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)
Kerline Alexis
Hi, My name is Kerline Alexis I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with many 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 been helping and supporting people long before I acquired my degree in mental health counseling. My career and life experiences has allowed me to work in areas of mental health, learning disabilities, chronic illnesses, childhood as well as young adult issues. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, compassion, and nonjudgmental. My approach combines psychodynamic and cognitive –behavioral counseling. My goal is to support and empower you to address life issues and to help you learn effective coping strategies. I am excited to have the privilege of working with you!
Adewale (Wale) Adegbenle
Welcome to BetterHelp! I commend you for taking this critical step toward change. My name is Wale Adegbenle, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Therapist in New York, specializing in Health and Substance Abuse. Since earning my Master of Social Work degree, I have supported individuals and families dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and relationship challenges. I'm a Christian husband and father of three, passionate about providing mental health services. My counseling style is compassionate and relationship-centered, focusing on listening and helping you set realistic goals. I use techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and others to guide our work together. I'm here to provide you with a safe, judgment-free space and the support you need. I look forward to connecting with you and navigating this journey together.
Diamond Marie Thaxton
As a therapist, my approach is contemporary and uniquely tailored to each client. Everyone has the answers within themselves and sometimes needs the proper guidance to trust their intuition and develop essential skills for life's complexities. My style is direct yet comforting and solution-focused, ideal for busy individuals who use therapy as a pitstop to reflect and reset. I have extensive experience helping individuals navigate relationship concerns and substance and behavioral addictions, as well as assisting people to become the best versions of themselves. I emphasize accountability, providing assignments to help adopt healthy habits for lifelong change. I specialize in guiding individuals and couples through the complexities of relationships using methods like the Gottman Method and Imago Therapy. I welcome all types of relationships, including kink-friendly and polyamorous dynamics. My approach focuses on helping couples create stronger connections by encouraging self-reflection and personal growth. Additionally, I support clients navigating the dating scene and those working through challenges such as infidelity, aiming to foster healthier, more fulfilling relationships. I specialize in working with clients who possess a foundational level of self-healing and are seeking to navigate challenging situations with resilience. I do not work with individuals in crisis or experiencing severe mental health symptoms, as my therapeutic approach is best suited for those prepared to engage in solution-focused strategies for personal growth. I exclusively offer live chat sessions as my chosen modality. This approach minimizes barriers to care, providing a comfortable and accessible platform for clients. Many individuals find they can express themselves more effectively in writing and better retain new mental health interventions when they read them. Are you ready to reach a new level of optimal wellness, break down mental blocks, and face challenges head-on with self-compassion and empowerment? Let's work together and make it happen!
Tammy Piazza
My name is Tammy. I have 5 years of experience working with patients with dual diagnosis with substance abuse disorder and mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar and PTSD. I use the person centered approach and I will meet you where you are comfortable to begin therapy. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy , Emotional Functional Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and EMDR Therapy. If you are looking to learn coping skills , self-soothing techniques and moving past trauma, please contact me. I look forward to working with you.
Janet Atkinson
I am licensed in New York with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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.
Dr. Deborah Jones
I am a licensed Mental Health Professional with 21 years of work experience. Additionally, my educational background includes a PhD in Human Service/Counseling studies. My experience comprises of helping clients with stress, anxiety, addictions, anger management, and to motivate, & improve self-esteem. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Damara Israel
As a licensed therapist in New York, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, personal growth, and emotional challenges. My approach centers on empowering clients to develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome barriers that prevent personal fulfillment. I bring expertise in addressing workplace dynamics, women's issues, career difficulties, and the nuanced emotional experiences of professional and personal life transitions. My practice focuses on helping clients work through feelings of isolation, shame, and impulsivity while building stronger self-understanding and resilience. Drawing from a trauma-informed and culturally responsive framework, I create a compassionate space where clients can explore their unique experiences. Whether you're struggling with body image, financial stress, relationship challenges, or seeking greater life purpose, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Veena Madhudi
I am licensed in the states of New York and North Carolina with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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.
Frieda S Dub
I am licensed in New York with 39 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & eating disorders. 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.
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.
Bethany Mifsud
I'm a therapist with extensive experience supporting individuals through life's most challenging moments. Over the years, I've worked with clients navigating depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and the complexities of family relationships. I'm particularly skilled at helping people cope with significant life transitions and build resilience during times of change. My approach is grounded in empathy and collaboration. I believe that therapy works best when we work together as partners—when you feel heard, respected, and genuinely supported. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your feelings and experiences at your own pace. Whether you're struggling with overwhelming emotions, relationship challenges, or the weight of loss, I'm here to help you find clarity and move forward. I draw on evidence-based practices tailored to your unique needs and circumstances. Taking the step to seek therapy takes courage, and I'm honored to support you on your journey toward healing and growth.
Stacey Wade
I'm a licensed therapist in New York with extensive experience supporting clients through a wide range of mental health challenges. My work centers on creating a compassionate, affirming space where you can explore your concerns at your own pace. I specialize in helping individuals navigate depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, and self-esteem concerns. I also have particular expertise in social anxiety, post traumatic stress, divorce and separation, body image, women's issues, pregnancy and postpartum experiences, seasonal affective patterns, and family-of-origin work. I'm experienced in supporting clients managing multiple co-occurring challenges and those navigating fertility and food-related concerns. My approach is person-centered and trauma-informed, drawing on evidence-based practices to foster insight, resilience, and meaningful change. I'm committed to honoring your unique identity, values, and lived experience—creating a therapeutic relationship grounded in respect, authenticity, and genuine care. I believe therapy works best when you feel truly seen and supported. I'm here to walk alongside you with curiosity and compassion as you move 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 Pittsford, New York
Finding a therapist near you in Pittsford, 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 Pittsford.
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 Pittsford, New York
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Pittsford and the surrounding NY area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.