No matter your age, gender, race, or religion, a mental health condition can affect you. They do not discriminate and no matter how normal you try to be, if you are suffering from a mental illness, it is hard to function the way you want. Shaker Heights counselors are trained and committed to dealing with issues like these. 

With a population of more than 27 thousand, there is likely going to be quite a few people who have the need to talk to a mental health professional. Some people are afraid to or they are embarrassed, but it is important to get treatment, so you can feel better. Talk to a counselor in Shaker Heights today. 

This is Peggy Lucas's avatar and link to their profile

Peggy Lucas

Offering therapy in OH
License: LPCC-S,LICD-CS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
25 years of experience

I am an LPCC-S, LICDC-CS. I graduated from Ohio University in 1980 with a Bachelor Degree in Elementary education and 1995 with a Masters Degree in Education with a focus on Community & Agency Counseling. Prior to that, I worked as a case worker in Muskingum County, Ohio for 6.5 years. I made a decision during that time that I wanted to work in the field of counseling. My first 15 years was spent working with at-risk children and their families. I worked with foster children, their foster parents and their biological parents. I also fostered at-risk children and adolescents in my own home. Throughout my career, I have dealt with addictions with adolescents and their parents. I have worked in a psychiatric hospital for adults, acute crisis residential for children & adolescents, adult residential for addiction treatment (3 different programs), Franklin County Jail at Jackson Pike for 2 years and more recently a for profit outpatient agency as Clinical Director. I utilize CBT, Motivational Interviewing, strength based, solution focused therapeutic techniques. I am trauma informed and have been even before it became an important,, recognized dynamic in the treatment field. I understand and have experienced compassion fatigue. I have worked closely with law enforcement and have worked with their children and wives.

Get started View profile
This is Joanette Pulskamp-Jackson's avatar and link to their profile

Joanette Pulskamp-Jackson

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW-S
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
24 years of experience

Hello and thank you for reaching out to ask for help. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Ohio with over 20 years of experience working in community and hospital settings. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, parenting special needs children, and managing the struggles of being a caregiver to the geriatric and chronically ill population. My therapy style is casual, warm and interactive. I believe in treating every client with respect, sensitivity, and kindness. My approach combines solution-focused and cognitive-behavioral theories to best help the client. I have helped clients who have had emotional and physical trauma in the past. I will adapt our sessions and create a treatment plan that focuses on your identified needs. It takes courage to reach out and take the first step to make your life more fulfilling. If you are prepared to take the first step, I am ready to provide support and empowerment to you. I look forward to meeting you!

Get started View profile
This is Terrence Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Terrence Smith

Offering therapy in OH
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorder
39 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 39 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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!

Get started View profile
This is Angela Grimes's avatar and link to their profile

Angela Grimes

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker licensed in Ohio with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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.

Get started View profile
This is Kelsey Hofer's avatar and link to their profile

Kelsey Hofer

Offering therapy in OH
License: MS,LPC
LGBTTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
9 years of experience

Welcome! I am so glad that you are here seeking additional supports. It is a brave step. Finding a counselor who is a good fit is important, so feel free to ask any additional questions that are not answered below. I have a Master's degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology with a Concentration in Trauma Studies from Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia, PA. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania. Outside of BetterHelp, I am a trauma counselor at a victims' services center in Pennsylvania, working with survivors of crimes such as sexual abuse, physical assault, stalking, and homicide. I work alongside clients to discover together how various difficult experiences in life can lead to challenges with coping. I have experience working with clients around issues such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, safety, grief, self-esteem, and self-image. My approach is collaborative. I believe that therapy can not only provide tools and options, but also can be a powerful relationship for change through understanding patterns and naming experiences. I view my role as walking along side you to provide support through this leg of your journey of life.

Get started View profile
This is Kelsie McKinney's avatar and link to their profile

Kelsie McKinney

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Welcome to the first step of your healing journey! I’m so glad you’re here. I am licensed in Ohio with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & 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.

Get started View profile
This is Brittany Fitzgerald's avatar and link to their profile

Brittany Fitzgerald

Offering therapy in OH
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
12 years of experience

My counseling style is supportive and non-judgmental. My purpose it to provide you with a safe place to process, grow and heal. As a therapist I am here to empower, support and guide you on your journey of personal growth and change. I utilize a collaborative, holistic and strengths based approach to treatment. I believe in the importance of treating and healing mind, body and spirit for overall wellbeing. I am a licensed independent clinician social worker, based in Massachusetts. I have been working in the the mental health field for 11 years. I have a Bachelors in Science from Bridgewater State University and a Masters in Social Work from Boston University. I have experience working in various settings, both inpatient and outpatient with clients dealing with a wide range of issues. I spent the first part of my career working in addiction treatment programs providing therapy and education to individuals and families. I spent 6 years contracted with State Prisons and County Jails working directly with incarcerated adult male clients providing services such as crisis intervention, anger management, substance abuse treatment and general supportive counselling . I've recently been working as a clinical director for a substance abuse treatment facility. I am experienced with a variety of issues such as addictions, family issues, adjustment issues, self care, depression, anxiety and life changes. I take a special interest in positive psychology and working from a strengths based approach.

Get started View profile
This is May Reinert's avatar and link to their profile

May Reinert

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida, New York and Ohio with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties; among other areas. 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.

Get started View profile
This is Hillary Massie's avatar and link to their profile

Hillary Massie

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

Get started View profile
This is Angela Martin's avatar and link to their profile

Angela Martin

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Get started View profile

How to find counseling in Shaker Heights

Finding the best therapist close by in Shaker Heights 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 Shaker Heights. 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 Shaker Heights, 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 Shaker Heights 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 Shaker Heights 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 Shaker Heights, elsewhere in Cuyahoga, 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 Shaker Heights area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Shaker Heights 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 Shaker Heights 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 Shaker Heights 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 Shaker Heights, 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 Shaker Heights 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 Shaker Heights 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 Shaker Heights 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 Shaker Heights 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 Shaker Heights 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 44122 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 Shaker Heights 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 Shaker Heights 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 Shaker Heights, 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.

Shaker Heights 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 Shaker Heights.

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

44120, 44122

Popular cities near Shaker Heights, OH

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