Finding a therapist in Philadelphia, PA may feel like just one more overwhelming task in an already busy life, but online therapy platforms like BetterHelp can make it simple. BetterHelp has over 30,000 experienced therapists, licensed social workers, and other mental health professionals who provide a number of counseling services that can address anything from depression to addictive behaviors. 

If your past experiences with therapists have left you less than impressed, finding the right therapist can make all the difference in therapeutic approach and effectiveness. With BetterHelp, individuals living in Philadelphia and nearby cities can simply fill out an online questionnaire to be matched with a therapist that meets their specific needs. If you feel you need a change of therapist you can switch at no additional cost until you find the perfect match for you. 

With the convenience of video chat or text, you may find that sessions feel far less cumbersome and overwhelming to schedule. Online therapy offers all of the tools needed for managing stress and improving mental health and well-being, but without the hassle of trying to get to an office appointment. 

If you’re someone living in Philadelphia and are looking for some guidance in building the fulfilling life that you deserve, online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp can be the starting point to get you moving in the right direction.

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Dr. carissa ferguson-thomas

Offering therapy in PA
License: Psy.D,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
22 years of experience

I hold a Doctorate and Masters in Clinical Psychology from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and a Master’s and Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Temple University. I am a Licensed Psychologist and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have provided individual, couples, and family therapy for more than twenty years. I am trained as a cognitive behavioral therapist but my approach is eclectic, person-centered and trauma-informed. I work with the individual where they are and together we explore and develop plans to overcome the challenges they are facing. I have worked with clients in various settings and helped them address depression, anxiety, panic disorder, phobias, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. I can also help you navigate intimate relationship difficulties, family issues, life transitions, grief and loss. Starting therapy can be stressful in itself but I can help ease that stress as I provide a safe, judgement free environment and provide compassion and understanding that allows you to speak freely about your thoughts and feelings. I believe a warm and trusting therapeutic relationship is the most important part of creating lasting change. We will work together to address your concerns, overcome barriers, and identify your strengths to help you achieve your goals. I look forward to working with you!

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Dennis Curcio

Offering therapy in PA
License: MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemADHD
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania with over 15 years of experience working in Residential Treatment Facilities (RTF), private practices , and non-profits such as crisis shelters. I have worked with clients dealing with a wide range of issues to include depression, anxiety, anger management, ADHD, and self-esteem. I have also worked with individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma to include physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. While every counseling experience is unique to the individual my goal is to create and provide a safe and judgement free atmosphere where you can explore your issues and concerns. I use an eclectic approach consisting mostly of Rogerian (person-centered), Trauma Focused (Sanctuary Themes), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral), and Mindfulness theories to empower clients to find answers I believe they already have to the issues they struggle with. Through therapy one can improve self-management and self-awareness skills to make life's difficulties more manageable. My role as your therapist will be to empower you to open the door to personal growth and new possibilities in all areas of your life. You can expect the first few sessions to be a time of rapport and trust building. After that, we will create a treatment plan of goals that will focus on your therapeutic process in supporting you to achieve what you feel inspired to do. I know it can be difficult to take the first steps towards healing and growth in one's life. If you feel as if you are ready to take that first step, I am here to support you through the process and hopefully to help you realize that on the other side of life's obstacles is a life you deserve to be living. I look forward to working with you!

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Melissa Ray

Offering therapy in PA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
4 years of experience

Hello! My name is Melissa. I am a liscensed clinical social worker I look forward to beginning work with you to improve your overall mental health! I graduated from Edinboro University in 2017 with a Master's Degree in Social Work. I obtained my LCSW in 2020. Since becoming a social worker in 2013, I have gained some professional experience working in child welfare, hospital social work, community mental health, school-based therapy and residential treatment, as well as personal experience with foster care and adoption. I can provide an array of treatment modalities, such as: CBT, DBT, and ACT. I am also certifited in Trauma Focused-CBT and I always provide trauma informed care. I look forward to helping you work through your depression, anxiety, trauma and/or any other challenges you are facing that take away from you living your best possible life. I can't wait to meet you!

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Jessica Hopton

Offering therapy in PA
License: LCSW, MPA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a individual and marriage therapist licensed in Pennsylvania with over 10 years of experience. I have worked with clients from ages 5-95, with a wide range of concerns. These include: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD, adjustment issues and both physicals and emotional trauma. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. I am certified in DBT. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Kelly Mandel

Offering therapy in PA
License: LMSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Hello! I am licensed clinical social worker located near Detroit, Michigan. I grew up in Detroit and was a first-generation college graduate. I have spent my social work career working as a medical social worker and providing psychotherapy. I practice from a multiculturally competent and trauma-informed perspective, and life experiences have helped me be comfortable with individuals from a variety of life perspectives. I connect with clients deeply with compassion, kindness, determination, and certainly a sense of humor as appropriate. After 20 years in the field my toolbox is full and I am passionate about helping others acquire the tools they need to attain their goals. Let’s do it!

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Tiffany Dampier

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionADHD
10 years of experience

Are you struggling to remain psychologically flexible in an ever-changing world? Psychological flexibility means contacting the present moment fully as a conscious human being and based on what the situation affords, changing or persisting in behavior in the service of chosen values. I work with clients to address a variety of behavioral, social, and emotional problems, including mood and anxiety disorders, codependency, life transitions, substance abuse, co-occurring disorders, ADD/ADHD and Autism. Being a veteran of the United States Air Force I value helping military family members and veterans with transitional issues as well as other concerns. I have experience working in addiction treatment and enjoy working with individuals in recovery to address their underlying mental health concerns.

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Yancun Wisseh

Offering therapy in PA
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

The helping profession which is often referred to as therapy or counseling has been my life-long goal. My desire has made me a patient, attentive, and non-judgmental listener and has shaped my approach to understanding clients’ needs better. I am also supportive and seek positivity in every situation presented. I thrive to make clients feel safe including even reluctant clients to find their own way during treatment but also help clients to learn how to take personal responsibility to take charge of their behavior. I facilitate, encourage, empower, and help the client discover their potential to overcome barriers to treatment and find solutions and subsequently heal. I utilize approaches that are tailored to the client dependent on the issues, goals, and outcomes. Clients must be willing to participate to reach enlightenment to help them understand themselves in a new way and break from their own poor mindset and maladaptive behaviors. I hold a master’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in mental health counseling and am a licensed professional counselor in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey with 10 years of experience helping children, adolescents, adults, and families. I am a multicultural counselor who believes that endogenous factors can control individual behavior. Hence, when clients realize and acknowledge the inside factor, it eventually can bring about healing. That is, I am not there to prove my client wrong but help them find their own way out of their self-entanglement or damaging belief. No one approach fits all clients. The therapeutic alliance that is the client-therapist relationship will become the greatest change agent-Trust, genuineness, and participation.

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Stephanie Bongiorno

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Scott Caldwell

Offering therapy in PA
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 6 years of professional work experience. I practice from a biopsychosocial spiritual approach with the emphasis on one's Christian worldview and faith. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Melissa Duckworth

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
3 years of experience

I am licensed in PA with several years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. I am so excited to embark on this healing journey with you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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How to find counseling in Philadelphia

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 19130 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia, 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.

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia.

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

19019, 19092, 19093, 19099, 19101, 19102, 19103, 19104, 19105, 19106, 19107, 19108, 19109, 19110, 19111, 19112, 19114, 19115, 19116, 19118, 19119, 19120, 19121, 19122, 19123, 19124, 19125, 19126, 19127, 19128, 19129, 19130, 19131, 19132, 19133, 19134, 19135, 19136, 19137, 19138, 19139, 19140, 19141, 19142, 19143, 19144, 19145, 19146, 19147, 19148, 19149, 19150, 19151, 19152, 19153, 19154, 19155, 19160, 19161, 19162, 19170, 19171, 19172, 19173, 19175, 19176, 19177, 19178, 19179, 19181, 19182, 19183, 19184, 19185, 19187, 19188, 19190, 19191, 19192, 19193, 19194, 19195, 19196, 19197, 19244, 19255

Popular cities near Philadelphia, PA

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