In life, your mental health is important to achieving your goals. When you're coping with anxiety, depression, stress, or life’s other problems, you may wonder what you can do to get past that. There is hope, and that hope comes in the form of a counselor based in Spring Valley.
Spring Valley is a nice little place to live, and is a fun little suburb of New York. If you live here, you're at home. A counselor can help you if you're coping with any other problems life throws at you. You can improve yourself and be a better person.
Dr. Colleen Downes
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience. I am a licensed in New York. I have worked with individuals, couples and families from a various backgrounds and life situations. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns such as coping with chronic medical illnesses such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, and cancer. I have also worked with clients with adoption issues, depression, anxiety, career challenges, and ADHD. My career history has allowed me to work in areas of mental health, learning disabilities, chronic illnesses, caregiving, foster care, and adoption My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, compassion, being nonjudgmental. My approach combines psychodynamic and cognitive –behavioral counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. My goal is to support and empower you to address life issues and to help you learn effective coping strategies. I look forward to working with you!
Dr. Bonnie Floyd
Hello! My name is Dr. Bonnie Floyd. I'm a licensed clinical psychologist, with a specialization in health psychology. My expertise is assisting individuals who are diagnosed with chronic illness to live more fulfilling lives. I completed my Ph.D. in Clinical Health Psychology, through a program jointly offered by Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Yeshiva University, Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology. I have nearly twenty years of clinical experience, working in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I've had experience in psychological pain management, providing both biofeedback and psychotherapy. For the past fifteen years, I've specialized in working with geriatric patients; I've provided comprehensive neuropsychological assessments, to diagnose forms of dementia. More recently, I've been providing supportive psychotherapy sessions for residents in nursing homes. Last November, I published Remarkable Journey: My Dual Perspectives as Doctor and Patient. Having specialized in coping with chronic illness during my doctoral training, I am now managing chronic conditions of my own. This offers a unique perspective for those who are struggling to adapt to chronic conditions. My theoretical orientation is cognitive-behavioral in nature: I assist clients with the identification of maladaptive patterns of thinking, as well as provide training with the substitution of more adaptive thoughts. Similarly, I assist clients with recognizing when behaviors are no longer useful for their current situations; I provide help with forming new, more adaptive behaviors. I have a longstanding interest in mood disorders, especially major depressive disorder. I would be honored to have the opportunity to work together on your current concerns. I commend individuals for the courage to reach out for professional assistance when necessary.
Yelena Shik
Born and raised in former Soviet Union, Ukraine, I immigrated to the United States right after my graduation from a music college. Music and psychology were always my passion! After settling in New York, I got my BA at Mercy College and Master’s degree at Hunter College. I was licensed as a Clinical Social Worker after several years of working in a mental health field. I’ve experienced challenges in my life as an immigrant, female, mother, business woman, etc. ... and I enjoy working with my patients, who have challenges of their own.
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.
Katelyn Peers
Hi! Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. If you are exploring Better Help, I think it's most likely because you or a loved one is facing a significant challenge right now, or perhaps it's a chronic challenge, and you've thought about therapy many times but weren't sure where to turn. First, seeking therapy is not an easy decision and I want to commend you for taking this step. Second, finding the right connection with a therapist is, in my opinion, equally important to finding one with excellent training and experience. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 11 years of experience. The bulk of those years I spent working with families struggling with complex family trauma and mental health issues. In most recent years, I have been working with children and families in foster care; foster care is a system with a lot of moving parts and often these families, not just the children, are experiencing many challenging circumstances that they need help navigating through. I also have pastoral counseling experience and have counseled with couples and individuals in the church setting for several years. My style of therapy is warm, interactive, and personal. I believe that everyone's struggle is different and therefore, the approach needs to be unique to the individual. Treating people with sensitivity, dignity, and compassion at all times is important to me. I don't believe in stigmatizing labels or in placing limitations on someone because of a current struggle. I tend to gravitate towards Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Family Systems Theory. I am also a Christian who believes in God; I believe that God is a good, and loving Father who has both the desire and ability to heal and restore hearts that are wounded. I believe that faith and spirituality play an important role in our emotional health and overall well-being. However, I will cater my approach to your needs and what helps you to feel the most comfortable. You are the most important person in this process to me.
LaVerne Merritt-Morrison
I have earned my B.S. in Human Services/Counseling. I graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University, with my master’s degree in clinical counseling with a major in Addiction Counseling, May 2004. In September 2006 I was grandfather in as a New York State, License Mental Health Counselor. On 3/31/16, I was grandfather in as a Master Addiction Counselor from the National Certification Commission for Addiction Counselor. I have 20 years’ experience of substances use therapy, 15 years’ experience with individuals with dual diagnosis, 5 years’ experience working in transitional housing with individuals with chronic medical conditions. I am a Credential Alcoholism Substance Abuse Counselor. I attended Narco Freedom Institute for my 60-hour Compulsive Gambling Training, and I received my Specialty in Gambling Designation. I have obtained not only a theoretical base to go along with my practical knowledge of human behavior, but also, I have developed the skills necessary to help others to empower themselves. My approach to therapy is motivational interviewing along with cognitive behavioral therapy, most importantly I use a client-centered approach to meet the client where they are. I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. Maya Angelou
Susan Acosta
I am licensed in New York with 20 years of professional work experience. I have assisted clients dealing with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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.
Carolin Blakely
I am licensed in New York with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, bipolar disorder, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.
Chance Olivas
As a licensed clinician, I have several years experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression, and any other challenges that can get thrown your way. I also have experience working with adults, college-age students, and athletes. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion, and we will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Mental health can be a real challenge to manage on your own, but if you are looking for some support, it may be time to take a chance and see what help is out there!
Lorisa Jones
Life often asks us to juggle more than feels manageable. I help clients prioritize self-care and work through the mental health challenges, work pressures, relationship strains, and everyday stressors that get in the way of living the life they want. I approach therapy as a collaborative partnership. Meaningful change happens when therapist and client work together toward goals that matter to you—which is why my practice is grounded in a strength-based perspective. You bring insight into your own life; I bring tools, perspective, and a space where you can express your thoughts and emotions freely. Having a voice in your therapeutic journey isn't optional—it's central. Clients deserve a therapist who listens fully, stays curious, and remains committed to their growth. I strive to be that presence, session after session. If this resonates, I'd welcome a brief consultation to see if we're a good fit.
Myrna Diptee
I am licensed in New York with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & career difficulties. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
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.
Ammari Edwards
I am licensed in New York and bring over 11 years of professional experience as a therapist. I earned my graduate degree from New York University (NYU), where I received a strong foundation in clinical social work and evidence-based therapeutic practices. Over the years, I’ve had the honor of working with a wide range of individuals facing challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, career difficulties, and adjusting to major life changes. I also had the meaningful experience of working with World Trade Center (WTC) first responders through the FDNY, which deepened my understanding of trauma, resilience, and the unique mental health needs of those in high-stress professions. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach is personalized and collaborative—I tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to reflect your unique needs, values, and goals. I draw from a range of evidence-based interventions, including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – to help challenge and reframe unhelpful thoughts Solution-Focused Therapy – to set meaningful goals and focus on your strengths Trauma-Informed Care – to support healing in a safe, grounded way Mindfulness-Based Strategies – to improve emotional regulation and self-awareness Narrative Therapy – to help reshape the stories we tell about ourselves Person-Centered Therapy – to foster autonomy, empowerment, and unconditional support It takes courage to reach out and begin the process of change. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply looking for deeper self-understanding, I’m here to support and empower you on your journey toward a more fulfilling life.
Katherine Estrada
As a therapist I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome challenges like social anxiety, isolation, and feelings of shame. With a deep understanding of depression, stress, anxiety, and relationship dynamics, I create a compassionate space where healing and personal growth can flourish. I'm particularly passionate about guiding clients toward understanding their life purpose and building resilience. My therapeutic work is rooted in empathy and cultural responsiveness, recognizing that each person's journey is unique. I strive to provide supportive, affirming care that honors your individual experiences and strengths. Together, we'll explore strategies to enhance self-esteem, process past experiences, and cultivate meaningful connections.
Find a Therapist Near You in Spring Valley , 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:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
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:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in New York (NY)
- 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 Spring Valley.
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.