Poor cities need help too, especially in the case of mental health. A counselor in Reading can help you overcome your troubles and make your life even better. 

Reading is a beautiful location, and it’s a place known as “Pretzel City” due to the many bakeries that are here. It still has a few notable bakers here, and it also has a cycling track that was recently built. While this city may have issues in terms of standard of living, it’s constantly trying to get better, and with the help of a counselor, you can work to unlock that true potential within you. 

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Kathleen Beaulieu

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepression
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania with over 20 years experience working as a psychotherapist/mental health counselor. I have been in private practice since 2013. Prior I worked with children and families as Mobile Therapist, and School Based Mental Health Counselor. 
Trauma, sexuality, addictions, depression, anxiety, family, relationships, career, occupational stress, dysfunctional coping skills, and nervous system regulation are some of the client challenges I have helped people work through, and overcome. Areas unique to my practice include holistic and integrative approaches which incorporate nutrition, fitness, and other lifestyle issues, and how they impact mental health and wellness. Bodybuilding and whole food approaches have been part of my healing journey of stability, and nervous system regulation. 

 My counseling style is sincere and nonjudgemental, and I combine trauma informed, somatic awareness, nervous system regulation, cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and rational-emotive counseling. Your unique and specific needs will guide the treatment process.

 It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to initiate change in your life. If you are ready embark on a new journey, I am here to support, and empower your unique needs.

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Cynthia Marcolina

Offering therapy in PA
License: NCC,LPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

Hello! I have a gentle approach to counseling and encourage a collaborative relationship to make your experience as comfortable and beneficial as possible. I use a blend of humanistic, existential, mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral techniques. I have thirty years of experience working in all mental health environments, with all diagnoses and ages doing individual, marital, group and family counseling. In addition, to suggesting books to read and the use of paper and pencil exercises, I encourage my clients to draw on their creative abilities to pull them through tough times. My goal is to help you improve your self-talk, self-esteem, reduce anxiety and learn how to self-soothe with or without medication. My mottoes are "stay in the present it's the safest and most manageable place to be", "work your problems instead of letting them work you" and "focus on what you have control over to empower yourself". Namaste.

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Victoria Prisco, PLC

Offering therapy in PA
License: ATR,CAADC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Welcome to my Better Help profile. My name is Victoria Prisco and I am a licensed therapist and 6 Pillar Soul Coach. If you would like to learn more about me and my qualifications, please visit my website at www.levelupwellnesshub.com Through Better Help I am offering 30 minute text sessions.

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Alyssa Knauber

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I earned my bachelors of Psychology at Lock Haven University and my masters in Mental Health Counseling at Capella University. I started my career in a partial hospitalization program facilitating groups and moved to outpatient therapy where I currently conduct individual therapy and facilitate groups within our dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) program. I am intensively trained in DBT and approach therapy from a behavioral stance incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). I am also intensively trained in prolonged exposure (PE), an evidenced based treatment for trauma. I view the therapeutic relationship as a relationship between two equals needing to find the balance between validation and change to help each person find their life worth living. I look forward to meeting you and being a part of your journey.

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Kevin McGarvey

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & bipolar disorder. 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 have most of my experience working in partial hospital settings, working with people with significant mental illness as well as a couple years of experience working in individual outpatient settings, and I have extensive experience working with people who have been diagnosed with personality disorders. My approach to counseling assumes that you are the expert in your life and that the symptoms that you experience are due to the challenges of life. The diagnosis is not as important as what contributes to how you feel and what we can work on together so that managing those stressors can be easier. I have a relaxed approach to counseling and try to learn as much about you, your background, and the issues that cause you to seek help. It is important for me to try to gain perspective of the issues as you see them so that I can provide the most relevant help I can. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am here to help. I am happy to answer any questions you may have before beginning work.

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Natasha Prince

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemADHD
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 14 years of professional social work experience. I have experience in helping clients with parenting issues & concentration, memory and focus (ADHD). 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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Eva Kramer

Offering therapy in PA
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am a professional counselor licensed in Pennsylvania. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I have a good deal of experience working with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression and OCD, along with relationship issues and parenting difficulties. I have some experience in helping clients to navigate grief and loss as well. My treatment approach is warm and unconditional and client centered. I prefer to be more interactive with my clients. I frequently utilize a solution focused approach to treatment and find that working collaboratively with clients has produced positive outcomes time after time. I have experience with relationship mediation and with assisting parents to develop positive parenting skills with their very young children via Parent-Child Interaction Therapy. Above all, your treatment will be designed with YOU in mind and collaboratively with you to meet your individual, specific needs. I'm looking forward to working with you in this process of growth and change!

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William (Bill) Golden

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepression
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & career difficulties. 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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Robert Daufenbach

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
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, life transitions, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, & 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, and always attempt to work within the "window of tolerance". We will look at the story you are telling yourself, and whether that is serving you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. Individual therapy, no couples therapy.

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Dr. Stella Diai

Offering therapy in PA
License: Ed.D, LPC, NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
5 years of experience

Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of New Jersey. I have a doctorate degree in Psychology and Behavioral Health with a specialization in Education and Counseling Psychology. The primary focus of my practice is to help my clients to reach their potentials. I have been privileged to work in the helping profession for the past fifteen years. I believe that the entire process begins by identifying those stumbling blocks in the lives of the individuals that prevented them from achieving their desired goals. I maintain a high level of openness with my clients having realized over the year that what matters most in therapy is the client /therapist relationship. I truly believe that it is the relationship that heals. My practice incorporates the client-centered, non-directive approach, the cognitive behavior approach and the eclectic approach. This is important to me because every individual is unique and should be treated as an individual by entering into each clients own world. The use of compassion, empathy and unconditional positive regard are the core elements of treatment in my practice. I specialize in psychotherapy with individuals of all ages with various mental health diagnoses and behavioral issues. I have extensive experience working with families and children and I also have a great interest in community development. Additionally, I run Anger management courses, Parenting courses and Coping skills courses for interested individuals and also for those who are mandated by the legal system to do so. I look forward to working with you.

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How to find counseling in Reading

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading, 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 Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading 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 19601 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 Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading, 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.

Reading 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 Reading.

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

19601, 19602, 19603, 19604, 19611, 19612

Popular cities near Reading, PA

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