Spirit is one thing Wilkinsburg residents are famous for. Spirit gets you through the tough times in life. But not everyone in Wilkinsburg feels the spirit as strongly as others. For many, mental health issues are getting in the way.

If you're struggling to feel the Wilkinsburg spirit, if you're having a hard time getting through the day, each day, consider reaching out to a qualified mental health professional for help. A counselor or therapist can support you in a myriad of ways so that you can forge a path towards mental wellness no matter what the issues you're dealing with may be.

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Jan Hernandez

Offering therapy in PA
License: LCSW, BCD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
35 years of experience

I am a graduate of Bryn Mawr College of Social Work and Social Research Masters Program. Since then, I have worked in adoption, with hospice, and with a variety of people with different problems in my private practice of 25 years. Some of these include relationship counseling, individual counseling, obesity, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, chronic illness, alcoholism, drug addiction, women's issues, and geriatrics. Working with people to be the best that they strive to be is always the only goal that I have. I will help you discover what is right with you. We will use your strengths to make you the best you can be. It only takes a serious commitment from you. Sometimes we may have to dig a little deeper, and that is OK, too. There is no "cookie-cutter" counseling! However, I will always treat you with the respect that you deserve, and encourage you to use the intelligence that you have within you to resolve your issues. It takes courage to change; it often takes a person in emotional pain as well. Whatever has brought you here, I salute you for taking that first step! I look forward to helping you on your journey as you find out how small changes in behavior and thinking can lead to big changes in your life, one step at a time. I am a Certified Diplomate through the National Psychotherapy Association, a Masters Addictions Counselor through the National Association of Addiction Counselors, a member of long-standing in the National Association of Social Workers, and a Masters Addictions Counselor through the National Association of Forensic Counselors. Let's get started on your being the best that you want to be! You are incredibly and beautifully complicated, and you will be impressed with all of your complexities that we will discover together as you begin your journey of self-discovery! Jan

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Dana O'Neill

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

My guess is you hate the person in the mirror because they are so different from what you pictured for yourself by now. You don't know how anyone else could love you because you can't even stand yourself. Are you lost in life and searching for purpose? Maybe you've lost that initial spark in your relationship and are desperately trying to get that feeling back. Or stuck in a rut at your job and just want to quit. You overthink everything and somehow you accomplish nothing. Life has got you overwhelmed, exhausted, unmotivated, hopeless and wondering why you even get out of bed in the morning. Are you getting in your own way? Imagine one day you wake up motivated for your dream job, you actually smile back at the person in the mirror, you are surrounded by people who light your fire all day, and you get excited for the life you created after work. That's what it feels like when you have developed self-worth. It takes a brave soul to get in touch with one's vulberabilities, but if you do that you will better understand what you truly need and how to effectively get it. The first step is learning to love and take better care of yourself. It's time to put you first! I have worked in a range of settings (community, residential, private practice) for the last 6 years. I have intensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy which helps clients better regulate their emotions and work well with others. My specialty is working on mindfulness and mind/body connection because I believe that when we take some time to listen to our bodies, we find the ability to better take care of ourselves and truly understand what we need. I believe in the importance of self-care and self-love which will ultimately attract the life you want and help improve relationships with others. When we allow ourselves to embrace our vulnerabilities, we can come out on top as stronger, more confident individuals and accomplish our goals. My strongest specialties include helping clients improve self-esteem, understanding the weight loss journey, anxiety management, identity issues, and relationship issues. I can help you because I was that person above once. I've done the transformation myself and have the DBT and mindfulness skills that will teach you how to love yourself, work well with others, handle your emotions, and attract the life you want. Together we will discover ways to be more comfortable being you and better able to navigate the stressors surrounding you.

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Adam Oldham

Offering therapy in PA
License: M.Ed,,LPC,NCSC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Welcome and hello! My Name is Adam and I am an Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania. I am also a nationally board-certified counselor (NCC) and school counselor (NCSC). I have experience working with children as young as 6 and adults as old as 76, and everything in between! For the past decade, I have worked in various settings with teens, college students, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse and addiction, relationship and family conflicts, grief and loss, and life transitions. I help people through the lens of narrative therapy, which means you and I will start our time together talking about your personal stories – the people, the places, and the experiences that make up who you are – and as time progresses, we will process the themes of these stories and how you understand the way the impact your life. I also use strategies and techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing (MI). In simple terms, most of my work has been supporting incredible people who are experiencing distressing life circumstances and transitions. I have witnessed many of these people successfully navigate these challenges and thrive through the counseling process. If you are struggling with diagnosed mental health difficulties or just a hard season of your life, I would be honored to support and help you discover healing and growth. I look forward to working with you!

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Anna Ruggirello

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC,CGC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
16 years of experience

Anna M. Ruggirello LPC CGC Hello and Welcome! I am a licensed professional counselor and certified grief counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I have over 15 years of experience working with individuals and families. I have worked in a variety of settings helping my patients, and I put my clients first! I believe in providing passionate care. I am warm and compassionate. I am here to encourage you if you are facing a depressive chapter in your life. I will encourage you and treat you with care and concern. Respect is important to me, and I will make certain you are treated warmly. I will provide the attention and time you deserve! If you are facing anxiety, depression and relationship conflict, I can help. I can help you navigate anxious feelings to promote a sense of peace and confidence. I can help by teaching you mindfulness skills and focusing on what you need to do next. I promote finding meaning or trying to make sense of changes. I believe I can help you grow in a positive manner. I cheer and encourage all of my clients to reach their best! I am also able to help with communication issues with family. I support a holistic approach as well as the traditional approach. We will together design a treatment to match your needs. Talking to someone about issues you are facing can be scary and intimidating. I will treat you as a unique sensitive person, and I will keep your narrative and journey confidential. It takes courage and strength to reach out; I am here to help! I will dedicate our time to be meaningful and helpful. Please note I provide a supportive type of counseling, and that should You need a diagnosis or paperwork for reimbursement to insurance company , you need to seek service elsewhere. Specialties Solution Focused Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Grief and Loss Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Reality Focused Therapy Years of Experience 16 Services Offered Messaging, Live Chat, Phone and Video

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Shiloh Johnson

Offering therapy in PA
License: MA,LMFT,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
6 years of experience

Welcome! I am so glad you found your way here. It takes courage to reach out and pursue healing. In this fast paced world, peace can be hard to find. Conflict, trauma, and everyday stressors impact all of us. My goal is to provide a warm setting for you to find rest and peace even in difficult circumstances. I help individuals, couples and families work together to find harmony through reinforcing what is working, repairing what is damaged, and building resilient relationships. I am passionate about helping people work through challenges in the present to discover hope for the future. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and have experience in mobile therapy and private practice. I enjoy using creative therapies both in and out of session in addition to talk therapy. I also have experience working work with children and adolescents using Child Centered Play Therapy skills. There is hope for all people and relationships, and I aspire to transfer that hope to you. I look forward to working with you.

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Melissa Bish

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & 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.

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Natalia Vergara-Berenda

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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. Access my private practice link here! https://provider.growtherapy.com/book-appointment?id=21465&utm_source=provider-sourced&utm_medium=booking-link&utm_campaign=provider-dashboard

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Hayley Joyce

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Dawn Madden

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have a ton of experience in the substance use field and trauma related 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 and I am here to be a safe space for you.

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Catherine McQuaid

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with more than 8 years of professional counseling experience. My journey as a therapist has been a rich tapestry of experiences in schools and various outpatient therapeutic settings. My primary areas of focus include anxiety and depression, self-esteem, grief and loss, work stress, and interpersonal effectiveness. I believe in making therapy engaging and effective for clients. By incorporating a mix of motivational interviewing with experiential activities, I create a dynamic and expressive space for exploration.

How to find counseling in Wilkinsburg

Finding the best therapist close by in Wilkinsburg 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 Wilkinsburg. 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 Wilkinsburg, 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 Wilkinsburg 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 Wilkinsburg 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 Wilkinsburg, 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 Wilkinsburg area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Wilkinsburg 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 Wilkinsburg 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 Wilkinsburg 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 Wilkinsburg, 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 Wilkinsburg 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 Wilkinsburg 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 Wilkinsburg 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 Wilkinsburg 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 Wilkinsburg 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 15221 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 Wilkinsburg 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 Wilkinsburg 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 Wilkinsburg, 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.

Wilkinsburg 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 Wilkinsburg.

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

15221

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