Providence, RI, is one of the oldest cities in New England. It was founded in 1636 by a Reformed Baptist theologian who was exiled from the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Its location on the Providence River and access to Narragansett Bay helped the city develop into a busy port. This city was also one of the first cities to industrialize, and it became well-known for its textile manufacturing. In the modern day, Providence has shifted into the service industries, including healthcare and higher learning. This city is an excellent example of resilience and growth, with its history of reinventing itself as new opportunities appeared. If you need help learning how to develop resilience in your life, a therapist in Providence, RI, can help. 

There are a few ways to find a therapist in Providence. Plenty of in-person options are available, but finding the right therapist, counselor, or independent clinical social worker with an open appointment that fits your schedule (without driving all over Providence County) can be challenging. An online therapy platform like BetterHelp helps you find a holistic approach to treatment with a therapist with available appointments that fit your busy schedule. Plus, you can attend sessions from the comfort of your own home. 

Whether in-person or online, a therapist can use a compassionate, collaborative approach to give you the extra support you need to achieve your goals. You can get help with various issues in therapy, including behavioral challenges, family conflict, or identifying your life purpose.

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Sophia Burton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in RI
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LCSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Welcome! My name is Sophia and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. You have taken the first step on the journey to building a better life for yourself . Together we will create a space where you can figure out the changes you would like to make in your life to become happier and more fulfilled. In a non-judgmental, compassionate atmosphere we will talk about what has brought you to counseling at this time, review your strengths, explore what is really important to you and build the skills that will enable you to cope with the difficulties of daily living. Every person is unique and I will draw from a variety of treatment modalities that I am experienced in to find the best fit for you. The different types of therapy I use all have in common a focus on building on a person’s strengths to help them let go of what is getting in the way of them living their best life. The therapeutic approaches I use most frequently are: Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Positive Psychology. I have extensive experience working with young adults, adults, parents and families. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both California and Rhode Island. If this sounds like a good fit for you let me tell you a bit about myself. I was born and raised in the United Kingdom and attended Oxford University for my undergraduate degree. I have been in the US for over twenty years and during that time I have lived on the east and west coast and am now settled in California. I completed my Master of Social Work degree at Rhode Island College. I have worked in a variety of settings including a high school, a community mental health center and a group private practice. My experiences of relocating, being lonely, learning to live in a new culture and raising a family all give me first hand experience of how hard life can be. These life events have brought me to a place where I listen with compassion and without judgement. I look forward to working with you.

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Christine Weber

Clinical therapist offering therapy in RI
Counselor License Type(s): LPC Ct,LMHC RI,Both (licensed in both states )
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
35 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, my name is Christine Weber and I am a licensed LPC in the state of Connecticut, Florida, Maine and a licensed LMHC in the state of RI. I attended Rhode Island College where I received my Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Justice Studies and then a Masters in Agency Counseling. As I began working in the mental health field, I then pursued my Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Rehabilitation Counseling and I am now able to obtain licensure in the two states. I have experience working with all ages and with all types of mental health disorders as well as substance use disorders and then co-occurring disorders. For the past 4 years I have worked mainly with anxiety using mindfulness, CBT and exposure therapy. Over the past 6 years, I have been working with adults with co-occurring substance use and mental health issues. Modalities used : Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Exposure Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing/Motivational Enhancement Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy

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Bethany Virgilio

Clinical therapist offering therapy in RI
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

My name is Beth Virgilio. I have over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health. I believe therapy should be as simple as a non judgmental conversation where clients can leave feeling open to new ideas. I have experience with all ages from young adult through geriatrics. I enjoy the opportunity to incorporate mindfulness strategies and to make goals feel more manageable. I am experienced in CBT and have done extensive work related to anxiety and panic disorder. I look forward to meeting you!

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Diana Farinho

Clinical therapist offering therapy in RI
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Rhode Island with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression. I believe 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 a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you.

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Dr. Cynthia Almonacy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in RI
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Rhode Island with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Hafida Zerouali

Clinical therapist offering therapy in RI
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am an Independent licensed Clinical Therapist in Rhode Island with over 5 years of experience working as an Integrated Behavioral Health Therapist and consultant. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, relationship issues, parenting problems, lack of motivation, self-esteem, career challenges, Grief and losses, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD. I also helped numerous people who have experienced trauma, and emotional and physical abuse. 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. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavior, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing as well as rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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JoAnne Waite

Clinical therapist offering therapy in RI
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Rhode Island with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with coping with grief and loss. 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.

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Dr. Valerie Jenkins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in RI
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Rhode Island with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Latoya Roy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in RI
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Rhode Island with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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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Rutanya Simon

Clinical therapist offering therapy in RI
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
9 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Oklahoma. I have provided therapy for a diverse population of clients over the past nine years. I worked within the court system for three years where I was able to aid people in their recovery process while dealing with life changes and any mental health issues. The last five years I have worked with families to provide a better quality of life in spite of mental health or disparaging circumstances. I have experience with depression, stress, anxiety, anger management, self-esteem, addiction and trauma. I pride myself on being judgement free and providing an atmosphere which is open and safe. My therapeutic approach is conversational, solution-focused and holistic. We will focus on behaviors which are counter productive to desired results and I will aid the you in finding prosocial activities which can promote healthier habits leading to a better life. I will allow you to be the expert of your life while providing support and helping to maintain focus on the goals we determine you would like to meet during the therapeutic relationship. I look forward to being a part of your journey to becoming your best self!!!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Providence

Finding the best therapist close by in Providence 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 in Providence that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Providence. 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 Providence, 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 in the Providence region and in the state of Rhode Island. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Providence or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Providence area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Providence 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 Providence, elsewhere in Providence, or in the greater state of Rhode Island.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Providence area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Providence 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 Providence 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 Providence may not take health insurance, some in the state of Rhode Island may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Rhode Island you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this Providence online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Providence, Rhode Island 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 Providence psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional 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, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Providence 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 Providence helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Providence therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Providence 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 in Providence?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Providence 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.

Providence therapists 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 Providence 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 Providence 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in RI, therapists 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 02906 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Providence counselor?

Before seeing your Providence 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 while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Providence.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. A Providence 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 with a Providence counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Providence, Rhode Island 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.

Providence 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Providence, Rhode Island

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 to customer service 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 Providence.

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

02901, 02902, 02903, 02904, 02905, 02906, 02907, 02908, 02909, 02912, 02918, 02940

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