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 12 to 18. Over the past 24 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.
Mallory Ackemann
Hello! Welcome to Better Help! I am a Clinical Social Worker, licensed in the state of Delaware with over 12 years of clinical experience working with children/adolescents, adults, families, and couples . I am glad you are here. I realize the courage and bravery it took to take the first step in searching for a therapist. I applaud you for getting to this point! Here is a little about me. Originally from Connecticut, I received my BS in Early Childhood and Special Education from the University of Delaware. Soon after, I received my Masters of Social Work from Louisiana State University. I have worked as a school counselor and in therapeutic settings as well. I have assisted individuals, couples and families with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, divorce, bereavement, educational difficulties, anger management and parenting challenges. I have also helped clients facing some of life's most difficult transitions. If you are looking for a therapist who is compassionate, empathetic, an excellent listener and motivated to assist you in your journey of healing and change, then I may be your person. Finding a therapist who fits your needs is so very important and building that relationship of trust and respect is vital in the therapeutic process. My approach to therapy is client centered. YOU are your own expert. I approach every client with warmth, respect and open communication. Each client is unique and faces challenges differently. My job as your therapist is to help you discover your own strengths, as we all have them! WE can work together to achieve your goals through behavior therapy, CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy), motivational interviewing, Narrative Therapy and Solution Focused treatments. As your therapist my role is to guide you, support you, cheer for your accomplishments and help you work through your toughest times. In my years of experience, I often find that it helps clients to know that I have had my own personal struggles and life challenges and I bring those experiences with me when helping others. We all don't have the same struggles, but it does help to know that there are ups and downs in life and getting through them is challenging, but we can overcome them! Just by coming to this site, you have made the first step in making changes in your life. If you are ready to take the next step, then please reach out. I am here to empower you and help you make the changes that YOU are seeking in your life. I look forward to working with you. ~Mallory
Hysonja Fersner
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 work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Nancy Malwitz
As a licensed therapist in Texas, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients address challenges like depression, anxiety, stress, and interpersonal dynamics. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, including older adults, young professionals, and individuals experiencing life transitions. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and collaborative, designed to help you develop deeper self-understanding and cultivate meaningful personal growth. I'm particularly skilled in addressing issues related to self-esteem, communication difficulties, social anxiety, and relationship challenges. Whether you're struggling with isolation, seeking life purpose, or working through family conflicts, I provide a supportive environment where you can explore your experiences and develop resilient coping strategies. I'm committed to creating a non-judgmental space that honors your unique journey, empowering you to build stronger connections with yourself and others. Together, we'll work towards healing, personal insight, and sustainable emotional well-being.
Dianne Mathias
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 31 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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. 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.
Shelle Savill
As a licensed therapist in Pennsylvania. I bring over two decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice specializes in addressing mood disorders, anxiety, relationship challenges, and personal growth. I focus on helping clients navigate issues like social anxiety, attachment dynamics, self-love, and life purpose. My therapeutic approach is deeply empathetic and tailored to each individual's unique journey. I work collaboratively with clients experiencing a wide range of challenges, including panic disorders, obsessive-compulsive patterns, addiction recovery, and trauma healing. My expertise spans women's mental health, postpartum experiences, and supporting individuals through transformative personal transitions. I believe in creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their inner world, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal change. My goal is to empower you to understand yourself more deeply and build sustainable strategies for emotional well-being.
Dr. Jay Goodman
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 37+ years of professional work experience. I earned a PhD in Counseling Psychology from the University of Missouri-Columbia, a program accredited by the APA (American Psychological Association). I have worked in a variety of settings, including group practices and hospitals. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I have also specialized in working with survivors of suicide, in behavioral medicine/health psychology approaches, as well as embracing Positive Psychology. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Irina Sundukova
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, eating disorders, & anger management. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Dr. Thomas Appel-Schumacher
I am licensed as a Psychologist in North Carolina and Pennsylvania with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Douglas "Rob" Hodapp
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!
Victor Franco
My main goal is to help you become empowered to make the changes you can realistically make to improve your life. We'll accomplish this by helping you grow your confidence and process and heal trauma. My ideal client is willing to explore things they do not understand about themselves and/or those around them and thereby build self-awareness. Their issues fall under the categories of self-esteem, stress and/or mood management, behavioral issues, trauma and PTSD, domestic abuse/violence, teen counseling, grief, family conflict, and spirituality and faith topics. Our words are at times not enough to express the depths of our emotions. I believe in client-directed therapy. I use a client-tailored mixture of art-making and psychotherapy techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Motivational Interviewing, Psychoanalysis, and more! I understand that your current circumstances are difficult beyond words. This is why I'd like to partner with you to find ways to vent and cope with the help of creativity. As we explore those things you're struggling with, we'll also find ways to help you cope and visualize realistic, step-by-step solutions to these struggles.
Megan Diffendal
As a licensed therapist in Pennsylvania, I bring over 16 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My clinical focus centers on helping clients work through depression, anxiety, and challenges with self-esteem. I specialize in creating compassionate, affirming spaces where individuals can explore communication patterns, address feelings of guilt and shame, and develop deeper self-love and understanding. My approach is grounded in empathy and respect, recognizing that each person's journey is unique. I believe in empowering clients to discover their inner strengths, build resilience, and create meaningful personal transformation. Through collaborative, evidence-based techniques, I support individuals in developing healthier emotional frameworks and more authentic connections with themselves and others. I am committed to providing a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients can feel heard, validated, and encouraged as they work towards their personal growth and healing goals. The only language I practice in is English.
Kerns Civil
As a licensed therapist with extensive experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges, I bring a compassionate and nuanced approach to mental health care. My professional background spans a decade of working with diverse clients, focusing on addressing depression, anxiety, stress management, and career-related difficulties. I specialize in helping individuals navigate communication challenges, feelings of isolation, and struggles with life purpose. My therapeutic approach centers on understanding each client's unique experience, with particular sensitivity to issues of guilt, shame, and self-esteem. My practice is rooted in creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their inner world and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. I am committed to meeting each person exactly where they are, honoring their individual journey and supporting their path toward healing and self-discovery. Through collaborative and empathetic counseling, I aim to empower clients to build resilience, enhance self-understanding, and create positive transformations in their lives.
Cole Risbon
As a licensed therapist in Pennsylvania, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients address challenges like depression, anxiety, workplace stress, and life transitions with compassion, and evidence-based strategies. I'm deeply committed to creating an inclusive, affirming therapeutic environment that honors each person's unique experiences. My practice focuses on supporting diverse needs, including workplace dynamics, seasonal mood changes, family systems, and personal identity exploration. I have particular expertise in supporting individuals managing stress, mood disorders, and interpersonal challenges. My therapeutic style emphasizes collaborative, client-centered care. I draw from multiple therapeutic frameworks to help clients develop meaningful coping skills, enhance emotional resilience, and move toward greater personal understanding and growth. Whether you're experiencing relationship difficulties, processing life changes, or seeking deeper self-awareness, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with respect and professional guidance.
Find a Therapist Near You in Volant , 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:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
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:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Pennsylvania (PA)
- 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 Volant.
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.