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Charles Tyson

Offering therapy in PA
License: MSW,LCSW,BCD
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
6 years of experience

Deeply passionate about social justice and facilitating and guiding positive change and development in the lives of others, I am thrilled to connect with you as you begin your journey inward. Healing is truly the risk of showing up for yourself and your resistance to temptation to go back to unsilenced needs, numbing out, disconnection, and erasure. As a black, gender non-binary Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I have a personal stake and insight into the work I do. As you are aware, we are living in unprecedented times. My clinical practice aims to empower and heal individuals, families & communities through therapy, consulting, case management, training, & community outreach. Since graduating with my Master's in Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania in 2013, I have worked with folks across a wide array of presenting concerns, including managing symptoms of anxiety, mood dysregulation, and depression, healing with/from trauma, managing grief and loss, recovery from substance abuse and addiction, chronic illness, & LGBT issues. I work with clients at every stage of development in 1:1, couples, and family sessions. The feedback I receive from clients is that they find me to be innovative, caring and nonjudgmental, and they appreciate that I am responsive, honest and direct with them. You can expect me to walk with you through whatever difficulties you are facing and help you learn more about yourself and the way you interact with the world. When we work together, I will tailor my approach to meet your needs and help you reach your goals. If you feel as though challenges are interfering with your sense of happiness and ability to function to your fullest potential, or if you are ready to alter your current life path, then I am available and able to assist you on your journey towards recovery. I can interact with you in whatever manner you are most comfortable. I find it helpful to participate in video sessions so that we can get to know each other better. But I am also available to you via phone and text if that is more comfortable for you. I know how hard it can be to find a counselor who you feel a connection with and I would be honored to work with you through this stage of your life.

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Elizabeth Casey

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
25 years of experience

ELIZABETH CASEY - COUNSELOR, MAPC, LPC ABOUT One of my favorite writers, Henri Nouwen said, “Your future depends on how you remember your past.” This quote holds the foundation of my approach to therapy. I have leaned through the years that there is much to be said for the beliefs about oneself that are tangled up in traumatic memories. I have become certified in EYE MOVEMENT DESENSITIZATION AND REPROCESSING or EMDR as a way to shed usually negative self-beliefs that can become cemented to a memory. It is not about forgetting that memory as much as it is to relearn positive beliefs about oneself and attach them to the memory. I understand that approaching counseling for many can be overwhelming. It is not easy to begin the task of self-exploration. However, for those who do, I firmly believe the reward is worth it. The reward can be an ability to recognize the strengths within that allow us to face the stress and obstacles that life inevitably throws our way. Another of my favorite quotes is “Life is not waiting for the storm to pass; it is learning how to dance in the rain.” I utilize an eclectic approach, including EMDR when appropriate, combining several different counseling methods with a down to earth style. I tailor the therapeutic process to your needs work with you to identify goals that are attainable. I specialize in creating connections. Connections that we all innately strive to achieve. These connections may be hindered by grief and loss, or difficulties with attachment that may be a result of adoption or bonding issues. I passionately believe that many emotional issues are the result of unrecognized or unresolved loss. These responses make healthy relationship building difficult. My background professionally and personally in adoption allow me to offer insights into bonding and attachment difficulties in past and present relationships. Depression and anxiety certainly are issues that one can develop from the experience of past trauma or anxious attachment. I am a seasoned counselor, which is a polite way of saying well aged. After obtaining my BA degree in Psychology from Moravian College I worked with various social service agencies starting in the 1980’s. This led to working more directly with people suffering the acute results of mental illness in an inpatient setting. I then worked in adoption field preparing both families and children for relationship building. I obtained my master’s degree in Pastoral Counseling in 2008. This allows me to join with you if you choose to explore a spiritually based journey. I obtained my licensed professional counseling designation in 2011 and followed a path to private practice. This experience brings with it the ability to quickly assess situations as well as solutions. I enjoy working with adults and couples. I strive to connect in a way that enables you to find the confidence that is within yourself to live an emotionally rich life!

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Andrew Charney

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC,NCC
AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

Hello! My name is Andrew Charney and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania, a National Certified Counselor (NCC), am certified in Family Therapy, Level 1 Rational Living Therapy (Reality), and Gambling Addiction. I incorporate cognitive behavioral interventions, mindfulness with DBT, and motivational interviewing. I have 6 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults providing individual, couples, and family therapy, in addition to addiction counseling and group counseling. I emphasize the importance of holistic wellness to connect the body, mind, and spirit which allows my clients to achieve their optimal level of physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness. I would describe my approach to be person-centered overall while seeing importance in being genuine, empathetic, and warm. My primary goal is to provide a safe, therapeutic space for each client. When working with families and couples I utilize a systemic focus with the structural family therapy (SFT) model to create/manage boundaries, assess relational patterns, and emphasize on the value of connection among family members. I enjoy running, weightlifting, eating at new restaurants, hiking outdoors, spending time with my family, and relaxing with my two dogs as self-care. You’ve taken a big step in changing your life by being here. I am happy to serve as a source of hope and motivation on your journey to a better place.

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Wendy Sharpless

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC,CCTP
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

Hello, my name is Wendy Sharpless. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania. I have been working in the mental health field since 2010, and I have been licensed since 2018. I graduated from Seton Hall University with a MA and EdS in Professional Counseling in 2014. My approach to counseling is based on solutions and is unique to each individual client. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) as evidence-based approaches to treatment. I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with various Anxiety Disorders and Trauma (excluding OCD). I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and have extensive experience in treating Mood Disorders, Suicidality, Self-Harm, ADHD, Autism/Aspergers, School Issues, and Grief. Over the years, I have gained invaluable experience in diverse mental health settings, including partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, outpatient, residential, and partial care. I have worked with clients ranging from 3-year-olds to adults up to 64 years old. My current focus is on clients aged 11-60 years. I am passionate about tailoring treatment to my clients' specific concerns and needs, and I look forward to working with you. I have early afternoon availability.

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Angela Freed

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania, and I am currently in the process of getting my Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) licensure in Indiana. I've worked in many different settings and with varying genres of clients with 14 years of professional work experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with 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.

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Dr. Deborah Miller

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

Choosing the right therapist is challenging. Our connection in a safe, non-judgmental setting is where you will make decisions and look at possible changes in yourself and your relationships. I will help you enhance your self-understanding and master the skills needed for self-regulation and self-care. My therapeutic approach is Gestalt based, where I act as a mirror, enhancing your self-awareness of your strengths and weaknesses. I work in the here-and-now, acknowledging that the past impacts you today. I am here to support you in finding peace and happiness. I, Dr. Deb Miller, am a Missouri and Pennsylvania Licensed Professional Counselor with 26 years of professional work experience in private practice and education. I am the author of More Than Sorry: 5 Steps to Deepen Your Apology After You Have Committed Infidelity.

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Tracy Schofield

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Dr. Ann Naragon

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemADHD
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania as both a Professional Counselor and a Behavioral Specialist, with over 15+ years of professional work experience. I graduated from Bucknell University with a BA in psychology and I have my Masters from the University of Pennsylvania and my PhD from Temple University. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, concentration, memory, and focus (adhd). 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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Cristina Juisti

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges or even everyday demands? Know that you do not have to struggle alone and are worthy of a life filled with hope and serenity. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 years of experience working in community mental health in the Greater Philadelphia area with adults and older adults (55+) experiencing depression, mood swings, and anxiety. Regardless of what symptoms you are experiencing, the key to a more fulfilling life is finding hope for the future. Together we can find this hope! We can accomplish this as I create a safe, judgement-free space for you to explore your current challenges, feelings, and existing strengths. By helping you recognize choices and solutions that you may not have considered before, you will be empowered to approach life's challenges in new ways. Your new approach will result in positive outcomes in your life.

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Kathryn Auen

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ related issues, family conflicts, & motivation, trauma and abuse, PTSD, 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. I believe every individual has the capacity to improve the quality of their life through self-awareness and self-exploration. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find counseling in Avoca

Finding the best therapist close by in Avoca 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 Avoca. 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 Avoca, 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 Avoca 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 Avoca 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 Avoca, elsewhere in Luzerne, or in the greater state of Pennsylvania.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Avoca 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 Avoca 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 Avoca 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 BetterHelp or clinicians 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).

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

Therapists in Avoca, 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 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 Avoca 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 Avoca 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 Avoca 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 Avoca 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 Avoca 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 PA, 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 18641 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 Avoca 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 Avoca 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 Avoca, 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.

Avoca 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 Avoca.

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

18641

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