Licensed therapists serving adults in Ithaca, NY through BetterHelp can offer a practical way to find support without getting stuck in local waitlists. For people looking for therapists in Ithaca or online therapy with a licensed therapist in New York, this directory highlights providers authorized to practice in NY who support concerns like anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship stress. Whether someone lives in Ithaca, elsewhere in Tompkins County, or across the Finger Lakes Region, online care can make it easier to connect from home on a schedule that fits real life.

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. If insurance is not available at this time, subscription pricing typically ranges from $70 to $100 per week, which may feel more manageable than paying fully out of pocket for each appointment. With more than 30,000 qualified providers* globally and matching designed to meet individual preferences, BetterHelp can help people seeking Ithaca therapists find flexible online support from a licensed New York provider.

Read more
Psychologist Taryn Santos providing different types of therapy in Ithaca

Taryn Santos

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 009079
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteem
11 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in New York, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My approach is rooted in compassionate, holistic care that honors each person's unique journey. I have extensive experience helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, grief, depression and self-esteem challenges across diverse life stages. My therapeutic work focuses on addressing a wide range of concerns, including communication difficulties, social anxiety, life purpose exploration, attachment issues, and multicultural experiences. I am particularly committed to supporting young adults, parents/caregivers, those healing from challenging life experiences, and anyone in between that could just use a listening ear. Drawing from a Christian-informed perspective (Psalm 83:18), I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their emotional landscape, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. My goal is to walk alongside you with empathy, understanding, and genuine care as you work toward developing a life worth living.

Psychologist Yelena Shik providing different types of therapy in Ithaca

Yelena Shik

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW-R 060751
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
20 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Tesia Wells providing different types of therapy in Ithaca

Tesia Wells

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMFT 001835
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesDepression
15 years offering treatment

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience in the field of therapy and hold licenses in the states of Michigan, New York, Oklahoma, and Texas. I am a highly-skilled, compassionate, and empathetic psychotherapist and an effective communicator, with an innate ability to establish rapport, build trust, interact with and relate to individuals, couples, and families on many levels. I provide psychotherapy in outpatient settings to clients using systematic criteria for assessment, intervention, and treatment. She encourages her clients to develop and use skills and strategies for confronting their problems in a constructive manner. Because there is no one solution or one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, I am to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment for all clients.

Psychologist Jusup Sianturi providing different types of therapy in Ithaca

Jusup Sianturi

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 014355
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in New York, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on understanding each client's unique journey, with particular expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. I offer compassionate guidance for challenges like social anxiety, communication difficulties, self-esteem, and personal growth. My therapeutic practice is deeply rooted in creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for healing. I'm committed to helping individuals work through issues such as isolation, workplace stress, relationship dynamics, and personal identity. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I focus on empowering clients to build resilience, enhance self-understanding, and cultivate healthier patterns of thinking and relating. Whether you're struggling with grief, seeking to improve personal relationships, or working through challenging life experiences, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional support.

Psychologist Nina Mantelman providing different types of therapy in Ithaca

Nina Mantelman

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 004994
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefAnger managementSelf esteem
3 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in New York, I specialize in supporting individuals and couples navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients develop self-compassion, explore life purpose, and work through challenging experiences like guilt, shame, and stress. I have extensive experience supporting diverse populations, including older adults, caregivers, veterans, and individuals from multicultural backgrounds. My therapeutic work focuses on addressing depression, anxiety, grief, and self-esteem challenges with empathy and professional expertise. My practice is grounded in creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore personal growth, develop emotional resilience, and cultivate meaningful strategies for healing. I believe in honoring each person's unique journey and supporting them in discovering their inner strength and potential. Through collaborative and compassionate counseling, I aim to help clients transform difficult emotions, build self-understanding, and move toward more fulfilling lives. I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine care and professional guidance.

Psychologist Gail Russo providing different types of therapy in Ithaca

Gail Russo

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW-R 016254
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
37 years offering treatment

I am licensed in both New York State and New Jersey, with 37 years of professional experience in the field of clinical social work. I help clients with managing stress related issues pertaining to depression, anxiety, relationships, separation and divorce, career /workplace difficulties, end of life issues and bereavement . I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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. As you develop treatment goals and objectives, I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Loretta Samenga providing different types of therapy in Ithaca

Loretta Samenga

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 097639
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
6 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in New York, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each person's unique journey. I have extensive experience helping clients navigate challenges related to depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem, and interpersonal dynamics. My therapeutic work centers on creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore difficult emotions, heal from past experiences, and develop stronger coping strategies. I'm particularly passionate about working with clients facing life transitions, relationship challenges, and personal growth opportunities. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I offer holistic support across a wide range of concerns—from mood disorders and trauma recovery to life purpose exploration and communication skills. My goal is to empower clients, helping them build resilience, self-understanding, and meaningful connections in their lives. I approach each therapeutic relationship with genuine empathy, respect, and a commitment to supporting your individual path toward healing and personal transformation.

Psychologist Bethany Walton providing different types of therapy in Ithaca

Bethany Walton

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 100766
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
4 years offering treatment

I am a licensed clinical social worker with specialized experience supporting individuals navigating life’s most difficult challenges. My work focuses on helping people cope with the emotional, physical, and practical impacts of anxiety, depression, cancer, and chronic pain. I understand that each person’s journey is unique and I strive to create a safe and compassionate space where you can process what you’re going through and find meaningful ways forward. Together, we’ll work on building resilience, reducing distress, and strengthening coping skills so that you can live with greater peace and balance. My Approach: I use a combination of evidence-based practices tailored to your needs, including cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness, and supportive counseling. Above all, I believe in walking alongside my clients with empathy, understanding, and respect. Whether you are facing a health diagnosis, living with ongoing pain, or struggling with mental health challenges, you don’t have to go through it alone. I’m here to help you navigate these challenges and support you in finding healing and hope.

Psychologist Sativa Bigelow providing different types of therapy in Ithaca

Sativa Bigelow

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 006362
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGrief
17 years offering treatment

My name is Sativa Ananda and I am an energetic, empathetic therapist. I enjoy working alongside clients with an electric approach based on their individual needs. I can be humorous at times, but I am sensitive to their current state of mental health needs. My experience of over 15 years has been working with individuals, couples and families in the LGBTQQI community and folks with diverse sexual needs. I am additionally skilled in working with teenagers. I enjoy providing support with their growing minds. I come from a cognitive mindfulness upbringing in my personal life and often apply these learned skills to my clients lives. I have training in mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, counseling combined with hallucinogens and consider myself humanistic. I tailor my approach with clients to what is agreed upon with their needs during sessions. I will provide homework outside our session when needed. I am here to help, if you find your goals are consistent with my personality and methods of therapy and it would be great to meet you. I am understanding that the relationship with the client and therapist is incredibly important for progress to be achieved with clients goals. I appreciate when clients are direct with their needs.

Psychologist Pamela Vega-Watler providing different types of therapy in Ithaca

Pamela Vega-Watler

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 095544
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York with over 30 years of experience in the social services field and 10 years of clinical practice. I work with individuals experiencing a broad range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, parenting issues, career transitions, OCD, and ADHD. I also have extensive experience supporting clients who have experienced trauma and emotional abuse. My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and interactive. I believe in treating every client with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I do not approach therapy through a lens of stigmatizing labels. My work integrates motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, humanistic approaches, and solution-focused therapy. I tailor each treatment plan to align with your individual goals, strengths, and unique circumstances. Seeking support takes courage. Choosing to pursue a more fulfilling and balanced life is a meaningful first step. If you are ready to move forward, I am here to provide guidance, support, and empowerment throughout that process. I look forward to working with you.

Psychologist Justin Dantzler providing different types of therapy in Ithaca

Justin Dantzler

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 015074
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years offering treatment

Justin, LMHC, is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Life Coach with more than 12 years of counseling experience and 17 years of work in the non-profit sector. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. His extensive background includes serving as a Director for a state-funded agency supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as providing services as an Applied Behavior Specialist. Justin has also facilitated mentoring groups for youth and adults and provided counseling and support to at-risk and underserved populations. As a first-responding firefighter, Justin brings a unique understanding of the pressures faced in high-stress environments, including the challenges of emotional resilience, burnout, and work-life balance. He works with adults, young adults, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, offering support in areas such as anxiety, depression, stress, men’s issues, and personal growth. Justin takes a holistic, person-centered approach—meeting clients where they are and helping them move toward where they want to be. Whether supporting someone through a major life transition or helping them uncover the patterns affecting their well-being, he focuses on empowering individuals to become their best and most authentic selves. Outside of his professional work, Justin has been married for more than 10 years and is a proud father to a 24-year-old daughter and an school aged son. Justin believes that we are often harder on ourselves than the world is on us. With compassion and evidence-based guidance, he is committed to creating a space where clients feel supported, seen, and equipped to move toward a healthier, more grounded version of themselves. Justin works with adults, young adults, and the LGBTQ+ community. He offers individual counseling via tele-therapy (HIPPA compliant video/online counseling). He has availability for virtual sessions. A word from Justin: At times, we tend to be harder on ourselves than the external world. We are all people, being. Let’s work together to help achieve your ideal self.

Psychologist Ashley Simos providing different types of therapy in Ithaca

Ashley Simos

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 101818
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
8 years offering treatment

I work with people who navigate addiction, anxiety, depression, and struggle with stress management. Many of my clients appear “high-functioning” on the outside but feel overwhelmed, stuck, or mentally exhausted on the inside. My approach is direct, compassionate, and collaborative. I believe therapy works best when people feel safe enough to be honest, vulnerable, and human without fear of judgment. I use humor, thoughtful challenge, and real-world application to help you make changes outside of therapy. If your thoughts race, your emotions feel hard to manage, or you keep finding yourself repeating patterns you swore you were done with, you are not alone and you are not broken. Please contact me if you are ready to intentionally change your life

Psychologist Merrie Bartlett providing different types of therapy in Ithaca

Merrie Bartlett

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 060045
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years offering treatment

People come in to my virtual office every day with different presenting problems, some kind of pain, and yet are all looking for the same thing. They are looking for peace. What is peace? Peace is being free from stress and anxiety. Peace is the experience of living in your own body and spirit and being at home there. A feeling of calm amid the storm. While we cannot have this peaceful feeling all the time, we can have it more. In therapy we can explore what the obstacles are to your peace and figure out how to overcome those obstacles. I have an eclectic approach tailored to the needs of each person I work with. I look forward to getting to know you and to helping you define your goals for therapy.

Psychologist Esther Nkechi Onwuadiamu providing different types of therapy in Ithaca

Esther Nkechi Onwuadiamu

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 102281, TX LCSW 106616
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years offering treatment

I'm a therapist with extensive experience supporting individuals through life's most challenging moments. I work with clients across the lifespan, from young adults to older adults, helping them navigate depression, anxiety, trauma, and the complex emotions that arise during major life transitions. My approach is grounded in compassion and cultural responsiveness. I'm committed to creating a therapeutic space where you feel seen, heard, and respected for who you are. I specialize in helping clients work through trauma and abuse, build self-esteem, and develop healthier communication patterns. I also support those facing grief, isolation, panic, attachment challenges, and questions about life purpose and meaning. Whether you're processing past wounds, managing current stress, or working through relationship dynamics—including family conflict, workplace concerns, or caregiver strain—I'm here to walk alongside you. I have experience supporting clients experiencing life-stage challenges, as well as those navigating financial stress, chronic illness, or significant loss and women through pregnancy, postpartum transitions. My goal is to help you move toward greater self-compassion, resilience, and authentic connection. I believe in meeting you where you are and honoring your unique values and worldview as we work together toward healing and growth.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Ithaca, New York

Finding a therapist near you in Ithaca, 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 Ithaca.

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 Ithaca, New York

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Ithaca and the surrounding NY area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist