It isn't always easy to keep a smile on your face when you are struggling internally. You want to be able to be a proud member of your community and you try your best to put on a brave face. The anxiety and depression problems that you are facing seem to make this more difficult every day. Going through problems like this alone is never ideal and you should consider looking for professional help.

Seeking out the aid of a professional counselor from Ottawa can make a difference in your life. A counselor is going to be able to help you to get everything under control and they will be able to figure out how to move forward. Making progress together will allow you to reclaim your happiness and experience life as you want to be able to. Decide to make contact with an Ottawa counselor whenever you are ready.

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Emily McClure

Offering therapy in OH
License: MA, LPCC-S
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
9 years of experience

Hi! My name is Emily. I recognize that talking about the issues which can deeply impact everyday life can be intimidating at times. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Ohio. I am also a clinical supervisor and enjoy mentoring others. I have over 8 years of experience in multiple community settings providing therapy for individuals and families. I have experience working with clients who suffer from depression and anxiety, those who are experiencing stress in their lives due to change or traumatic events, and those experiencing relationship or career issues. I have a warm, flexible, and person-centered approach. I will seek to understand first and also support you in achieving your goals. I have an eclectic style and use a combination of motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, principles of dialectical behavioral therapy, and ACT. I am here to support you, to help generate solutions, and to provide feedback and encouragement. Small, positive changes add up and we will celebrate them! I also recognize the impact that trauma can have on individuals and family systems and provide treatment through a trauma-informed lens. I am a Christian and my faith plays an important role in my life. I am open to faith-based counseling if you choose and will respect your personal beliefs. It takes courage to reach out and seek help and I'm so grateful that you took that step. I am here to help you use the strengths you already have to make meaningful and practical shifts in both mindset and actions. I am so excited for us to begin working together. Please note that I am only licensed in Ohio and therefore am only able to provide services to clients who are residing in Ohio.

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Kristen Ayers

Offering therapy in OH
License: MSW,LISW-S
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
11 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Ohio with over 10 years of experience. I specialize in working with geriatric populations, including end of life issues, emotional concerns and family conflicts. Some of the most common topics during my sessions have been anxiety, depression and bereavement. I have a very interactive approach to counseling, and I like to give reflective tasks for my clients to think about in between sessions. I also love to provide psycho-educational insight into each session, as I believe that a person can better deal with mental health when they understand the mechanics behind it! I use a combination of therapeutic techniques, including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy and mindfulness. If you are looking for a judge-free zone and someone to objectively speak with you about your mental health, and you are also ready to challenge yourself and be an interactive partner in your care, then I may be the counselor for you. *Please note that I am having technical issues with the video chat at this time. I hope to have this resolved quickly and be able to offer this option as soon as possible.

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Kristen Hicks

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW,TRCC,CTRP-C
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
13 years of experience

Everyone’s heart has been broken in one way or another. No one gets through this life entirely intact. We put the pieces back together over and over again, and the repaired cracks make us unique, beautiful, and stronger at the broken places. I'll hold space when you need a safe, quiet container, and I'll be compassionate and honest when you want a reflection. You are the expert when it comes to you, and I'll offer help to co-create a path to your goals. I'm not here to tell you what's "wrong" with you but instead, to explore what you've experienced and how you've survived. I'm an Independent Social Worker, licensed in the state of Ohio with certificates in trauma and resilience and trauma responsive care as well as a deep knowledge of how trauma impacts the physical body and brain. I've also completed a certificate in Eco-psychology, so if you find healing in nature we'll get along great! My background includes many years in direct care and case management for people with developmental disabilities, intensive family counseling, medical social work, and hospice/community bereavement counseling. My passions include experiential approaches such as Adventure Therapy and Eco-therapy. Positive psychology is embedded in my approach, shifting focus from problem to solution when you feel ready. I look forward to meeting you and to honoring the stories you share. :)

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Marjorie Gentry

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changesCoaching
22 years of experience

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Maria Slaughter

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW,LMSW,MSSA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

Hello, my name is Maria and, I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Ohio (LISW) and a Licensed Master Social Worker in Georgia (LMSW). I am a dedicated and intuitive counseling professional with over seven years of experience in helping people overcome life challenges and stressors. My areas of expertise consist of working with the LGBT community, people living with HIV/AIDS, and hospice. I can also assist you with navigating life transitions such as anxiety, depression, career-related challenges, building your self-esteem, navigating your sexuality, processing intimate and non-intimate relationships, college-related transitions, and processing grief & death. I have spent my entire career using my personal and career-related experiences to help individuals process life challenges. Using a client center and strengths-based approach, I promise to provide you with a warm, accepting, safe space where we can identify goals & alleviate stress. In terms of my education, I have received my Master's Degree at Case Western University in Social Administration. I also hold a Bachelor's Degree from Cleveland State University and an Associates's in Liberal Arts Degree from Cuyahoga Community College. My professional background consists of working at the Cleveland LGBT Community Center as an intern, at Recovery Resources as an HIV Linkage Specialist & Program Coordinator, and at Care Alliance as a Behavioral Health Counselor with the homeless population (or) people without proper housing. I currently work full time as a Hospice Social Worker providing emotional support to families in the Atlanta area. Finally, I would like to thank you for taking the time to read my profile & I commend you for taking the first step in ensuring your mental & overall well-being. I look forward to supporting you along your journey!

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Julie Barzal

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with Supervisory designation in Ohio and a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Massachusetts with over 6 years of professional therapy experience. I have experience helping adult and adolescent clients with issues involving LGBTQ-IA concerns, stress, anxiety, depression, anger management, low self esteem/self confidence, grief, blended family concerns, Substance use disorders and family management of SUD disorders. In practice, I utilize many forms of therapy, inclusive of cognitive behavioral therapy , solution focused therapy, problem solving techniques, motivational interviewing, Affirmation and Commitment therapy, client centered therapy and strengths based therapy. I have always been passionate about helping and advocating for others and have always strived to be the positive change I wish to see in the world. I have experience in diagnosing DSMV mental health disorders, providing direct counseling and telehealth therapy, crisis and case management services with adolescents and adults. From a personal perspective, I embody empathy, engagement, advocacy, a tireless work ethic, active listening skills, critical thinking skills, cultural humility, gender and identity inclusion, and a client centered, strengths based focus that strives to always meet my clients where they are at. I want my clients to know that their time with me provides an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started and making your mental health a priority. I am mindful that each person’s story is unique, reinforcing the importance for meeting clients where they are in their own personal mental health journey. It is my hope that our work together will be challenging, insightful and empowering because YOU are worth it. Fun Facts: I am left-handed but am ambidextrous. I became a mom as a teenager. I did not attend college until I was 40 years old (earned Bachelors and Masters ) because I believe it is never too late to pursue your dreams.

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Traci Nadel

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Travena Golliday

Offering therapy in OH
GriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
23 years of experience

Supporting people is my gift and passion! Sometimes life can be overwhelming and difficult to process and we need support to slow down and sort out our thoughts in order to move in the right direction. I am licensed in Ohio with 25 years of professional clinical experience. I have supported clients with multiple concerns; like mental health issues, relationship concerns, coping with grief and loss, parenting skills, & career difficulties. I believe that you are the expert of your situation and that you have what you need to improve your functioning. My job is to reveal those strengths that will assist you in overcoming difficult situations. Making the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Steven Timms

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Lauren Passoff

Offering therapy in OH
License: BS, MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 14 years. I have an undergraduate degree in Political Science from the University of San Diego and a Master's Degree in Social Work from the Silver School of Social Work at New York University. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, parenting problems, career challenges, family separation, learning disabilities, and general issues related to adjustment/ and attachment, and general issues related to self-esteem . My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psycho-dynamic, trauma informed care guided by evidenced based practices. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. We will formulate goals together. I enjoy working with people on their thought process, actions/reactions, and how it relates to their life experiences. We can access how this helps or hinders your daily life. I believe that most people have experienced events in their lifetime, that when left ignored, directly impact our lives in the present. It is my goal to help you identify these events, and help my clients move through them. I formulate collaborative goals with each individual, couple, and family I work with, to identify pathways for working through issues from the past that hold us back from being our best selves. We will work to re-write a narrative that will allow you to heal, and live a life of fulfillment, joy, and satisfaction!! I believe that each person has unique impressions and experiences, and so my treatment is tailored to their individual needs. I have a client-centered approach and firmly believe that clients are the change-makers and have the power to guide their own recovery. It is my goal to provide an empathic and engaging style throughout treatment while providing a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space. I am trained to work with all ages and especially enjoy working with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I am sensitive to multicultural issues and welcome working and learning from people from a variety of backgrounds. I hope to work with you in exploring your emotions, concerns, and trauma/significant events to help you find some relief and develop long-term solutions that bring positive results. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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How to find counseling in Ottawa

Finding the best therapist close by in Ottawa 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 Ottawa. 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 Ottawa, 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 Ottawa 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 Ottawa 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 Ottawa, elsewhere in Putnam, or in the greater state of Ohio.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Ottawa area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Ottawa 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 Ottawa 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 Ottawa may not take health insurance, some in the state of Ohio 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 Ohio 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 Ottawa, Ohio 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 Ottawa 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 Ottawa 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 Ottawa 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 Ottawa 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 Ottawa 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 OH, 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 45875 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 Ottawa 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 Ottawa 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 Ottawa, Ohio 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.

Ottawa 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 Ottawa.

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

45875

Popular cities near Ottawa, OH

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