The town of Colonie in Albany, New York was named after the Dutch colony called the Colonie of Rensselaerswyck. In fact, the entire area was once a part of the Rensselaerwyck Manor owned by the van Rensselaer family. The town now has 25 places listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, which is more than any other city in the Eastern United States.
We all have bad days sometimes and some days we may need a little extra support both emotionally and mentally. Knowing when you need the help and when to reach out is important. There are plenty of excellent therapists and counselors in the Colonie area who are able to listen and understand what is going on. Just reach out for help today.
Barry Wasser
Barry earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Yeshiva University, his Master of Social Work (MSW) from Touro College's Graduate School of Social Work, and specializes in the treatment of individuals with histories of anxiety, depression, trauma, and severe and persistent mental illness. He has over 7 years of experience working with adults, the elderly, and their families. He utilizes various therapeutic techniques and methods during his sessions in order to meet his clients' needs and establish a trusting and comfortable relationship. In turn, Barry aims to provide clients with a safe environment in which they feel comfortable expressing themselves and exploring obstacles that hinder quality of life, all while working towards the achievement of their short and long term goals. He has worked with adults of various ages across different settings including a mental health homeless shelter and a transitional residence for adults with mental illness. He also has experience facilitating group therapy sessions and mental health case management, both of which have proven to be beneficial to both clients and their families. Barry's experience has helped him focus on taking into account all factors that influence the well-being of his clients. Barry values supportive therapeutic partnerships, assertiveness, and open-mindedness; these form the foundation of his therapeutic style. Each therapy session or family meeting is viewed as a new opportunity to find ways to achieve and promote sustained personal growth.
Raven Wilson
As a licensed therapist in New York, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients develop self-compassion, improve communication, and overcome challenges related to anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I work collaboratively with individuals experiencing social anxiety, mood disorders, and relationship difficulties. My therapeutic practice focuses on addressing issues like isolation, self-esteem, and personal growth. I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop healthy coping strategies, and reconnect with their sense of purpose. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help clients work through issues such as trauma, family dynamics, and personal barriers. My goal is to empower individuals to build resilience, cultivate self-understanding, and create meaningful change in their lives.
Esther Priegue
I have 33 years of professional experience. I have experience in supporting clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, as well as low mood. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that can help you navigate life’s challenges. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.
Ellen Loveless
I am a mental health counselor licensed in New York with over 25 years of experience working as a therapist with an emphasis on Christian counseling. I have worked with clients having a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, family and relationship issues and PTSD. I have worked with a diverse population of all ages. I have helped the people who have taken that extra step and sought assistance with life's trials by listening and allowing the individual themselves to work towards their goals with the support that is needed. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach is client centered, solution focused, and Christian based. I practice active listening with treatment focused on specific needs The courage it takes to reach out for help is just the first step on a journey towards the changes necessary to have a fulfilling and contented life. I look forward to working with you.
Catherine McLaughlin
Hello, I am a LCSW originally from NY, and presently living in sunny Florida. I worked as a psychotherapist in private practice / adjunct professor in New York combined for 20 years, and now a resident practicing in Florida. In addition, I have also worked as an LCSW for the New York State Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse as a provider for persons charged with Driving While Intoxicated. My work is a range of mental health diagnosis such as anxiety, depression, grief, addictions, and most mental health disorders. I specialize in codependency, self esteem issues and substance abuse. I consider myself a kind, empathic, "say it like it is" therapist. I have a sense of humor respectfully in times when needed. Some of the therapeutic approaches I practice are humanistic, cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic and mindfulness. I start where the client is and go from there. My concerns are always for my clients first and foremost! I will work diligently with my clients to help them succeed in this journey and to focus on a better life and happiness. Ethics and confidentiality are of the highest priorities in my practice. It is not easy to bring oneself in for help, but it is also one of the most brave and courageous healthy steps to take to enhance one's sense of self. I look forward to speaking and meeting you in the near future.
Saudia Garnette
I am a licensed psychotherapist in the New York area with 5 years of experience. I specialize in depression, anxiety and relationship issues. I use evidence-based treatment modalities that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness. I will provide a solution-focused approach and I believe that everyone deserves a space where they feel safe, not judged, supported, and understood.
Matthew Dougherty
As a licensed therapist in New York, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on understanding each person's unique journey, with a deep commitment to addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, life transitions, and interpersonal dynamics. I offer compassionate, personalized support for young adults and individuals experiencing diverse mental health concerns. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients build self-love, improve communication, overcome social anxiety, and develop meaningful coping strategies. I'm particularly skilled in addressing issues related to self-esteem, workplace challenges, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. My practice embraces a holistic, client-centered approach that honors individual experiences and strengths. Whether you're struggling with mood disorders, life transitions, or seeking deeper personal understanding, I'm dedicated to creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where meaningful transformation can occur.
Yvette Melendez
I am bilingual, speaking Spanish and English, with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in supporting clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, & 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 get tarted can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Winifred ODriscoll
I am licensed in New Jersey with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management, bipolar disorder & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Therapy can be an exciting experience. You have an opportunity to go back to zero and rebuild your life on your own terms. Developing the incite needed to make the changes you want as well as the needed coping skills. Learning that you can be happy on purpose and that you are not limited by the past.
Yvette Sabater-Lenk
I provide compassionate, individualized therapy for children, teens, and adults, helping clients navigate behavioral challenges, developmental disabilities, and emotional difficulties. My work focuses on supporting individuals with anxiety, depression, and complex personality concerns, including borderline personality traits. I have specialized training in evidence-based approaches tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. This includes strategies for emotion regulation, coping skills development, and behavioral interventions designed to improve daily functioning and relationships. My experience encompasses working with a diverse population, including clients with developmental disabilities, behavioral disorders, and mood or personality challenges. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes in their lives. I collaborate closely with families, caregivers, and support systems when appropriate, ensuring a holistic approach to mental health and personal growth. Ofrezco terapia compasiva e individualizada para niños, adolescentes y adultos, apoyando a los clientes en el manejo de desafíos conductuales, discapacidades del desarrollo y dificultades emocionales. Mi práctica se centra en ayudar a las personas a manejar la ansiedad, la depresión y preocupaciones complejas de personalidad, incluyendo rasgos de personalidad límite. Con formación especializada en enfoques basados en la evidencia, adapto la terapia a las necesidades únicas de cada cliente. Mi trabajo incluye enseñar regulación emocional, desarrollar habilidades de afrontamiento e implementar estrategias conductuales que mejoren el funcionamiento diario y fortalezcan las relaciones. Tengo experiencia trabajando con una población diversa, incluyendo personas con discapacidades del desarrollo, trastornos de conducta y desafíos emocionales o de personalidad. Mi objetivo es crear un espacio seguro y sin juicios, donde los clientes se sientan escuchados, comprendidos y empoderados para lograr cambios significativos en sus vidas. Colaboro estrechamente con familias, cuidadores y sistemas de apoyo cuando es apropiado, asegurando un enfoque integral y de acompañamiento en la salud mental y el crecimiento personal.
Rita Simmonds
As a licensed therapist serving New York, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. I am EMDR trained. My professional approach centers on compassionate, holistic care for those experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and challenges with self-esteem. I am deeply committed to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their inner world, heal from past experiences, and develop stronger emotional resilience. My practice focuses on addressing issues like social anxiety, isolation, life purpose, attachment challenges, and personal growth. I offer a Christian-informed perspective for clients who find faith meaningful and wish to integrate it into therapy. This perspective is always client-led and never imposed. My work is especially attentive to the emotional experiences of women and men, including concerns related to pregnancy, life transitions, and personal identity. I believe in empowering clients to cultivate self-love, improve communication, and overcome barriers that prevent them from living authentically and meaningfully. Together, we'll work collaboratively to help you develop healthier coping strategies and move toward greater emotional well-being.
Osamudia Amadasu
As a licensed therapist in New York, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients through challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, and self-esteem issues. I bring a compassionate, culturally-informed approach to addressing workplace stress, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients develop deeper self-understanding, improve communication skills, and overcome patterns of isolation and self-doubt. I'm particularly committed to supporting mental health and creating a safe, affirming space for exploring personal identity, relationships, and life transitions. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I collaborate with clients to develop personalized strategies for healing, resilience, and meaningful change. Whether you're struggling with social anxiety, processing past trauma, or seeking greater self-acceptance, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise.
Angelica Rubio
Life is full of both positive and challenging experiences that shape us in unique ways. As a licensed psychotherapist in New York, I support individuals in understanding what is working well in their lives and what may benefit from deeper therapeutic exploration. My goal is to help clients achieve greater emotional stability, a sense of tranquility, and a deeper feeling of fulfillment. I work with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, social anxiety, and relationship difficulties, as well as those navigating major life transitions such as starting a new job, entering a new relationship, adapting to a new lifestyle, or immigrating to the United States. I understand the emotional, cultural, and practical challenges that come with these transitions and strive to help clients cultivate contentment, acceptance, and confidence as they adjust. I also specialize in working with individuals and families involved with ACS and with clients managing immigration-related cases. My approach is compassionate, structured, and culturally sensitive, providing support tailored to the unique needs of those facing these circumstances. My practice is grounded in helping clients develop self-compassion, strengthen communication skills, and build resilience. I am deeply committed to creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their identities, personal histories, and daily experiences with openness and safety. I hold a particular interest in women’s issues, workplace dynamics, multicultural concerns, and areas of personal growth. Drawing upon years of clinical experience, I work collaboratively with clients to enhance self-esteem, develop meaningful strategies for emotional well-being, and maintain the positive changes achieved in therapy. I recognize that each person’s journey is distinct, and I honor individual strengths, values, and lived experiences throughout the therapeutic process. My work is rooted in empathy, respect, and a genuine dedication to helping clients connect with their inner resources and discover their capacity for healing and transformation. I am committed to providing accessible, high-quality psychotherapy to individuals and families from all backgrounds as they work toward healing, stability, and personal growth.
Melissa Brunetti
Hi! I'm Melissa, an LCSW who's passionate about helping people feel understood, supported, and empowered. With 10 years of experience as a therapist in special education and private practice, I bring patience, compassion, and a real belief in your ability to grow. My approach to therapy is rooted in a strengths-based perspective, helping you recognize what’s already within you and build from there. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and social challenges. I support clients in boosting self-esteem, improving emotional regulation, and reframing negative thought patterns that keep them stuck. My sessions are also tailored to your unique individual needs. Together, we’ll build the tools and insight you need to navigate life with greater confidence and clarity.
Find a Therapist Near You in Colonie , 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 Colonie.
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.