Avia James
Hello, and congratulations on your first step in becoming BetterHelped. With blended experience in different therapeutic settings and modalities, including Inpatient, Outpatient and Corrections, I am confident that I have the tools, experience and knowledge to assist and support you in your endeavor to rise above life challenges. I hold a Master's of Arts in Professional Clinical Counseling and I am licensed as a Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I am certified as a Co-Occurring Counselor by the Pennsylvania Certification Board and specialize in providing counseling to those affected by both mental health and substance use disorders. I believe that having a strong therapeutic alliance is at the core of successful outcomes. I believe that having a good connection with your counselor is key to putting theory into practice. That being said, my main goal, with any therapeutic encounter I have, is to create a working environment that feels safe, positive and non-judgmental. I employ creative methods in my effort to encourage and allow you to be YOU and to help you feel more comfortable in your own skin. I strive to empower you as an individual and help you bring all your personal strengths out to the forefront. I aim to assist you to strengthen the connection with the inner voice I am confident you have deep down, as I aspire to get you to see your ability to self-heal. Thank you for considering me as your next counselor and I look forward to being a part in your self-search endeavor.
Michele Cotter
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) with extensive experience and clinical training. I have 25 years of experience working in the field of mental health and wellness since completion of my master's degree in counseling psychology. I have been working as an outpatient counselor for over 20 years. I have extensive training and experience counseling individuals like you who are struggling with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss. I have advanced training and experience in the area of trauma and stress-related disorders over the last 17 years. My counseling style focuses on creating an environment of acceptance, encouragement and support throughout the therapeutic process. I use a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches based on your needs. I have a holistic approach toward achieving emotional well-being while eliciting hope and healing.
Susan Wolfe
I am licensed in Arizona and Pennsylvania with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & 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. 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.
Michael Abell
Hello and welcome. I am an Ordained Minister (Rev), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) in Pennsylvania. My background is in pastoral ministry (since January 2001). My wife and I have been married since June of 2000 and we have five children ranging in ages from 13 to 19. Over all the years I have spent a lot of time in counseling with individuals, couples, and families helping them to overcome their struggles (Parenting, premarital and marital issues, ADHD, depression, anxiety, gambling and substance abuse and addiction, legal issues, religious issues, trauma and PTSD, grief and loss, and many others). I desired to be better equipped to help, so I went back to get my MA in Marriage and Family Therapy which I completed in December of 2017. I was glad to be able to bring my real world experience to the classroom and I found that I was already putting into practice a lot of what I was studying. Over the years I have worked with clients from all walks of life. I've had clients from all faiths (and no faith) backgrounds, straight and LBGTQIA, children, teens, adults, parents, grandparents, and people in Hospice and their families. I believe that you are the expert of your life. I will help you find ways to utilize your strength to overcome your struggles and move you from your current situation to where you want to be. I will be your supporter, your cheerleader, your encourager, and your teammate. I believe that real change can start in the therapy session, but you make the change happen outside of session and in the real world. You can do it, you can achieve your goals. I'm looking forward to helping you do so.
Joseph Almeida
Hey there! My name is Joseph Almeida and I'm licensed in two states. I'm a LMHC in Florida and have my LPC Provisional License in Pennsylvania. Most of my experience has been with youth, teenagers, and college students. I received my Bachelors Degree in Sociology from Florida Atlantic University. I then received my Masters Degree in Mental Health Counseling at Palm Beach Atlantic University. My style of counseling is very person-centered which allows the people I counsel to have freedom and time to express what they are going through and I enjoy walking with them and help supporting them regain the helm of their life back. I have a heart for getting to know people's stories and helping them discover what brings them joy and also how to solve the challenges they face in their lives.
Amanda Specht
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Renee Cavalier
Welcome! It is said that optimal health is not just the absence of disease, but rather the state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. My goal as a therapist is to create a supportive environment in which my clients can address their psychological needs and overcome the barriers that limit their ability to actualize their full potential. I utilize an eclectic modality, with a strong focus on cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and psychological coaching. With all clients, a strengths based perspective is always a fundamental building block of treatment and a consistent concept throughout the treatment process. I have 21 years of experience as a licensed clinician, with 16 years in private practice. In addition, I am also a licensed attorney. I look forward to working with you!
Dr. Dennis Gourley
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!
Rae Ann Michalko
I'm a licensed therapist practicing across Kentucky, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Michigan, and Ohio. With extensive clinical experience, I work with clients across the lifespan, specializing in depression, anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, and self-esteem concerns. I support individuals navigating life transitions, midlife changes, aging, and grief. I'm particularly skilled in addressing social anxiety, communication difficulties, isolation, and loneliness. I also work with women's issues, postpartum depression, fertility concerns, and caregiver stress. My approach is grounded in helping clients cultivate self-love, explore life purpose, and develop forgiveness—both toward themselves and others. I'm experienced in supporting young adults and older adults, and I bring cultural sensitivity to my work with clients from diverse backgrounds. I believe therapy is a collaborative journey. My role is to meet you where you are, listen without judgment, and help you build the tools and insights needed for meaningful change. Whether you're facing workplace stress, relationship concerns, or simply seeking greater clarity and connection in your life, I'm here to support your growth.
Rachael Morgan
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania and also hold the national certified counselor (NCC) credential. I earned an MA in Community Counseling from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and have 15+ years of experience working with a wide range of people providing individual, couples, group, and skills training sessions. I have worked with many different mental health issues, such as depression, self-injury, anxiety, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, gender dysphoria, LGBTQIA+ issues, and adjustment to life changes. I also have experience working with dually diagnosed individuals and those coping with substance use issues. I work from a client-centered, judgment free approach combining aspects of DBT, CBT, Personal Medicine, and Mindfulness. I am willing to meet a person where they are at in their journey. I am a guide on your journey. I do not have all the answers, but am willing to work with you to build a life worth living. I do not believe in labeling people as we are all just humans at the end of the day. I empower my clients to make safe, healthy, and effective decisions to better their lives. I use positivity and skills training to help people improve their self-esteem, self-confidence, and overall outlook on life. I use a conversational style to work on the issues that are important to you. Change can be scary, but I believe that by taking small steps everyone has the ability within themselves to change for the better. You have already taken the first step by considering therapy. I would love to work with you toward your goals and help you to see the world from a different perspective. Change your thinking, and you will change your world. I look forward to walking the path toward a happier and healthier life with you.
Venessa Williams
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & 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.
Connie Harrington
As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania with more than two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on addressing depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and grief with compassionate, personalized care. I have extensive expertise in helping clients navigate difficult transitions, including midlife changes, workplace stress, and family dynamics. My approach is particularly attuned to women's issues, social anxiety, and the unique emotional challenges of aging and caregiving. I understand that healing is a deeply personal journey. My therapeutic style emphasizes open communication, emotional exploration, and building resilience. Whether you're struggling with isolation, relationship conflicts, or managing intense emotions, I'm committed to creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can develop meaningful strategies for personal growth and well-being. My goal is to help you understand your experiences, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and rediscover your inner strength. Together, we'll work collaboratively to address your specific needs and support your path toward emotional healing.
Caitlin Miller
As a licensed therapist in Pennsylvania, I bring a decade of dedicated experience supporting individuals navigating complex situations. My clinical expertise centers on helping clients address depression, anxiety, stress, mood disorders, and addiction challenges. I specialize in supporting individuals struggling with social anxiety, communication difficulties, panic attacks, and impulsivity. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and collaborative, designed to help you develop meaningful coping strategies and build emotional resilience. I understand that each person's journey is unique, and I'm committed to creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and work towards personal growth. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I aim to empower clients to understand their emotional patterns, develop healthier communication skills, and cultivate greater self-awareness. Whether you're experiencing persistent mood challenges, social difficulties, or seeking support through life transitions, I'm here to walk alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Dr. Dr. Susan Schaming
Welcome, I am Dr. Susan Schaming, a psychotherapist licensed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania with 38 years of professional experience. My journey is diverse with practice in PK-12 schools, mental health, university, and hospital settings. I assist clients with relationship challenges, depression/anxiety, coping with life changes/transitions, school related topics, parenting issues, and executive/professional coaching. I was trained in cognitive and dialectical behavior therapy, yet that does not solely inform or limit my work. I believe that YOU are the expert of your life story; I help you identify your strengths that will assist you in meeting challenges create the life you want. My clients leave their first session with homework to begin their journey to living their best life. Conversely, I consider my strengths [compassion, empathy, and active listening] extremely useful when supporting individuals to heal after grief or when suffering from depression. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage; I am proud of you for getting started! I have been in therapy at different times throughout my life; hence, I believe counseling and therapy are pathways to better living. I look forward to meeting you and let's begin your journey today. [I am willing to schedule early evening and weekend appointments on limited basis if necessary to meet client schedules].
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in State College, Pennsylvania
Finding a therapist near you in State College, Pennsylvania starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Pennsylvania is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Pennsylvania, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Pennsylvania, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Pennsylvania
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Pennsylvania, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Pennsylvania
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' copay is as low as $15, some pay $0.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Pennsylvania
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Pennsylvania through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in Pennsylvania
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Pennsylvania, including residents in State College.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Pennsylvania do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' copay is as low as $15 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' copay is as low as $15 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in State College, Pennsylvania
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving State College and the surrounding PA area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.