Patrick Smith
In my 16 years of experience as a therapist, I have discovered that each of us has problems that at times become overwhelming. Many of us know that we are capable, but there are times when each of us find ourselves struggling to cope with certain issues. My counseling approach acknowledges this similarity in all of us. My approach to counseling embraces the reality that all of us will both need and offer help as we journey through life. More importantly, I embrace the value that my clients place upon the issues they present to me. From my perspective, any issue that you feel will improve your well being deserves the benefit of therapy to help you get there. In my practice, I take a non-directive, practical approach to helping. I acknowledge your strengths and embrace you as your own greatest resource. I recognize that each of us experience our distress in our own way. My approach involves listening to you. I believe that therapy is a place for growth and new perspectives. My clients have come to me for many reasons, but much of the time it is because although help is needed, they don't want to be a burden on friends or worry family members that might otherwise be supports. My approach involves exploring your difficult experiences, processing emotions, and building strategies to help you cope with life's challenges.
Susan Lockard
Hello! I am Susan and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the State of Pennsylvania and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). I have experience in Trauma Informed Counseling, TF-CBT, and EMDR. I received my MA in Community Counseling from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 2010. I have done in-home counseling, family-based counseling, and outpatient since then. I continue my learning with ongoing trainings which have included Motivational Interviewing, Case Formulation, principles for working with members of the LGBTQI community, using trauma informed care, supporting wellness and recovery, Autism, and other Neurodevelopmental Disorders. I am also a Level 3 Reiki Practitioner. I have worked with clients as young as 3-years of age through adults in their 60’s. I have experience dealing with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, parenting challenges, behavioral issues, ADHD and emotional/physical/sexual abuse and neglect. I have experience supporting members of the LGBTQI community. I engage in advocacy as well. I work diligently to create a trusting, authentic, therapeutic relationship with my clients. I believe a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere is needed for you to explore life’s challenges. My approach combines strength based and solution focused techniques, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, and trauma-informed care. I believe in supporting the “whole person” not just pieces. You do not live in a bubble and true well-being should incorporate all aspects of your life. This belief has led me to incorporate a holistic approach in treatment which encourages exercise, diet, Mindfulness, self-care, essential oils, and spirituality just to name a few. I am open to almost anything as long as it supports your well-being. I know “one size does not fit all.” I will tailor treatment to your individual needs. I am here to guide you on the journey to wellness. You have the tools and the strength to heal yourself. My purpose is to help you discover your potential and tap into your hidden resources. If you are ready to begin healing, I am ready to walk beside you on the journey. I look forward to working with you! Susan
Colette Bone
"We all have the capacity to be the heroes of our own story." This is the basis of my counseling approach. I am a professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania with 10 years of experience counseling, and 14 years total in mental health. I have worked with individuals aged 5-85, and also with couples and group therapy. In this modern world, there are times we can get lost, stressed or overwhelmed when our lives become confusing or when we face a difficult change. It may be that we are just getting in our own way, that we need room to sort through issues and gain new skills; or that a significant mental illness keeps us from living the life we want. We can be helped through our time of pain, frustration, or weakness, until we can become strong, learn to heal ourselves, nurture each other, and access our inner wisdom. While this is the basis of my approach, the details come in meeting clients where they are at, and helping them work towards self-selected goals. I draw from many evidence-based theories, including Cognitive-Behavioral; Emotion-Focused Therapy; Psychodynamic, Narrative, & Mindfulness practice. I also incorporate creative coping skills depending on the client. I welcome each client's own personal beliefs and worldview, so that our work can empower your authentic self. I've worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction, ADHD, trauma, loss, behavioral & developmental issues, relational struggles, and more. I look forward to helping you!
Dr. Geri-Lynn Utter
I am a clinical psychologist licensed in Pennsylvania with over 10 years of experience. I have worked with clients with substance use disorders (i.e. opioids, stimulants, alcohol, etc.) in conjunction with other concerns including depression, anxiety, and trauma as well as relationship conflict related to these issues. I have also helped many people who have experienced learning differences, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. My counseling style is approachable, non-judgmental, and empathetic. I believe in treating individuals with respect and compassion and have worked respectfully with the LGBTQ+ community. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, psychodynamic and motivational interviewing forms of counseling. I will customize our dialog and treatment plan to meet your specific needs and goals. It takes courage to reach out for help and take the first step towards change. I know taking this first step may not seem like a big deal - but it is! If you are ready to take this important step, for you, I am here to support, motivate and empower you on this journey! I am truly looking forward to working with you. Warmly, Dr. Geri-Lynn Utter, PsyD.
Alea Frazier
“If you don’t like something change it, if you can’t change it, change your attitude “Maya Angelou. Hey, all My name is Alea Frazier I graduated from Rosemont College with a Master of Art in Clinical Psychology with a Concentration in Forensic Psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have over 9 years’ experience working with individuals of various backgrounds and ages. I have experience treating individuals who have diagnoses of Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Schizophrenia, Bi-polar disorder, Anger issues, intellectual disorders, and other Co-occurring disorders. I have experience in various treatment approaches such as Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Solution focused therapy, Positive Psychology, and Person Centered to name a few. I believe in meeting the person where they are so your pace is my pace, I would never say I can help you be normal, because we are all different so really what is normal. I will say that it would be an honor if you allow me to help you become a better version of yourself.
Krista Stanick
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, coping with addictions, and anger management 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. 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.
Diane Bero
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 25 years of professional work experience. 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. 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.
Brian Shaffer
Brian is a Licensed Professional Counselor with education, training and clinical experience in the fields of Mental Health, Addiction, Trauma, Grief, Loss and Bereavement and Spiritual Care. He provides counseling, assessment and intervention services that help clients meet their goals for a life in recovery. Brian has a passion for providing quality care, support and services to his clients through a person-centered approach that incorporates interventions from various theories and methodologies. He believes in helping clients process through past traumatic experiences that have contributed to current struggles with substance abuse and mental health symptoms. Brian also incorporates client’s spiritual beliefs into the treatment protocol in order to holistically address their needs. His extensive experience and passion for this field has helped guide individuals through the process of recovery in order to experience freedom from their past and a hope for their future.
Amanda Rosentel
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Chris Parks
I am licensed in Missouri and Pennsylvania with over 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, intimacy/relationship related 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
How to find counseling in Unionville
Finding the best therapist close by in Unionville 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 Unionville. 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 Unionville, 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 Unionville 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 Unionville 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 Unionville, elsewhere in Centre, 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 Unionville area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Unionville 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 Unionville 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 Unionville 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 Unionville, 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 Unionville 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 Unionville 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 Unionville 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
- Behavior therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Talk therapy
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Attachment therapy
- Relationships
- Children, adolescents, and teens
- Addiction (substance abuse)
- Divorce
- Trauma or PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychodynamic treatment
- Career counseling
- Alcohol use disorders
- OCD
- ADHD
- Mood disorders
- 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 Unionville 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 Unionville 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 16835 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 Unionville 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 Unionville 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 Unionville, 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.
Unionville 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Unionville:
16835, 16844