Psychologist Kara Anderson providing different types of therapy in Rochester

Kara Anderson

Clinician
License Type(s): MS, LMHC, PCC-S
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGrief
29 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with nearly 30 years of experience. I am located in Florida where I began my career in counseling in 1994 as a residential therapist in a psychiatric hospital, followed by the roles of an outpatient therapist, clinical supervisor and program director at a substance abuse treatment agency. In 2001, I relocated to Ohio, where I worked for the next 13 years as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor - Supervisor, program manager and program administrator for a mental and behavioral health nonprofit organization. In 2014, I relocated back to Florida where I began my online practice. If you have any reservations about online counseling, I encourage you to give it a try. It is a highly effective and convenient therapeutic modality that can be accessed from the the comfort and safety of your own home or wherever you are at any given time. I can attest to this with utmost confidence based on my clients' positive feedback after providing services here for over 8 years. My clinical philosophy is one of a humanistic nature, with emphasis on the therapeutic relationship as the most essential building block of the counseling process. My therapeutic style is warm, interactive, attentive and compassionate. I believe that genuineness, unconditional positive regard and empathy are critical to the helping process. As needed, I am also direct and structured in my approach and tend to assign therapeutic homework or tasks to enhance the progression and continuity of the process in between live sessions or message exchanges. I have the ability to tailor and pace treatment to your individual and unique needs, and I am sensitive to evolving the process at your pace and convenience while still promoting and prompting advancement toward your goals. Furthermore, I take a holistic approach to health and wellness, with emphasis on achieving balance in major life domains. I believe that when needs, desires or aspirations are unfulfilled in one significant realm, the others are affected as well and this creates imbalance in one's life, leading to stress, anxiety, inconsistency, overwhelmed feelings, lack of self-care, somatic symptoms, etc. Lastly, in terms of professional characteristics and standards of care, I operate with the highest degree. I was esteemed throughout my career for my level of professionalism, ethical conduct, organization, efficiency and grace. My educational background includes: a bachelor's degree in psychology from University of Miami, FL; a master's degree in mental health counseling from Nova Southeastern University of Fort Lauderdale, FL; and additional post-graduate coursework in career counseling, and the diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of mental disorders at University of Dayton in Bexley, OH. I enjoy the ongoing pursuit of continued education, training and professional development through seminars in specialized areas, reading and self-study. I highly value knowledge, information and effective application of therapeutic theories, models, strategies, and techniques that may benefit the people I serve. My clinical experience includes working with various diverse populations and treatment modalities, and the full spectrum of issues and disorders ranging from the most simple to the most complex co-occurring conditions. I specialize in treating depression/anxiety/stress, substance abuse/addiction, emotional/physical/sexual abuse, trauma and grief/loss. I also have extensive experience with counseling issues in the following areas: LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Intimacy-related issues, Parenting issues, Anger management, Self esteem, Career difficulties, Compassion fatigue & Addictions in general. Depression, anxiety and stress are some of the most common challenges faced by people who seek counseling. In this realm, I have worked with children, adolescents and adults in residential/hospital, outpatient and community-based settings. I have provided individual, group and family services, and have facilitated psycho-educational counseling groups and workshops on coping skills, stress management/reduction, emotion regulation, self-esteem and assertive communication skills. My approach though eclectic, tends to be rooted in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which per evidence-based research, is very effective in treating these issues. This active intervention is problem-focused and goal-directed in examining the relationships between thoughts, feelings and behaviors; and modifying unhelpful or negative patterns of thinking that lead to self-defeating beliefs and actions, to improve coping and overall wellness. I also take a mindfulness-based approach to CBT (MBCBT) by encouraging the use of mindfulness practice and self-compassion. These tools help to address and validate one's personal experience with distress, pain and suffering; and diminish associated negative symptoms by focusing attention on the present moment. Learning how to self-soothe and regulate emotions through effective relaxation, calming and grounding strategies are significant components of my clinical approach to addressing depression, anxiety and stress. For over two decades, I have treated teens and adults who struggle with substance abuse and dependency issues. In 1998, I was humbly honored to receive Florida Alcohol & Drug Abuse Association's Professional of the Year award. I have provided these services in various settings and levels of care from the least to the most restrictive. As an outpatient alcohol and drug counselor, I worked with self-referred individuals as well as those who had been mandated to receive evaluation and/or treatment as a condition of probation, parole, work, school or a family/community member. I provided these services in individual, group and family forums. As a clinical supervisor and administrator, I had the opportunity to develop and oversee programming and staff in the specialized area of addictions. In a training capacity, I facilitated seminars to educate clinical staff in the areas of assessing, diagnosing and treating alcohol and drug problems. I am very passionate about working with people who struggle with addictions in general, one day at a time, toward a healthy recovery and lifestyle. Maintaining a strong emphasis on healthy coping skills, positive support systems and relapse prevention planning are key to my treatment approach in this area. In the delicate area of treating the effects of abuse and trauma, I have worked with child and adult survivors of emotional/physical/sexual abuse and violence. I have extensive experience working with acute and post traumatic stress disorder and have developed and facilitated group curricula that focus on reducing isolation, guilt/shame and self-blame; building self-esteem, positive support systems and coping skills; and increasing a sense of mastery and personal empowerment. I am also well versed at teaching survivors how to implement effective relaxation, grounding and anchoring techniques to help diminish anxiety and maintain a balanced state of arousal and focus in the present moment. Encouraging self-forgiveness is also very important to me in helping survivors let go of illegitimate shame or guilt derived from any unwanted responses to, or effects from the abuse. Throughout the healing journey, I am sensitive to guiding the process at a pace that feels most comfortable and safe to each person, and promoting respite from focusing on difficult material if/when it becomes too emotionally burdensome. To help prevent any inadvertent re-traumatization from occurring during the counseling process, I am especially conscientious and attentive to providing trauma-informed care. Throughout my career, I have helped children, teens and families work through grief/loss challenges. In my professional opinion, there is no one particular formula for grieving. Though there are common elements or phases of grief, everyone grieves differently. It is a very personal experience and individual response to coping with significant loss of any kind - death, separation/divorce, relocation, retirement, job loss/change, etc. Grief occurs in stages, which may come like waves in the ocean, ascending and receding at any given time and in no particular order. I am skilled at helping people understand this phenomenon and learn how to navigate these treacherous waters. I have expertise in providing compassionate support and effective strategies to aid individuals through this vulnerable and difficult time toward a place of healing and acceptance. Working with LGBTQIA+ counseling issues is a point of passion for me. I respect, admire, embrace and promote diversity, individuality and authenticity in my personal and professional life. I am LGBTQIA+ informed/educated and have experience with bullying, coming out, internalized homophobia, gender identity affirmation and transgender support. Mental health problems are difficult enough in their own respect, let alone compounded by LGBTQ issues. I have worked with a broad spectrum of concerns in this realm ranging from depression, anxiety, shame, guilt, secrecy and confusion associated with sexual orientation/attraction and gender identity to homo/bi/transphobia and HOCD (homophobic obsessive compulsive disorder). Furthermore, LGBTQIA+ couples and families have unique issues when it comes to navigating the legal, emotional and financial aspects of raising and/or restructuring a non-traditional family. On behalf of this community, I firmly believe that more support, education and advocacy are greatly needed. With all the significant strides that have been made toward raised awareness and acceptance in our society, there is so much more that we can do to achieve full empowerment and equality for all. I want to be a part of this valuable movement and growth journey by helping one individual at a time. I genuinely admire your initiative and courage to reach out for support, and look forward to working together toward your goals. With patience and commitment and dedication to this process, this is the first step toward a happier and healthier or more evolved you.

Psychologist Meghan Griffin providing different types of therapy in Rochester

Meghan Griffin

Clinician
License Type(s): LPCC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years offering treatment

Thank you for taking the time to view my bio! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the State of Ohio and have been practicing since 2004. I also just recently became licensed within the state of Nevada as well (2024). I worked in the college setting beginning in 2004, working with both traditional college age students as well as adult students. I have also been active in the online sector of therapy since November 2017. I have experience with a variety of issues that impact clients including, relationship issues, family issues, self esteem, mood disorders, suicidal ideations, anxiety, depression, etc. My approach is eclectic and I try to tailor my approach to what would be most beneficial to the individual client (including various theories and techniques), I feel it is important to be collaborative through this process and welcome any questions and feedback throughout the therapeutic experience. I hope that I can be a good fit for you and look forward to working with you through this process! Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me. Best wishes!

Psychologist Javonne Spivey providing different types of therapy in Rochester

Javonne Spivey

Clinician
License Type(s): LPCC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

My name is Javonne Spivey and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with over 10 years of experience. I have worked with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, trauma, and relationship challenges. My counseling style is genuine and validating. I am passionate about building therapeutic rapport with individuals to help them identify strengths as they work towards achieving personal goals. I believe therapy consists of a collaborative relationship and therefore I welcome feedback and encourage individuals to be an active participant in their treatment. My approach to treatment combines cognitive-behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. I am intentional about educating individuals about the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and highlighting the power of thoughts and self-talk. I am a Christian and I enjoy utilizing scripture to help individuals achieve wellness that will lead to greatness. I have experience with implementing bible plans in treatment to help individuals address depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and purpose. I created a Christian mental wellness journal titled, Changing My Unhealthy Thoughts. The journal teaches the skills of utilizing scripture and taking thoughts captive to control and manage thinking patterns. The journal introduces a technique called prayerful thoughts. Prayerful thoughts are thoughts rooted in scripture. The journal encourages the reader to challenge unhealthy thoughts with scripture and replace unhealthy thoughts with prayerful thoughts. I appreciate your interest in working with me and I am looking forward to listening to your story and building a therapeutic relationship. My mission is to help you achieve wellness that leads to greatness. Let’s get started!

Psychologist Sarah Rinaldo providing different types of therapy in Rochester

Sarah Rinaldo

Clinician
License Type(s): LPCC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
9 years offering treatment

I am here for you. I will never judge, condemn, or ridicule you. I am here to provide empathy, support, guidance, and validation throughout the counseling process. I work with a variety of clients who are struggling with wounds from the past, current stressors, and future worries. I specialize in the treatment of PTSD and C-PTSD, and I offer EMDR as a supplement to my regular counseling services. If you are ready to take the next step toward a happier, healthier YOU, I would love the opportunity to walk with you on this part of your journey.

Psychologist Julia Rose providing different types of therapy in Rochester

Julia Rose

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years offering treatment

Human beings are very dynamic and have unlimited potential to heal and grow. When I began my journey as a therapist, my goal was to help people not feel so alone in their pain, break mental health stigmas, and find answers hidden within themselves. I bring empathy, humor, compassion and genuine curiosity that is free of assumptions to the healing space. My therapeutic approach is tailored to fit your unique needs and desires. I take pride in guiding you in your journey of gaining insight and self-love to help you live a joyful well-balanced life. I have extensive experience in working with adults who are struggling with symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, BPD, etc. "We can learn something new anytime we believe we can" - Virginia Satir.

Psychologist Tim Masters providing different types of therapy in Rochester

Tim Masters

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
5 years offering treatment

I am licensed as a clinical social worker in Wyoming , Maine, and Ohio with 6 years of clinical work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem and confidence, bipolar disorder, OCD, and psychotic disorders. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Your treatment plan will be personalized to meet your unique and specific needs. Therapy takes commitment and hard work, and I am excited that you have chosen to start down the path to recovery. I look forward to working together!

Psychologist Samantha Blackwell providing different types of therapy in Rochester

Samantha Blackwell

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Arizona, Ohio, Oregon, Nevada and Virginia and with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in a variety of areas, including but not limited to: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress management, and trauma. I have a passion for helping individuals navigate their emotions and life experiences to achieve their personal goals. My approach is personalized and evidence-based, and I utilize techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy to help clients make positive changes in their lives. I believe in a collaborative and non-judgmental approach to therapy and am dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment for all clients. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and support you on your journey. 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.

Psychologist Andrea Dugas providing different types of therapy in Rochester

Andrea Dugas

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
14 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Vikki Gardner providing different types of therapy in Rochester

Vikki Gardner

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
23 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Michigan and Ohio with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Stephen Weaver providing different types of therapy in Rochester

Stephen Weaver

Clinician
License Type(s): MA,MSED,LMFT
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger management
7 years offering treatment

Hey there. I'm Steve. I've been moved by the human experience ever since I was a young lad. My first field was communication not because I was good at it, but because I was really horrible at it. I eventually became a journalist, video producer, photographer, and excelled at it, but something was lacking. I got into teaching at the collegiate level and as well with kids through adults who've had difficulty with learning, but yet, I yearned for more. It was there, with kids who were dealing with so much, that I learned what I wanted to do next in working with people. I entered counseling school and about a decade later, here I am. I am much less shy than when I first went to college, and you'll see that in a session. I don't enjoy sitting back, I get in there and point things out to you. I work with you how I think I would like to be worked with. Am I human? Yes, and I point that out, but I truly care about you and want you to be where you want to be. I am underpinned by existentialism, it's the big things in life that I look to when people have issues. I also regard the human body as possibly part of the issue that is giving you difficulties - for example our diets today are very much affecting our mental health. I love neuroscience and the polyvagal theory approaches and regard our "mind" as something that can also use some healing. I also am a big lover of relationships, and see them as the last cog in the total wellness of you. Look at it as a triangle or wellness - Mind-Body-Relationships. Oh, and I also may have you talk to yourself. I do best with adults for some reason, but I like all people. I am a family therapist, and see the family as a reason many issues occur. Anyway, I'll help, but you as well have to want to change. It is something I value deeply as I've changed from that shy kid to a confident, more present person, and I want to help you do the same. Stephen Weaver, MA, MSED, LMFT has a bachelor's in electronic media: mass media from the University of Akron, a master's of art in professional communication from Purdue, and a master of science in education: couple and family counseling, from Indiana University (both master's from IPFW).

Find a therapist serving clients in Ohio

What types of therapists are available to clients in Rochester?

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Rochester that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), therapeutic talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.

Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform

Mental health therapists in Rochester available through BetterHelp are accredited as psychologists to help individuals and couples. Rochester therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Rochester therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Rochester region and in the state of Ohio.

How can a therapist help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want?

Therapists in Rochester can help clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist in Rochester may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 

Is it better to find a mental health counselor or therapist in Rochester offering online therapy or in person?

Studies show online therapy can be just as effective as in-person counseling. Online therapy with licensed counselors is often more affordable, with BetterHelp pricing ranging from $65-$100 weekly, while in person therapy can cost up to $200 per session.

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist