Staten Island is a district of New York that has an interesting factoid. Until 2001, it was the home of the world’s largest landfill. However, it closed down and is slowly being replaced by a recreational park. This is a good metaphor for how a counselor based in Staten Island can treat your mental health. 

When your mind feels like a landfill, a counselor can be there to clean it up and replace it with something beautiful that you can navigate. Talk to a counselor based in Staten Island today.

This is Alisa Sawyer's avatar and link to their profile

Alisa Sawyer

Offering therapy in NY
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

Hello! My name is Alisa Sawyer. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York with over 7 years of counseling experience. I graduated with my Master’s from University at Albany and have worked in a variety of mental health settings. I am well versed in various treatment approaches and have extensive experience addressing a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, dealing with life transitions, self-esteem issues, and relationship issues. Beyond my formal training, I believe the most important thing I bring as a counselor is my belief in being truly present and in tune with the person I am working with. My counseling style is integrative and pulls from a few different approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Transpersonal Therapy, and Positive Psychology, but most importantly it is grounded in a client-centered approach. What this means is that sessions are not “one size fits all”. Instead we will work together to figure out what is the best combination of techniques and skills to help you meet your goals and most importantly to help you get on a path of living your best life. There is a story in positive psychology that if you put a plant in a darker room with only a small window, after time you will notice that the plant starts bending, growing and reaching toward wherever the light is and it will seek out what it needs to bloom. This mirrors my belief in people, that even in dark and challenging situations there is something in all of us that continues to want to grow and most importantly wants to reach for and seek out the light in life. It is often the dark challenges and difficult things that spark the idea of therapy but it is a person’s decision to seek this help that I believe is one of the biggest demonstrations of this innate desire for the light, for the goodness and joys of being human in action. I aim to be a window for you, to help let the light in and to help you tap into your own capacity to thrive and bloom!

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Laurie Siegel

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionADHD
19 years of experience

I am a licensed social worker from NY with 19 years of professional work experience. Since 2003, I have been helping clients with a variety of issues, including stress and anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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.

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Sophia Resciniti

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGrief
15 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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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Samantha Ruthkosky

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
3 years of experience

I am a New York State licensed Clinical Social Worker who is committed to providing my clients with the tools necessary to improve moods, manage emotions and gain/regain control. I can assist with a variety of emotional and psychological concerns; such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief /loss and family conflict. I use a multitude of evidenced based practice interventions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and a strengths based perspective that focuses on your internal strengths and resourcefulness. Together, we can learn the tools and skills necessary in changing your perspective into one that is more positive and allows your best qualities to shine through. I believe every client deserves the opportunity to be heard and treated with dignity and respect. I have a passion for working with clients through all of life's changes and obstacles and I am here to empower and support you through that journey.

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Shaela Amaya

Offering therapy in NY
License: LMHC
Self esteem
3 years of experience

I am a mental health counselor licensed in New York with over 3 years of experience working as a clinician. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, self-esteem issues, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, foster care issues, trauma, emotional abuse, OCD and ADHD. My counseling style is comforting and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach includes cognitive-behavioral, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and rational-emotive counseling. I will create a treatment plan that best meets your unique and specific needs. It takes a lot of courage and work to look to live a happy life filled with laughter and joy. Seeking assistance to help guide you in that direction is a great step to take as it shows that you want change in your life. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Alison Molea-LaVigne

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & intimacy related issues. I believe in a direct, honest approach, understanding 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Darlene Barry

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
16 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. 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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Keith Martin

Offering therapy in NY
AddictionsAnger managementCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
27 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, anger management, career difficulties, & 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. 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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Jessenia Aguirre

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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. 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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Lillian Knutzen

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesDepression
24 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 24 years of professional work experience. Having studied at Teachers College, Columbia University has given me an opportunity to learn and draw on many therapeutic modalities to meet your needs. I have vast experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, on line dating, intimacy related issues, & marriage, family and parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My philosophy is taking time to explore what your world looks like and making changes to make it what you would like it to be. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. You are not alone and don't have to do anything to prepare. Just log in and schedule your first appointment.

How to find counseling in Staten Island

Finding the best therapist close by in Staten Island 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 Staten Island. 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 Staten Island, 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 Staten Island 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 Staten Island 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 Staten Island, elsewhere in Richmond, 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 Staten Island area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Staten Island 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 Staten Island 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 Staten Island 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 Staten Island, 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 Staten Island 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 Staten Island 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 Staten Island 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 Staten Island 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 Staten Island 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 10304 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 Staten Island 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 Staten Island 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 Staten Island, 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.

Staten Island 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Staten Island.

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

10301, 10302, 10303, 10304, 10305, 10306, 10307, 10308, 10309, 10310, 10312, 10314

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