This is Michael Richards's avatar and link to their profile

Michael Richards

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NM
Counselor License Type(s): MDiv.,CCMH (LPCC),MBA
AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefEating disordersSleeping disorders
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello. I'm Michael Richards, a Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMH, same as a LPCC- the highest level of counseling license) licensed in New Mexico. I have had my license for 24 years, with 20 years experience on staff of several hospitals, providing assessment, crisis management, and general clinical mental health care. In hospitals, I also worked as a chaplain, and a social worker. I've worked as a counselor and case manager for a non-profit agency, at a private mental health hospital, and in private practice too. So I use medicine and evidence-based treatment as my main way of looking at how to do counseling. I also use client centered care, as well as psychodynamic, Jungian, and somatic techniques where appropriate. I've had a long recovery from Covid-19, and I know how many people are being impacted by this natural disaster, even traumatized or get PTSD- and I'm ready to help. As a social worker, I was a patient advocate, also bereavement, rape crisis, and domestic violence counselor. Probably half of my work has been with people struggling with addictions, including eating disorders, and process addictions, like codependency and financial recovery. Another big influence on my work is my training- I have a Masters in Divinity, and came into mental health counseling through hospital chaplaincy and social services- I see my work as service, and my own spiritual and healing path led me to world travels, and ecumenical and interfaith practice, and I can offer counseling on spiritual and religious issues, as well as spiritual direction. Finally, I have an MBA in healthcare administration, and worked for 10 years as a foreign service officer and consular officer, so I am comfortable doing financial counseling, business coaching, and immigration counseling. It is truly an honor to have you consider me for your healing team, and let's see what we can do together.

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Karen Stockham

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NM
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
24 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Welcome! My name is Karen and I am so glad you are here. For the past 24 years I have worked with a broad range of clients including individuals, couples, children, adolescents and families to tackle life’s challenges. Therapy can be a great catalyst for healthy change in relationships and a valuable tool to help solve problems, set and achieve goals, improve communication skills and keep your stress levels in check. I am a great listener with a Solution-Oriented Therapy and Family Therapy counseling style which focuses on helping you to feel more empowered and actively changing your life for the better. In addition, I utilize a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach which allows for a great deal of discussion about how our thoughts, behaviors and perspectives influence how we both feel and behave. Some of my specialties include Marriage and Family Counseling, Mediation, Anger Management and Conflict Resolution. I enjoy working with families of all kinds helping you to achieve balance in your relationships, tackling parenting and couple issues and walking through the day to day challenges. On a personal note, I am a mom of five boys and a grandmother to three. I enjoy time with my family, photography, outdoor activities, exercise and volunteering at our local BioPark. I am an action oriented counselor and really enjoy working through a platform that is both convenient and easily accessible to my clients. Online therapy is new and exciting and I am here to take things at your pace and to help you navigate the platform. Seeking counseling is a sign of strength so if you are ready to walk through life’s challenges and feel empowered to live a more fulfilling life contact me and let’s get to work!

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Julia Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NM
Counselor License Type(s): EdD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor for the states of Michigan and New Mexico. With over 25 years of experience, I have a wide scope of experience in community counseling, private practice, residential, partial hospitalization, and military settings. I am well-versed in working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. My specialties include issues associated with anxiety, depression, self-development, relationship issues, grief & loss, AD/HD, military, career, and life changes. My counseling style is respectful, empathic, genuinely caring, and interactive. I incorporate cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness strategies with acceptance and attachment-based therapies. I cultivate a trusting climate and work with you to create a plan that suits your own unique needs. Thank you for taking the time to learn about me; I welcome the opportunity to talk with you.

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Tammy White

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NM
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in New Mexico with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, and substance use and abuse concerns. I have a history of working with individuals, families, and groups. I work with my clients to create therapeutic rapport in an open, safe, and supportive 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 happy that you have decided to reach out for help.

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Katherine Sainz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NM
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in New Mexico with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtqia-related issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss, as well as many other areas of human challenge. 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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Kerri Payne

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NM
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuse
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in New Mexico with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbt-related issues, & relationship issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Amanda De La Cruz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NM
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Thank you for taking this step to begin therapy! My name is Amanda De La Cruz and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New Mexico. I have been practicing social work for over 14 years with a specialty in medical social work, crisis intervention, and geriatric group therapy. My therapy approach is an integrative manner utilizing various theories, methods, and techniques from different evidence-based psychotherapy approaches such as psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, humanistic, and systemic theories that are unique to the client. The most common forms of therapy used are Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused Therapy (TF-CBT), Mindfulness Therapy (MBCT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), with a motivational interviewing style. I have experience working with clients from a wide range of concerns including anxiety, stress, suicidal thoughts, ADHD and autism, depression, relationship issues, parenting struggles, family dynamic concerns, addictions, trauma, and chronic health problems. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you take this brave step towards empowerment! I look forward to working with you.

This is Henry "Jay" Swedlaw's avatar and link to their profile

Henry "Jay" Swedlaw

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NM
Counselor License Type(s): MS/Ed.S,LMHC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience as a mental health therapist

With eight years of experience on the BetterHelp platform, six state licenses, and thousands of clients served, I know that it is not always easy to come to therapy and talk about difficult issues. While virtual/messaging based therapy may be a bit unfamiliar, I have extensive experience on this platform. Over the past eight years I have developed a very high degree of comfort and confidence in my ability to deliver high quality clinical services to my clients. I am here to help you with whatever life has thrown your way, and I am in this journey to self-improvement with you. Additionally, I want to teach you the skills I use to work through these problems so that you will come away from therapy with a better understanding of yourself, and how to independently work through your issues in the future. I am direct, goal driven, and results oriented. I specialize in relationship issues, couples, stress and anxiety management, anger/aggression management, depression and bipolar, and LBGT issues. For any new client wishing to have their intake session, I can accommodate that within 48 hours. My passion is helping people, and I would be happy to help you. https://www.facebook.com/Jay-Swedlaw-MSEdS-LPC-LMHC-971275126239636/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-swedlaw-b61618bb/

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Dr. Ariel McGrew

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NM
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am Dr. McGrew, licensed in Colorado and New Mexico with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Grace Angeles's avatar and link to their profile

Grace Angeles

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NM
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in New Mexico with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Chama

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

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Chama 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 Chama, elsewhere in Rio Arriba, or in the greater state of New Mexico.

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

Therapists in Chama, New Mexico 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 Chama 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 Chama 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 Chama 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 Chama 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 Chama 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 Chama?

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

Chama 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 Chama 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 Chama 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 NM, 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 87520 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 Chama counselor?

Before seeing your Chama 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 Chama.

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 Chama 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 Chama 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 Chama, New Mexico 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.

Chama 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 Chama, New Mexico

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 Chama.

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

87520

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