Jennifer Bicknese
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.
Brenda Wise
Welcome! My name is Brenda Wise and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I also have my CAADC, Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I have over 29 years of experience working in various counseling settings to include: substance abuse counseling for a drug and alcohol out-patient treatment facility, faith-based counseling, and working with clients struggling with grief, marriage problems, anxiety, depression and other mental health concerns. Often times people just need someone to help them get through a difficult time in their lives, counseling provides that additional support. In order to determine which treatment approach will best help my clients, I evaluate each client’s individual situation then utilize whichever therapeutic technique will be most successful in helping them overcome the obstacles they face. I integrate treatment theories to meet the needs of my clients. My primary focus is Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) where I help the client challenge their negative thoughts that will often times lead to negative behaviors. I will also incorporate Psychoeducation as needed to help my client understand possible coping and problem-solving skills. I would describe my style of counseling as supportive and encouraging. My counseling sessions are centered around the client learning to recognize how to overcome the obstacles in their life and/or relationships. Often times this will include improving communication skills and learning to rebuild trust with self and others. I encourage self-care and discuss the importance of boundaries of self and others. I believe setting goals is imperative for both the individual and the overall treatment process; I believe we all need to establish short-term and long-term goals for ourselves, our relationships, and our careers. Specialties Stress, Anxiety, Depression, OCD Isolation, low self-esteem Family relationships, Marriage concerns Coping with life changes; grief Substance abuse/addictions
Michele Cotter
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) with extensive experience and clinical training. I have 25 years of experience working in the field of mental health and wellness since completion of my master's degree in counseling psychology. I have been working as an outpatient counselor for over 20 years. I have extensive training and experience counseling individuals like you who are struggling with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss. I have advanced training and experience in the area of trauma and stress-related disorders over the last 17 years. My counseling style focuses on creating an environment of acceptance, encouragement and support throughout the therapeutic process. I use a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches based on your needs. I have a holistic approach toward achieving emotional well-being while eliciting hope and healing.
Melissa Ray
Hi :) I’m Melissa, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I specialize in helping individuals who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, stuck in difficult patterns, struggling with self-esteem, or weighed down by past experiences that continue to impact their daily lives. Many of the people I work with are used to holding everything together on the outside while feeling exhausted, frustrated, or misunderstood on the inside. You might find yourself overthinking, being hard on yourself, questioning your worth, or reacting in ways you wish you wouldn’t. You may even know what you “should” think or do, but still feel stuck. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to keep carrying it by yourself. I work with clients navigating anxiety, trauma, relationship stress, self-worth challenges, and life transitions. Together, we’ll gently explore what’s going on beneath the surface, identify practical tools that actually fit your life, and help you build a stronger, more stable sense of self so you can feel more grounded, confident, and at peace. My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to you. I use evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Trauma-Focused CBT, always through a compassionate, trauma-informed lens. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe enough to be honest, understood, and supported—without judgment. I also bring both professional and personal experience with foster care and adoption, which gives me a deeper understanding of the unique challenges individuals and families in these spaces may face. You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. I’d be honored to walk alongside you as you move toward a life that feels more steady, confident, and aligned with who you want to be. Warmly, Melissa
Karin Fils-Aime
Hi! I am Karin, a Licensed Therapist in Pennsylvania. This has been my life long dream, to be a counselor. When other kids were playing house or school, I was playing psychiatrist - though I am sure I didn't know how to spell it then! I used to write letters to my cousins that read more like a Dear Abby advice columnist than a kid's communication with their bestie. I poured over advice columns in teen magazines like, "was my face red..." and never cared about the current fashions as much as "could this marriage be save?"! So here I am, years later, living out my passion and realizing that I don't have the advice, nor do I want to! But that I have a listening spirit and clinical skill that can be of help to anyone that needs it. I lean toward Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, but simply put, that means that there is a connection between what you think and then how you feel. So if you don't like how you feel, we look at what you are saying to yourself and if that is helping you to feel the way you want to feel or not! Pretty simple really. I want to help people feel as good as they possibly can right now... with the circumstances they have and with the past they have lived through. And it is possible to have lived through some really bad things and still have peace and serenity in your life. If you are not convinced, that could be a good reason why you need to work with me. Looking forward to connecting with you.
Rae Ann Michalko
I am licensed in Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Earl Driscoll
As a licensed therapist in Pennsylvania, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients address challenges like social anxiety, trauma recovery, addiction, and men's mental health issues. With a deep commitment to the LGBTQ+ community, I offer a compassionate, affirming therapeutic approach that honors each person's unique journey. My expertise spans depression, self-esteem work, bipolar disorder management, and addressing shame and guilt. I understand the intricate ways these experiences intersect and impact daily life. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. I'm dedicated to providing thoughtful, non-judgmental care that respects individual experiences and empowers clients to build healthier, more fulfilling lives. Whether you're struggling with addiction, processing trauma, or seeking support through life transitions, I'm here to walk alongside you with genuine understanding and professional guidance.
Nancy Malwitz
As a licensed therapist in Texas, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients address challenges like depression, anxiety, stress, and interpersonal dynamics. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, including older adults, young professionals, and individuals experiencing life transitions. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and collaborative, designed to help you develop stronger self-understanding, communication skills, and emotional resilience. I'm particularly skilled in addressing issues related to self-esteem, family conflicts, social anxiety, and personal growth. Whether you're struggling with isolation, relationship challenges, or seeking greater life purpose, I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where you can explore your experiences and develop meaningful strategies for healing. I believe in honoring each person's unique journey and providing personalized support that empowers you to create positive change in your life. Together, we can work towards building greater emotional well-being and personal fulfillment.
Dianne Mathias
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 31 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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.
Shelle Savill
As a licensed therapist in Pennsylvania. I bring over two decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice specializes in addressing mood disorders, anxiety, relationship challenges, and personal growth. I focus on helping clients navigate issues like social anxiety, attachment dynamics, self-love, and life purpose. My therapeutic approach is deeply empathetic and tailored to each individual's unique journey. I work collaboratively with clients experiencing a wide range of challenges, including panic disorders, obsessive-compulsive patterns, addiction recovery, and trauma healing. My expertise spans women's mental health, postpartum experiences, and supporting individuals through transformative personal transitions. I believe in creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their inner world, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal change. My goal is to empower you to understand yourself more deeply and build sustainable strategies for emotional well-being.
Matthew Kazsimer
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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.
Kira Sisk
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I bring more than 23 years of experience in the human services field, offering a compassionate and eclectic approach tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals. I believe in meeting people where they are and working collaboratively to support growth, healing, and lasting change. My professional background includes nearly eight years working in a foster care and adoption agency and holding the position of supervisor, as well as providing in-home counseling services to children and adolescents. For the past 13 years, I have specialized in counseling individuals with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions, while also gaining experience treating a broad range of mental health concerns. In addition to direct counseling work, I have taught co-parenting seminars and smoking cessation classes and served as the director of a county drug and alcohol services program. These experiences have strengthened my ability to support individuals and families through life’s challenges with empathy, practical guidance, and evidence-based care. I earned my Master’s degree from Waynesburg University. Outside of work, I enjoy grounding myself in nature, spending quality time with my family, and playing with my dogs.
Michael Kotch
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, career difficulties & despression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I am experienced in both Christian/Biblical counseling, along with traditional non-religious counseling. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Jessica Steely
Life can feel stressful, overwhelming, and at times difficult to navigate—especially when you’re trying to create meaningful, lasting change in yourself, your relationships, or your life. Reaching out for support is not always easy, and I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable, understood, and supported from the very beginning. I take a person-centered, mindfulness-based approach, meeting you where you are and working collaboratively to help you move toward your goals. I believe that you already have the capacity for growth and change within you; my role is to help you access those inner strengths, build insight, and develop practical tools that feel authentic and sustainable. I have over 8 years of experience working with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship challenges, and difficulties with boundaries and communication. Whether you’re looking for support, clarity, or a space to process and grow, we will work together to find what feels most helpful for you. I would be honored to be part of your journey toward greater understanding, balance, and change. I am currently accepting new clients and would love to connect.
Find a Therapist Near You in Hallstead , Pennsylvania
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Pennsylvania can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
Pennsylvania is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Pennsylvania, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Pennsylvania (PA). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
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 on BetterHelp support adults across Pennsylvania with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Pennsylvania
When searching for a therapist near me in Pennsylvania, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Pennsylvania, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Pennsylvania.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Pennsylvania want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Pennsylvania
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Pennsylvania without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Pennsylvania (PA)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in Pennsylvania
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Pennsylvania, including residents in Hallstead.
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 vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
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 private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.