Have you noticed that your teen is not himself lately? Maybe he has not been hanging out with his friends or refuses to spend time with the family. He may be moodier than usual and sleep a lot. Although teens do go through periods of moodiness, not wanting to talk to anyone or go anywhere for several weeks is a sign of depression. 

There are a number of dedicated counselors in Elmira who can help teens deal with depression among other mental health disorders. Elmira was named after the teen daughter of Major General Matthew Carpenter’s daughter in 1821. Children are susceptible to depression and anxiety when their hormones start changing. Talk to a counselor in Elmira right away to find out what to do about your teen. 

This is Danielle McDonald's avatar and link to their profile

Danielle McDonald

Offering therapy in NY
License: LCSW,CSSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

Welcome to BetterHelp! My name is Danielle McDonald, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified School Social Worker (CSSW) practicing near Buffalo, New York. I graduated from the University at Buffalo School of Social Work with my Masters degree in 2006 and have been working in the field for 17 years. During my career I have worked in a variety of settings, including inpatient and outpatient mental health treatment and substance abuse counseling. This experience has enabled me to work with many different populations including children, teenagers, young adults and adults. My experience includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, career challenges, substance use issues, and major life changes including learning how to adjust to new normals. I believe that the therapeutic alliance is one of the most important aspects of counseling, and is a very important catalyst for the change and growth that you would like to see. I am very easy-going and have a collaborative approach to therapy. I love to build relationships with others using empathy, listening and humor. Clients tell me I am a mindful listener, compassionate, and engaging. In my practice, I tend to primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy, but often adjust my technique to meet the needs of my client. I am flexible and willing to utilize the mode of communication that you are most comfortable with. In the beginning of counseling, I will discuss with you the needs or concerns that brought you to seek out therapy. From there we will work together to identify the goals that you would like to achieve. It takes a lot of strength and courage to take these first steps and I look forward to working with you!

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Meridith Crocco

Offering therapy in NY
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over ten years experience counseling individuals of all ages, including specialization with children, couples and families. If you are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression and stress, are struggling with challenging situations from the past, learning how to handle problematic behaviors or dynamics within your home/family life, or need help with finding balance and direction, I encourage you to reach out to me so we can start working together on building the future you desire for yourself. I offer a compassionate, understanding and relaxed environment where we can work together to gain the insight and awareness to understand, accept and make positive changes. I specialize in the treatment of Anxiety Disorders, Panic Disorders, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, and am well versed in the treatment of many other mental health and relational challenges. Using a mixture of therapeutic approaches and strategies tailored to meet your unique needs, along with interactive and solution focused support, feedback and guidance, we will find balance and readiness for positive change. I am very passionate about the work that I do and am humbled when people choose to take me on their journeys towards living life to their fullest potential.

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Kristin Puleo

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemADHD
14 years of experience

Do you feel lost in a situation? Struggling to have satisfying relationships? At the cross roads and do not know which way to turn? Ever wake up with the mood "why bother" and go back to sleep? Are you finding yourself taken advantage of, often? Do you find it a challenge to move on from old trauma? Are your thoughts racing so quickly making it impossible to get things done? Do you avoid situations because anxiety impacts you physically? Life changes can feel overwhelming, it helps to have an objective confidant to vent to and sometimes to hear constructive feedback. We all have blocks in our life as we strive to attain a positive peaceful energy flow. My services are designed to identify, heal, plan, focus and execute removing those blocks while attaining goals. I often use humor in an appropriate manner to increase engagement and lighten conversation making things feel more manageable. We will locate the source of discomfort and find ways to manage to overcome obstacles and challenges. If you are serious and in a safe place to work on triggers, take on new perspectives and achieve wellness; I am the therapist for you. I look forward to meeting you! All the best always, KL

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Dr. Libby Black

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
16 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Christina Senatore

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with over 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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.

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Shanna Gonzalez

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 10+ years of professional work experience. 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Dr. Monica Joseph's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Monica Joseph

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepression
26 years of experience

I am licensed in New York State with more than 20 years of providing professional therapeutic services. I have experience in helping clients dealing with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship and family conflicts, and career difficulties. As an integral part of my work, I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. Both of these support my belief that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths, which will assist you in overcoming the challenges that you are facing. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Anthony Stephens

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
28 years of experience

I have practiced in NY state since 1997, and I am thankful to have been able to help individuals, couples and families feel support, compassion and recognize their ability to cope and be resilient - and feel better and be better! Trauma, stress, grief, anxiety and depression, and just encouraging growth are all areas where I have worked extensively.

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Shaniqua Shelton

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 8 years of professional work experience. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Samantha Goldman's avatar and link to their profile

Samantha Goldman

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, Anxiety
10 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety. 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!

How to find counseling in Elmira

Finding the best therapist close by in Elmira 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Elmira. 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 Elmira, 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. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Elmira or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. 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 Elmira area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

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

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Elmira area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Elmira 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 Elmira 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 Elmira 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 BetterHelp or clinicians 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).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Elmira, 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a 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, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Elmira 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 Elmira helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Elmira 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:

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 Elmira 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?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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.

A psychologist 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 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 Elmira 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 lot of people in NY, providers 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 14902 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Elmira counselor?

Before seeing your 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. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist 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. A Elmira 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 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 Elmira, 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.

Elmira 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?

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

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 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 Elmira.

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

14901, 14902, 14904, 14905

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