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.
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!
Pamela McGarry
As a licensed therapist with nearly three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice focuses on helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and self-esteem concerns with compassionate, personalized care. I have extensive expertise in addressing a wide range of issues, including communication problems, life transitions, trauma recovery, attachment challenges, and workplace stress. My approach is particularly attuned to supporting veterans, first responders, aging individuals, and those experiencing midlife transitions. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space for clients exploring relationship dynamics, addiction recovery, family challenges, and personal growth. Whether you're dealing with codependency, processing past traumas, or seeking clarity during life's complex moments, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and tailored to your unique needs, honoring your individual experiences and strengths. I believe in empowering clients to develop meaningful insights and sustainable strategies for emotional well-being.
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.
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.
Henrietta Long-Hall
Hi, my name is Henrietta, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker as well as a certified addiction counselor and have over 11 years of experience working as a therapist and addiction counselor. I believe in building a therapeutic relationship between client and therapist to ensure a positive outcome. I use several therapeutic modalities, depending on the need. These modalities are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solutions Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy and Psychotherapy. My style of therapy is warm and interactive. I believe in meeting the client where they are and start building on the therapeutic relationship. I am available to help you and encourage you as you begin the process of empowerment. I look forward to working with you!!!
Dr. Sung Ho Kim
As a licensed psychoanalyst in New York, I bring 30 years of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through diverse life challenges. My approach is holistic and integrative, drawing from extensive expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, trauma recovery, and grief counseling. I specialize in creating a supportive environment where clients can explore complex emotional landscapes, including issues related to self-love, communication, social anxiety, life purpose, and personal growth. My practice honors the unique experiences of individuals across various backgrounds, with a deep commitment to understanding multicultural perspectives and personal narratives. My therapeutic work spans a wide range of focus areas, from workplace challenges and relationship dynamics to navigating significant life transitions. I am dedicated to helping clients develop meaningful coping strategies, build emotional resilience, and cultivate deeper self-understanding. With professional proficiency in both English and Korean, I strive to provide culturally sensitive and personalized therapeutic support that meets each client's individual needs and goals.
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.
Daniel Rabinovich
I am licensed in New York with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, & parenting issues. 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.
Ferdinand Madaki
I am licensed in New York with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief, coping with loss, & depression. 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.
Fern Simon
As a licensed therapist in New York with three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My approach is deeply compassionate and rooted in understanding the unique journey of each person who seeks support. I focus on helping clients navigate a wide range of experiences, including relationship dynamics, stress and anxiety, trauma recovery, self-esteem building, and personal growth. My therapeutic work centers on creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and rediscover their inner strength. With expertise in addressing issues like social anxiety, life purpose, communication challenges, and interpersonal dynamics, I offer a warm, understanding approach that honors each client's individual path. My practice is particularly attuned to supporting older adults, young professionals, and those seeking a faith-aligned therapeutic experience. I believe in empowering clients to cultivate self-love, overcome barriers, and create meaningful, transformative change in their lives. Together, we'll work collaboratively to help you move toward healing, understanding, and personal growth.
Gina Schwarz
As a licensed therapist in New York, I bring over two decades of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and self-esteem issues with compassionate, evidence-based approaches. I specialize in addressing a wide range of personal struggles, including social anxiety, communication difficulties, body image concerns, and healing from past experiences of abuse. My therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in fostering self-love, understanding personal purpose, and supporting emotional resilience. My work is guided by a commitment to creating a safe, affirming space where individuals can explore their inner world, challenge limiting beliefs, and develop healthier patterns of thinking and relating. I believe in empowering clients to reconnect with their inherent strengths and move towards meaningful personal growth. Through collaborative and personalized therapy, I aim to support you in developing greater self-understanding, emotional regulation, and a more compassionate relationship with yourself.
Amanda Grant
In my clinical practice, it has been my joy to work with people - authentically, with genuine intent, and through compassionate connection. Throughout my career I have functioned as a staff, a supervisor, a therapist, and administrator in multiple settings and utilize everything I have learned to inform my work. I have always found grounding in my core principles of care, and have found purpose in working with individuals and families who are open for growth. I welcome the opportunity to work with all types of people - and always hold space for who they are seeking to become, not who they have felt the need to be. My most passionate work is with adolescents, individuals seeking deep healing or deep rest, those who are approaching mid-life or confronting parenthood, and families. I would welcome the opportunity to connect with anyone who is seeking transformative growth, and a space for healing. In my current work I find myself focusing most often on attachment, impacts of trauma particularly sexual trauma or early childhood experiences, behavioral needs based in emotional disabilities, sexuality and self, and family systems. Throughout my career I have demonstrated an ability to learn new therapeutic skills, and consistently seek professional growth. I look forward to connecting!
Elizabeth Munson
I am a licensed mental health counselor in the state of New York with over 6 years of experience working in a variety of clinical locations including home and community based services. I have experience working with clients who present with depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma and clients who have been abused both physically and emotionally. Additionally I have worked with clients with ADHD, hoarding, agoraphobia and postpartum depression. I am a warm and compassionate therapist who carefully listens and is empathetic and caring with a non-judgmental approach. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, ACT
Tijo Thayil
I believe an LMHC should have a commitment to community work and should be detailed and organized, with exceptional written/oral communication skills, and be comfortable working directly with clients. Through my experience as both an LMHC and a Supervisor I have gained a commitment to community work, as well as organizational skills and keen attention to detail. Through my experiences, I have gained a vast amount of knowledge about how to best work with clients who are struggling in their daily lives. I truly understand how to develop a client and counselor relationship and I have seen how powerful this relationship can be. From my experiences I have polished my skills in various therapeutic approaches such as CBT and Gestalt Therapy.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Rensselaer, New York
Finding a therapist near you in Rensselaer, 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 Rensselaer.
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 Rensselaer, New York
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Rensselaer and the surrounding NY area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.