This is Karen Williams's avatar and link to their profile

Karen Williams

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NE, Amherst
Counselor License Type(s): MC,LIMHP,NBCC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
23 years of experience

Hi! My name is Karen Williams. I've been a therapist for over 20 years, and have a wide range of experience helping others overcome issues with relationships, divorce, empty nests, career and school challenges, emotional overeating, self-esteem issues, grief and loss issues, and more. I hold a Master's Degree in Community Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix, graduating in 1999. I am certified by the National Board of Certified Counselors, and hold a Distance Counseling Certification through the NBCC. My experience as a therapist includes being in private practice and working in clinics, hospitals, employee assistance programs, and even an emergency room dedicated solely to mental health patients. My clients would probably say that I'm warm and welcoming, down to earth, and easy to talk with. Knowing that it can be hard to reach out for help, I try to make counseling a positive experience for my clients. I respect my clients from a mind-body-spirit perspective, trusting that they know what they need. My role and my goal is to help my clients get what they need so they feel a greater sense of well-being and a greater sense of being well. I do this through a variety of treatment approaches including Solution-Focused, Person-Centered and Cognitive-Behavioral modalities. No matter what approach I use, I am focused on you - the client - your needs and your desires for a greater connection to happiness, self-empowerment and success. I look forward to helping you get more out of life!

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Kathryn Perry

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NE, Amherst
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LIMHP,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

Counseling is about you. Most people have a vision of what they want their lives to contain but don't know how to make the vision a reality. I provide a safe space where you can talk about fears, troubles, insecurities. Using a strengths-based approach, we will identify, set, and achieve goals. Creating a life for you, that is balanced and whole. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, families & children who are impacted by a variety of conditions, who are struggling with life issues. Life balance is the goal and that is done through my work, with anxiety, depression, relationships, loss, trauma and children with behavioral disorders. Many people struggle with a variety of emotional challenges. I help people identify their strengths, then understand, experience and express their emotions in appropriate ways. I can work with you through life transitions, help navigate stress, anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, grief, and more. I have experience across all life stages from childhood through older adulthood. I work with children with behavioral disorders, emotional disregulation and help parents set boundaries.

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Jessica Smeal

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NE, Amherst
Counselor License Type(s): LMHP,LADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
16 years of experience

I am an LMHP and LADC with 13 years of experience. I have worked in a variety of settings and levels of care ranging from corrections to long-term co-occurring facilities to outpatient. I currently work with adults ages 19+. My clients include those who have mood disorder concerns, personality disorder concerns, drug and alcohol use issues, trauma related issues, and anxiety concerns. I have training in REBT, CBT, DBT (individual and skills group), and EMDR. I believe everyone is different and everyone has individual needs. Therefore I take a focused or eclectic approach with each of my clients to meet those individual needs. My philosophy for therapy and counseling is that it is the client who determines their course and I help them on their way. I look forward to working with you!

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Andrea Foerster

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NE, Amherst
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Hello and welcome to my profile! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Missouri and have been helping individuals seek life solutions for over 10 years. I enjoy helping clients work on a variety of issues but am especially passionate about helping women overcome issues related to anxiety and life changes (relationship, motherhood, menopause, etc). Methods that I have found particularly effective for clients in therapy include but are not limited to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Exposure and Response Prevention. For couples and relationship therapy I draw from the Gottman Method to guide the progression. Each client is unique and therapy is planned around the client’s needs and goals. I feel that trust in the therapeutic relationship is the basis for our work together and we will start out investing time to build that relationship. I am hopeful that through a strong therapeutic alliance and evidence-based methods we can make excellent progress toward your goals. Let’s work together to find joy and value in your life that you never thought possible!

This is Emelise Baughman's avatar and link to their profile

Emelise Baughman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NE, Amherst
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

I am licensed in Nebraska with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & depression. Special issues like veterans and military families, loss of an animal companion, and dealing with chronic illness are also important to me. 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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Brittany Livingston

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NE, Amherst
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficulties
17 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and Licensed Clinical Supervisor in the State of Arkansas, Minnestota, and Nebraska. I have been in practice for the past 18 years in both inpatient and outpatient settings, and i have treated a wide variety of clients with various mental health issues. I enjoy working with clients in a holistic way to help them regain hope, identify strengths, and develop a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle. Some of the areas of focus that I treat are stress and anxiety, work-place issues, discrimination issues, relationship issues, depression, jealousy, self-esteem and lack of motivation issues, depression, substance abuse, domestic violence, hoarding behaviors, poor coping skills, and promoting a healthier relationship with food/exercise/ and body image. While i use a holistic approach to treatment and take into consideration the context and other factors that are going on within the life of the individual, there are a variety of treatment modalities that I apply in my sessions. Some of the treatment methodologies that I use are cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness skills, solution-focused therapy, person-centered therapy, educational approaches, and Gestalt therapy. Beginning therapy can be a big step, and I am here to help you get started! I look forward to working with you and helping you to build the tools that you need to build and healthier and more productive life!

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Adrian Owen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NE, Amherst
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,CAT,BC-TMH
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

Identifying the need to change is greater than the need to stay the same can be the first step toward building a foundation for recovery but can also be the hardest. Hi, my name is Adrian Owen and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified-TeleMental Health Provider. For many years I have worked with individuals suffering with Co-Occurring Disorders (substance use disorder + mental health disorder). I have found that RECOVERY IS POSSIBLE for both! I also have vast experience working with others to navigate depression, anxiety, and everyday life struggles. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques including Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. I have a passion helping individuals find their route to recovery either from a substance or a mental health challenge. A changed life requires ACTION. Lets find your power. I am grateful to be considered on your journey.

This is Michelle Perry's avatar and link to their profile

Michelle Perry

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NE, Amherst
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a licensed counselor specializing in grief, loss, death, aging, depression, anxiety, and co-dependency. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which is an approach used for trauma. I received my Masters Degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University in 2012. I have spent the last nine years working in the role of a social worker in skilled nursing facilities, and now with a hospice. My work experiences, combined with my personal ones, have allowed me to become a compassionate and empathetic counselor, trained to meet you where you are in your life experience. My style of counseling is collaborative. I love to work with my clients in setting their goals for counseling and then assisting them with achieving those goals. I am friendly, warm, and often use humor. I will tailor what counseling approach to use to your specific situation and desires. These approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices, narrative therapy, ACT, and DBT. My theoretical approach is attachment based and I am trauma informed and educated. I know that it is difficult to reach out for help. I respect your experiences and will do my best to provide you with a compassionate and goal oriented counseling experience.

This is Sarah Larsen-Astrones's avatar and link to their profile

Sarah Larsen-Astrones

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NE, Amherst
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Maryland and Nebraska with 13 years of professional work experience. I am a former counseling intern site-supervisor and CE course provider having taught at colleges and universities in multiple states. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and focus (neurodivergence). I work with my clients to create an open, private, and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Matthew Schmeckpeper's avatar and link to their profile

Matthew Schmeckpeper

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NE, Amherst
AddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorder
10 years of experience

I graduated from Walden University in 2014 and was initially license March of 2014 in Nebraska and gained my full licensure in August 2019. I have had a reciprocal license in Iowa. I have my Provisional License for Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Nebraska for substance use. I have worked for community mental health, early development and mental health, school client with mental and behavioral health, residential substance use treatment, correctional treatment, Intense Outpatient and outpatient services. I have used DBT, emotional regulation, and client experiences for both what has been done historically and how they would like to change. I have passions for child abuse recovery and empowerment, been with organizations that are supportive and empowering to those that are part of or served by the organizations.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Amherst

Finding the best therapist close by in Amherst can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services with therapists in Amherst 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 Amherst. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Amherst, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses for therapists. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Amherst region and in the state of Nebraska. 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 Amherst 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 Amherst therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Amherst area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Amherst, elsewhere in Buffalo, or in the greater state of Nebraska. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Amherst 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 Amherst therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Amherst due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Amherst may not take health insurance, some in the state of Nebraska 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 Nebraska you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Amherst online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Amherst, Nebraska working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. Therapists have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, therapists here all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Amherst psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Amherst above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Amherst provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Amherst?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Amherst therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Amherst 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 Amherst 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 NE, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 68812 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Amherst counselor?

Before seeing your Amherst therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Amherst therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Amherst licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find with a Amherst 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 Amherst, Nebraska 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.

Amherst has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Amherst, Nebraska

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of Amherst 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 Amherst.

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

68812

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