Michael Pfisterer
I look to help you identify your strengths and utilize them so that you can achieve your desired outcomes. My approach is to utilize multidimensional psychodynamic tools based upon your life course and inherent difficulties. In conjunction with the client, goals will be developed and guidance will be provided in order to achieve the optimal short term gains and long term objectives. Change is achieved through solution focused and task based theories to help achieve change. These tools can be particularly helpful for those coping with negative thought patterns, depression, anxiety, developmental differences, executive functioning difficulties and challenges associated with trauma and transitions. My practice has entailed work with a wide variety of individuals and focused upon the needs of each person. I have also engaged in practice with individuals with autism, those impacted by a wide range of environmental challenges as well as those having difficulty making life transitions. I have also participated in family based crisis management, helped families develop a range of techniques to improve relationships with their significant others and acted as a conduit between family members coping with trauma. I live with my wife, daughters and two dogs and have a passion for helping others. I look forward to getting to know you and helping you have your aspirations align with your actions!
Richard Strand
I have dedicated twenty years of my professional life to the pursuit of a thorough and complete knowledge of human behavior. My intention is to understand people who want to change, experience satisfaction, serenity and the achievement of personal growth. As a Clinical Social Worker I try to cover every possible scenario one could imagine. Looking at multiple dimensions of you as a person, your environment and timeline, as well as how affected you have been during your experience of the different life stages. Supporting the process to find or reach your own personal goals. I use a bio-psycho-social-spiritual assessment to help determine the areas in your life you need or want support. My approach to therapy is client centered, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing when appropriate. Most of my practice has focused on issues with trauma, anxiety, life transitions, and addictions. I am aware of the technological transformation that has occurred in the way we live and communicate. Therefore, I have embraced online therapy as a way of providing relief and healing through therapy, counseling, coaching and support. More importantly, my goal is to have a successful therapeutic relationship with you, based on a deep understanding of your needs.
Yelena Shik
Born and raised in former Soviet Union, Ukraine, I immigrated to the United States right after my graduation from a music college. Music and psychology were always my passion! After settling in New York, I got my BA at Mercy College and Master’s degree at Hunter College. I was licensed as a Clinical Social Worker after several years of working in a mental health field. I’ve experienced challenges in my life as an immigrant, female, mother, business woman, etc. ... and I enjoy working with my patients, who have challenges of their own.
Karen Sheerin
As a seasoned therapist in New York, I bring four decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My approach centers on helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, addiction, grief, and self-esteem concerns with deep understanding and professional expertise. I specialize in supporting individuals through significant life transitions, focusing on areas like communication challenges, isolation, life purpose exploration, and personal growth. My practice particularly honors women's experiences and addresses workplace dynamics, chronic health conditions, and aging-related concerns. My therapeutic style emphasizes self-love, healing from guilt and shame, and developing healthy coping strategies. I create a supportive environment where clients can explore personal challenges, rebuild self-confidence, and develop meaningful strategies for emotional wellness. Whether you're experiencing relationship transitions, workplace stress, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Jan Tang
As a licensed therapist in New York, I bring over two decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate diverse experiences, with specialized expertise in depression, anxiety, workplace dynamics, and multicultural concerns. I am deeply committed to creating an affirming therapeutic space that honors each person's unique identity and journey. My approach is particularly attuned to supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, professionals experiencing career transitions, and those managing mood disorders, including postpartum depression. Drawing from extensive clinical training, I offer a culturally responsive framework that centers client strengths and empowers personal growth. My work is grounded in understanding the intersections of mental health, cultural background, and individual experience. I approach each therapeutic relationship with genuine respect, active listening, and a collaborative spirit. My goal is to support you in developing deeper self-understanding, resilience, and meaningful strategies for emotional well-being. Together, we can explore your challenges, celebrate your strengths, and cultivate pathways toward healing and personal transformation.
LaVerne Merritt-Morrison
I have earned my B.S. in Human Services/Counseling. I graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University, with my master’s degree in clinical counseling with a major in Addiction Counseling, May 2004. In September 2006 I was grandfather in as a New York State, License Mental Health Counselor. On 3/31/16, I was grandfather in as a Master Addiction Counselor from the National Certification Commission for Addiction Counselor. I have 20 years’ experience of substances use therapy, 15 years’ experience with individuals with dual diagnosis, 5 years’ experience working in transitional housing with individuals with chronic medical conditions. I am a Credential Alcoholism Substance Abuse Counselor. I attended Narco Freedom Institute for my 60-hour Compulsive Gambling Training, and I received my Specialty in Gambling Designation. I have obtained not only a theoretical base to go along with my practical knowledge of human behavior, but also, I have developed the skills necessary to help others to empower themselves. My approach to therapy is motivational interviewing along with cognitive behavioral therapy, most importantly I use a client-centered approach to meet the client where they are. I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. Maya Angelou
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
Susan Acosta
I am licensed in New York with 20 years of professional work experience. I have assisted clients dealing with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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.
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.
Lindsey Huttner
Specialties -womens mental health -anxiety -ocd -maternal mental health I help ambitious, successful women who experience uncomfortable physical symptoms of anxiety often without understanding why. Physical anxiety can be debilitating. It can leave highly driven women stuck in a cycle of endless to do lists, catching up on the week and having no time for themselves. Anxiety is the nervous system being stuck in the “on” position. Insight alone, however, isn’t what turns that switch off. Real change happens when we work with the brain and nervous system using small, simple, science-based strategies that help rewire their communication and allow anxious sensations to move through and out. I also teach values-based goal setting, so your actions are aligned with what truly matters to you, helping you feel fulfilled rather than constantly exhausted. My goal isn’t for you to slow down or do less, but to build a full, meaningful life where success doesn’t come at the cost of your well being. In addition I treat OCD using ERP therapy (exposure and response prevention therapy). I also specialize in maternal mental health, everything from fertility treatment, loss, pregnancy to postpartum.
Jennifer Plunkett Skibins
There is nothing more powerful than the resilience of the human spirit and I think we sometimes lose sight of that, during different periods of our lives. I consider it a privilege to share the journey with you as you regroup, refocus and renew your commitment to yourself and your life. Together, we can shed light on unhealthy behavior patterns that no longer serve you and create new ones that allow you to build the life you want for yourself.
Estefany Vargas
As a licensed therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through life's complex challenges, I bring compassion and expertise to my practice. My professional background focuses on helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal transitions. I specialize in supporting individuals as they develop stronger communication skills, practice self-love, and work through interpersonal conflicts. My approach centers on creating a warm, affirming therapeutic environment where clients can explore their emotions, build resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I collaborate with clients to develop personalized strategies that empower them to overcome obstacles and create positive change in their lives. With a commitment to culturally responsive care, I understand the unique experiences and perspectives each person brings to therapy. My goal is to provide a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard, validated, and supported as you work towards your personal and emotional wellness goals.
Shannel Pinkard
As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication skills, and work through challenging life transitions. I have expertise in addressing social anxiety, attachment dynamics, caregiver stress, and personal growth challenges. My therapeutic practice focuses on creating a compassionate, affirming space where clients can explore their experiences with guilt, shame, and relationship difficulties. Whether you're processing a separation, seeking clarity about life purpose, or working to build more confident interpersonal connections, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I aim to help you develop practical strategies for emotional resilience and personal transformation. My goal is to support you in understanding yourself more deeply and creating meaningful, positive change in your life.
Anthony Patterson
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for more than 25 years, I continue to provide outstanding individual, couples, and group therapy. Regardless of age, gender, and sexual orientation I help clients with anxiety, grief, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and addiction. As a certified EMDR therapist, I offer a trauma and mindfulness informed approach to emotional healing. Additionally, as a certified Imago relationship therapist I create a safe space for couples to learn how to enhance their connection, their communication, and address their power struggles in a healthy way utilizing the essential Imago techniques. EMDR helps me to offer an evidence based therapeutic approach to manage your issues. I find the Imago tools and techniques fundamental in providing a framework to help couples in all stages of their relationship. As a certified group psychotherapist, I help provide the space for individuals to take risks in learning more about themselves while with others.
Find a Therapist Near You in Elmira Heights , 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 Elmira Heights.
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.