In Royal Oak, MI, individuals seeking support for their mental health can find a variety of counseling services offered by competent professionals. These services are designed to address a range of concerns, from family conflict to personal challenges such as low self-esteem and sexual abuse. Licensed therapists, including licensed master social workers, are equipped to provide guidance and support as individuals navigate these complex issues.

One area of specialization within the local therapeutic community involves helping individuals through significant life transitions. Whether these changes are related to personal, career, or family dynamics, therapists can assist clients in managing these shifts towards a more fulfilling life. Techniques such as life coaching and effective therapy are often utilized to help clients develop strategies to manage symptoms and resolve conflict, which can improve their overall sense of well-being.

Additionally, for those who may require psychiatric medication, there are professionals available who can evaluate and manage pharmacological treatments as part of a comprehensive care plan. This can be particularly important for those dealing with more severe mental health challenges where medication is a key component of therapy.

Therapists in Royal Oak also focus on specific demographic concerns, such as women's issues, providing tailored support in areas where individuals may feel particularly vulnerable or misunderstood. This targeted approach helps in creating a supportive and understanding therapeutic space where clients can feel safe and valued.

Located in Oakland County, Royal Oak offers these diverse services to ensure that individuals can access care that not only helps them manage symptoms but also empowers them to lead richer and more satisfying lives. Please see the therapist profiles below for more information on the different therapists available online.

This is Stacey Smyczynski's avatar and link to their profile

Stacey Smyczynski

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW, SSW,QMHP, CMHP,QIDP
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! My name is Stacey Smyczynski. I am a licensed Masters of Social Work (LMSW) and have worked as a Social Worker for 25 years. I earned my Bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University and my Master’s degree from Michigan State University. I have worked with different populations include teenagers, adults, families and geriatrics. I have worked in various settings (home, community, hospital, nursing home/AFC home and academic environments). My experience includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, parenting and family struggles, relationship issues, self-esteem, career challenges, substance use issues, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, and major life changes and challenges. My warm, nonjudgmental and accepting personality allows for the foundation for an effective therapeutic relationship. Working with me means overcoming and powering through challenges in life by discovering healthier coping mechanisms and thought processes. I believe in a strengths-based approach utilizing cognitive behavioral and solution focused techniques, as well as mindfulness practices. Making the choice to seek counseling is a difficult one that takes courage and I am happy you have decided to reach out. The first order of business is for us to develop a strong and trusting therapeutic relationship so you feel confident to express yourself in a safe and supportive environment. I believe our work is based on a team approach where we work together to achieve your desired goals. You are the most important part of the counseling relationship. We start where you are and work towards the goals you want to achieve. You took the first step and I’m here to support and empower you! I look forward to working with you!

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Kimberley VanHaitsma

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, and welcome! I’m glad you are here. My name is Kim, and I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Michigan. I have been on the social work scene for 20 years, after a short career in the nursing field, and graduated with an MSW degree in 2002 from Grand Valley State University. I have a wide and varied background, from working in geriatrics in a health care setting to crisis counseling with high risk clients. For the last 5 years, I have been working with limited license social workers in a supervisory role as they work toward full licensure. As a crisis counselor, I continually assessed for safety concerns, including harm to self and others. I am well versed in suicide assessment and in-the-moment solution focused counseling, prioritizing safety planning and accessing emergency services when needed. Often, substance abuse, domestic violence, and medication issues proved to be the underlying cause, requiring swift and intuitive assessment skills to rectify the crisis at hand. Much of the counseling work I am currently involved in centers around boundary setting, compassion fatigue, and self care. Anxiety and depression, however, are increasingly the common thread that can become debilitating, affecting work productivity and personal relationships. I like to use a holistic approach to my work, as the physical body often becomes run down when a person suffers mentally (and vice versa!). I have a heart for individuals who are dealing with the mental agony of chronic physical conditions, as well as their caregivers, who are often equally exhausted. I am quite flexible in my availability, and can be reached via phone, text, or video. I am very comfortable with providing support over the phone, as this is what I did for years as a crisis counselor. I am not afraid to talk about tough issues, or troubling thoughts you may be experiencing. I am looking forward to coming alongside as you commit to improving your mental health, finding purpose, and experiencing happiness. This is what every person deserves, and I am here to help.

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Sara LaBelle

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,CMHP,QIDP
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Therapist in Michigan with over 7 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, anger management, parenting problems, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and ADHD. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered therapy, and mindfulness. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards 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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This is Molly Terry's avatar and link to their profile

Molly Terry

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LMHC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
24 years of experience as a mental health therapist

If you are looking for a therapist who cares and makes the effort, who listens without judgment. If you wish to be seen and heard and valued, I am unique in making others feel comfortable, safe and willing, and ready to work through difficult areas of the self. From start to finish, I am on your side. I believe in the therapeutic relationship. I will meet you as an equal, with genuine and effective listening and feedback. We will set goals and assess and revise them along the way. I believe in the therapeutic process and want to help you become your best self. I will be using my 24 years of experience to work for you. I use evidence-based interventions to create a safe therapeutic environment that is conducive to growth and healing. An eclectic blend of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Client-Centered, and Positive Therapy are my treatments of choice. I will be providing weekly 'therapy boosts', that will be tailored information and opportunities to reflect and work on issues between sessions. I am an active messager, so if this appeals to you, we will be a great match. I have found Betterhrelp's platform to be very effective, as combining 24/7 messaging with live sessions is an amazing formula for success. If you've never been to a therapist, I can empathize with the uneasiness. It is scary to entertain our struggles and even scarier to think of telling someone. I assure you I am here to go at your pace, to make you as comfortable as possible, and to help you get to that version of yourself that you are desiring.

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Andrew Breen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Michigan with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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 Bernice Hardman's avatar and link to their profile

Bernice Hardman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Bernice Hardman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in Michigan. She completed her Masrer's in Social Work at the University of Michigan. She has a wide range of experience serving children, adolescents, adults, and families. Her scope of practice includes seeing clients who are navigating stress, anxiety, depression, relationships and communication, life transitions, parenting, and cultural identity-related concerns. She values creating a partnership with clients to create a secure and courageous space for clients to share and explore their life experiences in a judgement free setting. Clients who are looking to create and/or recreate balance in their lives, Bernice uses best-informed practices to focus on the mind, body, and spirit connection.

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This is Leigh Evans's avatar and link to their profile

Leigh Evans

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Florida and Michigan with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Lisa Briggs's avatar and link to their profile

Lisa Briggs

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI
Grief
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Michigan with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss. 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. 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 Richard Navis's avatar and link to their profile

Richard Navis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Michigan with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Kristin Lubs Eagle's avatar and link to their profile

Kristin Lubs Eagle

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Michigan with 12 years of professional work experience. I employ a holistic and integrative approach to therapy, drawing on the principles of CBT for addressing thought patterns and behaviors, EMDR for trauma processing, and TBRI for attachment-related concerns. My approach is client-centered, adapting techniques to meet the unique needs of each individual. Together we will work together to create a safe and collaborative therapeutic relationship, where we can explore and understand the root causes of issues, while providing practical tools for coping and healing.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Royal Oak

Finding the best therapist close by in Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak. 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 Royal Oak, 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 Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak, elsewhere in Oakland, 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 Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Royal Oak, 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 Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Royal Oak 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.

Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak 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 48073 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 Royal Oak counselor?

Before seeing your Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak.

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 Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak, 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.

Royal Oak 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 Royal Oak, 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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Royal Oak.

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

48067, 48068, 48073

Popular cities near Royal Oak, MI

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