Navigating life stressors can be difficult, and speaking with a therapist can help. When finding a therapist, Chesapeake, VA has a few different options.

Different in-person professional counseling practices and outpatient community centers are available, or you can work with an experienced counselor on an online platform like BetterHelp. Whether you are seeking mental health services for behavioral challenges, low self-esteem, anxiety disorders, or family conflict, speak with a Chesapeake-based professional in the mental health field to find your authentic self and live a more fulfilling life.

 

This is Dr. Trygve Trosper's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Trygve Trosper

Offering therapy in VA
License: LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
20 years of experience

Hi, I am Dr. Trygve B. Trosper, a skilled and well-informed therapist. I am based in Chicago, IL but I’m licensed as a LPC in Illinois, Virginia, and Washington D.C. My psychotherapy experiences expand over two decades from hospital settings to private practice. Treatment specialties include; parenting, PTSD, depression, anxiety, conduct disorder, anger management and couple/relationship problems. As an eclectic therapist, I know that individuals are unique and he/she/they warrants an individualized treatment plan to meet their specific needs. Lastly, I am a retired military veteran. Your Choice The freedom of choice is a great characteristic that all individuals possess as they aim to navigate the different environments encountered throughout their lifetime. Therefore, understanding our life choices can bring freedom to the mind, that will not only strengthen one's self resolve but help to cultivate healthier relationships as well. Thanks, I look forward to hearing from you soon.

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Heather Aldridge

Offering therapy in VA
License: MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Congratulations on taking a very important, and sometimes scary, first step into searching for a counselor! I believe I can help you navigate this "stuck-place" that you find yourself in. I am currently a private practicing therapist in my small town, and I work with individuals just like you who are struggling. Before I struck out on my own, I worked for 3 years in the community mental health clinic, where I assessed individuals and then worked collaboratively with them to develop a plan to move forward. Prior to that, I worked as a crisis stabilization clinician where I entered my client's homes daily for a specific period of time to help them through an identified crisis. I have also volunteered my time at a Christian Free Clinic where clients who are unlikely to have access to counseling are able to receive it. Each of these settings has given me a unique perspective on my clients and compassion for the hurting. I work with clients using a client-centered approach, meaning that you will have much to say about the direction of therapy. My training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which addresses how your thoughts influence your behaviors, which influence your feelings. I also have had much success by adding Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to my work with clients. This approach identifies distressing feelings, uses mindfulness skills to cope (or accept) those feelings, and then builds you back up by identifying action steps that will bring you more in line with who you want to be. I am currently only accepting daytime appointments and am unable to offer video sessions. I am ready to do phone sessions or chat sessions where my time is dedicated to just you for that appointment. I am excited to begin this journey with you!

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Arielle Griffin

Offering therapy in VA
License: MSW,LCSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in the state of Florida, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the District of Columbia with three years of post-graduate experience. I have worked in both outpatient medical clinic care, acute hospital care, and with Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient Programs. I also have experience providing individual, group, and family therapy to those who have experienced trauma or are navigating grief. In addition to this, I work with clients experiencing stress, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges and more. I would describe my style as inviting and caring. My counseling approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic and Client-centered therapy. I will listen, support you, and provide compassion. Together, we will work to ensure our sessions and treatment plan will be unique and designed to fit your needs. I am eager to work with you regarding issues you may be having. I understand it is not always easy to begin therapy, but I am here to help and empower you. Outside my work as a therapist, I enjoy reading, traveling, taking yoga classes, exercising and practicing mindfulness.

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Dr. Marcela Mejia

Offering therapy in VA
License: PsyD
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience

There are times in life when we face personal, professional, or relationship challenges that can leave us feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about ourselves or our choices. Hello, I am Dr. Marcela Mejia, a bilingual (Spanish/English) Licensed Clinical Psychologist in the state of Florida and Virginia. I have been working in the field of clinical psychology, for over 25 years. Working in both clinic and private practice settings; I have extensive experience with an array of populations and their mental health challenges. I specialize in helping adolescents and adults understand and manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma related issues. It is my experience that the best results come when a therapist and client work as a team, focusing on specific goals. It is the therapeutic alliance that brings healing and helps to create momentum to accomplish your goals. It is essential that you find a psychotherapist with whom you feel comfortable discussing the important details of your life. I am committed to providing a nurturing environment and helping you develop coping skills so you can unlock your creativity and thrive, becoming the best version of yourself. I have extensive training in a range of modalities including, cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, strength-based, mindfulness-based, and humanistic therapies, and motivational Interviewing. I focus on each individual holistically, studying your point of view at all stages of the treatment through assessment of your current emotional and mental state. I offer my knowledge, experience, and expertise to help you find peace of mind, unload your suffering and pain, renew your sense of hope and freedom, and make healthy choices to move toward a full, authentic, and harmonious life. I find my work deeply rewarding and I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.  Congratulations on your decision to take charge of your life and be who you are. I appreciate your courage and look forward to assisting you on this journey. You don't have to do this alone. specialties: • Depression • Anxiety / Stress • Trauma and PTSD • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder • Anger management & Communication • Relationship issues • Grief / Loss • Drug and Alcohol Addiction / Abuse • Coping with Life transitions (i.e., divorce, becoming a care giver, job loss, re-establishment sense of self / identity)

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Linda Griffin

Offering therapy in VA
License: NCC, NCCC,LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
24 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a certified LPC Supervisor with over 24 years of experience in providing counseling services. My earlier experience as a teacher, both secondary and post-secondary, laid the foundation for my passion for education, life-long learning, and the capacity for personal evolvement. In addition to the MA in Counseling, I hold an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and have served as director of Counseling Services as well as university Dean of Student Development. My experience in education has contributed to my belief in personal growth and development, and teaching self-efficacy skill building is a cornerstone of my counseling service. I borrow Baxter Magolda’s theory of self-authorship along the life span and apply it in my counseling. Her metaphor of riding a tandem bicycle is particularly applicable to my practice. My interpretation is that the client is the driver of the counseling experience. They steer and dictate the direction for the session. As the second rider, I provide appropriate information, energy, encouragement, and guidance. My primary modalities for therapy are cognitive-behavioral, client centered, reality therapy, and motivational interviewing. However, I appreciate the client’s integrity and I adapt my techniques according to their needs. I have worked with individuals with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, anger management challenges, relationship conflict, career exploration, eating disorders, self-esteem, grief and loss, panic disorder, sexual orientation and gender identity, and academic skill building. In general, my role as a counselor is to assist the client in conceptualizing the concern, defining objectives for change, and identifying appropriate interventions. I look forward to meeting you, listening to you, and assisting you in defining goals to achieve self-authorship in your life.

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Saundra Ladd

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
22 years of experience

I am licensed in the Commonwealth of Virginia with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients from ages 5 years old and up. I can provide individual, group, family and couples therapy. Some areas of my expertise include, stress, anxiety and anger management, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. 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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Karen Bradley Jackson

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionADHD
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. 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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Leah Fontaine-Edmonds

Offering therapy in VA
AddictionsFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & 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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Rebecca Bunch

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
31 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee and Virginia with 31 years of professional work experience. I am a Christian, a wife and a mother. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. I am a firm believer in prayer and the application of faith to our personal goals in life. If you want to discuss your own faith or include prayer as an important part of your plan let me know and we can do that for sure. My sessions are 45 minutes and scheduled in evening time slots but occasionally I can open up Saturday appointments if that works for you.

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Niadra Pratt

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with over 10 years of professional work experience. As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, my overall mission is to create non-judgement atmosphere in which every person I encounter feels comfortable and safe as we work together to find solutions to reach and maintaining goals that will ensure a productive lifestyle. I approach treatment from a holistic perspective, working from the client’s perspective as well as their strengths. I am compassionate about empowering others to seek their strengths to handle life’s difficulties in a positive way to re-establish a balance of a fulling and meaningful life.

How to find counseling in Chesapeake

Finding the best therapist close by in Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake. 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 Chesapeake, 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake, elsewhere in Chesapeake (city), 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 Chesapeake area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake, 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 23327 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake, 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.

Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake.

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

23320, 23321, 23322, 23323, 23324, 23325, 23326, 23327, 23328

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