Big Stone Gap, Virginia is tucked in the middle of the Appalachian Mountains and still breathes Americana. With its big-hearted, homey people, Big Stone Gap was the perfect location for the movie by the same name. At times, life can also seem like there are too many gaps between joyous times.

Every day doesn’t have to be a picture perfect, but you don’t have to live with days or weeks of feeling out of touch with the rest of the world. Get matched with one of the professional licensed counselors in the Big Stone Gap area and emerge from the depths to start enjoying life again.

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Sean Butler

Offering therapy in VA
License: LCSW-C,CAADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
3 years of experience

HI everyone! Glad that you reached out. My name is Sean Butler and I am a licensed clinical social worker who loves to work with others to achieve a happy life. As we move through life, we sometimes are effected by mental health --- I rather use the term emotional wellbeing issues. I am here to help you as a partner in this journey. Over the years, from my personal experiences with therapy and education I have been able to create a therapeutic style, which is inviting and warm. I have experience utilizing several modalities including CBT, Psychoanalytic, Mindfulness and Meditation, which I will use in a person-centered manner. I have worked with clients who are affected by multiple emotional well- being issues: depression, anxiety, bipolar, and addictions are some of my favorite emotional well-being issues that I love to work with. I have learned depression can be defined as either a need not meet or loss of purpose in life: anxiety is the fear of the unknown: and with regard to bipolar, if we can harness the positive attributes of this, you will have the tools to create a great life! Following is some more personal information about me: I was born in Royal Oak, Michigan; from age one to age six I lived in England (both my parents were born in Ireland), and I have one brother that is four years younger than me. When we returned to the “States,” I lived in New Jersey. I went to Belmont Abbey College in Belmont, North Carolina ( the first time—apparently I forgot to go back—it was the late 70s), then returned to New Jersey where I began a career as a licensed/assistant chief engineer in power plants in New Jersey. In 1984, I moved to the Lehigh Valley in Pennsylvania, had three children, and then experienced divorced. In 2010, I chose to follow a dream created while in therapy (thank you Dee) to become a therapist and help others. So I returned to school (thank God I had 54 Credits from Belmont Abbey) gaining my Bachelor of Science in Clinical Psychology from Desales University and Masters in Social Work from Marywood University. Since 2017, my wife and I live on the Eastern Shore of Virginia and my full-time job is working with people at a local agency. In closing, I am looking forward to meeting you and walking with you towards whatever goal want to achieve. Until we meet, have a great day! SPECIALTIES • Stress, Anxiety • Trauma and abuse • Grief • Bipolar • Depression • Addictions Response time : My response time during the hours of 9 AM to 5 PM will be limited due to other obligations. Most evenings I am available from 5:30 PM EST to 9:00 PM EST as well as on the weekends where I have more flexibility. Also I prefer to use video platform since this gives us a chance to meet. I will connect by phone/email in between sessions as needed. Thank you in advance. Sean

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Elizabeth Craun

Offering therapy in VA
License: LPC,MA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and have been counseling since 2014. I graduated from Ashland Theological Seminary with a Masters of Arts Degree in Clinical Counseling. I further specialized in additional training in trauma counseling through trainings with PESI. I have worked with clients struggling with stress and anxiety, depression, parenting challenges and coping with life challenges. I have worked in various settings, including correctional facilities, residential facilities and outpatient clinics. I utilize a Client Centered Approach to counseling; this means that we work together to help accomplish goals. You are the expert on your own life so that means I will not tell you what to do but work with you to find solutions that work in your life and with your unique situation. I meet my clients where they are at on their journey in life and it is a privilege to accompany you on your journey. In addition to the Client Centered Approach I also utilize Cognitive Behavioral Techniques and Existentialism, or making meaning. Reaching out for help is a very brave thing to do and everyone needs additional support at different times in life. Seeking a qualified counselor may be the first step towards living the authentic, meaningful life you want to live. I look forward to hearing from you!

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Alyson Whitaker

Offering therapy in VA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hello! My name is Alyson, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I have spent over half of my profession working with clients in crisis. I have worked with clients experiencing issues with depression, anxiety, trauma, life changes, stress management, those managing disabilities and student (college) populations. I have a person centered, solution focused style. I believe in honesty, dignity and respect as core values. My goal is to meet you where you are and assist you with moving to where you want to be. I am aware it takes courage to seek professional help. My goal is to provide you with a safe, nonjudgmental space, to assist you with the tools and skill sets to help you be the best you in moving forward. I’d love to help guide you along the way.

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Ana Boise

Offering therapy in VA
Trauma and abuseParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, depression, & executive and professional coaching. 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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Dr. Bernadette Ward

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoaching
6 years of experience

Hello! I am Dr. Ward. 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, intimacy related issues, 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 and to encourage you to Be Your Focus.

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Kathryn Shumate

Offering therapy in VA
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Sara Matos

Offering therapy in VA
License: LCSW
Trauma and abuseCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

With over 20 years of experience in the Social Service field, I pride myself on my dedication to the safety, wellbeing and stabilization of the children, adults, and families that I works with. My creativity allows me to utilize a series of treatment modalities to assist in successfully empowering my clients while meeting their psychological needs. My approach is non-judgmental, client-focused and strength-based which encourages my clients to freely engage in the planning and goal identification of their own treatment. A few modalities that I specializes in are: Psycho-Educational, EMDR, Play, Sand Tray, Accelerated Resolution, Solution Focused, Internal Family Systems, Brainspotting and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I often incorporates the Stages of Change in my treatment in efforts to meet my clients, “where they are at”. I have earned a Master’s degree in Social Work and one in Public Administration. As a serious student, Sara maintained a 3.97 GPA in both programs. In addition, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Qualified Supervisor and Substance Abuse Professional. I have provided services to many different populations and have embraced my time and experiences as learning opportunities and growth. I have worked in Child Protection, Program and Youth Development; along with Individual, family, Couples and Group Therapy. I have created curriculums and written proposals to establish and maintain well needed Independent Living Skills programs for adolescents that were aging out of foster care. I understand that although the typical social service organizations are closed during the evening and weekend hours, this does not mean that our clients are not in need of services. Therefore, I am often willing and able to meet with my clients during these times.

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Donald "Joe" Hupp

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in over 10 States with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with 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. 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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Behnaz Gitipour

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & anger management. I also have experience working with depression. 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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Kendra Chisolm

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with over 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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!

How to find counseling in Big Stone Gap

Finding the best therapist close by in Big Stone Gap 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 Big Stone Gap. 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 Big Stone Gap, 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 Big Stone Gap 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 Big Stone Gap 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 Big Stone Gap, elsewhere in Wise, or in the greater state of Virginia.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Big Stone Gap 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 Big Stone Gap 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 Big Stone Gap 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 BetterHelp or clinicians 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).

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

Therapists in Big Stone Gap, 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 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 Big Stone Gap 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 Big Stone Gap 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 Big Stone Gap 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 Big Stone Gap 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 Big Stone Gap 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 VA, 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 24219 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 Big Stone Gap 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 Big Stone Gap 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 Big Stone Gap, 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.

Big Stone Gap 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 Big Stone Gap.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Big Stone Gap:

24219

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