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Victoria Orbe

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW,CAADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
6 years of experience

Hello, my name is Victoria Orbe and welcome to my BetterHelp profile! You are not alone. Whatever brought you to BetterHelp I am here to support you in your life, mental health, wellness, and happiness. Here is a little bit more about me and what I can offer you! I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of Michigan and am now a licensed therapist practicing in SouthWest Michigan. I work with all individuals from diverse backgrounds with depression, anxiety, identity/ self-esteem issues, addiction/recovery, trauma, and family relation issues. I use an empowerment and empathetic approach to therapy. I integrate multiple evidence-based modalities such as cognitive/dialectical therapy (DBT/CBT), trauma focused, brief therapy, mindfulness, positive psychology, and solution-focused therapy. Treatment should always be catered your uniqueness and I never use a “cookie cutter” approach. I believe success in therapy is dependent on the relationship you have with your counselor, I highly value respect and being non-judgemental with clients. I would be a good match if you are looking for a mental health provider of color, LGBTQ identified, and/or who has had personal experience “on the other side” as a client. Reaching out for help isn’t easy, but this can be a first step in taking an active role in the direction of your life. I will support you in your personal growth, coping skill development, and explore your existing strengths. I am passionate and dedicated to mental health and social justice and creating a safe and celebratory space in treatment. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and how I plan to support you on this journey we call life. Hope to hear from you soon (:

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Shell Freeman

Offering therapy in MI
License: LCSW, MSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteem
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist licensed in Michigan with over 7 years of experience working as a mental health therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD , Borderline Personality Disorder and Mood Disorders. I am also experienced in assisting people who have experienced physical trauma , emotional abuse and the difficulties of navigating the LGBTQ "coming out process". My therapeutic style is genuine and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy , psychodynamic and rational-emotive . I am experienced in developing adaptable treatment plans to meet unique and specific needs, I believe in collaborative work with clients where we both find solutions and answers that are meaningful. It takes courage and strength and to seek a life worth living and take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you with both acceptance and guidance. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Patricia Frueh

Offering therapy in MI
License: PsyD,LP
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
28 years of experience

Hi, my name is Dr. Patricia Frueh, (my friends and clients call me Pat), and I am a clinical psychologist licensed in Michigan with over 25 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. As a therapist, I believe our relationship is key in helping you, so you will find that I have a warm and respectful style, often seeing the humor in things. I want our work together to be a safe place where you feel comfortable voicing whatever you need to say. I listen, too, for your strengths and natural resilience, believing that those perspectives sometimes get lost when you're suffering. I have worked with clients who have expressed a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems and habit challenges. I have helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse too. I incorporate many aspects of positive psychology in my approach, as well as psychology research about happiness. Depending on your needs, I may incorporate cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and trauma-informed counseling approaches. I am also a Certified Mindfulness Meditation teacher, so I may use ACT and/or DBT interventions, (both incorporate mindfulness). I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier 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!

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Cynthia (Cindy) Scovel

Offering therapy in MI
License: MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
5 years of experience

With mindfulness- and compassion-based therapy, I support clients through grief & loss, relationship issues, healing from trauma, and searching for meaning & purpose. So many of the issues that bring people to therapy are natural responses to the challenges we face as human beings. Through the process of therapy, we bring curiosity and compassion to our inner experience; and in the safety of a non-judgmental space, we explore options for understanding and growth. I'm a holistic psychotherapist, so I invite examination of mind, body, spirit, and culture into our work together. I believe that inherent in every person is the drive toward wellness; my job is to provide the environment where that process can unfold. In my practice I draw from mindfulness-based, transpersonal, existential, and family systems therapies. I hold a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology (Holistic) from John F. Kennedy University – a program with a long tradition of recognizing the integration of mind, body, spirit, and culture as essential to mental health and wellbeing. Part of my studies at JFKU included a specialization in Buddhist Psychology, as well as extensive training and experience in grief counseling. For over a year, I worked as a grief counselor at a hospice in Silicon Valley, where I provided support to clients who had recently lost a loved one. Following that, I worked at the YWCA for two years, supporting clients who had experienced domestic violence and/or sexual assault. Before this career transition, I worked in corporate finance for over 15 years. I am also a Registered Yoga Teacher with over 200 hours of training (RYT-200). I hold certifications to teach Kundalini Yoga, Prenatal Yoga, and Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY), as well as a certification in Trauma Informed Sex Positive Therapy. Greater peace is possible. I can help you tap into your inner strength and wisdom, and move forward through life's difficulties with grace and authenticity. The process of therapy can be challenging in itself - and it is worth the work. I look forward to connecting with you soon.

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Shiela Little

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW,PhD(c)
Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
20 years of experience

I understand how hard it is when your life, relationship, career, or business isn’t moving forward the way you want. So many people feel stuck, overwhelmed, self-sabotaging, and procrastinating, but they don’t know why or what’s blocking them from doing what they know they need to do. Worse, they have no one to help them heal, gain clarity, and hold them accountable to create the forward momentum they desire. Sound familiar? Hello, I am Shiela Little, Founder & CEO of Shaping Solutions. As a clinical therapist and business psychologist, I have honed in on critical factors that help people attain success in their life, relationship, and career. For the past 20 years, I have helped coach thousands of clients just like you heal, learn how to stop self-sabotaging and procrastinating, identify their needs, and start asking for what they want. When you learn to overcome the obstacles holding you back, you can gain new purpose and meaning in your life and get what you are worth. I believe you are worthy and deserve a better life than you have today! When you heal with me, you will start the journey to see what key areas of your life keep you stuck. Are you ready to shift your mindset and build the skillsets required to start building the life you always imagined but never thought was possible? It’s time to take action! I will hold you accountable so you can start creating a life you will love. Book your appointment... I am looking forward to speaking with you soon.

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Shannon Julianne Toy

Offering therapy in MI
License: M.Ed,LMSW-C,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
4 years of experience

Hello! My name is Shannon Toy, but I prefer to go by my middle name, Julianne. I live in Virginia, but hold licensed in 3 states. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia, a Licensed Certified Social Worker- Clinical (LCSW-C) in Maryland, and a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in Michigan. I have experience working with a wide variety of clients all the way from birth to elder care. I have worked in many different settings including homes, the community, courts, jails, hospitals, schools, and offices. I also have experience doing teletherapy in multiple different formats. I have 4 years of therapy experience, but before that I worked as a case manager, and volunteered with at risk youth and individuals with developmental disabilities for many years. I have worked as a crisis therapist to provide brief therapy and to provide interventions with individuals with at imminent risk, and have done both individual and group counseling. My counseling style is solutions focused, and strengths based rather than problem focused. I am a true believer in client centered care, and believe that you should be included in every step of your care. Working with me means that I will advocate for you and work WITH you to empower you to live a happier and healthier life. If you are ready to take the next steps to finding your version of a happier and healthier life, I am here to support you. I look forward to hearing from you, and can't wait to get started!

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Dr. Michael Till

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
28 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan, Illinois, and Missouri with 29 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, problem-solving, conflict-resolution, marital and couples therapy, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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.

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This is Dr. Veryl Williams's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Veryl Williams

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoaching
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Arizona and Michigan with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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.

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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.

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Nicholas Tock

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
8 years of experience

What if your difficult emotions could be seen as an opportunity for growth instead of as a weakness? It’s true that suffering is universal, but with the right perspective you can learn to see that as a gift; a source of energy you can use to propel you towards your life’s goals and eventual contentment. Many seek to find happiness by changing their circumstances, but I hope to show you that if you find acceptance first the circumstances you want will come to you more naturally. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in my clinical practice, focusing primarily on being conscious of the thoughts that drive our behavior and accepting life’s circumstances before moving on to change them. I’ll work with you at the pace you are comfortable, whether you are looking for shorter solution-focused therapy or serving as a longer-term support. My calling is working with depression and anxiety, but I’m also proficient working with addiction, grief, existential concerns, and family therapy; particularly with families who have children with behavioral concerns.

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How to find 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 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 Athens. 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 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. 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens, elsewhere in Calhoun, 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 Athens area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Athens 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 Athens 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 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 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 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. 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 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 lead by a therapist in Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 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 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 49011 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 Athens 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 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 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 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 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 Athens.

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

49011

Popular cities near Athens, MI

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