Colonized in 1675 by Quakers looking for a safe place to practice their religion, Salem, New Jersey received its namesake from the word ‘shalom,’ meaning peace. In the center of the city, a 500-year-old oak tree stands, lending stability to the community.

Even when surrounded by a peaceful, unwavering environment, there are times when one might feel turbulent and unsteady inside. If the rich history and tranquility of the Salem area aren’t enough to appease, there are local specialists who can guide you to mental harmony once matched.

This is Kerri Scully's avatar and link to their profile

Kerri Scully

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,ACS,DRCC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
19 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Welcome! I am so happy that you have chosen to take this step in working on whatever challenges you may be experiencing. I know that it is not always easy to ask for help. I have a Master's Degree in Applied Counseling and Clinical Psychology from William Paterson University of NJ (2004) and am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in NJ and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in MA and FL. I have worked in the field for the past 20 years. I have extensive training and experience working with people experiencing anxiety and depression. I enjoy working with a diverse population and people from all walks of life and all backgrounds. I use a strength-based, solution-focused approach to help you build upon what is going well and to take steps to improve things that aren't going so well. I use a Cognitive Behavioral approach as well to help you change the way that you think in a more positive way. No two people are the same, so I tailor treatment to each specific person in order to help you achieve your specific goals. Let's work together toward a healthier and happier you!

This is Barbara Ramsey's avatar and link to their profile

Barbara Ramsey

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,RN
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
35 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi! My name is Barbara Ramsey and I am a licensed therapist ( License number 44SC01482000). Welcome to the on-line counseling room, which will be our private, secure place to communicate. You can enter this room from any internet connected device wherever you are. Thanks for taking the time to read my profile. I'm a nurse and clinical social worker with a masters degree from Rutgers University. I have worked in the hospital and home care but most of my professional career has been as a psychotherapist. When someone starts counseling with me, I try to get to know them and, at the same time, help them cope with their immediate problems. I'm a good listener and easy to talk to. My years of experience have given me perspective. I try to notice patterns and sensitivities and reflect these back to my clients. Considering a member's values, hopes and dreams help us shape goals and support is given along the way. By seeing how things can get better, stress is reduced and clearer thinking results. I hope that you are interested in working with me. Let's start helping you feel better. To help us get started, please tell me what brought you here. Just a few short sentences that describe the challenges you are facing and what you would like to talk about. It will help me know what you are going through and we'll schedule a live session to go on from there. I am looking forward to working with you. Style: empathetic, insightful Specialties: depression, anxiety, life crisis, parenting, work and career issues, family and relationship problems, self esteem, coping with physical illness, disability, pandemic isolation and loneliness Also experienced in: grief and loss, trauma, personality problems, bipolar and serious mental illness Clinical approaches: psychodynamic psychotherapy, client centered and strength-based therapies, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution based and analytic style therapy, and Bible based counseling Years in practice: 35 years

This is April  Freeman's avatar and link to their profile

April Freeman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
Counselor License Type(s): Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! Starting therapy is a brave decision and I want to acknowledge your commitment to your well -being. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of New York who is passionate about helping people with life difficulties. Change is possible and I would like to welcome you to Better Help! My goal as a therapist is to support you on your journey to self- empowerment. I have a master’s degree in Social Work from Syracuse University as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Child and Family Studies with a minor in Psychology. It is important to understand that I can not provide any medical advice in regards to psychotropic medications or medical health conditions. I will create a space free from judgment for you to share your thoughts and feelings and support you in the decisions that you feel are best for you. I love what I do and I am excited and honored to hold space for you to share and process what is happening in your life. Together we will make a plan that works for you and moves at your own pace. All the best!

This is Maria Coyle's avatar and link to their profile

Maria Coyle

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
24 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor who has 20 years of counseling experience. I have provided counseling for adolescents and adults from many different cultural and ethnic backgrounds. I am very sensitive to individual differences and will provide an atmosphere of trust, safety, and protect the confidentiality of my clients. I have worked in a school setting and a private practice. I have experience in working with a wide range of concerns and mental health issues, but a few examples are trauma/abuse, ADHD, anxiety/depression, relationship issues, adolescents, grief/loss, and parenting concerns. It is my goal to assist individuals in identifying the issues and develop possible strategies for positive solutions. I use many different approaches to counseling because individual needs vary.

This is Meredith McCabe's avatar and link to their profile

Meredith McCabe

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi, I'm Meredith and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adults and teens struggling to determine who they are currently and to understand their own personal developmental process. Using a mixture of cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, humor, and person-centered work, your counseling will start with building a trusting and welcoming rapport and then supporting you as you work at your own pace towards your goals. As adults and teens, we are often in positions to care for others. We help, we volunteer, we go the extra mile even if that extra mile costs us an hour less sleep. And in everything we do, there is so much pressure to be the perfect woman, the perfect employee, the perfect student, the perfect mother. For some of us, "perfect" feels more like "impossible." As a counselor, I see the struggles that so many people have on a daily basis with the idea that they need to be perfect and how it reframes their idea of self I have also seen firsthand the long term impact of being everything to everyone. I’d like to get to know you and work together to go the extra mile for you and your personal wellness and happiness. It is my hope that by working together we can challenge those thoughts of perfection, work to help you accept yourself, and learn to breathe, balance and grow. I began my private practice part-time in 2012 while also working for a local university as a professor/clinical supervisor for graduate students in a mental health counseling program and continues to work extensively with college and graduate students and the unique pressures they face. In addition, I have an extensive background as a mental health and social justice activist and recognize both the sociocultural and environmental issues that women face, particularly women of color, and do not shy away from giving that side of my clients' perspective time and support. My practice is secular and inclusive, all are welcome.

This is Dr. Michael Becerra's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Michael Becerra

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,CPCS,CRC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a counselor licensed in Georgia, New Hampshire, and New Jersey with more than ten years of experience working in the community, school districts, college campuses and vocational rehabilitation agencies. I have worked with clients regarding disability, stress and anxiety, immigration, mens issues, career and life transitions, relationships, motivation and confidence issues. I also spent six years living in Colombia working with intercultural heterosexual and gay couples, as well as US expats and volunteers orientating to life abroad. My counseling style is laid back and interactive. My humanistic theoretical framework for therapy is shaped by Adlerian psychology, which is one of growth and social interest. I also work with solution-focused and developmental approaches to meet your individual needs. Alfred Adler believed that mentally healthy people strive to master their basic life tasks that represent the challenges of work, friendship, love/intimacy. Your motivation to seek therapy demonstrates it. Count on my support and empowerment when you are ready to take that step. I look forward to working with you!

This is Winifred ODriscoll's avatar and link to their profile

Winifred ODriscoll

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementSelf esteem
30 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in New Jersey with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management, bipolar disorder & 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! Therapy can be an exciting experience. You have an opportunity to go back to zero and rebuild your life on your own terms. Developing the incite needed to make the changes you want as well as the needed coping skills. Learning that you can be happy on purpose and that you are not limited by the past.

This is Elizabeth Miller's avatar and link to their profile

Elizabeth Miller

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
11 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in New Jersey with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Mary Ann Furphy's avatar and link to their profile

Mary Ann Furphy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in New Jersey with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Juan Flores's avatar and link to their profile

Juan Flores

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed professional in New Jersey with more than 13 years of experience in the field. My expertise lies in assisting clients dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship/marital conflicts, anger issues, male sex addiction (both heterosexual and homosexual), and depression. I firmly believe that you are the author of your own life story and possess unique strengths that can help you overcome any obstacles you may face. It takes great courage to take the initial step towards a more fulfilling and joyful life, and I am here to provide you with the support you need throughout this journey

How to find a therapist for counseling in Salem

Finding the best therapist close by in Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem. 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 Salem, 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 Salem region and in the state of New Jersey. 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 Salem 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 Salem area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Salem 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 Salem, elsewhere in Salem, or in the greater state of New Jersey.

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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem may not take health insurance, some in the state of New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 Salem online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Salem, New Jersey 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Salem 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.

Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 NJ, 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 08079 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 Salem counselor?

Before seeing your Salem 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 Salem.

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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem, New Jersey 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.

Salem 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 Salem, New Jersey

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 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 Salem.

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

08079

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist