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.

This is Lee Shadeck's avatar and link to their profile

Lee Shadeck

Offering therapy in PA
License: M.A.,NCC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Greetings. My name is Lee Shadeck and I have been helping people in one form or another since I got fired from a gas station in 1996. I got my introduction into the helping professions in Southern Oregon working with adults with disabilities for a few years before returning home to Pennsylvania to start a family with my wife. I received my Bachelors Degree in Education in 2001 and promptly chose not to use that degree for it's intended purposes and became a Crisis Worker on and off for the next decade. I have worked in group homes, taught Life Skills to incarcerated youth, have been a Case Manager to dual diagnosed adults, and have been the liaison to a State Hospital for adults with Developmental Disabilities. I received my Masters Degree in Counseling in 2011 and have been working as a counselor in higher education as well as doing a bit of adjunct instruction since that time. So I understand that the career and life path is often not a direct route. I am the father of three beautiful, intelligent, well adjusted, usually content, sometimes happy, emerging adults and I hold my job in helping them become good humans as my most valued and important purpose in my existence. I was married to the same woman for the past twenty-three years, since we were but ourselves emerging adults, and understand that even with friendship, love, and respect this type of partnership has it's ebbs and flows; and sometimes relationships are just completed. I understand how difficult the loss of love can be; but also understand that life can be great again after these hardships. I love the outdoors and am constantly hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, biking, walking, or sitting by a fire. I believe in the ability in nature to restore the energy that we constantly give out and always urge people to be outside, no matter the conditions, in order to recharge themselves. I am a youth soccer coach and believe in giving to the community through volunteerism in areas that you find important. I enjoy being creative and productive. I love starting and finishing home improvement projects. I enjoy reading and am passionate about music although I myself am not musically inclined in the least. I understand that even when we are doing everything "right" and doing the things we love...life can still be difficult and sometimes really fricken hard. I consider myself a eclectic person centered counselor who prides myself on the ability to start and maintain positive relationships with my clients in order to enact the changes they wish to see, get through rough patches, reach goals. or just be "happyish". I am open, honest, friendly, and pretty normal. I will work closely with you to help you solve your own issues as I feel we often hold the answers to our own questions.

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This is Leah Corrigan's avatar and link to their profile

Leah Corrigan

Offering therapy in PA
License: M.Ed., LPC, NCC, CPP-AAPT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
30 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist working with clients with all types of needs. I have 29 years experience. My experience includes supporting children, teens, adults, and families. We have raised 3 children. I have many years of experience working at a mental health agency and supported children, teens, and adults with a variety of diagnoses. My early experience is with a sexual assault prevention and counseling center. I have extensive experience working in the Pennsylvania public education system. I am EMDR trained. In 2019, I was awarded the credential of certified professional practitioner of animal assisted play therapy from the International Institute of Animal Assisted Play Therapy. In my free time, I am a volunteer service dog puppy raiser with Canine Partners for Life.

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April Quigley

Offering therapy in PA
License: LCPC (ME),LPC (PA),NCC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I believe the strength for change already lies within you. Through the therapeutic process, you can grow and find balance between the mind, body and spirit. I work with individuals from a holistic and person-centered approach. I help to treat the roots of suffering rather than just focusing on the lingering symptoms. I also like to use emotionally-focused techniques to help loosen the grip of difficult emotions and cultivate inner peace, utilizing cognitive behavioral, acceptance and commitment, and mindfulness-based interventions. I am passionate about working with individuals that are experiencing emotional distress, depression, anxiety, transitional stress, trauma and relationship difficulties. Together, we can identify goals, help to foster insight and learn healthy ways/positive alternatives to cope with life's challenges. I have been working in the field for over 17 years in various settings. I take a strength-based approach when meeting people where they're at, and work towards sustainable growth in skill building and understanding in an effort to be proactive in wellness for the mind and body. When I'm not helping others, I'm gardening, hiking, baking, and enjoy music, art, and sports. My National Certified Counselor (NCC) badge from the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC): https://www.credly.com/users/april-quigley

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Laura Trubnick

Offering therapy in PA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersBipolar disorderDepression
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has worked in the psychiatric field for most of my life. Most of my experience has been working with clients who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders. I also have specialized experience working as a sleep therapist for clients with insomnia, difficulty waking, and sleeping too much. I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, and Intensive Outpatient settings. My initial goal in working with clients is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space. In doing so, a trusting and therapeutic relationship can develop so that clients can feel comfortable to explore and work on the issues they want to address. I approach each client according to their specific needs and use multiple treatment modalities to individualize each person’s therapeutic journey. Clients have shared with me that they appreciate my compassion and dedication to their needs.

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Cary Truley

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

I am licensed in Pennsylvania and Colorado with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, OCD, lgbt-related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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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Dr. Dennis Gourley

Offering therapy in PA
GriefAnger managementCareer difficultiesDepression
50 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 50 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, anger management, & career difficulties. I also have experience working with depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Elizabeth Brendlinger's avatar and link to their profile

Elizabeth Brendlinger

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepression
13 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, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.

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This is Dr. Kourtney Vaillancourt's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Kourtney Vaillancourt

Offering therapy in PA
License: PhD,LMFT,LADAC
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGrief
14 years of experience

Thank you for taking the time to read through my profile, I am glad that you are taking the step to reach out for help! To begin, I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, a Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor, and a Life Coach in New Mexico. For the past 14 years I've worked with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan to tackle challenges that they're facing in their lives. I have specialized training in family relationships, marriage/couples, substance abuse, sexuality, mindfulness, grief and loss, trauma, and military families. I engage in a non-judgmental approach to helping clients identify their strengths and use those to tackle the problems they face. I think that it is important for me to note that I really love the work that I do, and I love being able to provide therapy through a platform that is convenient and available 24/7. Online therapy is new and exciting, but also may be a little scary at first. I'm here to take things at your pace and to help you to navigate the platform and to help you feel at ease with this style of work. :) I engage in client-centered practice where your needs and wishes are respected and honored. I practice from a systems perspective that involves considering how the challenges you face are impacted by, and likewise impact, the systems to which you belong (i.e., family, work, community). I am also a strengths-based therapist who avoids pathologizing anyone, we all experience challenges and need help from time to time, that is not an indication of some inherent weakness. I am comfortable working with liberals and conservatives, religious and non-religious individuals alike. Because I adopt a non-judgmental approach and one that allows you to be the expert in your own life, my own perceptions and beliefs take a back seat. Of course it is impossible to completely avoid bias, but I actively address with my clients their beliefs and values and we work together to understand one another and respect differing perspectives. So please do not be confused or discouraged because I list in my profile that I can work with people from opposite spiritual, religious, or otherwise beliefs...the client-centered practice that I have built allows an opportunity for this. I am also happy to discuss this further if questions arise. :) Personally, I am the mother of two young and energetic boys who keep me running! I have been married for 15 years, my husband and I enjoy watching movies, camping, hiking, and most of all laughing. We also have two very spoiled dogs who round out our household. I take pride and joy in my work and look forward to engaging with you as you begin your journey to a better you!

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This is Jessica Lonzi-McVay's avatar and link to their profile

Jessica Lonzi-McVay

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania and South Carolina with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. *I am only able to accommodate chat sessions at this time*

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This is Daniel Marrow's avatar and link to their profile

Daniel Marrow

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I taught a court-ordered anger management class from 2000 - 2021, which closed due to Covid-19. I am non-judgmental towards my clients and accept them wherever they are in their life, thus I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of rejection. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. Thanks for choosing me to help you at this time in your life.

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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 19176 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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