Life can be like a drawbridge. You want to cross it, but more often than not, it feels like you're sacrificing your crossing to let other people cross under you. If you want to cross your own bridge, it can be a challenge, especially if you can’t stand up to yourself. There is hope, however, and that hope comes in the form of a Bay City-based counselor. 

Bay City is a great city and it’s known for its drawbridges. If you live here, you're crossing bridges all the time. If you want to cross your own bridges, speak to someone today.

Natasha Wagner - A Licensed Therapist Offering Counseling At BetterHelp
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Bay City, MI
Type Of Therapy License(s): MA, LPC
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Grief
Years of Experience: 18

I have been fortunate to work with people in all stages across the life-span, as a counselor and life coach for 20 years. I have a B.A. in Early Childhood Education from Western Michigan University and have taught at the preschool and early elementary level. I also have training as a birth and postpartum doula. My M.A., also through WMU, is in Community Agency Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Michigan and Arizona. I was fortunate to offer counseling for elderly residents of long-term care ...

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Kendra Docker - A Licensed Therapist Offering Counseling At BetterHelp
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Bay City, MI
Type Of Therapy License(s): LPC
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Grief, Depression
Years of Experience: 15

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan with over 15 years of experience. My counseling techniques are rooted in the Humanistic tradition. My focus is on you, my client. I am committed to being genuine and empathic as we explore your unique path. I will encourage the examination of what has led you to counseling and foster in you the empowerment to change your beliefs that may be inhibiting your happiness. I will view you with unconditional self worth and value regardless of your condition, past behaviors, or feelings. I will communicate clearly and o...

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Brenda Sanders - A Licensed Therapist Offering Counseling At BetterHelp
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Bay City, MI
Type Of Therapy License(s): LCSW,CAADC,Gerontology
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Depression
Years of Experience: 6

My name is Brenda Sanders and I am a clinical therapist who makes every effort to bring an efficient and effective combination of experiences and skills to help clients navigate through difficult life issues; all while possessing a genuine concern and deep empathy for the clients. In the therapy process, I will utilize my experiences and skills to maximize outcomes and provide wholeness to individuals and families. I hold an Associate Degree in Science from Wayne County Community District College, Bachelor Degree in Family Community Services from Sienna Height...

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Robin Johnson - A Licensed Therapist Offering Counseling At BetterHelp
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Bay City, MI
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMSW,LICSW
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 8

There are times in our life where we reach a point that we realize something may not be manageable anymore or has gotten bigger than we anticipated. Often people may be feeling stuck or out of control. Whether it's improving your mood, setting boundaries with others, adjusting to a new phase of life, exploring past trauma or your substance use coming into therapy is taking the first step to implementing change. Therapy provides a safe space where you can explore what is going on and challenge yourself. You oversee your therapy and I follow your lead. I am there t...

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Brian Shaffer - A Licensed Therapist Offering Counseling At BetterHelp
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Bay City, MI
Type Of Therapy License(s): MA, MS, LPC
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, LGBT, Grief, Depression
Years of Experience: 10

Brian is a Licensed Professional Counselor with education, training and clinical experience in the fields of Mental Health, Addiction, Trauma, Grief, Loss and Bereavement and Spiritual Care. He provides counseling, assessment and intervention services that help clients meet their goals for a life in recovery. Brian has a passion for providing quality care, support and services to his clients through a person-centered approach that incorporates interventions from various theories and methodologies. He believes in helping clients process through past traumatic exper...

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Samantha Hughes - A Licensed Therapist Offering Counseling At BetterHelp
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Bay City, MI
Type Of Therapy License(s): MA,LPC,NCC
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Grief, Eating disorders, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 7

Hello, and welcome! My name is Samantha Hughes, and I am a Professional Counselor licensed in the State of Michigan. I have over 5 years of experience working as a therapist. During that time, I have worked a variety of individuals, and helped them through a wide range of issues. My therapeutic approach is one of walking beside you on your journey of self discovery, growth, understanding, and breakthroughs. 1) We will dive deep into your history and figure out what got you where you are now, and where you would like to be instead. 2) We will discuss what it ...

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Dr. stanley szczotka - A Licensed Therapist Offering Counseling At BetterHelp
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Bay City, MI
Type Of Therapy License(s): PhD,MA,LPC
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Intimacy-related issues, Parenting issues, ADHD
Years of Experience: 27

Dr. Szczotka (Shotka) specializes in the growth and healing of the individual and the relationships that support us. Let's work through conflict and change for the better. *Scheduling disclaimer, I am currently only available on Sunday mornings and early afternoons. I apologize for my limited schedule. I am approaching my 3rd decade of experience working with individuals, couples, and parents. I believe that treatment must be oriented around insight and change. The first step to change is to develop a practical understanding of the problem and the "why?". Th...

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Wendy Hills - A Licensed Therapist Offering Counseling At BetterHelp
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Bay City, MI
Type Of Therapy License(s): MA Counseling,BA Psychology
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Grief, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 10

Licensed Professional Counselor (State of Michigan) with more than 10 years of experience providing counseling to help clients support their mental health, reduce their stress, address substance abuse and other behavioral challenges such as Anger, anxiety, procrastination). I have experience working with mood dysregulation, Substance abuse issues and with Traumatic Brain Injury. I utilize a blend of educational, motivational and cognitive-behavioral approaches to build a better understanding of how challenges or problems developed and how these challenges and is...

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Doug Casper - A Licensed Therapist Offering Counseling At BetterHelp
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Bay City, MI
Type Of Therapy License(s): LPCC-S,LPC
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Career difficulties, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 27

Hi! My name is Doug Casper. I am a Professional Counselor licensed in Ohio, Kentucky, and Michigan with over 25 years of experience helping people meet the challenges they face in everyday life. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns. For many people, therapy is about getting to know yourself better and understanding how you fit in with others and the world around you. Sometimes our problems seem so big that we question whether or not we can ever sort them out and get to a better place. We can. More importantly, YOU CAN. You do fit i...

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Janita Easter - A Licensed Therapist Offering Counseling At BetterHelp
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Bay City, MI
Type Of Therapy License(s): LMSW
Specialties: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Parenting issues, Self esteem
Years of Experience: 7

I am a Licensed Therapist in the state of Michigan with over 10 years of experience in Behavioral Health. I have worked with clients on a wide range of concerns including trauma, depression, relationship issues and personality disorders. I have helped many clients overcome the lasting effects of trauma and reduce the frequency and severity of their symptoms. Mental Health deserves equal importance as physical health and it takes dedication to achieve your goals. I am a dedicated Therapist here for you, let me guide you on your journey to feeling better! My therap...

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Rita Turner - A Licensed Therapist Offering Counseling At BetterHelp
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Bay City, MI
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 21

I am a warm , encouraging solution oriented therapist. I My expertise is in diagnosing and treatment of mental, behavioral and emotional disorders, including anxiety and depression. I believe a therapeutic relationship is based on trust, good will and respect that is conductive to client commitment and goal achievement.

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Mackenzie Burt - A Licensed Therapist Offering Counseling At BetterHelp
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Bay City, MI
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, LGBT, Trauma and abuse, Anger management, Self esteem
Years of Experience: 4

Hello! I am a licensed social worker in Michigan with 3+ years of professional work experience post grad school. Most of this has been in the public school system as a School Social Worker and Behavioral Health Provider. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, family stress, LGBTQ+ related issues, trauma, abuse, & anger management. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming challenges. I would love to help you discover those strengths and walk alongside you a...

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Ricci Oppenlander - A Licensed Therapist Offering Counseling At BetterHelp
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Bay City, MI
Type Of Therapy License(s): MA,LPC,LCPC
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Grief, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 8

I believe in a goal-oriented approach to therapy by helping clients build on their strengths and values distinct to them. I encourage clients to see themselves as unique, creative, and responsible individuals; capable of striving for self-improvement and self-fulfillment. As a therapist, I see a variety of people, focusing on adults with depression and anxiety and the struggles that come along with those feelings. I am passionate about helping everyone find happiness, direction and fulfillment. I see clients with a holistic approach, emphasizing a trusting, respec...

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Lindsey Bronold - A Licensed Therapist Offering Counseling At BetterHelp
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Bay City, MI
Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Eating disorders, Depression
Years of Experience: 5

I am licensed in Michigan with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, eating disorders, & 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. 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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Susan Whitener - A Licensed Therapist Offering Counseling At BetterHelp
One Of Many Online Therapists Serving - Bay City, MI
Specialties: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Career difficulties, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 20

I am licensed in Michigan with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients of all ages with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & career difficulties. 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!

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How To Find The Right Therapist For You

Finding the right therapist close by in Bay City can feel intimidating. However, there are a few methods you can try to narrow your search for a therapy with a counselor near the Bay City area if you find it challenging to find therapists accepting new clients.

First, research what type of therapy you'd like to pursue before finding a therapist or psychologist. You might be interested in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapy, marriage and family therapy, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits. If you're still unsure, consider asking your prospective counselors which methods they practice.

When you're ready to search, search for 'therapist near me in Bay City and scroll through the options. Next, consider your goals for the gender of your psychotherapist, the type of therapy they're most experienced with, and their specialty. Finally, choose a therapist located near you in the city of Bay City or elsewhere in Bay or the state of Michigan.

Mental health professionals working through their own practice or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships and communication skills, working through life's obstacles, or changing negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a listening ear and validation. Verified Bay City therapists can provide licensed marriage and compassionate counseling, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

How Do Costs Of Conventional Counseling Compare To BetterHelp With A Bay City Counselor?

Forbes reports that the average price of an in-person therapy session with a counselor in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Bay City 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 in Bay City: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists in Bay City: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist in Bay City: $100
  • Therapy with a mental health counselor in Bay City: $80

Some counselors 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 therapists serving the city of Bay City and elsewhere throughout the state of Michigan you can expect significantly more affordable options, with counselor sessions ranging from $60 to $90 per week (billed every four weeks).

How Does Working With A Counselor On BetterHelp Work?

It's important to note that these therapists treat clients online. Online therapists, including the US-based therapists above, can work with people like you in or around Bay City virtually. You do not have to commute to a therapist's office to meet with one of these counselors.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, receive worksheets, and sign up for mental health webinars. Additionally, the BetterHelp app offers a journaling feature.

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy with a counselor. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists specializing in behavioral health and relationships. You can also try a provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. Look through the available counselors above and consider which might work for you. There are therapists on BetterHelp specialize in several mental health issues and modalities. See below for examples.

Therapist specialties on BetterHelp include:
  • Therapists specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy 
  • Therapists specializing in behavior therapy
  • Depression therapists
  • Anxiety therapists
  • Stress therapists
  • Eating disorder therapists
  • Grief therapists
  • Therapists specializing in attachment therapy
  • Relationship therapists
  • Child and adolescent therapists
  • Addiction therapists
  • Divorce therapists
  • Trauma therapists
  • Bipolar therapists
  • Psychodynamic therapists

Bay City has many professionals who provide client-centered individual counseling in person and through online therapy. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with therapists all over the US. Many individuals gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy. In Bay City, therapy can be easily to use and a click away.

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 they may struggle to provide objective guidance as a psychotherapist can. Therapists are also professionals trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist may support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health or life concerns. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another benefit of therapy with a licensed counselor is having a 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 Bay City 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 can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With almost one million people in Bay City, MI, finding a therapist can be costly, and therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of counselors above and others through BetterHelp, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching for a nearby psychotherapist close to 48707 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp therapist page. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy in Bay City can be a great option.

How Should I Prepare For My First Session With A Bay City Counselor? 

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading about the counseling process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist. 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 why you're attending therapy.

Should I See A Counselor 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 therapists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend counseling. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A therapist 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 with a counselor.

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 Crying In Therapy A Breakthrough?

Crying can be a breakthrough for some individuals who struggle to express emotions. Others might find that they often cry during sessions with their counselor. Crying can be normal and healthy, so whether you cry or not may be a personal aspect of sessions.

Is Mental Health Care Worth It?

We may all be on different paths in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, therapists are trained to meet you where you're at. Counseling can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy each year, showing it's a popular option and may be often effective when working with a licensed counselor.

Do Therapists Judge You? 

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Therapists are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. Their job as your counselor is to support you and make you feel safe and respected. 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 to learn more about BetterHelp therapists to understand the services available to you clearly. If you have any questions, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online counseling, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched with a counselor 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:

There are all kinds of therapists in the Bay City area, including:

  • CBT in Bay City
  • DBT in Bay City
  • Substance use therapy in Bay City
  • Couples therapy in Bay City

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

48706, 48707, 48708

Popular Cities Near Bay City, MI

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