When it comes to finding a therapist, Buffalo, NY has options, but it isn’t so simple to find the therapist that’s right for you, even in a big city. Treatment methods vary, and even evidence-based practices may be more effective on some mental health conditions than others. A therapist who specializes in the therapeutic method that works best for you may not be available in your area. Or may not be a good personality match. 

Online therapy through a service platform like BetterHelp offers over 30,000 licensed mental health care providers who specialize in treating a variety of conditions from obsessive compulsive disorder to post-traumatic stress disorder. By simply filling out a simple online questionnaire BetterHelp will match you with a therapist that meets your personal needs. And because a strong therapeutic relationship can be key to your success, if for any reason you don’t feel comfortable with your therapist, you can switch for no additional cost. 

Online therapy can also be a convenient solution for busy professionals, parents, or students. Sessions fit easily into any schedule, and video chat, phone, and text messaging options allow you to talk to your therapist from the comfort of your own home or office. 

Therapy can help you to process past experiences, manage worry and stress, and establish a foundation for mental health and happiness. If you have been thinking about seeking therapy for any reason, whether to find relief from trauma in your history, learn healthy coping strategies to manage stress and heal relationships, or simply to take a more holistic focus on your health and wellness, contact BetterHelp to get started with a licensed professional who can help you build the life you deserve. 

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Cheryl Sonilal

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Mental Health Counselor licensed in New York. I have 10 years experience working as a counselor and clinical evaluator for a wide range of clients, both adolescents and adults. My experience with adults includes parenting challenges, substance use and addictions, depression and anxiety. I have many years of experience working with adolescents and families, implementing evidenced based practices; Multi-Systemic Therapy in the home. I have engaged in valuable work with adolescents and families, in culturally sensitive situations, specifically, Unaccompanied Minors presenting with trauma, abuse, and familial challenges. My counseling style is empathic and warm. I value respect, compassion, safety, integrity and honesty. My approach to counseling is contingent on the needs of the individual, with focus on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. Making the first step to seek out support is the most challenging step to take. The courage it takes to take that step will ignite more change; the change you wish to see. I look forward to working with you!

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Mina Choi

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT,MA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesParenting issues
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in New York, with experience working with people from all different backgrounds who are struggling with a wide variety of challenges. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, family conflicts, relationship issues, parenting problems, and difficulties with teenagers and adolescents. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical, emotional, or sexual abuse within the juvenile justice system. My therapy style is interactive and warm, with a focus on motivating my clients to build a healthier lifestyle. I believe that every person is an expert in their own life, my role is simply to ask questions that will help my clients recognize their own struggles and vulnerabilities, and develop personal motivations and goals in their life. My approach combines humanistic, Dialectical -behavioral, and solution-focused therapy, and I can tailor our dialog and treatment plans to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to take the first step towards change, a Korean proverb states that 'a beginning is half the battle' Please allow me to support and empower you.

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Dr. Judy Ricci

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY
Counselor License Type(s): Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepressionADHD
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I have a Ph. D. in Clinical Psychology and am licensed in three states including Maryland, New York, and Virginia. I have seven years of clinical work experience. I have a particular intesrest in people suffering with anxiety and/or mild to moderate or moderate depression. as well as those who need help coping with medical/health issues. I am Cognitive-Behavioral in my therapy approach, although I use other evidence-based treatments as needed, including Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). Specialties: Anxiety and stress Depression Pain Management Weight Management

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Jahmeal Blain

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefAnger managementDepression
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in New York with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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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Carla Starr

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of South Dakota and New York. I have been in the field for nearly 18 years and have worked in various settings. I received my BSW at Buffalo State College, and went on to get my MSW at the University at Buffalo in 2005. My experience includes working as a medical social worker where I supported and advocated for individuals with chronic medical conditions, working as an inpatient psychiatric social worker with both children and adults, being a school social worker, and an outpatient integrated therapist. The experience I have gained from these various settings has increased my clinical skills and provided me with the honor of empowering many different types of clients. As a BIPOC clinician, I aim to provide a culturally responsive space for clients to feel supported and empowered to develop trust and connection. You have taken the brave step in reaching out for help and my goal is to provide empathetic, non-judgmental support to help in your healing journey.

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Patrice Levy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemADHD
11 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed social worker in NY, NJ, PA, WA, CA, IL, and CO as well as a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor with 12+ years of professional clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family issues, adolescent/teen specific issues, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. Feel free to check out my professional site for additional info about me as a clinician: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/patrice-m-levy-commack-ny/1081272

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Rayvonne Hood

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Rayvonne “Ray” is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia with a passion for providing the best quality of services to individuals struggling from a variety of mental health challenges. Ray received his Master’s degree from Pace University in Mental Health Counseling. Ray has over 17 years of experience working in the field of Mental Health with children, adolescents, and adults. Ray has worked in a variety of settings which include schools, inpatient mental health facilities, community-based programs, hospitals (Emergency Department), and group homes. One of Ray’s greatest strengths is that he has a genuine ability to connect with clients. Ray assists his clients by drawing on their strengths and helping them develop healthy lifestyle habits that set the foundation for overall life stability. Some of his specialty areas are trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction, ADHD, psychosis, and life transitions. Ray work's 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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Heather Allen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in New York with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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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Frank Noll

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in New York with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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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Justin Morris

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issues
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have clinical practice of 4 years. I completed a 3 year education in adult Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy and have experience with other treatment modalities. I spent years working with adolescents but also have experience working with young adults, adults and older adults. My passion is helping people better understand themselves by gaining insight into their past and present. I believe that insight into ourselves greatly strengthens our relationships with ourselves and others. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. 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 Buffalo

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

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

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

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

Therapists in Buffalo, New York 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo?

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

Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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 NY, 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 14209 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 Buffalo counselor?

Before seeing your Buffalo 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 Buffalo.

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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo, New York 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.

Buffalo 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 Buffalo, New York

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 Buffalo.

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

14201, 14202, 14203, 14204, 14205, 14206, 14207, 14208, 14209, 14210, 14211, 14212, 14213, 14214, 14215, 14216, 14218, 14220, 14222, 14231, 14233, 14240, 14241, 14260, 14263, 14264, 14265, 14267, 14269, 14270, 14272, 14273, 14276, 14280

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