Rolita Wielkie
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.
Jenna McDonald
*Hello and Welcome ! I'm Jenna McDonald . I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Western New York and also working with clients statewide (NY) via Telehealth. I work with teens, adults, and couples; specializing in anxiety, stress, life transitions ( ex : work/school stressors), relationship concerns, substance use and trauma. I use different types of therapies to help my clients make progress and start feeling more in control and on their way to a more mentally stable wellness.* My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use Person Centered Therapy as I find it helps the client to organize his/her goals so that we can work through those together, based on what is most important and meaningful to that client. Solution Focused therapy, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), are other modalities that can help myself and the client build a shared understanding of their reality, and allow us to work together to create a path forward. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for clients who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions ( work/life balance, job change/ school/social pressures), relationship issues, anxiety, and depression . I work to help my clients navigate these transition periods and to build skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook on life. I have had success working with shy clients, young adults , or just those new to therapy who are apprehensive to open up at first , given my down to earth personality. My communication style is working with my clients to understand what it is they are experiencing and build that rapport. My hope is to provide supportive problem solving and collaboration, while I can also be that listening ear. I pride myself on my ability to listen without judgment. I will also be that realistic reminder to my clients of what is healthy/what is not, so that we can work towards optimal mental wellness. I will challenge my clients and not be a person to enable negative behavior. My approach to goal setting with clients is all about working together to define what you want to accomplish in our time together. This often starts by building trust between us, and getting comfortable with what it means to be in therapy. Over time, we’ll work together to set goals and track your progress. Sometimes we just want someone to listen to us and have the ability to vent our emotions and frustrations. I can be that person who is neutral, which can give me a great outside view and ability to provide assistance when needed. What you can expect from our first session together is for us to spend the majority of our time talking about your past experience with coming to counseling, what worked well with past counseling/ what didn’t, what you are coming to counseling for currently and me asking questions to better understand some of why you may be feeling that way. The first session is about us building an initial connection and helping me get a sense of where we should go from there.
Bertha Taillefer
I am licensed in New York with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with ADHD, depression, stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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!
Mahiboob Syed-Vardhan
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York state with approximately twenty years of experience in working with multicultural individuals dealing with wide range of challenges. I am passionate about helping others become the best version of who they are meant to be. I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families focusing on mending relationships, stress, anxiety, depression, parenting issues, women's issues, and life coaching. I believe every individual is unique, so I tailor my person-centered approach from a variety of modalities; including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Holistic approach. I like to focus more on the present and help you be able to move forward to a better, happier and healthier life. I have extensive experience with working with individuals of all different ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds. Coming from a multicultural background I pay special attention to the cultural context. I am especially passionate about working with clients from culturally diverse backgrounds, and providing linguistically sensitive, culturally appropriate, and multicultural focused treatments tailored to your background and presenting concerns. I am a strong believer in positive thinking. I am all about moving forward. I would like to know your past; however, I don’t like to dwell on it. I would like to help you move forward so you can enjoy your present and look forward to your future. With lots of empathy and dash of humor, I can help you overcome anything!
Karen Sheerin
As a seasoned therapist in New York, I bring four decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My approach centers on helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, addiction, grief, and self-esteem concerns with deep understanding and professional expertise. I specialize in supporting individuals through significant life transitions, focusing on areas like communication challenges, isolation, life purpose exploration, and personal growth. My practice particularly honors women's experiences and addresses workplace dynamics, chronic health conditions, and aging-related concerns. My therapeutic style emphasizes self-love, healing from guilt and shame, and developing healthy coping strategies. I create a supportive environment where clients can explore personal challenges, rebuild self-confidence, and develop meaningful strategies for emotional wellness. Whether you're experiencing relationship transitions, workplace stress, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Lauren Baildon
Hi, I’m a licensed therapist in New York with 15 years of professional experience. I offer trauma-informed therapy with a strong focus on supporting LGBTQ+ individuals. My approach is grounded in compassion, cultural humility, and evidence-based practices that honor each person's lived experience. Whether you're navigating the impact of trauma, identity exploration, relationship challenges, or systemic oppression, I provide a safe and affirming space to heal and grow. I specialize in working with complex trauma, including developmental and relational trauma, and integrate modalities such as EMDR, somatic awareness, and parts work to support deep, sustainable healing. As a queer-affirming therapist, I understand the unique stressors faced by LGBTQ+ communities and strive to create a space where all identities are respected and celebrated. Together, we’ll work toward reclaiming your sense of safety, agency, and connection—with yourself and others. My approach is client-centered, collaborative, and rooted in creating a space where you feel safe, supported, and free from judgment. I believe in meeting you where you are and walking alongside you as you move toward growth and healing. Whether you’re navigating life transitions, managing mental health symptoms, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of yourself, we can work together to help you feel more grounded and empowered. Therapy isn’t always easy—it takes courage to reach out and open up. But you don’t have to go through it alone. My role is to support you, help you gain clarity, and build the tools you need to lead a more fulfilling life. If you are ready to take the next step, I am here with you.
Michael Miano
I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of New York with 25 years of experience in counseling, crisis intervention, and community mental health. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, anger management, & bipolar disorder. I utilize Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as my clinical base. I take a direct supportive approach to working with clients and customizing treatment to their specific needs. It is my experience that creating a safe, nurturing, but challenging working relationship is essential to helping people open up and explore their goal. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. 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.
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.
Lorie Boyd
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 empowering clients navigating challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and interpersonal dynamics. I specialize in addressing multicultural concerns, social anxiety, family conflicts, and healing from difficult life experiences. My approach is deeply compassionate and culturally responsive, with a strong commitment to understanding each client's unique journey. I create a supportive environment that honors individual experiences, particularly for those impacted by prejudice, discrimination, and systemic challenges. My therapeutic work focuses on fostering self-love, improving communication, and developing resilient coping strategies. I am passionate about helping clients transform pain into personal growth, offering skilled guidance through stress, relationship difficulties, and healing from past trauma. My goal is to walk alongside you, providing thoughtful, affirming support as you navigate your path toward emotional wellness and self-discovery.
Sharisse Ramos
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 :)
Regina Ajunwa
I am licensed in New York with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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.
Shannon Salgado
I am licensed in Florida with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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.
Rodney Pride
As a licensed therapist in New York with over three decades of professional experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate family dynamics, career difficulties, and personal growth, with a particular focus on men's issues, young adult challenges, and attachment-related concerns. I bring a compassionate and nuanced approach to addressing social anxiety, panic disorders, self-esteem challenges, and emotional healing. My work is deeply rooted in understanding the unique experiences of individuals across different life stages, from young adults to those navigating midlife transitions. My therapeutic style emphasizes empowerment, personal insight, and holistic well-being. I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, work through guilt and shame, and develop strategies for meaningful personal transformation. Whether you're dealing with family conflicts, seasonal emotional shifts, or seeking guidance through significant life changes, I'm committed to walking alongside you with respect and understanding.
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.
Find a Therapist Near You in Waterloo , 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 Waterloo.
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.