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Melanie Giarratano

Offering therapy in NY
License: MS,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Hi! My name is Melanie. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Neuroscience at University of Delaware and my Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling at SUNY College at Old Westbury. I have experience with adults, teenagers, children, Veterans, substance users, and the developmentally disabled. I also have a lot of experience with relationship counseling as it is a prevalent factor among most populations. I conduct group and individual therapy in both inpatient and outpatient settings. In my undergraduate studies, I conducted extensive research with PTSD in rats. This was an eye-opening experience as it taught me about the human stress reaction and how humans with trauma function differently from humans without trauma due to lacking the ability to extinguish fear. I use this in my practice as I currently work in an inpatient psychiatric setting with patients who have extreme trauma history. My graduate studies focused on the psychodynamic approach to counseling in which I learned about human development, family context, relationships, and transference/countertransference. I utilize this approach when working with clients as it helps me to understand the individuality if my clients based on their personal development. I use a myriad of theoretical approaches in my practice as I believe that all client's circumstances and personalities are different and treatment should be personalized. I focus on motivational interviewing in my practice as it is goal oriented and encourages a client toward change-talk and change-action. I use person-centered therapy once the client presents as motivated, but needs support and encouragement. I am here to listen without judgement and guide you through your own transitional journey. I am a firm believer of solution focused therapy in which a client is encouraged to focus on the present and future. I love to utilize CBT for a motivated client in order to deconstruct their thoughts/feelings/behaviors and identify the interrelationship between these thoughts/feelings/behaviors. One way to work on this is by teaching about faulty thinking errors/distortions and offering some positive coping skills to restructure thinking. This approach is best for clients who are willing to take their counseling further by completing homework, thought logs, charts, etc. Lastly, I emphasize the need for self-care in my clients. I am personable and friendly in my practice and I owe this to having balance in my life. When I am not counseling, I practice yoga, ride my bike, see my friends or family, play with my dog, go outside, or go shopping. I encourage all clients to utilize self-care and do what makes them feel happy and free.

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Margot Weinshel

Offering therapy in NY
License: LCSW, RN
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepression
40 years of experience

I’ve always been fascinated by relationships. My ideal clients -- and I have many --are individuals or people in various relationships who feel they are not achieving their maximum potential -- in life, career or relationships. I have seen hundreds of clients in many years of practice. After social work school, I was the supervisor of family therapy at the Ackerman Institute for the Family. I now teach family therapy at NYU Langone Medical School. In addition I see many clients as individuals As an individual, do you feel down, depressed, or unmotivated? Are you struggling to find pleasure or happiness in your day to day life? Have you lost your sense of joy, purpose, or meaning in life? If so, you may be struggling with depression. I specialize in helping people overcome the symptoms of depression, rebuild their sense of meaning, and move forward into a better, brighter future. Are you overwhelmed with nervousness or worry? Do you struggle to fall asleep at night, tossing and turning as stressors run through your mind? Do you feel trapped by anxious thoughts and feelings? You are not alone – anxiety is one of the most common issues people face in the United States and for many it has been exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic . My therapy is specifically designed to help you overcome your worry and find freedom from anxiety. Are you and or your partner facing infertility issues? Has your relationship been put under strain, your hopes for the future jeopardized? As someone who has personally experienced the difficulties of infertility, I know what it's like. I specialize in helping people who are facing infertility, and I would love to work with you. Have you experienced a traumatic life event, such as abuse, neglect, assault, or a near-death experience? Do the memories of what happened keep coming back in flashes or nightmares? Although not everyone who experiences trauma will meet the full criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), all trauma survivors can benefit from the healing support of a therapist. Do you have a hard time with relationships? Have you struggled with dating, making (or keeping) friends, or building connections at work? Are you coping with the aftermath of a breakup or divorce? Let me help. I specialize in helping people navigate difficult relationship experiences and find better ways to connect with others. Are you going through a major change in life, such as landing a new job, starting retirement, facing divorce, starting a marriage, or becoming a parent? You don't have to do it alone. My therapy can offer you a space to have support and guidance as you work through the stressors and challenges that come with major life transitions.

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Stephanie Miller-Olsen

Offering therapy in NY
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Welcome to BetterHelp! My name is Stephanie Miller-Olsen and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of New York with over 10 years experience in the mental health field. I have diverse experience working with children and adults of various concerns including anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, Bipolar, schizophrenia, substance use and trauma. I provide a safe non-judgemental space to allow personal growth and positive change. I enjoy helping others by finding the tools they need to achieve goals and increase their quality of life. I am available for only chat sessions at this time. I am willing to message in between sessions but not without regular session time as this will enhance our work together. Please note that I am unable to provide documentation for any legal or court proceedings. I look forward to hearing from you.

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Alanna Kardon-Alkalay

Offering therapy in NY
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesADHD
15 years of experience

I am an individual and family therapist licensed ( LCSW) in New York State. I have 14 years of experience working for agencies and schools along with my own private practice. My experience ranges from working in preventive services with children and their families to counseling individuals in an adult mental health day program. I also had a contract with a NY public school system to support student needs. Much of my private practice involved working with adults who came for support for issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, relationship issues and parenting concerns. I have also worked with individuals who have experienced post traumatic stress disorder, sexual abuse, emotional abuse and neglect. I received my Masters degree at Fordham University in Tarrytown, NY where I received clinical training in individual counseling and family systems. I often use a cognitive-behavioral approach with my clients. Additionally, I have experience with and am open to other therapeutic methods such as humanistic and integrative therapy. Each client has their own story to tell and I support people in making meaning out of their own narrative. Since each person I work with comes with a unique history, challenges and reasons for seeking support; I create individual treatment plans with input from each client. These plans are adjusted as their needs change along with their own life experiences and transitions. I will take my cues from you, as we work together on goals that best suit your needs at any given point in time. Trust is a vital part of the client-therapist relationship. I follow the ethics of my profession which include the dignity and worth of each human being, and the importance of integrity. This means strictly adhering to client-therapist confidentiality. I do my utmost to create a safe space for my clients to share their thoughts and feelings. Finally, as people work on personal growth, I emphasize using mindfulness to appreciate the here and now and enjoying the present. For some this may mean meditation, while others feel most at peace in nature. You, the client, decides what has meaning in your life. I look forward to supporting you in achieving the personal growth you seek using the strengths you already possess .

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Rhaysa Saint-Hilaire

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I completed a Master's Degree in Social Work at New York University. Also, certified and licensed in trauma and crisis interventions. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, emotional disturbance, family conflict, Mood disorders, Anxiety, Depression, adoption, Post-traumatic stress disorder and dual diagnosis. My focus is working with a diverse population of all ages and cultures which includes adults, teens and families. Another area of focus is Maternal Child Health; perinatal, postpartum families dealing with postpartum depression/anxiety/pregnancy losses. I use evidence based practices with the focus on person-centered care. I believe that anyone can change and grow at any time in their lives. I have witnessed powerful healing and growth in my practice over the years. It is truly a gift and I feel privileged to help everyone who is in need. Bilingual (Spanish/English)

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Wendy Kesel

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changesADHD
26 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. 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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Demetric Pentelton

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I provide a warm, safe, nonjudgmental space for clients to feel at ease talking about their distress. As a result, they gain more insights into their thoughts, feelings and behaviors allowing them to see their situation from a different perspective and make necessary changes. While I do not interfere with the process of self-discovery, I believe in challenging problematic thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors that contribute to distress and help find healthier, more productive ones. My aim is to help individuals develop and achieve goals that lead to empowerment and a life of fulfillment. Though my approach to therapy gives me the option of treating a myriad of challenging issues, I specialize in helping individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, emotional regulation, and life transitions. Please allow me to share in your journey to a better you. I am licensed in New York with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

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Anne Happel

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with more than 11 years of experience in supporting and empowering individuals and families. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I am empathetic and open; supportive and knowledgable. I will work alongside you in achieving your goals in therapy.

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Tracey Little

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
30 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, depression, & 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. Mind, body and spirit is a major part of the focus utilized in session. When one area is out of balance - all areas are out of balance. Change is not for the faint of heart. It takes courage to seek support to achieve a life of satisfaction filled with healthy relationships with self and others. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Jodi Benatovich

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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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How to find counseling in West Carthage

Finding the best therapist close by in West Carthage 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 West Carthage. 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 West Carthage, 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 West Carthage 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 West Carthage 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 West Carthage, elsewhere in Jefferson, 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 West Carthage area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed West Carthage 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 West Carthage 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 West Carthage 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 West Carthage, 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 West Carthage 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 West Carthage 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 West Carthage 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 West Carthage 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 West Carthage 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 13619 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 West Carthage 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 West Carthage 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 West Carthage, 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.

West Carthage 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 West Carthage.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in West Carthage:

13619

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