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Psychologist Dr. Colleen Downes providing different types of therapy in Shirley

Dr. Colleen Downes

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 039784
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesADHD
35 years offering treatment

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!

Psychologist Jennifer Ricci providing different types of therapy in Shirley

Jennifer Ricci

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 004782
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesEating disordersSelf esteem
18 years offering treatment

"I will look for the flowers by the side of the road; I will laugh and love and be strong. I will try to lighten another’s load this day as I fare along". --MARY S. EDGAR CURRENTLY, I ACCEPTING CLIENTS WHO ARE EITHER FEMALE OR NONBINARY WITH A HISTORY OF TRAUMA THEY'D LIKE TO PROCESS AS PART OF THEIR TREATMENT. THIS DOES NOT NEED TO BE THE MAIN FOCUS OF THERAPY. Hello! Welcome to BetterHelp! My name is Jen and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC, #004782) and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I have over 18 years of experience providing both mental health and addictions therapy to individuals, couples, families, and groups. My Master’s degree is in Community Mental Health Counseling, Addictions Counseling, and Marriage and Family Therapy (2009), and I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Family Studies (2006). I have worked in multiple settings, including shelters, community mental health centers, schools, and private practices. Since becoming a counselor, clients, such as yourself, have come to me for a lot of different things, including trauma (particularly in the areas of childhood abuse, domestic violence, religious trauma, and first responder and military trauma), family and social relationships, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. My therapeutic approach is mainly from family systems theory, which summed up says “we are not islands”. We are influenced by the world, or the “systems” around us starting from birth (and even before). These systems influence how we see the world and how we make decisions. When things happen to us (good or bad), our system shapes how it affects us and what our reaction turns out to be. I also “borrow” concepts from other theories, such as taking unhealthy beliefs about oneself and changing them into healthier patterns to reduce negative feelings, providing supports, a quick solutions-focused treatment (when it fits the goal), mindfulness and hands-on activities, and emotions regulation techniques. I am also EMDRIA-trained in EMDR, specialized for telehealth, and will provide EMDR treatment to clients found to be appropriate and motivated. I see counseling as a didactic relationship, or in other words, a journey we take together. You are the “expert” of you. Your individualized counseling experience should be focused on what you want and your goals. My job is to help “guide” or “lead” you in achieving those goals, while you continue to actively participate and do your best to reach your goals. I will support you as you do so. It’s like we build a house together. I am responsible for the frame and structure of the house; while you get to fill the rest of it in, make it look the way you want it to, and in the end, turn it into the home you want it to look like. Starting counseling can produce negative feelings, such as worry or fear; but part of the journey we go on is to work on processing those feelings together right from the start. I want to provide a safe environment for you that is warm, respectful, trauma-informed, and meets your individual needs. I look forward to meeting you should I get to do that. Thank you for taking the time to look at my page!

Psychologist Rolita Wielkie providing different types of therapy in Shirley

Rolita Wielkie

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 009043-1
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years offering treatment

Hello, My name is Rolita Wielkie. I am a LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor) working in Southwestern New York. I have two adult daughters and four grandchildren. I'm also a certified Group Fitness Instructor. I have been in the field 20+ years with many diverse individuals of all ages. I am very open minded and have a number of success stories both professionally and personally. I have also dealt with a number of struggles in my life and have utilized counseling services as well. I have worked in both clinical outpatient and inpatient settings. I value person-centered, holistic, multicultural, and integrative approach in treatment. What this means is everyone is treated as an individual with the encouragement to recognize one's own strengths and supports. I strive to help people in determine goals and figuring out how to obtain them. My approaches includes Rational-Emotive Behavioral Therapy along with Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy however, I provide service that is as unique as you are. Presently, I offer both phone and live chat sessions. I am NOT offering video sessions at this time.I also, encourage you to reach out to me in between sessions (within reason) as I will also, often check-in on how you are doing. I applaud you for reaching out. You have taken the first step to becoming the best you that only you can be. I look forward to working with you and seeing you thrive.

Psychologist Rachael Figueroa providing different types of therapy in Shirley

Rachael Figueroa

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 076874
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
25 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New York State with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Catherine McLaughlin providing different types of therapy in Shirley

Catherine McLaughlin

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 074250
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
23 years offering treatment

Hello, I am a LCSW originally from NY, and presently living in sunny Florida. I worked as a psychotherapist in private practice / adjunct professor in New York combined for 20 years, and now a resident practicing in Florida. In addition, I have also worked as an LCSW for the New York State Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse as a provider for persons charged with Driving While Intoxicated. My work is a range of mental health diagnosis such as anxiety, depression, grief, addictions, and most mental health disorders. I specialize in codependency, self esteem issues and substance abuse. I consider myself a kind, empathic, "say it like it is" therapist. I have a sense of humor respectfully in times when needed. Some of the therapeutic approaches I practice are humanistic, cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic and mindfulness. I start where the client is and go from there. My concerns are always for my clients first and foremost! I will work diligently with my clients to help them succeed in this journey and to focus on a better life and happiness. Ethics and confidentiality are of the highest priorities in my practice. It is not easy to bring oneself in for help, but it is also one of the most brave and courageous healthy steps to take to enhance one's sense of self. I look forward to speaking and meeting you in the near future.

Psychologist Barbara Clark providing different types of therapy in Shirley

Barbara Clark

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 073540
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New York with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma, abuse, intimacy related issues, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Frankie Cancel providing different types of therapy in Shirley

Frankie Cancel

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMHC 012677
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
17 years offering treatment

I am a New York State licensed therapist with 15+ years of experience helping people navigate stress, anxiety, addiction, anger, and life transitions. Many of the clients I work with are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or emotionally exhausted—and want real tools to feel better and regain control. In our work together, you’ll find a safe, respectful space where you can be yourself without fear of judgment. Therapy is a process, and you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re ready to take that first step, I’m here to support you with compassion, honesty, and encouragement.

Psychologist Sharisse Ramos providing different types of therapy in Shirley

Sharisse Ramos

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 096138
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

Hello there :) I am licensed in New York with over 6 years of professional work experience. I believe in meeting clients where they're at mentally, and empowering them with each step towards a life of fulfillment. I treat everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I have provided therapy in clinical settings, helping clients with stress and anxiety, financial literacy, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem/confidence, depression, and ADHD. I have experience in a plethora of modules, such as Motivational Interviewing, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, Anger Management, Creative Arts Therapy as well as Trauma Interventions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy are at the foundation of my expertise. I will always tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your specific needs, and goals. Acknowledging that you're ready to take the first step and signing up for therapy takes a lot of courage!! & I am proud of you for getting started :)

Psychologist Carolyn Sultana providing different types of therapy in Shirley

Carolyn Sultana

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 052987
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
31 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New York and Connecticut with 30 years of professional work experience. I am a LCSW-R and a CASAC(Certified Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor). I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Alona Perlin providing different types of therapy in Shirley

Alona Perlin

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 096305
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
15 years offering treatment

Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or in need of someone who truly listens? I'm a supportive, non-judgmental and down-to-earth therapist who genuinely cares about the people I work with. Clients often tell me that they feel comfortable opening to me and appreciate a space where they can feel like themselves. I work with individuals with Anxiety, Depression, grief, LGBTQIA concerns. I take time to understand your unique experience and tailor our work, so it is helpful and not one size fits all. Clients often tell me that they feel comfortable opening up to me and appreciate having a space where they can be themselves without fear and judgment. You don’t need to do this alone. I take time to understand your unique experience and tailor our work so it actually feels helpful and not, one size-fits all. I work with individuals navigating Anxiety, Depression, relationship challenges, grief, trauma and the LGBQIA community In our sessions, you can expect a balance of listening, feedback and practical support. My goal is to help you feel more grounded,, understood and equipped to handle what life throws at you. Starting your healing journey takes bravery, and you deserve recognition for making this important decision. I'll support you in a way that matches your speed and comfort. During our first session, I’ll ask about the concerns that led you to seek therapy, gather some general background details, and discuss any other information relevant to your treatment. I am genuinely looking forward to meeting you and supporting you through this journey.

Psychologist Richard Leone providing different types of therapy in Shirley

Richard Leone

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 100573
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
4 years offering treatment

I am licensed in New York with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression, coping with life changes, concentration, & memory. I also have experience working with focus. 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.

Psychologist Brandi Mack providing different types of therapy in Shirley

Brandi Mack

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMFT 000918
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
21 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in New York, I bring over two decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice specializes in addressing depression, relationship dynamics, family conflicts, trauma recovery, and grief counseling. I focus on creating a supportive environment where clients can explore challenging experiences related to social anxiety, attachment issues, mood disorders, and personal transformation. My approach centers on understanding each individual's unique journey, helping clients develop healthier communication patterns, process difficult emotions, and build resilience. My therapeutic work emphasizes healing from past wounds, navigating life transitions, and empowering individuals to cultivate meaningful personal growth. Whether addressing trauma, relationship challenges, or emotional struggles, I am committed to providing thoughtful, personalized support that honors each client's strengths and potential for healing.

Psychologist Dimas Tollinchi-Castro providing different types of therapy in Shirley

Dimas Tollinchi-Castro

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LCSW 102680
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am a seasoned Psychotherapist and Clinical Doctor of Social Work, with over 20 years of experience,I am dedicated to serving the mental health needs of underserved, addictions, marginalized, law-enforcement, Veterans, and affluent populations in NYC .Providing patient centered care. Promoting social justice and empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives. I am a proud mixed heritage, native New Yorker with a culturally responsive approach. My educational background includes degrees from esteemed institutions, including New York University, Adelphi University, and Long Island University.

Psychologist Makenzi Cooley providing different types of therapy in Shirley

Makenzi Cooley

Clinician
License Type(s): NY LMFT 002687
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesEating disordersBipolar disorder
3 years offering treatment

As a compassionate therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on addressing relationship challenges, trauma recovery, intimacy concerns, and mental health issues with a deep commitment to understanding each client's unique journey. I offer a supportive, affirming space for individuals experiencing social anxiety, panic attacks, mood disorders, and challenges related to sexuality, body image, and personal identity. My approach is particularly attuned to women's issues, attachment dynamics, and the nuanced experiences of those dealing with chronic pain, eating concerns, and family-related struggles. Drawing from evidence-based practices and a background in yoga therapy, I work collaboratively with clients to explore underlying patterns, build resilience, and create meaningful pathways toward healing and personal growth. Whether you're working through relationship difficulties, processing trauma, or seeking support for complex emotional experiences, I'm dedicated to providing empathetic, personalized care that honors your individual strengths and experiences.

Find a Therapist Near You in Shirley , New York

Finding a licensed therapist near you in New York can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

New York is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in New York, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in New York (NY). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

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 on BetterHelp support adults across New York with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in New York

When searching for a therapist near me in New York, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across New York, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across New York.

Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in New York want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in New York

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in New York without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in New York (NY)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

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 Shirley.

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 vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

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 private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Shirley can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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