Samantha Eisenhart-Petkovski
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Michigan and Texas. Additionally, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida. I have comprehensive and extensive experience working with adults, adolescents, children and families in both individual and group settings. Some of the clinical issues that I have the most experience with in include: depression and anxiety, parenting matters, anger/stress management in addition to trauma and women's health issues and mood instability. I believe that every individual has the necessary tools to enhance their lives and it is my responsibility as a therapist to help my clients learn how to use their tools effectively. I believe that establishing a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients is essential and primary. I believe having a good connection helps to facilitate effective counseling and provides the best outcomes. In therapy, I am supportive, empathetic, compassionate and am present in times of both struggle and success. I believe that therapy must be individualized to meet your needs and strive meet each individual where they are in their therapeutic journey and actively listen and respect where they would like to see themselves in the future as part of the therapeutic process. Collaboration with individuals on their treatment goals is a fundamental priority and I encourage open communication regarding what therapeutic techniques and approaches work best for the person with an emphasis on individual strengths to ensure the best therapeutic experience. My counseling style is individualized strength-based, rooted in cognitive-behavioral and solution focused methodologies. Identifying one's strengths and effective coping skills that can be used to help work through identified treatment issues is an essential component of my therapeutic approach. I believe you are the expert and it is my responsibility to help you realize your full capacity to better navigate life's journey. I truly value and approach each individual therapeutic relationship fully and empathize with the different spectrum of emotions that a client may experience during the course of treatment. I firmly believe each individual has the ability and strength to overcome their struggles, but that sometimes having additional support in the form of therapy can assist one to better identify and recognize the skills, strategies and strengths they already possess. It takes courage in making the first step to creating a healthier and happier you and I would be truly honored to assist you in your journey! I look forward to speaking with you soon! Warm Regards, Samantha
Jess Quessenberry
Starting therapy can be a scary thing. For some people they may see it as admitting to being broken or too weak to handle their problems on their own. Others may see therapy as a waste of time or money. In reality we just need help or feel like the world is just too confusing and scary to understand or cope with. That makes total sense if we stop and look at the world around us. Sometimes life hits us so hard that we don't know what to do next. And I am here to help you figure it out along the way. Quick facts about me: My chosen name is Jess (my name right now has to match my professional license on here) 33 years old, Married, I have 2 young children. Non-binary transfemme she/they Trauma and Abuse History Autistic/ADHD My own style of counseling is more casual and I tend to use humor quite a bit. There is nothing you could do or say to shock or offend me; so don't worry about that and use what ever language you like.
Kyle Thompson
Feeling stuck? Maybe in a rut and not sure which way to turn? We all feel this way from time to time and sometimes we all need a little help to get back on the right track. I believe that we all have the innate ability to reach our highest potential, live life to the fullest, and be the happiest we can be. Let me help you discover your real you! I specialize in working with adults with anxiety, depression, and mood disorders and with people going through personal transitions of all kinds. With a holistic background that is rooted in yoga and meditation traditions, I believe in treating the whole person. I typically use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and yoga based relaxation and stress reduction techniques in my practice. I am an experienced yoga teacher and have been teaching yoga since 2003. Yoga has often been described as the world's oldest model of personal change. Integrating these ancient techniques with modern therapy approaches, I offer yoga based psychotherapy, stress reduction, and relaxation strategies.
Cara Gibson
Hello, I'm Cara and I have practiced counseling for over 10 years. I have worked with those battling addiction, adults and adolescents who struggle with depression, anxiety and conflict resolution. I have experience working with adolescents, families, couples and individuals. My experiences include working in outpatient, residential and in-home counseling settings. I believe in listening to what the client needs and at the same time challenging them. I feel the way to do this is building a good rapport and to have open communication. I use more of a client based approach but am open to adjusting to what the client needs. There is a stigma around mental health which I feel needs to change. I believe every individual should seek counseling if they feel they need help and there should be no shame attached to receiving counseling services. I look forward to helping those who are looking to take the steps to better themselves.
Christine Badour
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Michigan with over 4 years of experience working as a clinical therapist and intervention specialist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, panic disorder, intermittent explosive disorder, communication concerns, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, career challenges, ADHD, trauma, and PTSD. I also have helped many people who struggle with addiction including, but not limited to, substance use. My therapy style is warm, engaging, and person-centered. I believe you are the expert on yourself and my role in this therapeutic relationship is to support you. Each client has their own individual characteristics and I utilize a variety of approaches to tailor a unique plan with each client. My practice theories include; cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, mindfulness, strength-based, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, attachment theory, and didactic. The approach I take towards the therapeutic relationship is heavy with compassion, supportive like a friendship, filled to the brim with positive regard for you, and desire for you achieve the absolute best things out of life. "Compassion is not a relationship between a healer and the wounded. It's a relationship between equals. Only when we know our darkness well, can we be present with the darkness of others. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity." -- Pema Chödrön I am here to support and encourage you. I look forward to working together!
Linda Stewart
I am a Licensed Practicing Counselor, (LPC). I have a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and my Bachelor’s is in Community Service – Family Counseling. I also have a Masters in Higher Education. I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Prolonged Exposure Therapy. I have extensive experience with mental health treatments, but currently I lean toward a short-term, eclectic style of therapeutic delivery including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered, Brief Solution Focused, Narrative, Existential and Faith Based therapies in order to meet a broad scope of client needs. I have the ability to assess others needs effortlessly and instill hope for change. I am driven to help others better understand themselves, to navigate through life’s difficulties and overcome obstacles; to build capacity for wellbeing, love, peace, and happiness . . . which leads to productive, healthy, meaningful lives. I tend to favor Brief Solution Focused Therapy 4-8 sessions. However, at times a few more sessions are needed. I have a high level of empathy and compassion which stems from life’s experiences, and I strongly believe in providing unconditional positive regard to all clients. I am a person of Faith and will use Biblical principles only IF REQUESTED. I am able to separate my beliefs and views from others and value the differences. I do not impose my views, nor do I judge others’. I have proficiencies in Couples/relationship counseling and Career Counseling, i.e. career planning, academic planning, career assessments and Life Skills. I am a part-time therapist but I am able to open my schedule in order to accommodate you most of the time. I will respond to messages withing 24 hours. Please understand I am available during business hours, 9am -4 pm EST.
Dr. Zsalanda Richardson
I am a licensed clinical social worker and an endorsed Infant Mental Health professional in Michigan with over 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, parenting skills, postpartum depression, compassion fatigue (due to work related issues and life stressors), and professional development through reflective supervision for professionals working in the early childhood sector. You are the hero in your own story despite what life has thrown at you. This step you are taking for your own mental health is a huge one and takes a lot of courage. You should feel proud of yourself.
Dr. Scott Shaw
I am licensed in Michigan (LPC & LMSW), Connecticut (LPC), Virginia (LPC), Texas (LPC), South Carolina (LPC Telehealth), and Florida (LMHC-Telehealth) with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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.
Catherine Johnston
I am licensed in Michigan with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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, and to help you live your best possible life.
Lana Kamer
I am licensed in Michigan with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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 a therapist for counseling in Oakley
Finding the best therapist close by in Oakley 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 in Oakley 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 Oakley. 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 Oakley, 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 in the Oakley 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 Oakley 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 therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Oakley area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find Oakley 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 Oakley, elsewhere in Saginaw, or in the greater state of Michigan.
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 Oakley 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 Oakley 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 Oakley 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 Oakley 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 sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.
How is a licensed therapist on this Oakley online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Oakley, 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 Oakley 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 treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Oakley 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 Oakley 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.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified Oakley 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:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
- EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
- Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
- Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
- Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
- Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
- Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
- Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
- Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
- Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
- Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
- Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
- OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
- ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
- Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Oakley 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 in Oakley?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Oakley 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.
Oakley 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 Oakley 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 Oakley 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 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 48649 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. 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 Oakley counselor?
Before seeing your Oakley 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 while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Oakley.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine?
Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice from a therapist. A Oakley licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy with a Oakley 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 Oakley, 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.
Oakley has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.
Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?
The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.
Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Oakley, 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 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 Oakley:
48649