The City of Rensselaer, New York is located on the banks of the Hudson River across from Albany. The city has a long history in the industry back to the 19th century and is still a major hub at the site of the Rensselaer Amtrak station. They were the first location in the United States to produce aspirin as well as dye and the city is still prosperous today.

Whether you are an industry worker, train engineer, or whatever your profession, sometimes, you may not feel as happy as usual. Some days, you may not even feel like getting out of bed to do anything at all. These can be signs of a mental or emotional disorder like an anxiety or depression disorder, which are common in adults. Talk to one of the counselors in the Rensselaer area today.

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Karen Hubbard

Offering therapy in NY
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
9 years of experience

Welcome!! I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of New York. My approach with clients is engaging and interactive, and I am invested in the collaborative process, which I believe is inherent to the therapeutic relationship. I aim to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment finding balance between active listening, empathy, support, and behavioral interventions. I will help you identify and better understand choices, ways of thinking about situations, and behavioral patterns that may be getting in the way of living your life to the fullest. In our work together, we will focus on thought patterns, symptom reduction, improvement in mood and functioning and improved ways of relating to others and the world. I believe that individual has the capacity for change, wellness, and healing. My passion is to help others reach their maximum potential and find a sense of peace in their lives. I believe in identifying your strengths, combining them with healthy coping skills, and replacing your negative thinking as ways to help you overcome your current obstacles. I tailor my work with people depending on the specific needs of each client. I use short term, recovery oriented interventions to allow people to take immediate steps, creating momentum in their lives, while addressing deeper issues that may be more subtle, or illusive with longer term strategies. I strive to assist my clients in achieving personal growth and increased happiness. I have extensive experience working with individuals dealing with a variety of issues related to depression, anxiety, parenting issues, relationships, domestic abuse, and stress management. I believe strongly in a non-judgmental approach to therapy, and I offer an emotionally safe space where you can explore important life issues in an authentic way. I hope that our work together will support you in your personal growth and your pursuit of a more fulfilling life.

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Laura Isabelle

Offering therapy in NY
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Bogged down with anxiety and depression? Struggling to communicate your wants and needs to those around you? Struggling with a recent transition in life? All of these things can be exhausting and challenging but, it doesn't have to be. I am here to help you find clarity and start the life you have been envisioning. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I have a background in Mental Health. I received my Master's degree in Social Work from SUNY Albany and my Bachelor's degree from Providence College. My career started in an outpatient day treatment program for adults diagnosed with a serious mental illness. I then worked for several years in an inpatient psychiatric setting. Currently, I am Director of Crisis Services, providing crisis work to adults with serious mental illness. I am well versed in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I take a strengths based approach and believe a good therapeutic relationship is one that is collaborative. I believe each person is unique and comes with their own unique set of strengths and challenges. I treat each person with unconditional positive regard, respect, and empathy. I work to provide a safe and trust worthy space for you. I truly look forward to working with you and assist you in achieving happiness.

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Michelle DeFino

Offering therapy in NY
License: LCSW,LCADC
AddictionsGriefAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Welcome to BetterHelp, if you are reaching out for help it shows your are interested in recovering your life and starting to work toward solutions to challenges. My name is Michelle Defino, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 12 years experience. I graduated from Binghamton University in 2008 and have worked primarily worked with substance abuse/co-occurring clients. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, bi-polar and other more severe mental illness. I have worked with a Federal Re-entry Substance Abuse Program for the last 3 years. I use many forms of therapy to meet the needs of my clients including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution focused. I use these modalities to help to change thinking and behaviors that lead to many of the issues in daily life. Another modality I use is mindfulness to increase focus and concentration. I realize how difficult it can be to ask for assistance and how important it is for you and I am looking forward to working with you and helping you to gain the life you are hoping for. I will consider different ways to work with you, however prefer video, since we will be able to see and get to know each other easier. I am looking forward to meeting and working with you.

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Christine Wagner

Offering therapy in NY
License: MS,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

Welcome! A bit about me: I am a licensed mental health counselor with many years of experience in a hospital setting. Since 2019 I have worked in an outpatient behavioral health clinic where I have had the opportunity to provide telehealth counseling since March 2020. I do my best to meet people where they are and bring ideas for ways to improve their lives. My practice is individualized and draws primarily from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I am a qualified Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) instructor and mindfulness practice has been an important part of my personal growth. I am also an adjunct professor and love to teach. I have had the honor of getting to know people when they are experiencing challenges in their lives. I appreciate the opportunity of working with individuals to bring about positive change in their lives. I appreciate the courage it takes to begin this work. I would be honored to have the opportunity to get to know you and walk along side you as you work with your current challenges.

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Dr. Ana Bahamonde

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a psychologist licensed in New York and my experience has been both in private practice and in a hospital setting. I have helped clients deal with severe mental health concerns such as psychosis, depression, and schizophrenia. I have also empowered clients to deal with stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & career difficulties. I work with my clients to create a strong therapeutic alliance where thoughts and feelings can be shared without judgment. I am here to support you in taking the necessary steps to living a more fulfilling and happier life.

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Warren Stevens

Offering therapy in NY
AddictionsRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, intimacy related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 and bring out champion you.

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Melissa Lovell

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsBipolar disorderDepression
7 years of experience

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with seven years of experience providing therapy to a diverse group of people. I strive to provide a warm and supportive space for you to learn and grow. I value the uniqueness of those I work with, taking from a variety of therapy approaches that can be tailored to fit your needs. I also have training and experience in offering trauma informed care, as well as using both art therapy and mindfulness teachings. My focus is working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and depression. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you!

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This is Jinal Mehta's avatar and link to their profile

Jinal Mehta

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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This is Waitsell Jones's avatar and link to their profile

Waitsell Jones

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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!

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Gianny Gomez

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 6 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.

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How to find counseling in Rensselaer

Finding the best therapist close by in Rensselaer can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Rensselaer. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Rensselaer, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Rensselaer or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Rensselaer area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Rensselaer, elsewhere in Rensselaer, or in the greater state of New York.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Rensselaer area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Rensselaer therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Rensselaer due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Rensselaer may not take health insurance, some in the state of New York may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of New York you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Rensselaer, New York working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Rensselaer above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Rensselaer helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Rensselaer therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Rensselaer therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Rensselaer therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in NY, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 12144 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Rensselaer counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Rensselaer licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Rensselaer, New York can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Rensselaer has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Rensselaer.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Rensselaer:

12144

Popular cities near Rensselaer, NY

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