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Suzy Christopher

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi! Thank you for wanting to learn more about me. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been providing clinical services for the past 18 years. I believe in meeting each person "where they are" in their journey and forming a trusting relationship so that you feel connected and motivated to work toward healing. I strongly believe that relationships are the agent for change, so I work best with others who believe the same. If you are experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, depression, life changes (big or small), transitions, or the stress of life, I would like to talk with you. I will serve as a sounding board, listening ear, and someone to process your experiences with, without judgment. I believe that we each experience life differently, and therefore, I know your experiences will be different and unlike anyone else's. I look forward to hearing from you!

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Menzo Faassen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): LPCC
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi, my name is Menzo Faassen. I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Tennessee and New Mexico. I received my B.S. in Psychology in 1999 from Middle Tennessee State University and I received my M.S. in Community Counseling from Austin Peay State University in 2009. I work full time in Richmond, Virginia (moved here in January of 2022). I am working for a community mental health center as a therapist. I have worked in community mental health and addiction treatment centers since 2007. I have worked with adults and teenagers with trauma, addiction, depression, grief/loss and LGBT issues. I am also a proud member of the LGBT community. My approach to therapy starts out with the basic Rogerian (person centered approach). But, I also incorporate Psycho dramatic techniques (but I can only do this in a video session) into my approach. Psychodrama is a combination of counseling and theater and is often referred to as Shakespearean Psychology. I start where you are. I believe that you are the expert on you and that this is your therapy not mine. So I will tailor my approach and style to what your goal (not my goal) is. I can be as directive as you need. I can function well dealing with thoughts and emotions, looking for solutions, and even a look into reality. A few things to be aware of: 1. While you can send messages to me 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, you may not get an immediate response. Depending on what time you sign up, I could be sleeping, eating, or working with another client. I do respond within 24 hours of getting a new client and often will respond sooner, but you will probably not get an instant response from me. Bear in mind that I do have a full time job that I work during the day. I am not able to respond between the hours of 8 AM and 6 PM (Eastern Standard Time in the US). Please be patient with this. 2. Prior to beginning therapy I request that you send me your home address and phone number. If you prefer you can send a copy of a photo ID. I request this information for a few reasons. The first is so that if there is an emergency (you present with a plan to hurt yourself or somebody else, or I suspect there is child abuse involved) I can alert the authorities in your location. It is also my ethical duty to assure that I am licensed to provide services in the state you reside. 3. Sending messages back and forth is fine, but you will get more value out of BetterHelp if you schedule a live chat, phone or video session with me. You can do that by selecting the schedule session on the right hand side of the screen. 4. It helps to have a goal in therapy, so one question that I will ask is "what do you want to get out of therapy" or "what brought you to therapy". I only ask so we have a direction to go. 5. The more information I have about you the better. So, in way of introduction, some things you may want to share include (your childhood information, any traumatic events, previous relationships, current relationships, work history, family background/relationships, your previous therapy experience, etc.). In other words, use the first message to give me the autobiography of you. I have been in counseling myself and know how scary it can be to enter into the process and I try to make this as comfortable as possible. I look forward to walking with you as you begin this journey of healing and transformation.

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Saunique Eason

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Saunique Eason is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years experience in the field of social work, and over 15 years in the mental health field. Saunique received her Bachelors of Arts in Psychology (2006), and her Masters in Social Work (2010) from Stonybrook University in Long Island, New York. Saunique began her mental career as a Psychiatric Activity Therapist in an acute hospital in Queens New York, and held this position for 10 years, including while working toward her master's degree. Saunique has experience working with adults, children, adolescents and groups with a wide range of diagnosis, in a variety of settings including, inpatient, outpatient and partial hospital, community based organizations, schools and residential facilities. Her passions include working with adolescents and young adults with trauma contributing to current oppositional and maladaptive behaviors. However, Saunique has a zest for helping all people who cross her path in becoming "unstuck" in the behaviors, patterns, cycles and relationships which are working against self- actualization (the realization of one's talent and full potential). Saunique is a culturally sensitive, strengths based, person-centered, trauma informed clinician trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) and DBT (Dialactic Behavioral Therapy), and regularly uses CBT, IFS and Motivational Interviewing concepts and techniques in her therapeutic work. Saunique is also an approved clinical supervisor registered with the Virginia Board of Social Work to provide clinical supervision to Supervisee's in Social Work. Saunique is so glad you stopped by, and is ready to work with you!

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Amanda Gushard-edwards

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Virginia with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Patricia Bowman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefParenting issuesDepression
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Virginia with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & parenting 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.

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Heather Fairfax

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Virginia and California with 7 years of professional counseling experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. As a faith-based counselor, I view therapy with a deep understanding of the spiritual aspects of life, which can be an integral part of your healing journey. My therapeutic approach is rooted in Solution-Focused Therapy, where we focus on identifying and building upon your strengths to create positive change. I believe in a client-centered approach, meaning that you are the expert of your own life, and I am here to provide a supportive and guiding role as we navigate through challenges together. One thing you'll notice about my counseling style is that I'm pretty laid back. I believe in creating a comfortable and non-judgmental environment where you can feel at ease to share your thoughts and emotions. Laughter can be a powerful tool in healing, so don't be surprised if you find me using humor to lighten the mood when appropriate. My primary goal is to foster a supportive, caring, and compassionate therapeutic relationship with you. I deeply value the trust you place in me, and I assure you that your well-being and growth are at the heart of our work together. Life can present us with various hurdles, and seeking help is a courageous step toward self-discovery and personal growth. Together, we will explore your challenges, set achievable goals, and work towards positive solutions that align with your values and aspirations. I sincerely hope that I can be a part of your journey. I am genuinely honored to walk beside you and provide the guidance and support you need to thrive.

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Brittney Journigan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Florida and Virginia with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, bipolar disorder, & depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Tammy Ponder

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersDepression
22 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Michigan, Indiana, Idaho, Montana, Illinois, and Colorado, with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & sleeping disorders. 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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Mary Owen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
9 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Alabama and Virginia with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, depression and loneliness, self esteem, and trauma and abuse. I also work with couples to repair trust, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional intimacy with each other. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Terri Rawson 's avatar and link to their profile

Terri Rawson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Ohio and WV with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Appalachia

Finding the best therapist close by in Appalachia 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 Appalachia 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 Appalachia. 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 Appalachia, 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 Appalachia region and in the state of Virginia. 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 Appalachia 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 Appalachia area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Appalachia 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 Appalachia, elsewhere in Wise, or in the greater state of Virginia.

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 Appalachia 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 Appalachia 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 Appalachia 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 Appalachia may not take health insurance, some in the state of Virginia 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 Virginia 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 Appalachia online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Appalachia, Virginia 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 Appalachia 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 Appalachia 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 Appalachia 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 Appalachia 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 Appalachia 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 Appalachia?

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

Appalachia 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 Appalachia 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 Appalachia 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 VA, 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 24216 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 Appalachia counselor?

Before seeing your Appalachia 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 Appalachia.

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 Appalachia 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 Appalachia 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 Appalachia, Virginia 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.

Appalachia 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 Appalachia, Virginia

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 Appalachia.

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

24216

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