Somerville is one of the oldest cities in America and it has a unique history that is all its own. Famous for the largest bicycle race in America, this city is a lovely place to live. You enjoy spending time biking through the beautiful scenery that the city has to offer, but life isn't always a smooth ride. You can run into bumpy stretches of road due to your struggles with depression and anxiety.

You are not alone in facing these problems and you can get proper help to make things easier. Speaking to a Somerville counselor is not unlike staying hydrated during a bike race. Sometimes you need a little bit of help so that you can keep going in the race of life. Contact a Somerville-area counselor today to get the helping hand that you need.

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Dr. Nicole (Nikki) Lacherza-Drew

Offering therapy in NJ
License: PsyD
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Psychologist providing therapy to adults in NJ, NY VT, FL, and CT. Every person has different hurdles to conquer in life and might need assistance along the way. That said, I work with my patients to form a safe and comfortable treatment environment to accomplish their treatment goals. When working with patients, I believe one of the most important factors is the therapist-patient relationship. I take the time to build a solid therapeutic relationship so I can best serve my patients. I provide mainly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and person-centered therapy. To tailor therapy to each patient, I pull from additional evidence-based intervention areas in which I have training. Additional areas include mindfulness-based interventions, positive psychology, LGBTQIA+, and trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). I encourage you to reach out so we can discuss your needs and find the right path for you.

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Jeffrey Thoelen

Offering therapy in NJ
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Jeffrey earned a Master of Social Work degree from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey in 2016 as well as New Jersey licensure to provide mental health counseling. In 8 years of working as a therapist Jeffrey is passionate about working with young adult clients (18-30). Areas of interest are mood disorders, anxiety and depression, life transitions, and decision making. Therapy is best when it feels casual, straightforward, and supportive. Sessions are 30-minutes audio format and solution-focused to help get to the root cause of your challenges without small-talk and time wasting. I look forward to working with you soon!

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Erika Lewis-Vallila

Offering therapy in NJ
License: LPC,M.Ed
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a School Counselor in the state of New Jersey. I have 8 years of experience working with under-served and at-risk youth, I have worked with individuals, families, and children. My experience includes, but is not limited to, working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, learning/intellectual disabilities, life adjustments, homelessness, lack of resources, and emotional and social issues. My approach to therapy is warm and supportive while using collaborative, cognitive-based, and solution-focused interventions. I believe in working with clients to offer support and assistance, all while building a strong rapport and working relationship between counselor and client. Therapy can seem overwhelming but I am here to support you through the process and together we can work to get you where you want to be! We are all on our own journey and I would be honored to be a part of yours.

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Dr. Sheri Balsam

Offering therapy in NJ
License: Psy.D.
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hello, and welcome! My name is Dr. Sheri Balsam. I am a licensed psychologist, and earned my Psy.D. with a concentration in Multicultural Psychology from Rutgers University. I have completed extensive clinical training working with teenagers and adults in a variety of settings, and have specialized postdoctoral training in CBT. I am passionate about providing effective, empirically-based care, integrating CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic techniques into my work. Drawing from these modalities, I formulate appropriate, individualized interventions that target symptom relief and reduce emotional distress. In my practice, I aim to help you discover, utilize, and maximize personal strengths in order to cultivate meaningful, long lasting change. I am experienced in treating a range of anxiety and depressive disorders, those struggling with life transitions, relationship/marital issues, and eating disorders. Through the myriad of interventions at my disposal and the profound power of a therapeutic relationship, clients learn to understand the factors preventing them from experiencing life satisfactions they deserve and/or the kind of close, intimate relationships they desire. I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental atmosphere where my clients can acquire effective coping skills, communication techniques, and the tools necessary to facilitate the change desired in their life or relationship. My approach to therapy is collaborative, supportive, and empathetic. I seek to make each client feel comfortable, heard, and understood. I am committed to helping you understand yourself on a deeper level and employ new tools to overcome beliefs and patterns that are no longer serving you, so that you can live a life in accordance with your personal goals and values. I view any individual’s entrance into therapy as an expression of courage and hope. It is a privilege to be invited into your narrative to navigate this journey of personal healing and transformational growth. Thank you for visiting this site and for taking the time to read about me! I understand that choosing the right therapist for you is an important decision. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me by email, as I am more than happy to answer any questions you may have. I look forward to speaking with you!

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Kimberlee VanBurch

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in New Jersey with over 12 years of experience working with individuals and families. I will work collaboratively with you to facilitate a process of change and to help you to reach your personal goals. I help individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to develop effective coping skills and resolve core concerns. I believe in a person-centered process and use an eclectic approach based on the individual. As an anti-oppressive therapist my philosophy is that good mental health only occurs within a cultural context. I employ a strength-based culturally sensitive approach that allows me to support you through conflict and change. I am a BIPOC Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) trained therapist. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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michael geisert

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
27 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in working and empowering clients manage stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, addictions, supportive counseling and anger symptoms in an array of settings. Some approaches I employ to assist you to meet your goals include Client Centered, Positive Psychology, EFT, ACT and Mindfulness. Some of these settings include outpatient and inpatient Addictions and mental health, Juvenile Justice, US Military and Veteran mental health, Public School and College. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, as we navigate this journey together. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out strategies and awareness to move forward. I am here to support, develop tools to manage yourself and clear these disruptions and enhance your life.

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Denise Miguel

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, justice involvement, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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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Christy Hopwood

Offering therapy in NJ
License: LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionADHD
21 years of experience

I began working in the mental health field in 1993. I worked in residential treatment facilities with teenage girls and boys until I received my Master's in Social Work at the University of Louisville in 1999. Since 1999, I have been employed as a social worker for severe mentally ill adults, counselor and a director in foster care settings, counselor in psychiatric residential treatment facility for teenage girls and prepubescent boys, intensive in home counselor for children and teenagers with their families for the past 15 years, and outpatient mental health counselor for adults, families, and couples. I opened my private practice in 2008 where I see adults and couples who are dealing with depression, anxiety, marriage problems, relationship issues, grief, loss, parenting issues, anger, substance abuse, domestic violence, PTSD, trauma, stressors, work place problems, financial difficulties, ADHD, bipolar, mood disorders, and personality disorders. I use person centered therapy where I focus on the totality of the client that includes their mental, physical, emotional, relational, spiritual (if applicable), and recreational health and how they are meeting those needs. I use cognitive behavior therapy to help clients identify thinking patterns and cognitive distortions/faulty thinking errors that are impeding their progress and ways to replace those thinking errors with rational thought. I ask about family history, trauma, and if those trauma's are impeding present day life. I used shot term solution therapy where needed to help client's develop goals and strategies with their input to meet their needs. I help clients identify coping skills for problems and ways to implement those skills.

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Phoebe King

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with over 20 years of professional work experience. My training focus has been Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and I use the Gottman Method for the couples that I have worked with over the years. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma and abuse. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Rashidah Hansen

Offering therapy in NJ
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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How to find counseling in Somerville

Finding the best therapist close by in Somerville 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Somerville. 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 Somerville, 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. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Somerville or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. 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 Somerville area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

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

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Somerville 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 Somerville 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 Somerville 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 BetterHelp or clinicians 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).

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

Therapists in Somerville, 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a 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, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Somerville 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 Somerville helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Somerville 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:

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 Somerville 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?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but 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.

A psychologist 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 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 Somerville 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 lot of people in NJ, providers 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 08876 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

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

Before seeing your 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. 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 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. A Somerville 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 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 Somerville, 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.

Somerville 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?

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

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 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 Somerville.

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

08876

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