This is Dr. Shanna Reese's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Shanna Reese

Offering therapy in PA
License: PhD,LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
8 years of experience

Hi, My name is Shanna and I am a professional counselor. I am committed to support each of my clients in a unique and targeted way that will best support each person's needs, capitalize on each person's strengths, and help move toward each person's goals. In order to do this, I spend time in the beginning of the counseling relationship to assess your background, successes, hurdles, prior experiences and your perceptions of the changes that you want to see for yourself and the world around you. With that understanding, I am able to help guide you on your journey to being your best self by taking advantage of the types of activities and interventions that work best for you. Though I utilize a vast array of tools to best support each person through an individualized lens, my work is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS). Being focused on wellness rather than just lessening illness, my driving belief is that people strive to lead lives that are meaningful and provide an overall sense of connection in order to enhance their relationships, work experiences and other activities. IFS is about learning about the various parts of ourselves and having awareness about internal conflict arises and can be managed. CBT is the science of changing, or re-framing, the way that we think about the world around us in order to also change our associated emotions and behaviors so that we are best able to fulfill our drive for happiness and inner peace. I have been working to support individuals with various strengths and needs for over ten years, with the past 8 of these as a licensed practitioner. I have worked with many different people with a variety of goals, strengths and struggles to overcome feelings of depression and anxiety, interpersonal distress, trauma, and more. I have experience working in settings ranging from residential facilities to in-home therapy and outpatient centers. When working together, I am committed to you and helping you create the sense of yourself that will lead to satisfying wellness. I can't wait to meet you and get started. Best wishes for wellness, Shanna

This is Dr. Laurel Buxbaum's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Laurel Buxbaum

Offering therapy in PA
License: Psy.D.
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
15 years of experience

Stress, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family issues and other difficulties are very common in our challenging times. Reaching out for help is the first step in finding solutions for your problems and achieving greater happiness. My job is to compassionately help you along the path toward feeling better by working with you to identify the sources of difficulty and the things that stand in the way of change, and developing a clear, approachable plan of action. My approach in therapy is based on the evidence of what works, and my understanding that the collaborative and supportive relationship you have with your therapist is a really important agent of change. I have a Psy.D. in Psychology with a specialization in cognitive neuropsychology and neurorehabilitation, and have been a Licensed Psychologist in the state of Pennsylvania since 1989. My background means that I have substantial training and experience in providing empathic and supportive therapy, as well as in clearly identifying underlying causes of difficulty and generating solutions. When not providing therapy, I am a research professor in cognitive neuroscience at Einstein Healthcare Network and Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. In addition to anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and family conflict, I also specialize in health-related issues and stress, including illness of oneself or family member. By combining Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with many other different approaches, as needed, in a warm and supportive atmosphere, I can offer clients a number of strategies for success and growth.

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Leslie Ellwood

Offering therapy in PA
License: M.Ed. CRC, LPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Hello, my name is Leslie. Congratulations on taking this positive step toward better health! I am a very genuine, calm and kind professional with an innate desire to help others achieve happiness. I truly enjoy all people and believe there is good in everyone! I am guided by integrity, caring and compassion. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I have a Bachelors Degree in Psychology and a Masters Degree in Counseling from the University of Pittsburgh. I have 40 years of work experience that includes counseling in hospital, school, and private rehabilitation settings. I have also worked in disability case management and account management. My counseling style is eclectic. I tailor my approach to you. I like to use a combination of techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, ACT and DBT. I am a big proponent of relaxing our minds and can coach clients through the use of Progressive Relaxation, Imagery, and Deep Breathing. I also believe in many forms of physical exercise to calm our mind and heal our bodies. I am here to listen and guide you. I am here to support and help you. I welcome you.

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Andrea Gahagan

Offering therapy in PA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Pennsylvania working as a therapist in mental health and substance use disorders. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, substance use disorder, and childhood trauma. I have also helped many people who experience low self-esteem, and who struggle with body image/self-love. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, strengths-based, and solution focused approaches. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I look forward to working with you!

This is Dr. Erin Fitzsimmons's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Erin Fitzsimmons

Offering therapy in PA
Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoaching
6 years of experience

I am a clinical psychologist licensed in Pennsylvania with over 6 years of experience working as a therapist and executive coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, career challenges, leadership coaching, relationship issues, grief, life transitions, self-esteem, and stress. My therapeutic style is warm, validating and interactive. My goal for the therapy experience is to develop a safe, nonjudgmental, and caring space for my clients to find a sense of clarity in the challenging times of life. I am an eclectic therapist, meaning I pull from a wide range of theories to best address my client's needs, combining elements of cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, acceptance-commitment, family systems, solution-focused and psychodynamic therapies. I work to tailor our conversations and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific goals and needs. It takes a lot of courage to seek support and take the first step toward improving your quality of life and I am genuinely looking forward to working with you!

This is Barbara Gibbons's avatar and link to their profile

Barbara Gibbons

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
11 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, coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, & trauma and abuse. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Tamika Montague's avatar and link to their profile

Tamika Montague

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 15 years of professional work experience. I hold a Trauma Certificate from Drexel University Behavioral Healthcare Education and am a Certified Trauma Competent Professional through Lakeside Global Institute. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Trauma in Schools & Bounceback (CBITS). In 2019, I achieved the certification through IATP of a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Tonya Lane's avatar and link to their profile

Tonya Lane

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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.

This is Stacey Fritzinger's avatar and link to their profile

Stacey Fritzinger

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
19 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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.

This is Thanh-Dung “Sandy” Bui's avatar and link to their profile

Thanh-Dung “Sandy” Bui

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
13 years of experience

My name is Sandy and I am licensed in Pennsylvania with overall 13 years of professional work experience, and over 9 years specifically with teens and kids. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that helps to overcome challenges that shows up. 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 Mechanicsburg

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Mechanicsburg 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 Mechanicsburg 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 Mechanicsburg 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 Mechanicsburg, 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 Mechanicsburg 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 Mechanicsburg 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 Mechanicsburg 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 Mechanicsburg 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 Mechanicsburg 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 17055 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 Mechanicsburg 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 Mechanicsburg 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 Mechanicsburg, 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.

Mechanicsburg 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 Mechanicsburg.

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

17055

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