastern Michigan, but have been in Northern Michigan for 8 years and am currently in the Traverse City area where I have settled into my home with our growing family of animals and children. I received my undergraduate degree in Sociology from The University of Michigan - Ann Arbor and my Masters in Social Work Degree from Wayne State University in Detroit. I utilized a client centered approach in therapy, and utilize a variety of modalities including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Cognitive Behavioral Therapy allows us to explore the connection between our thoughts, feelings and behaviors, while Dialectical Behavioral Therapy has a focus on developing mindfulness skills and distress intolerance to manage symptoms. EMDR does have a focus on processing past traumas while implementing safe place techniques prior to processing. Outside of my work as a therapist I am a Registered Yoga Instructor (RYT). I also enjoy cooking, reading, spending time outdoors with our animals along with enjoying the life of parenting twin boys!
Stacey Mack
I am Licensed Master’s Clinical Social Worker. I have 17+ years of experience working with individuals and families as an empathetic agent of support, guidance and positive change. My professional life includes a commitment to serving the needs of children and families as a School Social Worker. I am also an Adjunct Professor, in the School of Social Work, at Wayne State University. I attended the University of Detroit and received a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and soon after obtained my Master’s in Social Work from Wayne State University. I also has a vast amount of experience in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, schools, psychiatric units, domestic violence shelters, as well as, providing tele-therapy. I have worked with a diverse group of clients, which have included both long-term and short-term/brief interventions. I have expertise in the areas of depression, anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD, emotional impairment, positive parenting, stress and school related issues. I believe that change happens when people are given the guidance they need to draw on their own strengths and realize their potential to live fulfilling, happy lives. I provide an environment of compassion and support to help individuals and families overcome obstacles to move forward and thrive.
Michael Jankowski
Hello, my name is Michael Jankowski, I have over 20 years of clinical experience helping clients achieve healing and wellness. My experience also includes helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, LGBTQIA+ related issues, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. My approach to counseling and therapy is to be present where you are in your journey, so that I can walk along side you. I will help you find meaning, purpose, wholeness and healing. It's powerful and profound to be vulnerable in this time and space of life. I will create a space so that you can feel fully supported and accepted. It is my mission to help guide and empower your wellness. Now is the time to put yourself first. You have made it this far because you are strong enough! I look forward to working together through your journey towards wellness.
Susan Shouse
Hello- My name is Susan. I am licensed in Michigan with over 25 years of professional experience. I have worked as a mental health therapist in both clinical and in-home settings, mainly with adults and older adults. I'm also an experienced grief therapist, having worked in hospice. My specialties include mood disorders (depression, anxiety and worry), grief and loss, coping with major life changes, motivation, goal setting, and overcoming shyness and improving self-esteem. I'm also experienced in counseling people who are choosing or changing career paths, struggling with relationship issues, and addictions. My Clinical approach utilizes a variety of techniques including Solution-Focused Therapy (just what it sounds like), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (Changing thoughts and beliefs to change behavior), and Family Systems Therapy (families are inter-connected therefore what happens to one affects others). Most importantly, I practice active listening skills. This involves having a genuine interest in You! I'll be listening carefully to what you have to say, reflecting back what I'm hearing from you, asking pertinent questions, and making suggestions based on insight and many years of experience. I value the relationship I have with my clients. I take my time in building trust and mutual respect, and I follow your lead. After all, this is your journey- not mine! It's never too late to start living your best life! I respect and admire your courage in taking this huge first step of choosing a counselor. If you're ready to begin, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Stephanie Dixon
Welcome! I am excited that you have decided to take the next step in your mental health journey. I am Stephanie, a Licensed Master Social Worker with a clinical designation (LMSW). I have over 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, coping with life changes, caregiver fatigue, Alzheimer's and Dementia, individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, and adjustment issues. 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 and I am here to support you in that process.
Kathleen Stark
I received a BA in Child Psychology and a MA in Counseling, from Oakland University. I have been a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional since 2019. I am working on getting my certification as an Autism Specialist. I am a native and licensed in Michigan with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I have a devotion to youth, especially youth and adults with special needs. I frequently give presentations to youth about service dogs, and provide insight on what it is like to live with Cerebral Palsy. 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.
Kelly Sheets
I am a licensed professional counselor and mental health service provider (LPC-MHSP) in TN. I have over 5+ years of experience in treating PTSD, specifically combat-related; substance use disorder; borderline personality disorder in men primarily; OCD; and other issues typically found in a mental health setting. I've spent the majority of my career working in a residential alcohol and drug program, which afforded me the opportunity to work with co-morbid disorders/issues that feed into addiction. I have assisted people in confronting personality issues, trauma, and have helped clients learn to balance their intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. I am also actively involved in research in a university setting. I received a Bachelors of Science in Clinical Psychology and a Masters of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from East Tennessee State University. My therapy style is highly conversational and casual with a primary foundation in Existential therapy. I utilize other modalities as needed or as is appropriate to the individual and situation. I have a background in social psychology, which I find beneficial during therapy as the principles are often at the core of many behaviors and attitudes/beliefs. Understanding social psychological theories and how they present within individuals serves to normalize our human experiences by showing that we are not alone. I believe that every individual knows the best way to live their lives, but sometimes may need someone to provide insight, guidance, or serve as a sounding board for thought processes/emotions/fears. I have a specific interest and a research background in PTSD surrounding combat. Seeking help in general, but especially following a traumatic event, is courageous. The first step is reaching out and I am here to assist you in this experience.
Kennan DeWitt
I am Michigan Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor with 16 years of professional work experience. As a licensed attorney, I am familiar with the workings of the criminal justice system. I have experience in helping clients with depression and bipolar, stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, Legal/Court related therapy such as for drug and alcohol charges, trauma, PTSD, separation and divorce, anger management, and mid-life crises. I am trained in and use many therapy approaches including CBT, TF-CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, Strength Based Therapy and other approaches. The therapy approach depends on the clients needs, desires and goals. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where their 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. I welcome and accept you as you are and I am affirming with my LGBTQ + clients.
Brittany Byers
I graduated in 2015 with a Master's Degree in Social Work from Walden University. I am independently licensed in Ohio with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, depression, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, Bipolar Disorder, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming aspects of life that challenge you. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Athens
Finding the best therapist close by in Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Athens, 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens area offering:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Athens, elsewhere in Calhoun, 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 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).
How is a licensed therapist on this Athens online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Athens, 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 Athens 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 professional, including the therapists in Athens 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 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 today.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified 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 is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used 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 - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use this 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 Athens 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 Athens?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Athens 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.
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 Athens 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 Athens 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 49011 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 Athens counselor?
Before seeing your Athens therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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 or feel unsure about what to talk about. Athens 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.
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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Athens 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 with a Athens 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 Athens, 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.
Athens has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions 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 Athens, 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 Athens 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 Athens:
49011