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Dr. Domingo Luiggi

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefAnger managementDepression
45 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed psychologist in the states of Pennsylvania and North Carolina as well as having been certified as a Clinical Telemental Health Provider. I was trained in a Clinical Psychology program that included a module in Decision Analysis that allows me to address both clinical as well as life issues in terms of the choices made by my clients. In my career, I have worked in different settings such as schools, mental health clinics, psychiatric units, group practices, consultation and training for government and the private sector, and solo practice. Recently, I have been devoting most of my time helping the military and their families at military posts of all the branches of service. I follow an Ethics of Respect in which the client always defines the problem, and not the professional. In this approach, the decision to start the counseling, how long it lasts, and when it ends, is always in the client's hands, although I don't hesitate to voice my opinion at those times when I believe it would be beneficial to continue, but always respectful of the choice if my client disagrees with that suggestion.

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Sarah Matas

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, and thank you for taking the time to find out more about me. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience helping individuals and families manage life’s transitions. I received a Master’s degree from Bryn Mawr Graduate School of Social Work and have worked primarily in the world of hospice, medical home care and long-term care, visiting clients’ homes to help navigate chronic health issues, stress and anxiety, depression, grief and loss and caregiver burnout. My approach to therapy is to start in the here and now and to focus on my client’s strengths. I strongly believe that all of us, as individuals, are doing the very best we can with the tools we have on hand. Lasting change can and does occur when we develop new tools, new ways of seeing ourselves and new ways of interpreting the world around us. I take a humanistic approach to my work and recognize that each client is the real expert in this work we call therapy. My job is simply to understand, to show genuine, heartfelt concern and to empower each client to grow and change in the ways they envision. I also believe that our thoughts are powerful motivating forces but can also serve to de-motivate us. Have you ever experienced feeling sad or lonely because of the way you thought about something, only to later find out that your thinking was distorted? How crucial it is to uncover our dysfunctional thoughts! Being a social worker is who I am, not something I do. Over the course of my life I’ve been a mother, including a stint as a single mom, a grandmother, a colleague, a boss and a caregiver and I know that I can help you get to that “better place” you envision for yourself.

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Ellen Owen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepression
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I graduated with my Masters in Social Work from Temple University in 2018, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania. During sessions, I work hard to provide the space for you to feel safe, heard, and respected while supporting your work toward achieving your goals. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and that you already have the basic skills and knowledge that is required to achieve your goals. Utilizing techniques from Solutions Focused, Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, and Mindfulness therapies, I am able to assist you in accessing those skills so that you can achieve your goals and maintain your progress. Seeking therapy can seem scary at first. I am proud of you for taking that important first step by reaching out for support. My counseling experience is in depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationships, self-esteem & self-confidence, stress, and life changes.

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Molly St. Cyr

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): M.Ed.,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
9 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and owner at Counseling Sphere LLC, an online private practice serving clients across PA. To see if we're the right fit, I encourage potential clients to cross reference me on: www.counselingsphere.com or search "Molly St. Cyr" on Psychology Today. You can also explore specifics about my style and approach on my business instagram page: @counselingsphere. For the past 9+ years, I've worked as a therapist in various settings and with clients experiencing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief & loss, and family conflict. Many times, concerns showing up in present day are not random, and are often rooted in unresolved trauma. I spent a chunk of my career specializing in helping clients who have experienced both chronic (long lasting) and acute (single incident) trauma. Let's chat more about the flexible definition of "trauma," and how past experiences might be impacting you! My Approach: My job as a therapist is to empower growth and hold space for clients in vulnerable moments. I recognize the importance of treating the whole person: body, mind, heart and spirit within each clients' unique context. Counseling is also centered around building a trusting relationship. Clients can expect to be greeted by a friendly face paired with a professional demeanor and flexible attitude. I have found it most beneficial to integrate different therapy techniques/interventions based on the needs of the client. What To Expect: The first few therapy sessions with a client are focused on information gathering, where I'm taking a thorough history of past and presenting concerns. Clients can expect thought-provoking questions which help them build new insights and themes. Ultimately a colorful picture is painted that illuminates how the client would like to move forward and where they'd like to see themselves. If you are ready to work together to create a healing path forward, you’re in the right place. It's an honor to walk alongside clients during some of their most vulnerable and empowering moments. *Friendly Disclaimer* for potential new clients. Working with me on Betterhelp is not “therapy on demand.” I view my work on on this platform the same way I operate in private practice: therapeutic work occurs during regularly scheduled live therapy sessions. I welcome clients to share journal entries and messages in the chat, however the processing around those messages will primarily be done during live sessions. If you've been matched with me, please be aware that I'll respond within 48 hours unless its a weekend or holiday, which may delay my response. I am only accepting new clients who prefer video or phone sessions, I am not accepting new live chat requests at this time and I do not view asynchronous chat messaging as a primary method of conducting therapy. In other words, if you'd like to primarily message your therapist: I'm not the one for you. There are other therapists on the platform who operate differently, so I encourage clients to explore who might best fit their needs and preferences.

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Kidian Martinez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteem
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I specialize in working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, self-esteem, negative body image, and all forms of eating disorders. Clients who come to see me may have been recently diagnosed with an eating disorder or have been struggling for years. Some are unsure if the have an eating disorder, yet struggle with food and their body. It is important to me to facilitate self-empowerment through coping/behavioral skills and strengthening cognitive insight, while honoring that change is hard. Through our therapeutic relationship, I strive to create a safe, collaborative space where we can move together towards healing. I practice from a Health at Every Size framework. I utilize evidence based practice such as, family based treatment and cognitive behavioral therapy, to support adolescents, and adults. Making the decision to see a therapist can be intimidating, but I hope you will take a moment (and maybe a deep breath) to connect and see how I can help.

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Rebecca Scandell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
26 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Florida, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Oregon, Massachusetts and Nevada with 26 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 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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Kristina Castner

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy related issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Elvan Kama Kurtz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with several years of experience working with diverse populations of adult individuals and couples. One of the core values that guides my treatment approach is the belief that nothing happens in isolation. I firmly believe that every behavior, thought and feeling has underlying reasons and meanings that deserve exploration. With genuine care and empathy, I help you uncover the root of your struggles, empower you to gain insight and achieve lasting growth. To offer the most effective and tailored treatment approaches, I utilize evidence-based and eclectic models. I draw upon the Gottman Method Couples Therapy, which focuses on enhancing communication, fostering intimacy, and strengthening couple’s relationship. Additionally, I incorporate Systemic Sex Therapy, Family Systems Theories, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address wide range of individual and relational concerns. I’m a Gottman Method Level II Trained couples therapist and PREPARE/ENRICH premarital counselor. I’m bilingual in Turkish and English.

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Morgan Curran

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficulties
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Pennsylvania with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, career difficulties self esteem, and confidence. I also have over 5 years experience working with those living with HIV and individuals seeking PrEP and PEP services. Through a strengths based approach, 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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Randiesa Spires

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
16 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I’m a licensed clinical social worker with over 16 years of experience as a psychotherapist and health coach. Specializing in depression, anxiety, relationship issues, relationship challenges, career obstacles, I also provide support to those who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My approach is warm, interactive, and client-centered. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, avoiding stigmatizing labels. Using a combination of cognitive-behavioral, solution focused, EMDR, I customize our sessions to meet your unique needs. Taking the first step toward a happier, more fulfilling life takes courage, and I’m here to empower you on that journey. Ready for change? Let’s work together to achieve your goals. Start your journey to a better life today! I look forward to supporting you.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Akron

Finding the best therapist close by in Akron 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 in Akron that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Akron. 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 Akron, 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 in the Akron region and in the state of Pennsylvania. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Akron or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Akron area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Akron 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 Akron, elsewhere in Lancaster, or in the greater state of Pennsylvania.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Akron 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 Akron 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 Akron may not take health insurance, some in the state of Pennsylvania may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Pennsylvania you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this Akron online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Akron, Pennsylvania 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 Akron psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional 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, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Akron 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 Akron helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Akron 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:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Akron 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 in Akron?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Akron 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.

Akron therapists 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 Akron 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 Akron 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in PA, therapists 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 17501 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Akron counselor?

Before seeing your Akron 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 while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Akron.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. A Akron 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 with a Akron counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Akron, Pennsylvania 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.

Akron 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Akron, Pennsylvania

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 to customer service 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 Akron.

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

17501

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