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Dr. Terri Sawyer

Offering therapy in PA
License: DSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorder
8 years of experience

Hello there! Thank you for taking the time to read my profile page. Being a supportive clinical social worker is one of the greatest joys in my life. I enjoy listening to others and helping them to find a way through tough times. My experience includes a Masters and Doctorate in Social Work and for almost 20 years, I have worked with teens and adults. Currently, I counsel the chronically ill on end of life decisions, help couples navigate marriage and families, individuals with mental health struggles, and teach at a local university. I "retired" after 15 years of helping teens and their families try to understand how to resolve conflict and learn to communicate better. I also have a small private practices where I help people in tough transitions such as divorce and family issues. I counsel a lot of couples who have struggled with infidelity and polyamorous and open relationships. In my clinical practices and experiences, I have had the privilege of helping families overcome struggles with teens are struggling through issues of adolescence and mental health problems. Parents sometimes believe that they are the only parents going through tough with teens. I enjoy supporting parents in the journey as hard as it might be sometimes. Also, I have a passion for helping those navigating a new life in sobriety. Addiction recovery is one of the bravest things that I have seen people overcome and I like to help people stay on the path of recovery. All my clinical practice incorporates cognitive behaviors strategies with a very positive Rogerian approach. Those I treat will be treated with respect and clearly set boundaries. I want to help others by starting to help them where they want to begin. I believe in my clients I help and I want them to be happy and successful. I can help my clients by setting goals, open communication, and unconditional positive regard to help with hard life situations. I wish you the best on your journey and hope to have the chance to help you! Sincerely, Dr. Terri Nicole Sawyer, LCSW Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP) Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider (CTMH) Certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (C-DBT)

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Lauren Dicair

Offering therapy in PA
License: LCSW, MSW, MEd
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

Hi! My name is Lauren. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist. My relational style is warm, direct, and interactive. I connect best with adults who are seeking support with these topics areas: life transitions, long-distance relationships, immigration/acculturation/ex-pat, Adult Children of Addicts (ACOAs), existential/spiritual crises, emotional effects of chronic illness, and grief and loss. It takes courage to seek support from a therapist to begin or continue addressing the challenges that keep you from living a happier life. Congratulations on achieving the first step of your journey to health. I look forward to working with you! :)

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Rebecca Padgett

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC,NCC
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

Hello! I am a nationally certified and licensed family and marriage counselor who specializes in Military life, trauma, and marriage-related issues. I am currently licensed in Pennsylvania and Missouri with seven years of experience in the counseling profession and 18 years of experience in the social science profession. I have specialized in trauma therapy as associated with Military life, foster displacement, adoption transitions, and traumatic sexual experiences. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, ADHD, and social isolation. My counseling style is direct, honest, and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, empathy, and compassion while providing honest insights that are able to be applied beyond the counseling paradigm. My therapeutic approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, and psychodynamic counseling. I will tailor clinical approaches based on your unique and specific needs. To pursue true change takes a person willing to move beyond what you know to a life of what you want. If you are ready to start this journey, I am here to travel with you providing support, hope, and affirmation along the way. I truly look forward to working with you!

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Samuel Means

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
16 years of experience

Hello! I am Samuel Means, a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania with 15 years of experience working with adults and adolescents to help them resolve or mitigate their mental health challenges. I bring a broad background of experiences to the therapy session through work in the human services field. Over the course of my experience in the mental health field I have helped numerous clients either abate or resolve their social and emotional issues from the use of multiple theoretical approaches in counseling. A major component of my expertise and training is the integration of multiple disciplines in providing the best services to client. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and ordained minister I feel that I am uniquely qualified to address spiritual, cultural, emotional and mental aspects of a persons presenting problem. I tend to view all clients as singularly unique in their particular needs as we enter into a safe place where their spiritual, emotional, mental and physical well-being is addressed as they move along their process of change. I believe in the Rogerian position that each person has the capacity within themselves to make the changes needed for a positive outcome in therapy. I view my job as a facilitator who help give insights into your strengths that will enable them to make the necessary change that they want to see in themselves. A basic tenant that I use in therapy is humor which helps to break the tension of sharing a problem and to introduce a concept or idea into the conversation (to clarify a point). Specialties: Stress, Anxiety Anger Management Relational Issues Trauma and Abuse Also experienced in: TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy); Cognitive Therapy; CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)

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Shelly Proper

Offering therapy in PA
License: MA, LPC, NCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersDepressionCompassion fatigue
17 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and board certified by the National Board of Certified Counselors. I have worked in both private practice and at local agencies, as well as in the school system and in higher education. I have over 17 years of clinical experience with various populations with a wide variety of concerns, ranging from psychiatric conditions, addictions, physical trauma, emotional trauma, grief/loss/end of life, as well as menopause, healthy aging, career and life coaching. I have many years beyond working in the mental health setting in other capacities. I have a post master's certificate to teach psychology and have worked intensively with educational planning. My counseling style is warm, empathetic and interactive. I believe that the most productive therapy happens when clients are encouraged to be the experts of their own lives and that the goals of therapy are to help them find the options, skills and perspectives that can empower them to make changes to live a healthier and happier life. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy in my practice and emphasize maintaining appropriate boundaries within the therapeutic alliance. I see clients who are 25 and older. I look forward to working with you!

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Lindsey Kosowicz

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC, CAADC, CCTP, ATR
AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Thank you for taking the time to stop in and find out a little about me and how I would like to help you. I understand how difficult it can be to acknowledge and accept that there is an issue, and to also seek out help. I am so proud that you are taking the first step to taking back control in your life and recognizing your true potential. My name is Lindsey and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with certifications in Addiction Counseling, Trauma, and Art Therapy. My adventure into becoming a Therapist began 12 years ago when I enrolled in Graduate School for Clinical Art Therapy. Prior to this, I had been a Teacher. Although I thoroughly enjoyed being a Teacher, I felt confined to curriculums and did not like having to place grades upon student's work. Every individual is unique and can not always be held to the same standards as the next. This became clear very quickly and that is when I knew it was time to move on to something that had more freedom and flexibility. I obtained my Master's Degree from Long Island University @ C.W. Post in 2012. From that point, I began working as a Mobile Therapist working with children and their families to help build more positive relationships and to understand how to better utilize community resources. Life happened, and I changed locations moving from NY to PA and began working as an Art Therapist at an Inpatient Psychiatric Hospital. I spent 5 years at that location, working with every age group and level of acuity. I was given the opportunity to also work at the Partial Program that was associated with the Hospital. I have a wide range of experience when it comes to serving different populations and needs. I moved on from the Inpatient setting and became the Clinical Supervisor for an Outpatient Facility for Addictions where I am presently working. Once obtaining my license, I knew I had the opportunity to reach further out to help those in need. I am an out of the box kind of thinker who is also very creative. I will meet you where you are at and help you develop a plan that is most suitable for you.

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Melissa Bish

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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Barry Brudnak

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Certified Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CAADC) in Pennsylvania with 15 years of professional work experience helping clients with coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I believe that I am a spiritual being having a human experience, and I believe that we are all the experts of our own stories. I would like to help you identify that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming the things that challenge you. It takes bravery and 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 your journey.

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Dawn Madden

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have a ton of experience in the substance use field and trauma related issues. 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 and I am here to be a safe space for you.

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Dr. Daniel Cifarelli

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Dr. Cifarelli was originally trained in medicine and seeing the effects of COVID-19 on the nation’s mental health he then went on to complete Master’s degrees in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling. Throughout his life Dr. Cifarelli has been around many people faced with traumas and personal handicaps which has increased his desire to help those with medical and mental struggles. He specializes in treating those with post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, personality and mood disorders. He treats adolescence, adults, and seniors. Additionally, he offers specialized treatment to members of the LGBTQ and medically disabled communities. Dr. Cifarelli practices dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and mindfulness. He currently, is licensed as a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and a national certified counselor (NCC). On a personal note Dr. Cifarelli enjoys spending time with his niece Olivia, his Cavachon “Rocky” and going to live concerts. He stresses to his patients the importance of balance between work, family, and friendships.

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How to find counseling in Forest Hills

Finding the best therapist close by in Forest Hills 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 Forest Hills. 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 Forest Hills, 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 Forest Hills 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 Forest Hills 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 Forest Hills, elsewhere in Allegheny, 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 Forest Hills area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Forest Hills 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 Forest Hills 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 Forest Hills 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 Forest Hills, 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 Forest Hills 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 Forest Hills 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 Forest Hills 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 Forest Hills 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 Forest Hills 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 15221 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 Forest Hills 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 Forest Hills 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 Forest Hills, 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.

Forest Hills 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 Forest Hills.

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

15221

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