Velma Jones
As a licensed therapist with nearly three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship challenges with compassionate, culturally-informed care. I bring a deep understanding of women's issues, life transitions, and multicultural experiences to my therapeutic approach. My work focuses on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and navigate personal growth. I'm particularly skilled in supporting young adults, addressing workplace challenges, and working with individuals experiencing stress, mood disorders, and interpersonal difficulties. My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and tailored to each client's unique journey. I draw from evidence-based practices to help clients build resilience, process challenging experiences, and discover their inner strength. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, seeking personal transformation, or working through life transitions, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise.
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!
Paula Odom
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York State with over 20 years of experience working with youth, individuals, and families. I've worked with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, career issues, depression, parenting issues, emotional abuse, and physical trauma. I've also worked with people who have experienced feelings of trauma related inequity and oppression in their everyday and work lives. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and rational- emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Wayne Rowan
I am a licensed therapist (LCSW) in both Florida and New York. I am a Master's Level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP) in Florida and a Certified Addiction & Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) in New York. I bring over eighteen (18) years of dedicated experience in supporting individuals through complex life challenges. The last four (4) of those years were with Betterhelp. My professional approach is based on a Strengths Perspective. It centers on helping clients achieve emotional wellness, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and especially, addiction recovery. I focus on empowering individuals to develop deeper self-understandings of themselves, to improve their communication skills, and to overcome the personal barriers in their way. My practice is particularly attuned to supporting older adults and individuals experiencing workplace challenges, isolation in general, and stressful life transitions. My therapeutic style emphasizes a compassionate, goal-oriented path through collaborative work and guided discovery. The aims of therapy are to explore personal growth, to heal from past experiences, and to develop meaningful strategies that help generate more fulfilling lives. Whether you're struggling with emotional pain, seeking purpose in life, and/or working through interpersonal challenges, we'll put our heads together and work to resolve those issues. I provide supportive, non-judgmental care in relationships that are neither normal-abnormal, ordinate-subordinate, nor superior-inferior.
Dr. Luis Ramirez
Welcome! My name is Dr. Luis D. Ramirez, Ph.D., DSW, MS-BHA, LCSW, and I am honored to serve as the founder and lead doctor of this practice. I specialize in diagnostic assessment and trauma-informed care, drawing upon years of clinical experience and a strong academic foundation. Based in Central New York, I offer both in-person and telehealth sessions, making quality mental health care accessible to clients throughout the state. My journey has been shaped by encountering and overcoming adversity, both personally and professionally. These experiences inform my approach and deepen my empathy, allowing me to connect with clients from diverse backgrounds and with a wide range of concerns. I am passionate about creating a therapeutic setting where you feel not just welcomed, but understood, accepted, and empowered. Every person’s mental health journey is unique, and my commitment is to walk alongside you as a compassionate, knowledgeable, and supportive partner. It is a profound privilege to witness the courage and resilience of those who seek support. I have personally navigated significant life transitions and challenges, which have fueled my unwavering dedication to helping others. Through my work, I have supported individuals, couples, and families as they manage anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship difficulties, and major life changes. My mission is to empower you to recognize your inner resources, develop practical coping strategies, and build a strong foundation for lasting growth. Whether you are facing acute distress or seeking personal enrichment, I am here to provide steady guidance and encouragement at every stage of your healing journey. My therapeutic approach is highly individualized and grounded in evidence-based practices. I draw from modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, Polyvagal therapeutic approaches, dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT), and trauma-focused therapies, carefully selecting methods that best suit your unique narrative and aspirations. Our sessions are collaborative and adaptive, evolving in response to your feedback and changing needs. I strive to create a space where you feel empowered to set goals, explore your emotions, and develop the skills to overcome obstacles. Together, we will design a therapeutic plan that is responsive, dynamic, and attuned to your personal growth. Above all, my priority is to foster a safe, welcoming, and judgment-free environment in which you feel genuinely heard, valued, and supported. You are invited to share your story at your own pace, knowing you will be met with empathy, respect, and unwavering support. Together, we will embark on a collaborative process of self-exploration, healing, and transformation. My role is to help you identify strengths, address areas of concern, and cultivate resilience so you can move toward a fulfilling, balanced, and empowered life. I am honored to join you on this path and look forward to helping you unlock your potential and embrace new possibilities for growth and well-being.
Debra Allen
I am licensed in New York with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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.
Olga Gale
Licensed NY Therapist – Anxiety, Stress, Relationships, Confidence Profile: I help clients manage anxiety, stress, and relationship challenges, including intimacy issues. I also support clients in building motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I work actively with each client to develop practical strategies and tools tailored to their needs. My approach is open, safe, and non-judgmental, so you can explore your thoughts and feelings freely. Whether you are seeking help for life transitions, relationship communication, or personal growth, I am here to guide and empower you every step of the way.
Ava Rose
I am licensed in New York with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, career difficulties, & depression. 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. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Ritachi Nwabueze
As a licensed therapist in New York, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients develop resilience, self-compassion, and effective communication strategies. I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, and life transitions. My therapeutic practice is deeply rooted in understanding the unique challenges of social anxiety, isolation, and personal growth. I create a compassionate, affirming space where clients can explore their experiences, develop stronger self-love, and learn transformative coping skills. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I support individuals in healing, reconnecting with themselves, and building meaningful connections. With a commitment to culturally responsive care, I honor each client's individual journey and background. My goal is to walk alongside you, offering genuine support as you navigate personal challenges and cultivate inner strength.
Kenton Curtis
As a seasoned therapist with over three decades of experience, I bring a compassionate and nuanced approach to supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My professional journey has been dedicated to helping clients navigate relationship dynamics, communication barriers, and personal growth. I specialize in working with individuals facing diverse experiences, including LGBTQ+ concerns, family conflicts, career transitions, and personal development. My therapeutic approach is rooted in understanding and addressing challenges like isolation, shame, guilt, and interpersonal dynamics. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, develop healthier communication strategies, and work through difficult emotions. Whether you're dealing with relationship issues, seeking personal growth, or navigating significant life transitions, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise. My practice is inclusive and affirming, particularly for those seeking a liberal, Christian-informed perspective that respects individual journeys and experiences. I believe in creating a collaborative environment where clients can discover their strengths and develop meaningful strategies for personal transformation.
Ashley Simos
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
Tanya Weekes
As a licensed therapist with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients address challenges like social anxiety, panic disorders, and women's mental health concerns. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach to therapy, drawing from evidence-based practices to support healing and personal growth. My professional background includes extensive work with depression, stress, anxiety, trauma recovery, and building self-esteem. I am deeply committed to creating a supportive, affirming therapeutic environment where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for wellness. I understand that seeking therapy takes courage, and I strive to provide a warm, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard, respected, and empowered in your journey toward emotional well-being.
Briana Talarico
I'm a therapist with extensive experience supporting individuals through a wide range of life challenges. I work with clients navigating stress, anxiety, relationship difficulties, family conflicts, and trauma. I'm particularly skilled in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and those exploring their sexuality and gender identity. I work with adolescents as well. My approach is grounded in compassion and cultural responsiveness. I create a welcoming, affirming space for clients of all backgrounds and identities. I specialize in helping people work through communication patterns, attachment challenges, codependency, self-esteem, and body image concerns. I also support young adults facing workplace stress, social anxiety, isolation, and the complexities of modern relationships—including commitment issues, divorce, and blended family dynamics. I'm committed to addressing deeper wounds, including trauma, abandonment, guilt, and shame. My work honors the full spectrum of human experience, including alternative relationship structures and sexuality. I also have experience supporting those navigating adoption, foster care, and family-of-origin issues. My therapeutic style is collaborative, nonjudgmental, and grounded in evidence-based practices. I believe in meeting you where you are and supporting your journey toward healing, authenticity, and meaningful connection. I'm honored to walk alongside you as you grow.
Natalie Cruz
I'm a licensed therapist in New York dedicated to supporting individuals through life's most challenging moments. My work spans a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, stress, relationship difficulties, mood disorders, trauma, and life transitions. I'm particularly skilled at helping clients navigate self-worth, communication struggles, isolation, social anxiety, grief, attachment patterns, and identity questions. I bring a culturally responsive and affirming approach to therapy, honoring the unique experiences of LGBTQ+ clients and individuals from diverse backgrounds. I'm committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your authentic self and build meaningful connections. My therapeutic style is collaborative and person-centered. I draw on evidence-based practices to help you develop insight, build coping skills, and move toward greater peace and purpose. Whether you're facing relationship challenges, workplace stress, life transitions, or deeper emotional struggles, I'm here to support your growth at your own pace. I believe therapy is an opportunity to reconnect with yourself and discover your own strength. I'm honored to walk alongside you on your healing journey.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Panama, New York
Finding a therapist near you in Panama, 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 Panama.
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 Panama, New York
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Panama and the surrounding NY area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.