This is Melanie Gerber's avatar and link to their profile

Melanie Gerber

Offering therapy in NY
License: LMHC,CASAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTAnger managementCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Hello! It is my pleasure to begin this therapeutic journey with you. I am licensed in the State of New York as a Mental Health Clinician and I am also a Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor. I believe that each individual is unique and an expert on themselves. I utilize a client centered approach to therapy as well as tailoring therapy and corresponding techniques based on a client’s unique personality, desires, and goals for treatment. I have found that utilizing multiple therapeutic approaches allows for individuality within treatment. I typically utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT); Motivational Interviewing (MI); Solution Focused Therapy, and Existential therapy to be particularly helpful in working with clients. I have been drawn to the field of psychology and human behavior from an early age and have pursued this field with great passion. I believe that the therapeutic process is effective in providing self-insight, wisdom and knowledge. It is my understanding that all behavior is purposeful and allows an individual to obtain personal needs and desires. Sometimes, these behaviors may be maladaptive and cause an individual distress. Through the therapeutic process we explore these and discover ways in which an individual can live a rewarding, meaningful life. Therapy also provides a platform for processing difficult emotions and experiences in an effective and productive way. I look forward to beginning this journey with you. I look forward to hearing from you soon! Melanie Gerber, LMHC; CASAC

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Laura White

Offering therapy in NY
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
40 years of experience

.Hi! My name is Laura White. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York. I have been active in the field since 1980, when I worked as a Research Assistant at Suffolk County Jail. It was then that I decided Social Work would become an integral part of my life. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology, a Masters in Social Work, additional Masters-level coursework in Gerontology, and I am Certified for EMDR, Level One, 2001. I use a Person-Centered approach as well as Family Systems, Socratic Method, Motivational Interviewing, and CBT. I have a strong belief that we need to locate the positives in our lives, and build our self esteem from there. I work with all Ages, Religions, Cultures, and LGBTQ. I work with patients who have Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, Addictions, Eating Disorders, Social Anxiety, Relationship and Family Issues, Sexual, Physical and Emotional Abuse, LGBTQ issues, Pain and Medical/Disability Issues, ADHD, Employment, Home Health, Cancer and other Disabling Illnesses, and End of Life Issues. In my family, we have lost three parents to Cancer, so my experience is both personal as well as professional. I understand Caregiver Stress. Lastly, if referrals need to be made, I research the area and make the appropriate referrals, for medication, rehabs, etc. My approach is supportive, and goal-oriented. I have a varied background in Social Work, and have been active for 40 years. I look forward to working with new patients. I am available nights and weekends. Thank you!

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Emily Mayback

Offering therapy in NY
License: LMHC,CASAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepression
13 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). I have over 10 years of experience working in the human service field. I have a wide range of expertise in areas including depression, anxiety, parenting problems, relationship issues, grief and loss and substance use. I believe in treating everyone with respect and meeting you where you are at. My approach in counseling is very warm and interactive. You are the expert on your life, so we will tailor treatment plans and goals around your needs. It takes courage to seek for a happier life and wanting to make changes is the first step. Let me be the one to help you. We can do this together. I have a passion for this work, I love what I do and enjoy working with people. I am looking forward to working with you! I generally can respond at least once per morning and once per evening, sometimes more! I like to enjoy life and take time to recharge on the weekends, which I encourage you to do as well, so I do not respond to messages or scheduling sessions on weekends. Please remember that BetterHelp is not appropriate if you are in crisis or in immediate need of support. In crisis situations, please call 911 or local emergency services. You can also call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to talk to someone right away!

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Alexandria Sosa Mistry

Offering therapy in NY
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

Hello! I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of New York with several years of experience working as a psychotherapist, and also a mom of 2. I have worked with clients ages 5 and up on a plethora of issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood and personality disorders as well as trauma and abuse. I have demonstrated an ability to engage, motivate and work extensively with both clients and families. I am a passionate, empathic and creative clinician who strongly believes in the power of change. I offer a mixture of compassion, curiosity, accountability, and a sense of humor. I don't believe in stigmatizing labels and feel that while our pasts are important and shouldn’t be ignored, they do not need to define us. I provide practical tools and guidance while supporting you in making changes from the inside out. Together, we can co-create a space to meet your unique and specific goals. Take a deep breath and know that you’re not alone! It takes courage to reach out for help and I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to connecting with you!

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Samantha Reuther

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, & 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. 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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Bukurije Ramusevic

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCareer difficultiesDepression
4 years of experience

Hi! My name is Bukurije, but everyone calls me Buki. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York and Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey with 4+ years of professional work experience. I help clients struggling with maternal mental health issues, pregnancy/fertility issues, parenting, depression, anxiety, trauma, career or school-related issues, stress or grief. Healing is possible with the right tools and support and we can accomplish that. My goal is to help my clients heal by feeling empowered, having the tools to cope with life’s challenges and achieving mental wellbeing and overall wellness. With my diverse background and experiences, I can help you gain insight, set goals and develop coping mechanisms. I have worked with very diverse clients and I use multiple therapeutic approaches and techniques including: - Multicultural Counseling (Culturally Sensitive) - CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) - DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) - Solution-Focused Brief Therapy - Trauma-informed & Compassion Focused - Motivational Interviewing - Mindfulness-based - Strengths Based - Emotion-focused - Interpersonal Therapy I have experienced many of life's challenges like many of you and have benefitted from therapy myself. That's how I am able to connect with my clients and provide a unique perspective on coping with mental health struggles. I can provide an objective viewpoint and offer you support and feedback within a safe, supportive and understanding environment. I look forward to working with you!

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Henrieta Deka

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

I am licensed in New York with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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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Esther Priegue

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionADHD
24 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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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Anthony Skerritt

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

Hello, my name is Anthony Skerritt. I am a graduate of Mercy College with a master's in Mental Health Counseling. I am a licensed therapist. My therapeutic approach is rooted in a combination of evidence-based modalities that I find particularly effective in helping clients achieve their therapeutic goals. I have a strong preference for the following therapeutic techniques: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-focused Therapy, and First-person approach. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): I value the practical and solution-oriented nature of CBT. It provides clients with effective tools to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. CBT can be especially helpful for individuals dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and various life struggles. Motivational Interviewing (MI): I appreciate the collaborative and client-centered nature of MI. It allows for a non-confrontational approach to help clients explore their ambivalence and find motivation for positive change. MI can be a valuable technique when working with individuals who may be struggling with motivation or are in the early stages of addressing their concerns. Solution-Focused Therapy: I am drawn to the solution-focused approach, as it emphasizes a client's strengths and resources, encouraging them to find solutions that work for their unique circumstances. This technique is particularly valuable when working with individuals facing life struggles or seeking to enhance their self-esteem. First-Person Approach: I believe in the power of creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can share their personal experiences and emotions openly. Using a first-person approach, I prioritize empathy and active listening, which I find crucial in building a strong therapeutic relationship. In terms of the population I am most passionate about working with, I have a strong affinity for young adults and adults who are grappling with a range of mental health challenges. These may include individuals with bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, as well as those facing various life struggles. I also have a particular interest in assisting individuals dealing with personality disorders. I am dedicated to tailoring my therapeutic approach to each client's unique needs and circumstances, and I am committed to providing a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for their personal growth and healing

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Daniel McDermott

Offering therapy in NY
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issues
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, coping with addictions, & relationship issues. 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.

How to find counseling in West Elmira

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed West Elmira 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 Elmira 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 Elmira 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 Elmira, 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 Elmira 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 Elmira 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 Elmira 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 Elmira 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 Elmira 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 14905 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 Elmira 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 Elmira 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 Elmira, 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 Elmira 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 West Elmira.

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

14905

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