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Melissa Strauss

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

Hi there! My name is Melissa Hochbaum Strauss and I am looking forward to working with you. I have over 7 years of experience working with individuals, families and couples as a Licensed Professional Counselor. I believe that every client can teach me something and my approach is warm and engaging. I hope that you feel you have control over our time as well. Every individual has strengths and it is important to use this in the therapeutic process. My approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, Emotionally Focused and Internal Family Systems Therapy. I tailor each therapeutic style to the individual's needs. My experience includes; Depression, Anxiety, Relational Issues, Family Dynamic Issues, Trauma, Sexual Identity Work, School and Career Work, Infertility and Parenting.

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Dr. Fredric Richmond

Offering therapy in PA
License: PhD
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
43 years of experience

Welcome. The fact that you are here tells me you have the courage and motivation it takes to reach out for help, I want to assure you from this moment you are no longer alone. I am able to help you navigate this troubling and stressful time. My name is Fred Richmond, PhD, a graduate of Temple University, and the University of Michigan, licensed Psychologist with a multi decade career in both inpatient and outpatient settings overseeing the care of adults with difficult emotional and behavioral diagnoses. My theoretical approach is both client-centered and cognitive behavioral oriented. My priority is hearing, and I mean really listening to what you think and feel about the things that are troubling you. I will help you develop strategies that will both alleviate your immediate distress and help you gain new perspectives in dealing with challenges as they arise. You have come this far, I urge you to take the second step, first by trusting your decision to reach out, now to trust me to hear and help.

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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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Susan Samek

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC,ATR-BC,LCAT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Creative Arts Therapist for over thirty years, I offer two different approaches for those seeking help to make sense of life’s challenges, identifying needs and setting achievable and meaningful goals for growth. With my calm, gentle demeanor, I offer my clients a safe and comfortable place in which to delve into self discovery. My thoughtful engagement style, with unconditional positive regard and empathy, set the stage for real understanding, and when necessary, change. It is my sincere hope that I make my clients feel like they have been heard and validated. For as long as I can remember, I had a passion for understanding why our experiences and environment make us who we are, and how they affect the way we relate to the world and each other. Art was my safe space for self reflection and expression, and an integral tool for processing complex life events. After a long and committed engagement with my own therapeutic journey, it became my life’s calling to make the tools of art and talk therapy accessible to others for their own healing journey. I have a firm belief that we begin to heal when we truly understand the roots of our habits, patterns, and trauma. We can’t control our past or things that have happened to us, but we can begin to cultivate an awareness around those things and use that awareness as a tool to create the futures we want. With acceptance and forgiveness we can experience an inner growth and a resilience that will prepare us for all the ups and downs of life.

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Dr. Geri-Lynn Utter

Offering therapy in PA
License: PsyD.
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am a clinical psychologist licensed in Pennsylvania with over 10 years of experience. I have worked with clients with substance use disorders (i.e. opioids, stimulants, alcohol, etc.) in conjunction with other concerns including depression, anxiety, and trauma as well as relationship conflict related to these issues. I have also helped many people who have experienced learning differences, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. My counseling style is approachable, non-judgmental, and empathetic. I believe in treating individuals with respect and compassion and have worked respectfully with the LGBTQ+ community. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, psychodynamic and motivational interviewing forms of counseling. I will customize our dialog and treatment plan to meet your specific needs and goals. It takes courage to reach out for help and take the first step towards change. I know taking this first step may not seem like a big deal - but it is! If you are ready to take this important step, for you, I am here to support, motivate and empower you on this journey! I am truly looking forward to working with you. Warmly, Dr. Geri-Lynn Utter, PsyD.

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Dr. Kellie Pytel

Offering therapy in PA
License: PhD, LPC, NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania with 4 years of experience working as a psychotherapist and career counselor. Prior to that, I have worked in positions related to mental health. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, and career concerns. I have counseling experience working in a variety of settings to include: a state correctional institution, private outpatient mental health counseling center, university training clinic, career services center, and outpatient trauma-focused center. I have worked with children, adults, and families. I earned my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania in 2016 and my PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision from Penn State University in 2020. I am currently located in Pennsylvania where my full-time position is as a researcher for military mental health programs. My counseling style is collaborative. I believe that the client is the expert in their own life and see my role as a supportive guide. My approach is based on what the client desires and needs, which often pulls from cognitive-behavioral and humanistic theories and solution-focused and mindfulness techniques of counseling. Each client I work with receives an individualized treatment plan to meet their unique goals for counseling. I applaud you for taking the small step of identifying counseling options. I welcome anyone to the counseling process! Know that this is your journey, and I would like to walk with you in support, of it. I look forward to meeting you and working with you!

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Tiffany Newman

Offering therapy in PA
License: MA ,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

Tiffany is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania with 14 years of clinical experience. She graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from West Chester University in 2004, and then went on to receive her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Eastern University in 2008. She has worked with children, teens and adults in an outpatient setting and has focused her work on mental health and substance abuse. While using a variety of techniques, Tiffany tends to gravitate towards Cognitive-Behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused techniques when working with her clients. She also enjoys utilizing holistic approaches to health and wellness, and is passionate about helping people achieve better health physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

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Michelle Adler

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseADHD
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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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Brian Shaffer

Offering therapy in PA
License: MA, MS, LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTGriefDepression
10 years of experience

Brian is a Licensed Professional Counselor with education, training and clinical experience in the fields of Mental Health, Addiction, Trauma, Grief, Loss and Bereavement and Spiritual Care. He provides counseling, assessment and intervention services that help clients meet their goals for a life in recovery. Brian has a passion for providing quality care, support and services to his clients through a person-centered approach that incorporates interventions from various theories and methodologies. He believes in helping clients process through past traumatic experiences that have contributed to current struggles with substance abuse and mental health symptoms. Brian also incorporates client’s spiritual beliefs into the treatment protocol in order to holistically address their needs. His extensive experience and passion for this field has helped guide individuals through the process of recovery in order to experience freedom from their past and a hope for their future.

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Cyana Wulfers

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionADHD
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 4 years of professional work experience in counseling and 6 additional years in the mental health field. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, changes in life, relationships & depression. 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. My therapy style is to be interactive and goal oriented. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will help you with any goals you want to work towards. 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.

How to find counseling in Donegal

Finding the best therapist close by in Donegal 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 Donegal. 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 Donegal, 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 Donegal 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 Donegal 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 Donegal, elsewhere in Westmoreland, 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 Donegal area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Donegal 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 Donegal 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 Donegal 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 Donegal, 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 Donegal 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 Donegal 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 Donegal 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 Donegal 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 Donegal 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 15628 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 Donegal 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 Donegal 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 Donegal, 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.

Donegal 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 Donegal.

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

15628

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