This is Maurice Ponder's avatar and link to their profile

Maurice Ponder

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyDepression
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, my name is Maurice J. Ponder and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. I received my Masters of Arts in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. I have been in the mental health field for the past 10 years and I have a heart for individuals who struggle to cope with life’s stressors. I take an eclectic approach to therapy; I have a desire to see individuals meet one’s goals, grow, and live life to the fullest. I have worked in several different settings over the years, including detoxification units, crisis stabilization units, and psychiatric hospitals. Additionally, I have worked with various populations throughout the years ranging from children and teenagers who struggle with Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, and depression to adults who live with bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder, and schizophrenia. Currently, I serve individuals in a public mental health agency where I assess and work closely with individuals who battle with a serious mental illness daily.

This is Esker Farris's avatar and link to their profile

Esker Farris

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,MS,MA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
16 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a retired military officer/Veteran with twenty-six (28) years of experience helping people of all ages, ethnic and social backgrounds, and their families deal with stress resulting from extended separations, finances, child rearing, marriage, and bereavement. My wife of 47 years and I have raised three children and have served in community sponsored programs for youth and families. I own a privately owned counseling business, Hope Counseling LLC, providing professional counseling services to adolescents, adults, couples, premarital and married couples. CBT and Prolonged Exposure trauma trained by the Beck Institute; REBT trained by the Ellis Institute; EMDRIA approved EMDR training by EMDR Consulting; EFT training by the Baltimore-Washington Institute for Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT); Couple Counseling trained by the Gottman Institute; Personality Assessment training by the Personality Insights Institute.

This is Rae Linkous's avatar and link to their profile

Rae Linkous

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Why did you decide to become a counselor? I have always found that making connections with others is what drives change. I want to be able to provide others with that connection to help them find the best version of themselves and to help them through challenging situations in their lives. With my own personal experiences in my childhood, my goal has always been to help others overcome their circumstances, to show them they are not limited by their experiences and trauma. What would you say to a potential client? *This world is full of things and situations that make us feel powerless and not in charge of out own lives. My philosophy, and what drives my approach to therapy, is about learning to take control over yourself despite what is going on around you, or what has happened to you. You are the ultimate driver in your life, you find power within yourself. How does your personality influence your approach to therapy? *I am a no nonsense, down to Earth individual. I feel that I am straight forward and that helps me challenge clients to address the most difficult areas in their lives, the areas in which that hold them back from their full potential. I also believe that education is key, understanding how the brain works and how trauma affects the brain, it’s about using these concepts to help drive change. Brief description of Work Experience? *I did my internship at a Domestic Violence shelter for women and children as well as therapeutic day counseling in school settings. I have worked the past 7 years in residential treatment, 1 year doing outpatient, specializing in kids and teens with complex and severe trauma. I have worked extensively with self-harm, suicidal ideations, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, anger, aggression, defiance/conduct, family conflict, sexualized behaviors, trauma (sexual, physical, neglect, mental/psychological). I currently work outpatient therapy seeing both adults and children. Brief description of Education background? *BS in Pre-med Biology, Chemistry, and Psychology from Bluefield College in 2012 *M.Ed. In Human Services and Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lindsey Wilson College in 2015 My modalities include, but are not limited to, TF-CBT, Client Centered, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, DBT. I do not believe in a one size fits all therapy approach and try to cater my therapies to the need of the client. My modalities include, but are not limited to, TF-CBT, Client Centered, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, DBT. I do not believe in a one size fits all therapy approach and try to cater my therapies to the need of the client.

This is Shojuana Watson-Ayers's avatar and link to their profile

Shojuana Watson-Ayers

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Virginia with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping individuals, couples, & families with depression and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, anger management and the list goes on. 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!

This is John Daughtrey's avatar and link to their profile

John Daughtrey

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Anger managementSelf esteem
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

My journey to help others lead their best lives started over 15 years ago. I have worked to help children, youth, and adults offering them a range of therapy services to guide them through life’s challenges and most trying times. Life can get difficult, and sometimes a little help from a professional Psychotherapist can make things better. I care about your well-being and provide you all the tools you need in order to seize the day and learn how to tackle even the most traumatic circumstances. I use a blend of brain and body based therapies. My primary modality is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy), based on the Adaptive Information Processing model. Neuroscience and studies on Neuroplasticity are bearing out that the mind can heal itself. Old pathways and negative memories can be updated with new adaptive information. EMDR uses eye movements and other forms of physical tapping and Bi-Lateral stimulation to help the brain process old stuck memories and trauma. Not just for Big Trauma's like car accidents, it can help with many issues from the past, present and perceived future concerns including PTSD, trauma, depression, anxiety and more specific issues such as religious abuse, shame, guilt and pain management.

This is Katie Halsey's avatar and link to their profile

Katie Halsey

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseEating disordersSelf esteem
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Tennessee and Virginia with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & eating disorders. As a first responder myself, I also have experience working with first responders and military personnel. 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!

This is Tyerell Dotson's avatar and link to their profile

Tyerell Dotson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Thanks for visiting my profile! I am a licensed therapist that is passionate about providing treatment or support to those in need. Though I specialize in working with military service members, veterans, and their families, I have supported a wide range of clients in meeting their mental health goals. Together, we can work toward addressing concerns with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, or depression. My approach to therapy is collaborative because I genuinely believe that I'm simply here to guide you to the space you want to be in. The journey will take commitment and a willingness to change but it will be rewarding. The good thing is that you are taking the first step, which is reaching out for help. My hope is that you've enjoyed what you've read and you are as eager as I am to work together!

This is Kaitlin Carter's avatar and link to their profile

Kaitlin Carter

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefEating disorders
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! Welcome to Better Help! My name is Kaitlin Carter, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia with 6 years of professional experience. I have a wide variety of goals I've helped clients work towards, and identify areas of expertise in: helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings, working with clients from all backgrounds. 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.

This is Briana Williams's avatar and link to their profile

Briana Williams

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

As a licensed therapist with 5 years of mental health experience, I have been given the gracious opportunity to provide holistic, client-centered, and evidenced based therapeutic interventions to meet the different needs and/or goals of invigorating individuals. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply guidance through life’s transitions, Im here to provide a safe space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My therapeutic style is warm, empathetic, and collaborative, fostering a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship in respect, understanding, and mutual empowerment. I am proud of you for taking the steps to be the best version of you. Today, you made the decision to create positive change and a life filled with purpose and fulfillment. I look forward to accompanying you on your therapeutic journey.

This is Dolores Cancino's avatar and link to their profile

Dolores Cancino

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW-BACS
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
24 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! If you are exploring Better Help, it is likely that you are struggling with something significant in your life. Finding the right person to help you through these challenges is very important. If you don't have a good relationship with your counselor, you won't make the progress you are hoping to achieve. I want to provide you with some information about me in order to help you decide if my experience and style is the right match for you. I have been a social worker for more years than I care to admit! (more than 20) and have experience working with people from all different backgrounds who are struggling with a wide variety of challenges. My experience began in the Family Services arena working with challenges related to Abuse and Neglect and Foster Care and Adoption. I then transitioned into Crisis Social Work in an Inpatient Hospital Setting serving those with Serious Mental Illness and their Families. A significant part of my career has been spent with the Active Duty Military and Veteran populations. I specialized as a Trauma Therapist and have been working with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, adoption and foster care challenges and challenges of Caregiving. The feedback I receive from clients and co-workers is that they find me to be caring and nonjudgmental, and they appreciate that I am honest and direct with them. You can expect me to walk with you through whatever difficulties you are facing and help you learn more about yourself and the way you interact with the world. Currently, I have availability late in the day (ET); I can interact with you in whatever manner you are most comfortable. I find it helpful to participate in video sessions so that we can get to know each other better. I am also available to you via phone and text if that is more comfortable for you. I check messages several times during the day and will get back with you. I know how hard it can be to find a counselor with whom you feel a connection. I would be honored to work with you through this stage of your life.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Colonial Beach

Finding the best therapist close by in Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach. 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 Colonial Beach, 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 Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach, elsewhere in Westmoreland, 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 Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Colonial Beach, 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 Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Colonial Beach 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.

Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach 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 22443 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 Colonial Beach counselor?

Before seeing your Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach.

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 Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach, 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.

Colonial Beach 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 Colonial Beach, 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 Colonial Beach.

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

22443

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist