Life can be like a war when you’re struggling with sadness, worry, and anger. You can’t sit back and relax, because you feel too vulnerable to attacks from other people, situations, and even your own thoughts. Self-doubt settles in and feel incapable of winning over your inner conflicts.
Massena was named for Andre Massena, a general and marshal who fought in the Napoleonic Wars. As you try to marshal your inner resources to fight the battles in your life, emotional problems sap your mental strength. Talk to a counselor in the Massena area to get in touch with your inner hero.
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!
Dr. Debra DeFour-Pierce
My name is Dr. Debra DeFour-Pierce. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of New York and have a doctorate in clinical-school psychology. I am a certified school psychologist with experience in formal and informal psychological assessment. I received my doctorate from Pace University and a certificate in Crisis Management from Long Island University. In my 30 years of working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in a school setting, I have dedicated myself to helping clients gain insight into how their thoughts, feelings, and beliefs impact their life situation(s). My clinical approach to treatment is eclectic and culturally sensitive. I am dedicated to working with my clients to develop effective coping strategies, by incorporating cognitive behavioral-rational emotive therapy, and psychodynamic theory, an interpersonal approach, and encourage the use of mindfulness. I have actively collaborated with clients seeking help for various concerns such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, stress, self-awareness, coping with life changes, family conflicts, relationship issues, and parenting issues. Once a relationship develops between us, you will see that my clinical approach is direct, respectful, empathetic, and sometimes humorous. I am here as your ally to explore several options of how to work through your current issues and will be able to provide you with useful strategies to deal with your current stressors. I am here to help you achieve and foster stronger mental and emotional health. I look forward to working with you on your journey to gaining insight and self-awareness. SPECIALTIES Stress Anxiety Grief Trauma Depression Self esteem Parenting Issues Teen Issues LICENSING LMHC #002471-01 (Expires: 2022-10-31)
Laura Varriale
I am licensed in New York with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. 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.
Anthony Skerritt
Hello, my name is Anthony Skerritt. I am a graduate of Mercy College with a master's in Mental Health Counseling. I am a licensed therapist. My therapeutic approach is rooted in a combination of evidence-based modalities that I find particularly effective in helping clients achieve their therapeutic goals. I have a strong preference for the following therapeutic techniques: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-focused Therapy, and First-person approach. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): I value the practical and solution-oriented nature of CBT. It provides clients with effective tools to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. CBT can be especially helpful for individuals dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and various life struggles. Motivational Interviewing (MI): I appreciate the collaborative and client-centered nature of MI. It allows for a non-confrontational approach to help clients explore their ambivalence and find motivation for positive change. MI can be a valuable technique when working with individuals who may be struggling with motivation or are in the early stages of addressing their concerns. Solution-Focused Therapy: I am drawn to the solution-focused approach, as it emphasizes a client's strengths and resources, encouraging them to find solutions that work for their unique circumstances. This technique is particularly valuable when working with individuals facing life struggles or seeking to enhance their self-esteem. First-Person Approach: I believe in the power of creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can share their personal experiences and emotions openly. Using a first-person approach, I prioritize empathy and active listening, which I find crucial in building a strong therapeutic relationship. In terms of the population I am most passionate about working with, I have a strong affinity for young adults and adults who are grappling with a range of mental health challenges. These may include individuals with bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, as well as those facing various life struggles. I also have a particular interest in assisting individuals dealing with personality disorders. I am dedicated to tailoring my therapeutic approach to each client's unique needs and circumstances, and I am committed to providing a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for their personal growth and healing
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.
Winifred ODriscoll
I am licensed in New Jersey with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management, bipolar disorder & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Therapy can be an exciting experience. You have an opportunity to go back to zero and rebuild your life on your own terms. Developing the incite needed to make the changes you want as well as the needed coping skills. Learning that you can be happy on purpose and that you are not limited by the past.
Maria Buchholtz
I am licensed in New York with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with bipolar disorder & depression. 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.
Reginald Bruno
I am licensed in Florida. Virginia, Washington DC, Oregon, and New York with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping adult clients cope with and manage stress and anxiety, and a range of many other co-occurring disorders. I have helped clients coping with addictions, grief and loss, improving motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I have a good working and interactive experience with my clients to create an open and safe environment where their 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.
Linda Edwards
I am licensed in New York with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression. 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.
Loretta Samenga
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.
Stephanie Rosenberg
I am licensed in Florida with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. 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.
Reva Sears
I am licensed in New York with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, career difficulties, & despression. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Justin Dantzler
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.
Karen Zelaya-Kendall
I received a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from St. John's University in 2005, a M.A. in Clinical Psychology from St. John's University in 2001 and a B.A. in Psychology from Loyola University New Orleans in 1997. I was intensively trained in DBT by Behavioral Tech, LLC in 2007. I was trained in Prolonged Exposure Therapy for the treatment of PTSD by Elizabeth Hembree, Ph.D. of the University of Pennsylvania CTSA. I received a Certificate for training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety disorders: Components of Care from Postpartum Support International (PSI). I am Credentialed with the National Register for Health Service Psychologists. For over 20 years, I have completed psychological evaluations, provided individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy and DBT to clients in outpatient, inpatient and residential treatment settings. I supervised and trained student and staff therapists. I am a Cognitive Behavioral therapist who focuses the beginning stages of treatment on helping my clients to use skills to improve their everyday functioning. I believe that helping people to understand themselves fully and working through the challenges and life events which influences their functioning is the overall goal of treatment. I am truly blessed and honored to able to work with people to help them improve their lives.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Massena, New York
Finding a therapist near you in Massena, 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 Massena.
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 Massena, New York
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Massena and the surrounding NY area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.