If you have been feeling like you do not want to do anything or that you just do not want to even get out of bed, you may be suffering from depression. Some other symptoms include fatigue, confusion, and sadness. A Fredericksburg based counselor can help you find out if you have depression and help you figure out what to do about it. 

Located along the Rappahannock River you can sit and watch the sunrise or sunset, throw a line in to catch some fish, or even take a dip in the water if it is warm enough. Although, when you have depression you do not feel like doing much so if you are having some of these symptoms, you should talk to one of the counselors in Fredericksburg about helping you feel better. 

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Goldie Oakes

Offering therapy in VA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
17 years of experience

Hello. My name is Goldie Marker Oakes, Licensed Professional Counselor, and I look forward to working with you. My professional clinical career began in 2006 providing treatment in the mental health field. My primary therapeutic modality includes a strong but eclectic therapeutic modality that incorporates a strong clinical perspective using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Enhancement Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. If you are comfortable with this approach, I also use a holistic and Christian perspective using Mindfulness and Relaxation Therapy, prayer and scripture. My goal as your therapist is too help you find peace, joy, and happiness in life. My job is to help you learn how to overcome your life events, emotions and experiences that have caused you problems functioning normally, relating to others, or even finding motivation to continue on your life's path. My professional experience with both includes clinical approach with a Christian mindset that includes: • treating clinical concerns such as anxiety, social anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, and other clinical concerns. • relationships • self-image, self-esteem, and efficacy • anger management and self-harm behaviors and impulse control My therapeutic approach often incorporates homework such as reading Christian literature or specific scripture, journal and self-reflective writing and practice of specific CBT and DBT strategies outside the clinical setting, at home, and in the community, all of which supports your growth and progress. My goal is for your growth to be internal as you move towards defining or redefining your relationship with Christ. This means a great deal of your progress requires your need to periodically evaluate your own progress through self-evaluation and self-reflection, in addition to my own clinical assessments with your progress. My goal as a counselor is to help you find peace, joy, and happiness in life as you learn to overcome those things in your life that have caused a loss of functioning individually or within the family dynamic. This path is not always an easy one; however, God promises us that we Never have to travel that path alone.

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Olivia Withers

Offering therapy in VA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience

Congrats on starting your counseling journey and prioritizing your health! Hi, I'm Olivia Withers, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) for Virginia. I started counseling to support you in exploring past difficulties, validating hard feelings, recognizing and meeting your personal needs, learning to communicate those needs to others, establishing boundaries, building self and emotional awareness, and accepting all the parts that make you human. Through Better Help, I offer brief counseling (8-10 sessions) that focuses on building coping skills so you can successfully navigate stressors while minimizing anxiety, low mood, fatigue, or burnout. My approach is eclectic, but I strongly lean on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) tools. I also assign homework, as most therapeutic work will happen when you practice between sessions. My typical clients understand that any change, that is about to take place in their lives, starts with them. Before we begin, please ensure my schedule and mode of counseling work for you. I am typically available through BetterHelp Monday through Thursday, 12 pm to 3:00 pm for VIDEO, LIVE CHAT, and PHONE sessions. I generally check messages here twice daily and respond within 24 hours. I appreciate your patience when it takes a bit longer at times, as I may be tending to other clients or professional/personal responsibilities. If these options or methods do not work for you, no worries - you can transition to another provider and find a counselor with more flexibility. If you take this route - click on the icon in the top right corner of the counseling page, and choose "Change Counselor" from the drop-down menu. Make sure you specify in the feedback what you need (video, evenings, weekends, etc) and BetterHelp will re-match you quickly. You may also contact BetterHelp directly at contact@betterhelp.com. All the best, Olivia Olivia Withers, LPC

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Merissa Pryor

Offering therapy in VA
License: MSW,LCSW,LLC
Family conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

Sometimes in the journey of life we could all benefit from someone to journey with us during the difficult times. My name is Merissa and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have over eight years experience in individual counseling as well as advocacy, and mental and emotional health. I specialize in empowering individuals that may be struggling with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, or relationship issues. My main therapeutic approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as I believe there is so much power in learning how thoughts influence behavior and emotion and then changing those negative patterns. I also incorporate holistic counseling and solution based therapy among other treatment approaches and tailor my approach to your needs. I am empathetic, non-judgmental, and very passionate about the work I do. I enjoy being able to help others heal, grow and achieve their goals. I am excited about beginning this journey with you!

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Rae Linkous

Offering therapy in VA
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

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.

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Angela LeGrande

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Angela LeGrande is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has 7 years of experience working with adults and adolescents. Angela's experiences have allowed her to work in various settings such as acute hospitals, outpatient substance abuse treatment centers, community mental health agencies, crisis services, prisons, and jails. She completed her Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice and her Master of Clinical Counseling. I believe that every person has the ability to break through barriers that we are faced with, but sometimes we may need some assistance. I enjoy helping people navigate change, promote growth, healing, and restore hope. Angela utilizes a therapy approach consisting of solution-focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered treatment, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness techniques. Angela believes that increasing your emotional wellbeing and creating a strong foundation is one of the most valuable steps we can take to developing a second chance. Angela believes that every individual is the expert of their own lives. Empathy, respect and compassion are all at the forefront of my work. Through, a therapeutic relationship we can work together to identify your strengths, goals, and resiliency to help you overcome barriers and live a more fulfilling life.

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Daphne Hamburg

Offering therapy in VA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
5 years of experience

Hello, You're probably curious to learn a bit about me and my style. Here goes.. I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker in Michigan and Virginia and have been working with individuals who are looking to make some kind of change in their life for the past 5 years. I began working with women who are survivors of domestic abuse and/or sexual assault and have also worked with individuals who are struggling with substance use and are looking to make a change in their life. Each and every person brings a unique set of strengths and talents to the table that they already have. I believe that each individual I work with has the chance to succeed with their goals and skills that we develop together in sessions My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness utilizing a trauma informed empowerment approach. I am also a kink aware therapist. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you. It would be an honor for me to be part of your journey

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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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Nathalie Mizelle-Johnson

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
28 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina and Virginia with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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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Raquel Cherry

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in District of Columbia with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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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Beth Gillis

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find counseling in Fredericksburg

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Fredericksburg 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 Fredericksburg 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 Fredericksburg 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 Fredericksburg, 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 Fredericksburg 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 Fredericksburg 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 Fredericksburg 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 Fredericksburg 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 Fredericksburg 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 22412 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 Fredericksburg 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 Fredericksburg 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 Fredericksburg, 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.

Fredericksburg 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 Fredericksburg.

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

22401, 22402, 22403, 22404, 22412

Popular cities near Fredericksburg, VA

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