Your mental health is important. Not just for the here and now, but for the future. As life throws its obstacles at you, you can be mentally prepared for all of them. With that said, preparation can be hard. A counselor based in Salem can be able to help you prepare for the future. 

Salem is known for its cherries. Cherries can be sweet and ripe, but picking them can sometimes be a challenge, and it can be hard to figure out what kind of cherries you want. A counselor can be that cherrypicker who gets you the right bowl of cherries for you to enjoy. 

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Amber Bathon

Offering therapy in OR
License: LPC,LPCC-S,MAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience

Hello, my name is Amber Bathon. I am a licensed professional counselor (state of OR), and maintain a certification as a master addictions counselor (MAC). I received a double Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Socio-Anthropology from Transylvania University and a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Lewis & Clark College. My Master's program provided me with additional training and education in the areas of marriage, couples, and family therapy and substance use counseling. During my internship hours, I was able to work and gain experience in a residential substance use treatment program providing individual, family, and group therapies while focusing on co-occurring mental health and substance use challenges. As I entered my professional career, I began providing services in outpatient treatment and private practice settings; during this time, I have worked with individuals across the lifespan. I have provided intensive in-home and community-based therapy for adults with significant and persistent mental illness with co-occurring substance use issues, as well as general outpatient mental health and substance use treatment. My primary areas of interest and focus have been related to trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, and stress management. However, my experiences have been extremely broad and I have 8 years of experiences working in a cross-cultural agency within the Native American community. Counseling is a deeply personal encounter that allows for change, growth and development; it is an opportunity for those who receive it to recognize their strengths and find solutions to their challenges in a safe and collaborative environment. Counseling provides ways to express feelings, understand patterns of thinking and behaving, gain perspective on past events and current relationships, and set and clarify goals for the future. It can both alleviate pain and suffering, and add meaning and richness to life. Counseling provides the opportunity to map strengths, resources, and resiliency which allow us to develop a plan that will move you towards achieving your goals. My belief is that most change occurs through forming and experiencing a trusting, emotionally safe relationship, and in the context of that relationship increasing one’s awareness of self, challenging one’s old beliefs, learning new skills, establishing appropriate boundaries in relationships with others, and experiencing and letting go of old pain. My task will be to assist or attempt to assist you in this process. Within our relationship, I will work to empower you to develop awareness of yourself, your way of relating, and your unique coping skills in the face of stress and change. As your awareness increases, I will support you in developing healthy ways of expressing and fulfilling your needs and desires. I believe strongly that you are the expert in your life, and that with support, encouragement, and the appropriate tools – you will notice where exceptions exist in your story and you can develop the solution. I am looking forward to helping you on your journey!

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Dara Charlton

Offering therapy in OR
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefEating disordersDepression
20 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker counselor in Oregon and California with over 20 years of experienceworking as a therapist and health coach. I have worked with clients with a widerange of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parentingproblems, career challenges, eating disorders and borderline personality disorders. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is non judgemental and down to earth. I believe in treating anyone with respect,sensitivity, and compassion, and I want to hear your story with an open heart and mind. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing psychodynamic and rational-emotivecounseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am constantly learning and taking courses to make sure my approach is unique to each situation. It takes a lot of guts to seek out help and work to reduce suffering to create a fulfilling life. . I have a passion for helping people with complex presentations including chronic medical issues, eating disorders, mood instability, anxiety, self harm behaviors, suicidal thoughts, and symptoms of trauma. Together we will explore thoughts, feelings, behaviors and uncover what is leading to self limiting behaviors and beliefs. I will help you develop the school to create a life of peace. Outside of my work as therapist, I enjoy visiting my family in LA, and watching my daughter dance, I am passionate about juicing and spin class. My best friend is my dog Sailor a Havaton (half Havanese/half Coton du Tulear).

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Dr. Lisa Schulz

Offering therapy in OR
License: LPC,NCC,ACS
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
14 years of experience

Hello! I believe we each have the potential to live the quality of life we want for ourselves and those we cherish. It has become my life's work and joy to support others in creating that best life. However you define happiness and fulfillment is what I want for you. I believe you are the power of the human spirit and trust you to know what you need. Seeking help is difficult and knowing that the counselor you connect with will not judge you or shame you helps you take those first steps toward the life you dream of. It is my job to help create a safe space for you to explore yourself in ways that support making positive and affirming life decisions. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 14 years experience working with adolescents and adults; I am currently licensed in Georgia and in Oregon. My own life journey has been one of facing truth and healing emotionally and spiritually. Mine is a life-long journey and by supporting others, I find my life's purpose and meaning. I have learned that being in relationships that are based on trust and acceptance allows the freedom to explore and heal. I can offer you a professional relationship intended to support your personal empowerment through genuine regard and non-judgment. Many times over the course of our lives, we encounter stressful and complicated circumstances. Have you ever wondered if you are truly happy? Have you thought that if you were different, others would love you? Have you felt insecure, depressed, and anxious about who you are and the life decisions you've made? Well, I believe we all have, and these thoughts and feelings are not abnormal or bad, rather they are normal and typical of people struggling with self-worth and personal dignity. Know that you do not need to face your life's obstacles alone. Spending time in therapy can offer you the space and skills to feel confident and capable as the person you are. My hope is to help create the conditions whereby you feel empowered, resilient, self-compassionate, valuable, and lovable. Together we can decide what therapeutic goals you have and how best we can achieve them together. If you choose to invite me into your life, I will honor who you are and who you chose to be.

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Vicki Zeitner

Offering therapy in OR
License: LPC,CHT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
15 years of experience

I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with nearly 20 years of experience helping people manage stress, anxiety, negativity and depressed mood, problematic patterns in relationship, unexpected life events, losses and transitions. I can help you improve communication, achieve work-life balance, manage troubling moods and anxiety, and to understand yourself better. Sometimes we need help making an important decision, and at other times we just need someone to listen and understand. I've worked in community mental health agencies, outpatient counseling centers and inpatient treatment programs, and I love what I do. My life experience spans 60 years, starting on the east coast and making home on the west. I've lived in urban and rural communities with exposure to very different cultures. And I spent nearly 15 years in academia, giving me an intimate understanding of university life. I embrace all forms of diversity. I believe everyone deserves respect, and we all have right to be ourselves here. If you are introspective, able to reflect on your experience and work through discomfort, are motivated for change, and willing to work outside of session, we'll make a great fit. My therapeutic approach will be based on your needs. I apply solution-focused and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy for anxiety and depression. How we talk to ourselves and frame our experience directly impacts how we feel and how we approach challenging circumstances. Much of how we think and behave is shaped by significant others and impactful events in our early lives. Bringing mindful awareness to these habitual ways of thinking and behaving is the first step toward a new experience. To heal and integrate past trauma my approach is primarily emotion-focused. Please note: I do not treat active addictions, acute psychiatric conditions, or active eating disorders. My counseling style is casual and conversational, accepting and curious. I will help clarify your values and strengths, ask questions, offer alternatives, and honor your choices. I may offer resources to guide you outside of session. And because I'm committed to empowering you, I will always be transparent by sharing what I've learned about mental health. With all of the changes and challenges that confront us now it can seem hard to remain present sometimes and cope with it all. If your vehicle was stuck in a ditch you'd call a tow service. Likewise, if you feel stuck in a mindset, career, identity, behavior or relationship that is not serving you, I hope you will reach out. Sometimes we just need another set of eyes and ears to help regain our ground or shift perspective. At other times, we just need to know that someone really "gets" us, and supports us through a tough time. If two heads are better than one, there's no need for you to feel stuck in your own.

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Kimberly Gililland

Offering therapy in OR
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
12 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Kim Gililland. I am here to offer you an amazing therapy experience. Join me in a client centered, warm and compassionate therapeutic setting. I have 11 years of experience providing therapy in a non-judge mental atmosphere. I am here to help you explore areas in your life that may be causing you stress and discomfort. I have experience serving individuals with anxiety, depression, parenting problems, those challenged with goal setting, self esteem issues, and helping you create meaningful communication patterns. I strive to help individuals build confidence, eliminate self doubt, and navigate successfully through this hectic and beautiful thing we call life. I enjoy helping individuals regain and manage being in control of your own life. In this day and age we are living in challenging times, I am here to help you find happiness and contentment. Join me on the journey. I am here to support you.

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Monica Cowan

Offering therapy in OR
Self esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Oregon with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, coping with life changes, & executive and professional coaching. 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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Dorothi (Catie) Johnson

Offering therapy in OR
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficulties
13 years of experience

Weekend and evenings available! Working full time for another agency limits my availability here, but I love helping so much that it works for me. I am licensed in Oregon with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence and substance use. 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 shows bravery! If there is not a spot open in my schedule, please just message me. I purposely do not have a lot of openings until I can find what you need.

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Susie Madison

Offering therapy in OR
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Compassionate and dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 2 years online experience with BetterHelp! Then the prior 7 years work experience in an hospital system working with Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI), acute TBI's through follow up the first year. In working with TBI patients who had to deal with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, memory loss, post-traumatic stress, grief, anger and loss. I work with all with kindness and respect. My passion is assisting people to find their authentic self, to help clients reflect on their situation, identifying what is bothering them the most, then together identify their strengths, their options available to them, and find coping skills or solutions that work for them. My hope is to be a therapist who helps clients see their strengths, their options, and understand their ability to create their own solutions, and empower them to make the best decisions for themselves. I look forward to working with you! Specialties Anxiety, Stress Panic attacks Depression Grief Coping with Life Changes Clinical approaches: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Compassionate Therapy Years of Experience: 5

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Veronica Cruz-Martinez

Offering therapy in OR
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California and New Jersey with over 18 years of experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community, children and adults with trauma history along with those struggling with suicidal ideation and self-harm, parenting issues, anxiety and depression. I have seen firsthand the difference a caring, empathetic, and attentive adult can make in a person’s life and feel honored when that can be me. For the last 8 years I have worked as a "crisis counselor" and clinician, seeing clients on a regular basis as well as supporting those in and through a crisis. I am able to think quick on my feet and can stay calm in high intensity situations. Throughout this time, I have assessed for safety and danger to self and others due to mental illness and have made determinations as to whether or not someone is in need of psychiatric hospitalization and am certified to make the decision that one needs to enter into a hospital for treatment. On the other side, I have also safety planned with many and have been able to connect people to supports that they need whether it be referrals that fit their current situation, assisting in making a plan to keep them safe and connecting the person to someone whom they feel comfortable with should they be in crisis again. I believe in treating the mind, body, and soul and understand as well as acknowledge, the importance of a healthy lifestyle and why it is important to utilize all the tools we have (or have yet to find) because we all have the power within us to heal, sometimes we just need some help getting there. I believe in the importance of coping skills and can help you find them or strengthen the ones you already have. This can include meditation, exercise, utilizing crystals or essential oils to help heal and calm oneself, and will seek outside supports when needed. I am a firm believer in working within my limits as a therapeutic clinician and have no problem offering referrals when necessary. My overall goal is to continue providing the support, offering guidance, and making a difference in the lives of others, using my expertise in trauma informed treatment and having an open mind.

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Tyne Amos

Offering therapy in OR
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Oregon with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. My passion is helping people return home to themselves through the process of healing trauma, inner child wounds, ineffective coping skills, and patterns that may be holding them back. It’s time to put you first and begin living free.

How to find counseling in Salem

Finding the best therapist close by in Salem 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 Salem. 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 Salem, 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem, elsewhere in Marion, or in the greater state of Oregon.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem may not take health insurance, some in the state of Oregon 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 Oregon 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 Salem, Oregon 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 OR, 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 97309 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem, Oregon 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.

Salem has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Salem.

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

97301, 97302, 97304, 97306, 97309, 97310, 97311, 97312, 97313, 97314, 97317

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