Dr. Colleen Downes
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience. I am a licensed in New York. I have worked with individuals, couples and families from a various backgrounds and life situations. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns such as coping with chronic medical illnesses such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, and cancer. I have also worked with clients with adoption issues, depression, anxiety, career challenges, and ADHD. My career history has allowed me to work in areas of mental health, learning disabilities, chronic illnesses, caregiving, foster care, and adoption My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, compassion, being nonjudgmental. My approach combines psychodynamic and cognitive –behavioral counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. My goal is to support and empower you to address life issues and to help you learn effective coping strategies. I look forward to working with you!
Mahiboob Syed-Vardhan
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York state with approximately twenty years of experience in working with multicultural individuals dealing with wide range of challenges. I am passionate about helping others become the best version of who they are meant to be. I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families focusing on mending relationships, stress, anxiety, depression, parenting issues, women's issues, and life coaching. I believe every individual is unique, so I tailor my person-centered approach from a variety of modalities; including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Holistic approach. I like to focus more on the present and help you be able to move forward to a better, happier and healthier life. I have extensive experience with working with individuals of all different ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds. Coming from a multicultural background I pay special attention to the cultural context. I am especially passionate about working with clients from culturally diverse backgrounds, and providing linguistically sensitive, culturally appropriate, and multicultural focused treatments tailored to your background and presenting concerns. I am a strong believer in positive thinking. I am all about moving forward. I would like to know your past; however, I don’t like to dwell on it. I would like to help you move forward so you can enjoy your present and look forward to your future. With lots of empathy and dash of humor, I can help you overcome anything!
Vicky Burgh-Harris
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed to practice in New York State. I have over 22 years of experience working with adults, children, adolescents and individuals with developmental disabilities. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including but not limited to depression, relationship issues, parenting problems, bullying, OCD, anxiety, and alcohol and substance abuse related issues. My counseling style is open, honest and interactive. My approach is to work with clients to develop a plan that will determine the best approach to better work with the client to achieve their treatment plan goals. My approach combines solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and a holistic approach. I will work with you to find the approach to meet your unique and specific needs. I look forward to working with 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!
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.
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.
Carolin Blakely
I am licensed in New York with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, bipolar disorder, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.
Ashanti Palatnik
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 particular expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, stress, and self-esteem challenges. I am deeply committed to creating a compassionate, affirming space where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. My therapeutic work focuses on helping individuals address a wide range of concerns, including social anxiety, communication difficulties, life purpose exploration, and healing from trauma. I bring a multicultural, intersectional perspective to my practice, honoring each client's individual identity and lived experiences. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I support clients in developing self-love, processing difficult emotions, and building resilience. Whether you're struggling with isolation, relationship challenges, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Evangelia Kaloudis
I am licensed in New York with more than 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, anger management, & 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!
Ferdinand Madaki
I am licensed in New York with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief, coping with loss, & 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.
Yasemin Bek
As a licensed therapist in New York, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome challenges like social anxiety, workplace stress, and interpersonal dynamics. I'm deeply committed to supporting young adults and individuals experiencing mood disorders, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. My therapeutic practice focuses on understanding each person's unique journey, empowering them to build resilience, enhance self-esteem, and develop meaningful coping strategies. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a compassionate, collaborative space where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past wounds, and cultivate personal growth. Whether you're struggling with isolation, attachment challenges, or seeking greater life purpose, I'm here to support you with empathy and professional expertise.
Elias Gootzeit
With over four decades of professional experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My therapeutic approach centers on addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions with compassionate, evidence-based strategies. I offer a supportive environment for exploring personal growth, healing from past experiences, and developing meaningful coping skills. My practice focuses on helping clients work through issues such as isolation, life purpose, relationship dynamics, caregiver stress, and emotional regulation. I am particularly skilled in supporting young adults and individuals experiencing significant life changes, including divorce, attachment challenges, and post-traumatic stress. I bring a liberal, non-religious perspective to my work, creating a safe and understanding space where clients can explore their experiences without judgment. My goal is to help you develop resilience, self-understanding, and practical tools for emotional well-being. In addition to a Masters in Social Work from Fordham University (1978) with a New York State License (LCSW-R), I have continuously updated my skills to include, among others, Divorce Mediation and Multi-Dimensional Family Therapy. I am a sincere, motivated catalyst for change.
Karen Cowell
Welcome! I'm Karen Cowell, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I believe that everyone deserves a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space to feel heard and understood. I work with adolescents, teens, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, and self-esteem concerns. My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative, and tailored to your individual needs. I draw from evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and strengths-based interventions to help you build coping skills, increase resilience, and create meaningful change. Seeking therapy takes courage, and I'm honored to be part of your journey. Together, we'll work toward your goals at a pace that feels comfortable and supportive for you.
Joanne Pisani
Meet Dr. Joanne Pisani I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor dedicated to helping children, adults, and families navigate life's challenges with compassion, insight, and practical support. With more than two decades of experience in education and mental health, I provide a collaborative, client-centered approach that empowers individuals to build resilience, strengthen relationships, and improve emotional well-being. In addition to my private practice, I serve as the Director of Pupil Personnel Services for a school district in the northeastern United States. For over twenty years, I worked as an elementary school counselor and Youth and Family Services Coordinator, providing individual, group, and family counseling while supporting children's emotional, behavioral, and academic success. Throughout my career, I have helped clients address anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), grief, trauma, family transitions, behavioral challenges, and school-related concerns. In private practice, I also work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, and the long-term effects of sexual abuse. My approach is holistic and evidence-based, combining traditional psychotherapy with mindfulness, nutrition education, and lifestyle strategies when appropriate. As a Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider, I believe that mental and physical health are closely connected, and I help clients explore practical ways to support both. Before becoming a counselor, I spent nearly twenty years as a certified fitness instructor, an experience that continues to shape my passion for health, wellness, and preventive care. I earned my Doctor of Education from St. John's University, a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Stony Brook University, and master's degrees in School Counseling and Mental Health Counseling from Long Island University (LIU) C.W. Post. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), National Certified Counselor (NBCC), Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC), Certified School Counselor, and Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider (CMHIMP). Whether you are seeking support for yourself, your child, or your family, my goal is to provide a safe, supportive environment where you feel understood and empowered to create meaningful, lasting change.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Islandia, New York
Finding a therapist near you in Islandia, New York starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. New York is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In New York, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
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 can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in New York
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In New York, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in New York
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in New York
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in New York through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
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 Islandia.
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 near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
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 discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Islandia, New York
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Islandia and the surrounding NY area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.