Working with a therapist can help you address difficult life circumstances and various mental health concerns. If you’re looking for a therapist in Scranton, consider online treatment. While there may be many outpatient therapy centers or independent practices in the area, barriers to care, like a lack of available appointments or transportation issues, can make finding in-person treatment challenging. With an online platform like BetterHelp, therapy can be more accessible and flexible. 

Every BetterHelp provider has at least a master's degree and extensive professional experience using a variety of approaches to treatment, including art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy. An online therapist will work to create a judgment-free environment to help clients with mental health conditions like mood disorders and personality disorders or work through challenges like self-injurious behavior, PTSD, or intimate partner violence.

Whether you need help managing post-traumatic stress disorder, working through career challenges, or focusing on personal growth, therapy can help. If you’re looking for a therapist, Scranton, PA, has many online providers available. Connect with one of the professionals in the mental health field below to learn more about online treatment.

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Katelyn Elliott

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello and Welcome! Here is a bit about me and how I can join you on your counseling journey: I have a master’s degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (2012), am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania, and a National Certified Counselor. My experience lies in working with individuals with substance use issues, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma and PTSD, stress management, identity issues, and LGBTQ concerns. My approach to counseling is humanistic with a foundation in Existential Therapy. I view the client as their own expert and seek to build a collaborative counseling relationship that will aid in the process of connecting to a meaningful life. I believe that this can be accomplished by exploring personal experience, how we exist in the world, and the meaning we find/create in our lives. It is my belief that the healing is in the lessons that we can discover through the counseling process. It is my goal to be present with the client and to offer a nonjudgmental, understanding atmosphere. In my practice I integrate a variety of therapeutic approaches to explore client needs. Some of these approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Enhancement Therapy and Mindfulness. Through the use of these approaches the client is able to learn to cope more effectively with the conditions of the human experience with a sense of meaning and purpose. Our lives are like a tapestry, with experiences being woven together to create an image. We need the contrast of the light and dark to depict our story. We may not be able to see the beauty or understand the meaning until we take a step back, with another set of eyes, and see our story from a place of compassion. It is then that we can appreciate, and even love, our fate.

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Sara Miller

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,MSW,Reiki2 Certification
Self esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Do you want to increase your happiness? My life’s work has been researching ways to overcome challenges and change and sharing those modalities with others. University of Pennsylvania traditionally trained. Trauma Specialization. 25 year Child Welfare Public Servant. I look forward to working with you. My specializations include trauma, grief, anger, and physiological integration. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Child Welfare, Addiction in the Family, Family Relationships, and Employment. Thank you so very much for considering allowing me to serve you. I have spent the last 25 years working with folks and families who find themselves wanting to make change. I look forward to facilitating the changes in your life.

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Thomas Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

My name is Thomas Smith and I graduated with my MSW from Marywood University in 2001. I use a variety of treatment modalities and work with the client to select the best approach to treatment. I am a seasoned clinician with over 20 years of experience in providing individual, group and family counseling. I am a Clinical Social Worker, with experience treating military members and their families, veterans, individuals with serious mental health conditions, substance use disorders, chronically ill patients, adolescents and families. I have extensive training in trauma treatment modalities, family violence, mood disorders and interpersonal effectiveness.

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Melissa Miller

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, and welcome to Better Help! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Delaware and Pennsylvania. I have been a licensed Social Worker for over 13 years specializing in grief and loss, anxiety and depression, addictions counseling for families affected by addiction and most recently caregiver burnout and compassion fatigue. I have worked with clients of all ages including adolescents’, adults and older adults. My counseling style comes from a strengths-based perspective with a focus on assisting my clients in recognizing the many strengths they already possess while helping them to adapt those strengths to better manage the current crisis or situation they may be experiencing. I adapt my practice style to fit the needs of each client and will adjust my approach based on the goals and outcomes experienced throughout the therapeutic journey. Asking for help is never easy but here you are, and you should be proud of yourself for taking this first step. I would like to assist you in this journey as you allow yourself to discover the strengths that you possess and the tools you can use to become a stronger healthier you!

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Carol Fritzsche

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): MS, LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
9 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi! My name is Carol Fritzsche. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been a mental health therapist for the past 8 years. I have 18 years experience working with children and families in the education field and in social services. My style of therapy enlists a few different approaches such as Humanistic, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, Solution-Focused, Cognitive Processing therapy and others. I use a variety of evidence-based clinical interventions that meet your individual needs. I also am certified in Prolonged Exposure Therapy to treat PTSD and other trauma-related symptoms. My experience has been treating individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, social anxiety, trauma, poor concentration and focus, parenting issues, relationship issues, codependency, domestic violence, phobias, mood issues and disorders, Asperger's Disorder, learning disabilities, problems related to chronic illness, grief and loss, and struggles with aging. I think it takes a lot of courage to ask for help. I want to be a part of your journey in self-discovery and being the better version of you. In addition, you owe it to yourself to feel better. The path towards feeling better is wide enough for us to walk together. This is the therapeutic relationship. It is a key component in understanding the thoughts, feelings and behaviors that are holding you back. Our relationship is collaborative and you are the best guide for me as we navigate you together. I look forward to knowing you and working with you. Please message me or check the calendar to schedule our first appointment.

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Kathryn Eby

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! So glad you are reaching out to get some assistance with whatever you are struggling with at the moment. I am a licensed professional counselor in PA and a certified school counselor (K-12) with over 20 years of professional experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & depression. I believe that you are the author of your story and I may just be meeting you for a chapter or two. 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 whether it is for a few chapters or the whole story.

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Mindy Forman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 22 years of professional work experience. I have had the pleasure of working with clients of all ages. My experience includes an array of areas including trauma,anxiety, parenting issues, foster care and adoption, 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. Every client is different and I believe therapy should be holistic and meet each person where they are at in their journey. It is my goal to come alongside my clients as partners working together to achieve their goals achieve positive outcomes.

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George Dalzell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, self esteem and confidence, lgbtq+ related issues and relationship issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Christina Garry

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed therapist in Pennsylvania with over 20 years of professional experience. I believe that you are the expert on your own life. With my help, we can work on what is getting in the way of having the life, career, and relationships you want. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, stress and relationship issues. I believe every person should be treated with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach to working together is collaborative and combines cognitive behavioral and person-centered interventions. I will follow your lead and tailor our sessions to meet your unique and specific needs. You have already taken the courageous first steps toward change. If you are ready to take the next step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Daniel Cifarelli

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Dr. Cifarelli was originally trained in medicine and seeing the effects of COVID-19 on the nation’s mental health he then went on to complete Master’s degrees in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling. Throughout his life Dr. Cifarelli has been around many people faced with traumas and personal handicaps which has increased his desire to help those with medical and mental struggles. He specializes in treating those with post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, personality and mood disorders. He treats adolescence, adults, and seniors. Additionally, he offers specialized treatment to members of the LGBTQ and medically disabled communities. Dr. Cifarelli practices dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and mindfulness. He currently, is licensed as a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and a national certified counselor (NCC). On a personal note Dr. Cifarelli enjoys spending time with his niece Olivia, his Cavachon “Rocky” and going to live concerts. He stresses to his patients the importance of balance between work, family, and friendships.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Scranton

Finding the best therapist close by in Scranton 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 in Scranton that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Scranton. 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 Scranton, 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 in the Scranton region and in the state of Pennsylvania. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Scranton or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Scranton area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Scranton 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 Scranton, elsewhere in Lackawanna, or in the greater state of Pennsylvania.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Scranton area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Scranton 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 Scranton 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 Scranton 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 a BetterHelp therapist 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). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this Scranton online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Scranton, 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 Scranton psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional 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, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Scranton 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 Scranton helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Scranton 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:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Scranton 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 in Scranton?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Scranton 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.

Scranton therapists 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 Scranton 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 Scranton 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in PA, therapists 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 18510 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Scranton counselor?

Before seeing your Scranton 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 while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Scranton.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. A Scranton 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 with a Scranton counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Scranton, 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.

Scranton 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Scranton, Pennsylvania

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 to customer service 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 Scranton.

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

18501, 18502, 18503, 18504, 18505, 18507, 18508, 18509, 18510, 18515, 18540, 18577

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