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.
Dr. Luis Ramirez
Hello, my name is Dr. Luis D. Ramirez, Ph.D., DSW, LCSW, and I am the founder of Rising Potential Counseling LCSW, PLLC. As a dedicated diagnostic and trauma doctor, I am based in the Central New York region and offer my services to clients throughout New York. My professional and personal journey has exposed me to various forms of adversity and hardship, shaping my deep understanding of the healing process. I recognize how crucial it is to have compassionate support while navigating the complexities of trauma, and I am committed to providing that support to my clients. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my vocation is being actively involved in others' healing journeys. I have experienced my transformations through challenging circumstances, and this personal journey fuels my passion to help others uncover their strength and resilience. I aim to empower my clients to emerge from their struggles and realize their potential. I maintain a flexible and adaptable approach to therapy. This allows me to incorporate diverse therapeutic styles and techniques specifically tailored to meet each individual's unique needs. Effective healing cannot be confined to rigid methodologies; instead, it must be guided by the specific context and requirements of the person seeking help. My primary focus is facilitating your healing process in a safe, judgment-free environment. I strive to create a space where you can be open and honest about your feelings and experiences, free from the fear of criticism. Together, we will embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing, tapping into your inherent potential. My goal is to support you in living a more fulfilling and happier life, guiding you to unlock the possibilities that await you. Together, we can cultivate the resilience and strengths you possess to help you rise to new heights.
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!
Barbara Clark
I am licensed in New York with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma, abuse, intimacy related issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with 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!
Lorie Boyd
As a licensed therapist in New York, I bring over two decades of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and interpersonal dynamics. I specialize in addressing multicultural concerns, social anxiety, family conflicts, and healing from difficult life experiences. My approach is deeply compassionate and culturally responsive, with a strong commitment to understanding each client's unique journey. I create a supportive environment that honors individual experiences, particularly for those impacted by prejudice, discrimination, and systemic challenges. My therapeutic work focuses on fostering self-love, improving communication, and developing resilient coping strategies. I am passionate about helping clients transform pain into personal growth, offering skilled guidance through stress, relationship difficulties, and healing from past trauma. My goal is to walk alongside you, providing thoughtful, affirming support as you navigate your path toward emotional wellness and self-discovery.
Mark Madry
I am licensed in New York State with 39 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Justine Tetteh
I am licensed in New York with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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.
Briana Dow
I am licensed in New York with 4 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 believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Shianna Walker
I am licensed in New York with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping adult civilian, military spouses and families, and active duty soldiers with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, & 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.
Jennifer Rienhardt
As a licensed therapist in New York, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on compassionate, holistic care that addresses a wide range of life challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and personal growth. I'm deeply committed to helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome barriers that prevent them from living authentically. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering individuals to break through isolation, explore life purpose, and heal from past experiences. I provide targeted support for challenges like social anxiety, workplace stress, relationship transitions, and personal identity development. Whether you're struggling with panic attacks, grief, body image concerns, or seeking to understand yourself more deeply, I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space for exploration and healing. I believe in meeting each person exactly where they are, honoring their unique journey, and collaboratively developing strategies that foster resilience, self-understanding, and meaningful personal transformation.
Sharisse Ramos
Hello there :) I am licensed in New York with over 6 years of professional work experience. I believe in meeting clients where they're at mentally, and empowering them with each step towards a life of fulfillment. I treat everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I have provided therapy in clinical settings, helping clients with stress and anxiety, financial literacy, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem/confidence, depression, and ADHD. I have experience in a plethora of modules, such as Motivational Interviewing, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, Anger Management, Creative Arts Therapy as well as Trauma Interventions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy are at the foundation of my expertise. I will always tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your specific needs, and goals. Acknowledging that you're ready to take the first step and signing up for therapy takes a lot of courage!! & I am proud of you for getting started :)
Carolyn Sultana
I am licensed in New York and Connecticut with 30 years of professional work experience. I am a LCSW-R and a CASAC(Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor). I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, 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!
Karen Schlachter
I am licensed in New York with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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.
Lorisa Jones
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I understand how challenging life can feel when we are balancing multiple roles and responsibilities. I believe it is essential to prioritize self-care and to address the concerns that arise from mental health challenges, work, family, relationships, and other life stressors. My goal is to help clients navigate these challenges so they can create and live the life they desire. I approach therapy as a collaborative partnership where clients feel empowered to express their thoughts and emotions freely. I believe that meaningful change happens when both therapist and client work together toward the client’s personal goals for therapy. That is the reason my work is grounded in a strength-based perspective. I believe it is essential for my clients to have a voice in every aspect of their therapeutic journey and to work with a therapist who is fully present and committed to their growth. I understand how life’s challenges can significantly impact an individual’s daily experiences, relationships, and overall well-being, and I strive to provide a supportive space.
Find a Therapist Near You in Castorland , 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 Castorland.
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.