Cortney (Bota) Smith
Hello, my name is Cortney. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have been working as a mental health therapist for over 13 years. Most of my experience has been working in community clinics, with adult clients providing traditional face to face therapy. For the past 8 years I've been providing teletherapy through BetterHelp. My experience includes working with clients with a wide range of mental health disorders (mild life stressors, change, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, bipolar, psychosis, trauma, anger management, co-occurring disorders). My education includes a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling, and 1,000 clinical hours as a mental health intern in various placements. My treatment approach is person centered; I want to meet you where you're at. I want to know what your wants/needs are so I can help you achieve your goals using a solution focused and cognitive behavioral therapy approach. My goal is to help support and guide you, ultimately while you're the one coming to conclusions and making appropriate changes to help you make progress/achieve your goals. It takes a lot a lot of courage and strength to take this first step and I'm proud of you! I look forward to working with you! Please be advised that my current office hours are Monday 9:30am-3:30pm, Tuesday 9am-3pm, and every other Friday 9:30am-2:30pm EST. I try my best to accommodate evening appointments when necessary, but if you're primarily looking for consistent appointments outside of these hours a counselor with more availability may be better suited for you.
Barry Wasser
Barry earned his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Yeshiva University, his Master of Social Work (MSW) from Touro College's Graduate School of Social Work, and specializes in the treatment of individuals with histories of anxiety, depression, trauma, and severe and persistent mental illness. He has over 7 years of experience working with adults, the elderly, and their families. He utilizes various therapeutic techniques and methods during his sessions in order to meet his clients' needs and establish a trusting and comfortable relationship. In turn, Barry aims to provide clients with a safe environment in which they feel comfortable expressing themselves and exploring obstacles that hinder quality of life, all while working towards the achievement of their short and long term goals. He has worked with adults of various ages across different settings including a mental health homeless shelter and a transitional residence for adults with mental illness. He also has experience facilitating group therapy sessions and mental health case management, both of which have proven to be beneficial to both clients and their families. Barry's experience has helped him focus on taking into account all factors that influence the well-being of his clients. Barry values supportive therapeutic partnerships, assertiveness, and open-mindedness; these form the foundation of his therapeutic style. Each therapy session or family meeting is viewed as a new opportunity to find ways to achieve and promote sustained personal growth.
I Abrams
As a licensed therapist in New York with over two decades of professional experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges related to depression, anxiety, grief, self-esteem, and career transitions. I bring a compassionate and holistic approach to therapy, focusing on areas such as self-love, communication, personal growth, and healing from difficult life experiences. My work spans diverse contexts, including relationship dynamics, workplace stress, family systems, and individual emotional wellness. My therapeutic style emphasizes understanding each person's unique journey. I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. Whether you're confronting midlife transitions, managing chronic challenges, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise.
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.
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!
Yelena Shik
Born and raised in former Soviet Union, Ukraine, I immigrated to the United States right after my graduation from a music college. Music and psychology were always my passion! After settling in New York, I got my BA at Mercy College and Master’s degree at Hunter College. I was licensed as a Clinical Social Worker after several years of working in a mental health field. I’ve experienced challenges in my life as an immigrant, female, mother, business woman, etc. ... and I enjoy working with my patients, who have challenges of their own.
Alison Proft
Welcome! I am a licensed Psychoanalyst and focus on the therapeutic relationship as an essential tool to promote emotional growth and healthy functioning. This approach supports clients to help identify the cause of fears of behaviors that are disrupting their life and develop strategies to increase healthy functioning. My style is eclectic, interactive , non-judgmental and meet the client where they are at now and where they want to go. As a psychoanalyst, I am sensitive to the influences of past experiences on present challenges and work closely with client to reframe the narrative of their life in order for them to become their best selves and lead a more authentic life. I believe you are the expert of your own story and that you have many strengths to assist you in overcoming issues they currently challenge you. Some of my specialties include working with the LGBTQIA community; and young adult (20+) and older adult population with varying issues. I am committed to maintaining a diverse, equitable, and inclusive practice which serves as a safe harbor for LGBTQIA people and people of the global majority. I look forward to supporting you on your therapeutic journey! My hours are generally Mon-Wed a.m. 9-4:00 p.m. I prefer video sessions only in order to provide effective therapy. I look forward to working with you!
Assata Thomas
I am licensed in New York with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Luann Esen
I am licensed in New York with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Frieda S Dub
I am licensed in New York with 39 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & eating disorders. 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.
Leon Dickinson
I am licensed in New York with 12 years of professional work experience. I grew up on a dairy farm in New York and also work part time in a program with Cornell University helping individuals and families in agriculture. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.
Debra Washington
As a licensed therapist in New York, I bring over 15 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenging transitions, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I specialize in addressing depression, self-esteem challenges, family conflicts, and the nuanced emotional experiences of midlife. My approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each individual's unique journey. I'm particularly committed to supporting clients working through social anxiety, communication difficulties, isolation, and significant life changes like divorce or separation. My therapeutic style creates a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate self-understanding. With expertise in women's and men's issues, body image concerns, and emotional wellness, I strive to empower clients to build stronger, more authentic connections with themselves and others. My goal is to walk alongside you, offering professional guidance and genuine support as you move toward healing and personal transformation.
John Perak
As a licensed therapist with over two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients address stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, and personal growth. I bring deep expertise in communication dynamics, social anxiety, life transitions, and emotional healing. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, designed to help you develop meaningful insights and practical strategies for overcoming personal obstacles. Whether you're struggling with panic attacks, relationship conflicts, or seeking greater self-understanding, I provide a supportive environment where you can explore your experiences and build resilience. I'm committed to walking alongside you as you work through challenging emotions, develop stronger coping mechanisms, and rediscover your inner strength. Together, we'll create a personalized path toward emotional well-being and personal empowerment.
Leslie Moriarty
As a licensed therapist in New York, I bring over two decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients explore life purpose, manage social anxiety, and work through deep-seated feelings of guilt and shame. I specialize in supporting individuals struggling with depression, stress, anxiety, and trauma-related challenges. My therapeutic style emphasizes creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients can develop meaningful insights and build resilience. My work is deeply rooted in understanding each person's unique journey. I believe in empowering clients to recognize their inherent strengths and develop practical strategies for emotional healing and personal growth. Whether you're experiencing persistent emotional challenges or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise. Through evidence-based practices and a person-centered approach, I aim to help you cultivate greater self-compassion, emotional clarity, and a sense of purpose. Together, we can explore your experiences, transform limiting beliefs, and create pathways toward more fulfilling life experiences.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Wolcott, New York
Finding a therapist near you in Wolcott, New York starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. New York is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In New York, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
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 can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in New York
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In New York, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in New York
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in New York
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in New York through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
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 Wolcott.
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 near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
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 discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Wolcott, New York
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Wolcott and the surrounding NY area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.