This is Diane Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Diane Smith

Offering therapy in PA
License: MS,L.P.C.
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
12 years of experience

Hi, my name is Diane Smith. Congratulations on reaching out for help. You have made a huge step towards achieving your goals. I have been working with teens, adults, and couples since 2010. I tailor my treatment approach to each client because I believe each one of my clients is an expert on themselves. I help my clients to recognize, discover and develop their own resources. I use a variety of psychotherapeutic modalities to enable my clients to reach their unique wants and needs. Some of the issues that I provide psychotherapy for are depression, anxiety, panic attacks, O.C.D., trauma, stress reduction, LGBT, family difficulties, couples therapy, grief, and P.T.S.D. I am passionate about helping people and I look forward to supporting you on your journey. Thank you for your time, Diane Smith

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Leigh Sturm

Offering therapy in PA
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
21 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania with over 18 years of experience. I earned my Master's degree from Slippery Rock University in 2002. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including trauma, Veteran's with PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss, life changes, and stress. I am a board certified telemental health provider and I am looking forward to working with you. I am also a certified EMDR therapist. I utilize an eclectic therapeutic approach to adapt to the unique needs of each client, depending on needs and goals.

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Lori Fitch

Offering therapy in PA
License: MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania with over 19 years of diverse experience in outpatient therapy with people ranging from age 3 to 86. After graduating from Chestnut Hill College in April of 2001, I quickly became experienced in trauma counseling by working with survivors and the victims' families of the September 11th terrorist attacks. Over the course of the last nineteen years I have pursued further training in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and I am a trained member of the Lehigh County "Flight Team" which is a team that travels to county school districts to work with students and staff that have experienced a crisis. In addition, to outpatient therapy, I am a high school school counselor. This position has provided me with opportunities to create programs that support students' mental health concerns, as well as, programs to support parents. Approaches include cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, psychodynamic and rational-emotive strategies that will be tailor made to your needs. In addition to trauma, I have worked with clients on the following: Generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, life changes, parenting issues, body image, divorce, bipolar disorder, depression, work place bullying, self-esteem, empty nest syndrome, phobias, and sexual identity issues. I am a warm, open-minded, non-judgemental, and interactive therapist that believes that a sense of humor is vital in counseling. You can expect active listening, understanding, support, and direction in your counseling journey. It is a privilege to be a counselor and I look forward to working with you!

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Sheri Durricks

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
17 years of experience

I am a therapist specializing in mental health, alcohol, and other substance disorders. I have experience with family and couples therapy as well. Additionally, I worked with client’s for over 15 years with a wide variety of challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, domestic abuse, and other life challenges. My counseling style is warm and engaging. I have a non-judgmental approach and believe in demonstrating empathy to my clients. My therapeutic approach is cognitive -behavioral, motivational interviewing and rational emotive counseling. I will tailor therapy according to your needs. Change is always constant. It takes courage to seek help for a more fulfilling a meaningful life. If your ready to step the first step, I am here to support, encourage and empower you. I look forward to working for you.

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Andrea Gahagan

Offering therapy in PA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Pennsylvania working as a therapist in mental health and substance use disorders. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, substance use disorder, and childhood trauma. I have also helped many people who experience low self-esteem, and who struggle with body image/self-love. 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, person-centered, strengths-based, and solution focused approaches. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I look forward to working with you!

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Stephen Neel

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC, LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

I have been a mental health counselor for the past 22 years. A lot of my background is in crisis management as well as treating trauma. I worked with children between the ages of 9 and 17. I am currently licensed in the state of Pennsylvania as well as New York. My orientation uses ACT principles as well as cognitive behavioral techniques. I am trained in EMDR and also specialize in depression as well as anxiety. I also do marriage and couple counseling. I look forward to working with you in the future.

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Victoria Minor

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Welcome to my profile! I am licensed professional counselor with 5 years of clinical experience doing group and individual therapy sessions. I hope to use my counseling experience to help individuals on BetterHelp who are struggling. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, depression, bipolar disorder, and trauma and abuse. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My counseling style is eclectic, meaning that I use interventions from many different therapy modalities such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I also have an interest in using creativity in counseling whether that be through writing or other forms of art. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. My personality as a therapist has been described as being cheerful, friendly, patient, funny, and supportive. I am also open to feedback from clients as I value honesty and open communication. Receiving feedback from my clients helps me become a better therapist. It takes a lot of bravery to seek help for your concerns so if you’re looking at my profile, you are already taking the next step! One of my favorite quotes by Seneca is “If one does not know to which port one is sailing, no wind is favorable.” Whether you have been in therapy before or this is your first experience with counseling, I hope to guide and support you to a life that seems more fulfilling.

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Carole Boes

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGrief
35 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 35 years of professional work experience. My clinical focus has been in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression and developing coping strategies for dealing with major life transitions, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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.

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Brian Young

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesDepression
11 years of experience

The connection one makes with their therapist is what makes or breaks the progress that can be made in therapy. I pride myself in my ability to connect with my clients. If you feel you can’t seem to find the right connection for yourself or your child, I’m the guy to call! I don't treat a diagnosis, disability, or disorder...I treat people. I believe anyone and everyone can benefit from the therapeutic process, if they put the necessary work in. Remember, a healthy mind can have a global impact on one's emotional and physical well being. I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, intimacy related issues, & parenting 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Merissa Lindsay's avatar and link to their profile

Merissa Lindsay

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 11 years of professional therapy experience. However, I have been working in the social work field for 17 consecutive years. I have experience working with clients who have mild to severe mental illness via my work in inpatient hospitals, group homes, case management, behavioral health insurance management, elementary, middle and high school settings. I have spent the past 11 years of my career providing counseling services to women and children in an Outpatient Therapy setting. I continue to provide in person Outpatient Therapy services on a fulltime basis in addition to my platform on Better Help. I have many years of experience with helping clients manage stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find counseling in West Kittanning

Finding the best therapist close by in West Kittanning 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 West Kittanning. 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 West Kittanning, 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 West Kittanning 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 West Kittanning 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 West Kittanning, elsewhere in Armstrong, 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 West Kittanning area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed West Kittanning 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 West Kittanning 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 West Kittanning 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 West Kittanning, 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 West Kittanning 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 West Kittanning 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 West Kittanning 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:

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 West Kittanning 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 West Kittanning 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 16201 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 West Kittanning 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 West Kittanning 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 West Kittanning, 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.

West Kittanning 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of West Kittanning.

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

16201

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