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Psychologist Jennifer Bicknese providing different types of therapy in Avoca

Jennifer Bicknese

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LPC PC010367
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

My name is Jennifer Bicknese, ATR-BC, LPC. I am a Board Certified and Licensed Professional Counselor. I am licensed in the state of Pennsylvania and have 11 years of counseling experience. I have worked in an outpatient facility with children, an outpatient facility with adolescents and adults, and a residential facility with individuals diagnosed with bipolar and schizophrenia. I have the most experience working with, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, sexual identity, LGBTQ community, life stressors, grief and loss, and anger management. I utilize two different methods of counseling. The first one is the practice of Art Therapy. Art Therapy is a non-verbal way to express feelings and work on overcoming obstacles. If a client is open to trying Art Therapy, there are many techniques I can provide to help with life stressors. By providing a therapy using art supplies, such as, paint, colored pencils crayons, markers, clay, etc., a client can discover key themes in their artwork. Through learning about these key themes, a client can better discover their own way of finding personal solutions to their goals of therapy. The second practice I utilize is a Person-Centered Approach. A Person-Centered Approach basically means I want to help a client find ways in which to overcome stressors through positive support and understanding. By using a Person-Centered Approach, I help to guide a client into reaching their own personal growth and change. I do this by assisting clients with what they feel needs to be worked through. I am here to listen and support, with no judgement present. It is my aim to empower and motivate clients through the therapy process. I look forward to learning more about you and helping you achieve all the goals you have set forth. Thank you for looking at my profile and allowing me to help you achieve a happier and healthier life.

Psychologist Simone Totoro providing different types of therapy in Avoca

Simone Totoro

Clinician
License Type(s): MS LPC 3088, FL LMHC MH9148
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years offering treatment

I have been working in the area of mental health for over 20 years. I am dually licensed in New Jersey as an Professional Counselor (LPC) and Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC). Additionally, I am a Licensed Mental Health Professional (LMHC) in Florida and an LPC in PA and MS. My areas of expertise include Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Trauma and Family Centered Therapy. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) for those seeking licensure in New Jersey. I enjoy working with adults, and seniors struggling with trauma, mood disorders, depression/anxiety, anger issues and adjustment disorders as well as OCD. In order to offer my clients the best care, I involve myself in ongoing continuing education opportunities. I have specialized training in Telehealth services, Mindfulness, and AAT (Animal Assisted Therapy). It is amazing to see how animal companions can assist us when dealing with life stressors! I am looking forward to helping you develop goals and witness your journey towards recovery. Sometimes the smallest steps in the right direction end up being the biggest steps of your life.

Psychologist James 'Jim' Disantis providing different types of therapy in Avoca

James 'Jim' Disantis

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LCSW CW013422
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefDepression
38 years offering treatment

I am Jim Disantis and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker(LCSW) who has been a psychotherapist for 35 years. I have worked in settings from child development to geriatric. I also have experience with inpatient and outpatient mental health, both non-profit and commercial as well as private practice. I have supervised other therapists among additional professionals. Life has taught me that non judgmental based therapy can be successful and I am able and willing to help you deal with issues by using well established professional methods. This includes interventions of cognitive behavioral and solution focused therapy. I also help those who are in recovery. Your spiritual and religious beliefs are "safe" to bring to the table with me if you choose to do so in a "guilt free zone".

Psychologist Mary Boyle providing different types of therapy in Avoca

Mary Boyle

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH18501, PA LPC PC000170
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years offering treatment

I am a therapist with thirty years of experience. I have worked in community mental health and private practice, providing a wealth of knowledge and experience with the seriously and persistently mentally ill, along with conditions such as depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict, and personality disorders. I have a history of couple's therapy, although currently I am not accepting clients of this type. My approach is caring and compassionate, and I'll want to hear about your symptoms and strategies you've used for dealing with them. In addition, I'll want to know about your living situation and family of origin to get a better sense of whom you are. I use a variety of modalities including interpersonal therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy. In addition, I'll use other approaches, depending on what you are dealing with and what will help you in the best way possible. I'll look forward to meeting you soon to begin your journey of improving your life situation. I especially enjoy working with females suffering with low self esteem, codependency, life adjustment and relationship issues. Some additional points: If you have had suicidal thoughts, with or without intent, within the past year, my recommendation is that you seek more intensive treatment than online therapy. I understand that all of us have emergencies and are sometimes late for an appointment. If you are late, I will wait for you for ten minutes, but after that, I will ask you to reschedule so you get the benefits of your whole session. I also expect you to attend your appointments. We all have emergencies; but, with that said, if you no show or cancel without 48 hours advance notice more than once, I will ask you to be reassigned to another therapist.

Psychologist Gary Bell providing different types of therapy in Avoca

Gary Bell

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LCSW CW012414, NV LCSW 11961-C
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
36 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 32 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.

Psychologist Jan Horner providing different types of therapy in Avoca

Jan Horner

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LPC PC013506
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

I believe that an authentic, caring, and strong connection between therapist and client is essential to facilitate meaningful change and it is an honor to be invited to participate in another person’s transformational journey. My role as a therapist is to not only help clients heal the inevitable relational wounds, but also to help them cultivate the resilience to live life with courage, compassion, and clarity. I seek to help clients find the changes they seek by responding to the needs and challenges that emerge during our work together. As a therapist, I strive to build a healing relationship that fosters trust and growth. I will listen and respond as a non-judgmental witness trying to understand how all the parts of your experience affect movement toward your desired goals.

Psychologist Irina Sundukova providing different types of therapy in Avoca

Irina Sundukova

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LPC PC014724
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsEating disordersAnger managementDepression
15 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, eating disorders, & anger management. 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.

Psychologist Dr. Timothy Tobin providing different types of therapy in Avoca

Dr. Timothy Tobin

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LPC PC006940, NH LCMHC 641
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
30 years offering treatment

Hello! I am a licensed therapist in the states of New Hampshire, Utah, and Pennsylvania, with 30 years of professional experience and have both MA, and PsyD degrees in clinical psychology. I have worked extensively with clients experiencing addictions and other compulsive maladaptive behaviors; as well as with clients with symptoms of depression, anxiety; and issues related to grief and loss, meaning and purpose, spiritual and religious conflicts and beliefs; and experiences that would be typically categorized as unusual or paranormal/supernatural. At Betterhelp, I am limiting my practice primarily to working with individuals who are experiencing maladaptive behaviors such as substance abuse/dependence, or sexual/ gambling addictions that are causing difficulties in a client's life; or to clients who have experienced trauma, profound loss, existential crisis related to changing worldview, spiritual/religious issues; or anxiety/depression/confusion related to things that may be more difficult to explain, process and come to terms with - like anomalous, paranormal, near-death, UFO, and other unusual experiences. Within this last category there might be apprehension about sharing these experiences with a health care professional, but I am here to help eliminate that apprehension. These types of experiences (like NDE) can be both powerful and enlightening, but also confusing and disturbing at times. If you have had these types of experiences, and would like to explore them in a safe space, please consider me. Taking steps to explore, process, and integrate personal experiences takes courage, but can also be very therapeutic and healing. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Geraldine Massey providing different types of therapy in Avoca

Geraldine Massey

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LPC PC015306
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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 Alexandra C Ernst providing different types of therapy in Avoca

Alexandra C Ernst

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LCSW CW025361
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
30 years offering treatment

I’m a licensed clinical therapist in Pennsylvania with over 30 years of experience helping adults navigate anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship challenges, life transitions, caregiver exhaustion, low self-esteem, and feelings of overwhelm or burnout. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling emotionally drained, stuck in unhealthy patterns, uncertain about relationships or career paths, or struggling to balance everyone else’s needs while losing sight of themselves. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, overthinking, depression, grief and loss, relationship and family stress, divorce, workplace burnout, caregiver exhaustion, self-esteem and boundary challenges, and major life or identity transitions. I also provide LGBTQ+ affirming care and offer non-religious counseling in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment. My approach combines Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), strengths-based strategies, and evidence-informed interventions to help clients build clarity, emotional resilience, and forward momentum. Together, we focus on identifying what’s already working, reducing emotional overwhelm, increasing self-awareness, and creating realistic changes that feel sustainable—not forced. Therapy with me is collaborative, supportive, practical, and nonjudgmental. I do not believe therapy is about “fixing” you. Instead, I believe many people already possess important strengths, insight, and resilience, but stress, grief, anxiety, painful experiences, or unhealthy relationship dynamics can make it difficult to access those parts of themselves consistently. Whether you are coping with a painful breakup, navigating divorce, grieving a loss, questioning your next chapter, struggling with people-pleasing or boundaries, or simply wanting to feel more like yourself again, therapy can provide a space to slow down, process what’s happening, and move toward the life you want with greater confidence and self-trust. Reaching out for support takes courage, and you do not have to figure everything out alone. I look forward to working with you.

Psychologist Dr. Ashley Peugh providing different types of therapy in Avoca

Dr. Ashley Peugh

Clinician
License Type(s): KY LCSW 260240, MN LICSW 34531
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
7 years offering treatment

Hi there, and welcome! I'm a licensed therapist in Ohio with over five years of professional experience. My approach goes beyond textbooks—I’m a real-life therapist who values open-mindedness and practicality in addressing life’s challenges. I specialize in helping individuals navigate stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, tailoring our conversations and treatment plans to meet your unique needs. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and happier life is a courageous decision, and I’m here to walk that path with you. Together, we’ll create a space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered to make the changes you desire. Let’s get started on this journey—your best life is waiting.

Psychologist Tiffany Carpenter providing different types of therapy in Avoca

Tiffany Carpenter

Clinician
License Type(s): AL LPC LPC05705, PA LPC PC018455
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Alabama with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma, & abuse. I also have experience working with despression. 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.

Psychologist Kyle Dudley providing different types of therapy in Avoca

Kyle Dudley

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LPC PC019619
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
13 years offering treatment

As a licensed professional counselor with doctoral-level education and over 13 years of experience serving Pennsylvania, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My clinical expertise centers on addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction, with a deep commitment to helping clients rediscover their sense of purpose and resilience. My practice is particularly focused on supporting men's mental health, veterans, and individuals struggling with social anxiety, panic disorders, and substance challenges. I primary serve English speaking individuals. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach that honors each client's unique journey and personal experiences. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I have expertise that includes cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), group therapy, trauma-focused interventions, and evidence-based practices. I create a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions, develop healthy coping strategies, and work towards meaningful personal growth. My approach integrates understanding of guilt, shame, forgiveness, and healing, with a particular sensitivity to the nuanced experiences of fatherhood and military service. I am dedicated to walking alongside my clients, offering professional guidance rooted in empathy, respect, and a genuine belief in human potential for transformation and healing.

Psychologist Donald "Don" Fountain providing different types of therapy in Avoca

Donald "Don" Fountain

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LPC PC004229
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
40 years offering treatment

I have been an educator and counselor for over 40 years with a vast amount of experience in a wide variety of areas. I retired from education in 2017 after spending 27 years as a high school counselor serving as the department chair for many of those years. I have also worked in the private sector as a Licensed Professional Counselor during those same 40 plus years, retiring in 2022. I retired to take care of my wife who was ill. Unfortunately, she passed on April 30 of that same year. I have worked in several counseling practices with almost all ages, specializing in adolescent and adult issues. I have also taught in graduate schools helping to prepare students to become counselors. Most recently I have been the owner of a preschool program serving children from six weeks to sixth grade. On a more personal side, my wife and I were married just short of 41 years. We had five children, three boys and two girls. I am also a proud grandfather of ten grandchildren. Unfortunately, my youngest son passed away on September 2, 2025. In spite of my losses over the past few years, I consider my life to be blessed, and I thank God every day. As a counselor I try to empower my clients to find the answers within themselves. I genuinely care about people and try to give them the tools to lead their most productive lives. I use a variety of techniques geared to the client I am working with at the time. In today's ever-changing world it is imperative to find balance and grounding in our day to day lives. It is my hope that I may be able to help with that. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Avoca, Pennsylvania

Finding a therapist near you in Avoca, Pennsylvania starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Pennsylvania is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you. 

The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Pennsylvania, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Pennsylvania, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.

Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Pennsylvania

Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Pennsylvania, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.

Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Pennsylvania

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. 

You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Pennsylvania

BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Pennsylvania through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.

Therapists near you in Pennsylvania

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Pennsylvania, including residents in Avoca.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Pennsylvania do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

Is online therapy effective?

Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.

How quickly can I start therapy?

You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy discreet?

Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.

Find a Therapist in Avoca, Pennsylvania

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Avoca and the surrounding PA area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

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