College towns are great for young people to grow into better people. But sometimes they need a little bit of help from a counselor. Luckily, a counselor in State college is ready to help you understand, and better yourself.

It’s the third-safest metropolitan area in the US, meaning that’s it’s a safe location for those young and old.  It was originally a town, but it grows to help those that were at Penn State.  It is known for the university in the area, but even if you aren't here just to study, having a counselor here will help you feel safe and secure no matter the odds. 

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Psychologist Jennifer Bicknese providing different types of therapy in State College

Jennifer Bicknese

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LPC PC010367
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

My name is Jennifer Bicknese, ATR-BC, LPC. I am a Board Certified and Licensed Professional Counselor. I am licensed in the state of Pennsylvania and have 11 years of counseling experience. I have worked in an outpatient facility with children, an outpatient facility with adolescents and adults, and a residential facility with individuals diagnosed with bipolar and schizophrenia. I have the most experience working with, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, sexual identity, LGBTQ community, life stressors, grief and loss, and anger management. I utilize two different methods of counseling. The first one is the practice of Art Therapy. Art Therapy is a non-verbal way to express feelings and work on overcoming obstacles. If a client is open to trying Art Therapy, there are many techniques I can provide to help with life stressors. By providing a therapy using art supplies, such as, paint, colored pencils crayons, markers, clay, etc., a client can discover key themes in their artwork. Through learning about these key themes, a client can better discover their own way of finding personal solutions to their goals of therapy. The second practice I utilize is a Person-Centered Approach. A Person-Centered Approach basically means I want to help a client find ways in which to overcome stressors through positive support and understanding. By using a Person-Centered Approach, I help to guide a client into reaching their own personal growth and change. I do this by assisting clients with what they feel needs to be worked through. I am here to listen and support, with no judgement present. It is my aim to empower and motivate clients through the therapy process. I look forward to learning more about you and helping you achieve all the goals you have set forth. Thank you for looking at my profile and allowing me to help you achieve a happier and healthier life.

Psychologist Khalid Greenaway providing different types of therapy in State College

Khalid Greenaway

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 5796, PA LPC PC020299
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
20 years offering treatment

Welcome to BetterHelp! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the states of North and South Carolina. I graduated from Liberty University in 2013. My approach to counseling is very eclectic and person centered. I am experience in the utilization of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Family Therapy (FT), Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), and I also assist client with implementing forms of meditation into their daily lifestyle. My aim is to empower each person I am allowed to serve, and to assist them with understanding that each person has the ability to heal, cope, and/or adapt despite life's challenges. The power to create change is within each one of us, and my job is to assist you with that process. My counseling style is non-judgmental, multi-culturally sensitive, and empathic. I take a holistic approach to counseling in that we will consider internal and external influences on your thoughts feelings and emotions. When considering our feelings and emotions there must be consideration take to the mind and body connections and how they affect one another. Our relationships and family of origin also have tremendous effects on us because we don't exist in a bubble, but within systems and relationships which must be considered. It is my goal to empower you. Working with BetterHelp is a convenient way for you to receive the help and support that you need, right from home or wherever you are with a phone, tablet, or computer. It will be important for you to understand that while there are many benefits to receiving counseling, there are risks associated with it. Talking about difficult things may make you feel worse than when you started, but if you keep up with the commitment and do the work, it will get better over time. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Stacie Brethauer providing different types of therapy in State College

Stacie Brethauer

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LPC PC012280
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years offering treatment

Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist, and a Behavior Specialist. I have enjoyed over 13 years working in the mental health field, helping my clients change their lives in positive ways. Those that I come alongside often say I provide warm, heartfelt support and professional guidance as they found hope and transformation through their struggles. Taking part in their journey as an expert guide, I have helped individuals navigate their way through depression, anxiety, relationship issues, lack of self-confidence, major life transitions, grief, and loss. Refreshing to my clients, I have a unique and individualized approach to my counseling, while at the same time being highly educated and expertly trained in mental health. I make coping strategies simple and easy to apply in real life. Cognitive-Behavioral, Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Trauma-Informed Care, and Strength-Based are just some of the theories that I draw from. I tailor my service in unique ways to support the specific needs of my clients while drawing from proven theoretical strategies. During our sessions together, you can expect that we will sort through the challenges you are facing, choose the strategies that work the best while focusing on making the changes that matter the most to you. What's on your mind most and how may I support you is a theme of the service I provide. I am confident of this: the life you want is already within your reach and the struggle that you are feeling right now is just temporary. You’ve already done the hardest part; you reached out and asked for help. Now it's time for you to take the next best step. Know I am here for you, as you begin this journey. Let’s take that next step, together.

Psychologist Mary Boyle providing different types of therapy in State College

Mary Boyle

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LMHC MH18501, PA LPC PC000170
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years offering treatment

I am a therapist with thirty years of experience. I have worked in community mental health and private practice, providing a wealth of knowledge and experience with the seriously and persistently mentally ill, along with conditions such as depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict, and personality disorders. I have a history of couple's therapy, although currently I am not accepting clients of this type. My approach is caring and compassionate, and I'll want to hear about your symptoms and strategies you've used for dealing with them. In addition, I'll want to know about your living situation and family of origin to get a better sense of whom you are. I use a variety of modalities including interpersonal therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy. In addition, I'll use other approaches, depending on what you are dealing with and what will help you in the best way possible. I'll look forward to meeting you soon to begin your journey of improving your life situation. I especially enjoy working with females suffering with low self esteem, codependency, life adjustment and relationship issues. Some additional points: If you have had suicidal thoughts, with or without intent, within the past year, my recommendation is that you seek more intensive treatment than online therapy. I understand that all of us have emergencies and are sometimes late for an appointment. If you are late, I will wait for you for ten minutes, but after that, I will ask you to reschedule so you get the benefits of your whole session. I also expect you to attend your appointments. We all have emergencies; but, with that said, if you no show or cancel without 48 hours advance notice more than once, I will ask you to be reassigned to another therapist.

Psychologist Elizabeth Smith providing different types of therapy in State College

Elizabeth Smith

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LPC PC006945
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
13 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Pennsylvania, I bring over a decade of compassionate experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding each person's unique journey, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore personal growth, heal from past experiences, and develop stronger emotional resilience. My practice focuses on helping individuals navigate diverse challenges, including social anxiety, relationship dynamics, workplace stress, and personal transformation. My therapeutic style integrates evidence-based techniques with genuine empathy, creating a collaborative environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. Whether you're struggling with mood disorders, relationship issues, or seeking personal development, I'm committed to walking alongside you with professional care and understanding. I welcome individuals from all backgrounds and life stages, providing thoughtful, personalized support tailored to your specific needs and goals. Together, we can work towards meaningful healing and positive change.

Psychologist Michael Abell providing different types of therapy in State College

Michael Abell

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LPC PC012631
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
15 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Lauren Gallagher providing different types of therapy in State College

Lauren Gallagher

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LPC PC007997
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years offering treatment

Welcome! My name is Lauren and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I have my master's degree from The Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in Counseling and Clinical Health Psychology. I have over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have experience working in a variety of settings including inpatient psychiatric hospitals, outpatient programs, partial programs, school based setting, and in- home services. I have worked with a broad range of clinical issues, and have experience working with clients ages 3 to adulthood. I have experience providing a range of therapeutic clinical services to a diverse population with a wide range of mental health diagnoses. I have a strong dedication to mental health and therapy. I am an excellent advocate for the clients I treat. My goal is to assist, encourage, and teach clients how to reach their full potential. My clients have faced diverse issues such as career, emotional, educational, familial, personal, and other various mental health issues. Specific topics we dealt with included trauma, life adjustment issues, stress related disorders, anxiety, depression, self-injurious behaviors, psychosocial stressors, substance use issues, family conflict, self- esteem, suicidal ideation, relationship issues, and gender identity issues. I feel that I am a positive support for those who find themselves in a time of their lives they may be looking for some extra help. Therapy can guide you into a better direction of life that you are hoping for, and I am here to help! My counseling style is person-centered, integrative, and holistic. I believe in establishing a trusting relationship and making therapy a comfortable and easy environment. I would describe myself as supportive, caring, and warm. I believe that you as the client will help lead our sessions by establishing your goals and desired outcomes for therapy. Collaboration is key in therapy. I primarily use cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. I am here to support you through whatever difficulties you may be facing, in a warm and comforting way. I look forward to helping you achieve overall wellness! Please message me directly for scheduling.

Psychologist Rae Ann Michalko providing different types of therapy in State College

Rae Ann Michalko

Clinician
License Type(s): KY LCSW 257845, OH LISW I.2304561
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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!

Psychologist Venessa  Williams providing different types of therapy in State College

Venessa Williams

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LPC PC013965
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteem
20 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Amy Wienand providing different types of therapy in State College

Amy Wienand

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LCSW CW016583
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
21 years offering treatment

Hello! I am licensed in Pennsylvania and have worked with individuals for over 20 years. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, as well as grief and loss. 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!

Psychologist Tiffany Carpenter providing different types of therapy in State College

Tiffany Carpenter

Clinician
License Type(s): AL LPC LPC05705, PA LPC PC018455
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Alabama with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma, & abuse. I also have experience working with despression. 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.

Psychologist Douglas "Rob" Hodapp providing different types of therapy in State College

Douglas "Rob" Hodapp

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LPC PC001049
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
6 years offering treatment

I am a licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania. I have worked over 30 years in human services including people with various disabilities. I have been working in clinical practice for over 6 years. I work with clients who experience a wide range of symptoms and concerns. These include depression, anxiety, couples with problems in their relationship, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I have also worked with many people who have experienced life and career changing events. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and emotionally focused therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to reach out for assistance. If you are ready to take the next step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Donald "Don" Fountain providing different types of therapy in State College

Donald "Don" Fountain

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LPC PC004229
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
40 years offering treatment

I have been an educator and counselor for over 40 years with a vast amount of experience in a wide variety of areas. I retired from education in 2017 after spending 27 years as a high school counselor serving as the department chair for many of those years. I have also worked in the private sector as a Licensed Professional Counselor during those same 40 plus years, retiring in 2022. I retired to take care of my wife who was ill. Unfortunately, she passed on April 30 of that same year. I have worked in several counseling practices with almost all ages, specializing in adolescent and adult issues. I have also taught in graduate schools helping to prepare students to become counselors. Most recently I have been the owner of a preschool program serving children from six weeks to sixth grade. On a more personal side, my wife and I were married just short of 41 years. We had five children, three boys and two girls. I am also a proud grandfather of ten grandchildren. Unfortunately, my youngest son passed away on September 2, 2025. In spite of my losses over the past few years, I consider my life to be blessed, and I thank God every day. As a counselor I try to empower my clients to find the answers within themselves. I genuinely care about people and try to give them the tools to lead their most productive lives. I use a variety of techniques geared to the client I am working with at the time. In today's ever-changing world it is imperative to find balance and grounding in our day to day lives. It is my hope that I may be able to help with that. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you.

Psychologist Dongfanghong Xiao providing different types of therapy in State College

Dongfanghong Xiao

Clinician
License Type(s): PA LPC PC018232
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years offering treatment

I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and identity-related challenges, particularly those who feel overwhelmed, emotionally stuck, or caught in recurring relationship or emotional patterns. I also have experience supporting international and bicultural clients navigating cultural adjustment, family expectations, and feelings of disconnection or loneliness. My approach is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and grounded in evidence-based therapies including DBT, person-centered, and feminist therapy. I aim to provide a thoughtful and supportive space where clients can better understand themselves, strengthen emotional regulation and boundaries, and develop a clearer sense of direction and self-worth. Starting therapy can feel uncertain, especially if you are used to handling things on your own. You do not need to have everything figured out before beginning.

Find a Therapist Near You in State College , Pennsylvania

Finding a licensed therapist near you in Pennsylvania can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

Pennsylvania is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Pennsylvania, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Pennsylvania (PA). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

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 on BetterHelp support adults across Pennsylvania with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Pennsylvania

When searching for a therapist near me in Pennsylvania, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Pennsylvania, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Pennsylvania.

Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in Pennsylvania want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Pennsylvania

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Pennsylvania without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Pennsylvania (PA)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

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 vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

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 private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

Finding therapy with a therapist in State College can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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