This is Victoria Baker's avatar and link to their profile

Victoria Baker

Offering therapy in PA
License: MA,LPC,CRC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
30 years of experience

Welcome to Better Help. I am Victoria and I am very happy to be able to offer you a variety of styles of communication through video chat, speaking on the phone or emailing. I have over 35 years of counseling experience and provide a positive and warm environment to help you move forward on your journey. I use a Reality Therapy based counseling approach along with CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). My specialty areas are Career Changes, Life Changes, Parenting, Stress and Anxiety counseling. I have much first hand experience as a career military spouse and truly understand the stressors that military life puts on families. I am fluent in ASL and work daily with Deaf and Hard of Hearing people as well as those with vision loss. I have been practicing yoga since 2001 and look forward to helping you find a variety of techniques to help you cope with life's daily stress through healthful activities. I check messages 3 times daily but always leave a message stating your optimum contact method and preference for time.

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Nadine Porter

Offering therapy in PA
License: MSW,LCSW,LISW-S
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

Hi there! I’m Nadine and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with ten years of experience. Are you stressed? Anxious? Sad? Do you have problems you feel can’t be resolved? Do you have relationship problems or problems with your children? Are you lonely? I can help with all of that and more! I’m a great listener, extremely compassionate, and most of all, I’m not pushy. I’m here to listen and walk through the tough parts of your life with you while you make the major decisions. I’m very open-minded and I never pass judgement on anyone. If you think we’d be a good fit, please schedule with me. You are not alone. I am here for you. Thank you for considering me as your therapist.

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Amy Bryant

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor located in Pennsylvania and have been in practice for about 30 years. My first career was in music. After leaving New York CIty, moving to PA, and starting a family, I became involved with a postpartum support group and , a few years later, decided to get an MA in Counseling. I feel most comfortable seeing myself as a work partner with my client. You bring your story, and together we explore what changes you might want to make in yourself and in the direction of your narrative to promote your well-being. I have training in many modalities, all of which work better after establishing a space for you that feels safe, nonjudgmental, and respectful, We are not often given the encouragement and the opportunity to talk about ourselves, to pull over for an amount of time each week and make sure we are living as well and deeply as we want to be. That is what therapy can offer, and I hope that the knowledge and experience I've gathered through the decades, both in and out of the office, may be helpful to you.

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Elyse Alleman

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC,NCC
AddictionsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

Hello! I understand that life can be challenging and difficult to navigate at times. I have been in the helping field for 10+ years helping individuals navigate through various stages of life. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including addiction, depression, anxiety, career and life decisions, relationship conflict, individuals with severe mental illness and supporting the family member of those with severe mental illness. My therapy style is both person centered and holistic. I want to give you the reigns to navigate this difficult time but also keeping in mind and addressing your physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. I'll be a listening ear while respectfully providing insight, validation, compassion and not placing judgement or stigma. I commend you for taking this step in seeking help and I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Tracy Griffith

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

I am licensed in Pennsylvania, Arkansas and Texas with 20 plus years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbt-related issues, & coping with 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. 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.

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LaToya Larke

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, career difficulties, & depression. 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.

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Abner Santiago

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

The counseling process is a collaborative experience. A main goal is to improve overall functioning and quality of life. I'll work with you to regain that positive outlook and make life changing strides. I have extensive experience working with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, and depression. I look forward to assisting you on this journey.

This is Nataliya Novikova's avatar and link to their profile

Nataliya Novikova

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, confidence, teenage problems, couples issues, communication problems and gender identity issues. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.I strongly believe in individual approach and capitalizing on unique strengths and talents that every person has.

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Kayla Edwards

Offering therapy in PA
AddictionsSelf esteem
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

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Jennifer Kimlingen

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
9 years of experience

Welcome! I am very glad you have landed here. Grief and loss can be very confusing and difficult journeys to navigate, however, with the right support, you can begin to explore a new path forward. Although death is a part of life, humans constantly receive unhelpful messages about how, when and where to grieve. There is NO right or wrong way to move forward, only your way, keeping your loved one close to you always. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who has spent the majority of my career working in end-of-life care. I provide services for anyone experiencing any type of loss due to a death and specialize in grief counseling for all ages, prenatal loss, prolonged grief disorder and supporting children's bereavement through education and play therapy. Additionally, I offer support for individuals working through anxiety, depression, parenting issues and postpartum changes. I commend you for seeking support. I am a safe space for you to begin expressing your feelings in a safe, confidential and compassionate place.

How to find counseling in Whitaker

Finding the best therapist close by in Whitaker 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 Whitaker. 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 Whitaker, 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 Whitaker 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 Whitaker 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 Whitaker, elsewhere in Allegheny, 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 Whitaker area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Whitaker 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 Whitaker 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 Whitaker 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 Whitaker, 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 Whitaker 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 Whitaker 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 Whitaker 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 Whitaker 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 Whitaker 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 15120 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 Whitaker 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 Whitaker 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 Whitaker, 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.

Whitaker 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 Whitaker.

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

15120

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