Living well means more than accumulating possessions. When sadness or fear take over your life, luxurious objects aren’t helpful. They don’t compensate for your emotional pain and disturbing thoughts. You need greater mental well-being.
Canandaigua is known for its Sonnenberg Mansion and Gardens. If your life’s mansion is in a state ofchaos and disrepair, your thoughts become as confused as your feelings. You work to get your mental home in order, but you don’t have to tools to do the job right. Talk to a counselor in the Canandaigua area to learn how to live the good life.
John Shafer
By way of introduction, I am John Shafer, LCSW-R. In 1998, I graduated from Syracuse University's School of Social Work with my master's in social work. Throughout my social work career, I strived to learn from the highest credentialed and experienced professionals. Background wise, I have experience working with people in the following areas: rural community mental health settings, school-based mental health settings, city and suburban settings. Vocationally, diversification of approaches to working with people from an array of different environments provided my basis for success. I worked with people across the spectrum of age ranges from three years old to people in their nineties. Also, I gained experience working with people from different socio-economic statuses. Over the years, my ongoing diversity training afforded me opportunities to hone my clinical skills related to populations covering a wide gamut of racial and ethnic backgrounds. I sought to develop techniques to address gender identity expressions that was done in a culturally sensitive manner. Along the way, I prided myself on developing counseling and psycho-therapy skills. In the course of working with people, the therapy models I used most often included: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, Strengths Based Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. In general, my employment opportunities accorded me the chance to develop clinical skills. I implemented different types of therapy such as individual therapy, couple's therapy and group therapy; all of which provided me with professional development opportunities. Interweaving professional experiences with evidence based therapy models, I work collaboratively with people to attain client-centered and person-centered goals.
Diana Nash
I am Diana Nash. It is good to meet you. I am wondering if you might be one of many who struggle with grief, loss issues, anxiety, depression or couples with relationship issues? If so, you need not make your journey(s) alone. As a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) --I hold a MA Counseling Psychology and 6th year certificate from New York University, and 20 years' of clinical experience I can guide you and support you on your path to a more joyful, fulfilling and integrated life. I see clients on Mondays and Wednesdays. I look forward to meeting you!
David Ackerman
I am an individual and couples therapist licensed in New York, with over 20 years of clinical experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety and relationship issues. I have also helped clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety and relationship issues. I have also helped those who have experienced trauma and emotional abuse. I am considered to be warm and compassionate, and my style is working interactively with clients. My approach combines humanistic, psychodynamic and goal-oriented therapy with a wide range of client issues, and a diverse client base. I have worked with chronic mental illness, including anxiety, depression, personality and eating disorders. In addition to self-esteem issues, life transitions and chronic illness. My goal is to establish a meaningful alliance, and collaborate wih you to develop better coping skills and more satisfying relaionships. I look forward to working with you!
Jennifer Kempner
Hi, thank you for looking at my profile. I have been a psychotherapist for over 20 years treating children, adults and couples in various settings. I have helped clients with issues such as depression, anxiety, anger management, ADHD, LGBTQ, autism, stress, relationship issues, grief and just day-to-day concerns that may arise. I provide mostly a client centered approach to therapy but will tailor my treatment modality to the client’s needs. My goal is for clients to feel safe, respected and understood. My philosophy has always been to treat others as I would want to be treated. My sessions will start by discussing what brought you to therapy and then later together we will come up with a short term and long term goal to meet your needs. I look forward to working with you! Warmly, Jennifer Kempner, LCSW, MEd
Emilia Ward
I am a licensed therapist in New York with over 20 years of professional Social Work experience from Fordham University with a Masters Graduate degree. I have conducted therapy in English/Spanish. I have worked in Hospitals, Mental Health Clinics, Detox Addiction Clinic. I have a broad knowledge of diverse techniques with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Problem-Solving Skills, Interactive Play Therapy and Spirituality Modalities. The patient/client population consisted of small children, adolescents and adult population. My approach is to listen to your inner most thoughts and feelings with gentle guidance to help you process emotions using several different coping strategies.. We can review how you react to certain situations, and explore the best possible solution. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming obstacles that challenge you. Taking the first step, to seek a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. You are the narrator of your life. I am here to support you in this very exciting next chapter of your journey.
Lauren Baildon
Hi, I’m a licensed therapist in New York with 15 years of professional experience. I offer trauma-informed therapy with a strong focus on supporting LGBTQ+ individuals. My approach is grounded in compassion, cultural humility, and evidence-based practices that honor each person's lived experience. Whether you're navigating the impact of trauma, identity exploration, relationship challenges, or systemic oppression, I provide a safe and affirming space to heal and grow. I specialize in working with complex trauma, including developmental and relational trauma, and integrate modalities such as EMDR, somatic awareness, and parts work to support deep, sustainable healing. As a queer-affirming therapist, I understand the unique stressors faced by LGBTQ+ communities and strive to create a space where all identities are respected and celebrated. Together, we’ll work toward reclaiming your sense of safety, agency, and connection—with yourself and others. My approach is client-centered, collaborative, and rooted in creating a space where you feel safe, supported, and free from judgment. I believe in meeting you where you are and walking alongside you as you move toward growth and healing. Whether you’re navigating life transitions, managing mental health symptoms, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, we can work together to help you feel more grounded and empowered. Therapy isn’t always easy—it takes courage to reach out and open up. But you don’t have to go through it alone. My role is to support you, help you gain clarity, and build the tools you need to lead a more fulfilling life. If you are ready to take the next step, I am here with you.
George Vega
I am licensed in New York with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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.
Theresa Mayfield-Boza
I am licensed in New York with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, couple's therapy, anger management, 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. Being positive is not always easy and takes effort for changing our negative programmed way of thinking, which we inherited from culture, family and others. I am here to support you in that process. I work with couples to repair trust, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional intimacy with each other. Couples also learn their love language, and the value of making the choice to Love, commitment, monogamy, and financial growth. It takes courage to seek out a more WE centered vs. EGO centered life and to take the necessary steps towards change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Dr. Mariann Pello
I am licensed in New York with 50 years of professional work experience. I have graduated with a PhD from Fordham and also attended an international institute for advanced clinical hypnotherapy. I have experience in helping clients with intimacy related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. 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.
Mary Alfinito
I am licensed in New York with 40 years of professional work experience. I work with children adolescents and adults of all ages for 40 years. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBTQ+ related issues, coping with grief and loss, depression, OCD-obsessions and compulsions, ADD, ADHD, learning disabilities, relationship conflicts, developmental disabilities, disabilities of all types physical as well as emotional, autism, substance abuse and addictions. 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!
Brooke Ayoub
I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC), who is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing )trained and graduated from SUNY, University at Buffalo. I have worked in various mental health settings in both Erie and Niagara County working with individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and post traumatic stress disorder. I practice trauma-informed care with my experience derived from working with children, adolescents, and adults in crisis intervention and suicide prevention. I also hold a master’s degree in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling from Auburn University and is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) at New York State Education Department, Adult Career and Continuing Education Services-Vocational Rehabilitation (ACCES-VR). My primary focus is assist and support individuals with mental health diagnoses entering the workforce. Lastly I am a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT 500), who enjoys bringing yoga, ayurveda, and mindfulness meditation into her practice. I believe that you are the expert of your own life, and you have the strength and ability to overcome the challenges you're facing. It takes courage to reach out for support and take the first steps toward creating a more fulfilling and balanced life. I am honored to help individuals working through challenges like stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, low motivation, self esteem, and coping with life changes. I'm here to support and empower you through that process, providing guidance and helping you build the tools you need to move forward.
Asma Alqahtani
I am licensed in New York with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.
Katrina Sebdza
I am licensed in New York with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, anger management, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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!
pia johnson
Everyone has the potential for greatness, it's a matter of how we learn to use life's experiences, challenges and triumphs to actualize the best of who we are. My goal is to work together to build on your strengths to help make lasting changes and move towards leading a content and fulfilling life. Working in the mental health field for 16 years, I have worked with a wide range of individuals specifically LGBTQ singles and couples. My work has been featured in Essence, Cosmopolitan and Mind Body Magazine to name a few. I use a straightforward and supportive approach to help you understand and work through your struggles. My style is informal, collaborative and respects the uniqueness of your personality, relationships and situation. I use a holistic and humanistic approach, relating to you as a unique individual, we’ll build clarity, resilience, and change at your pace revealing your authentic self. I work with clients struggling with a broad range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, work/life stress, marital/relationship issues and loss and grief. Together we will work to cultivate effective coping skills and empower you to attain a higher level of fulfillment in your life and relationship
Find a Therapist Near You in Canandaigua , New York
Finding a licensed therapist near you in New York can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
New York is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in New York, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in New York (NY). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across New York, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across New York with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in New York
When searching for a therapist near me in New York, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across New York, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across New York.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in New York want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in New York
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in New York without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in New York (NY)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in New York
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across New York, including residents in Canandaigua.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in New York do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.