This is Jessica Conway's avatar and link to their profile

Jessica Conway

Offering therapy in VA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

It's great news that you're here! It takes a lot of courage to reach out and ask for help, especially since so many of us think that we "should be able" to take care of what's bothering us on our own. Whether you are seeking counseling to address a specific situation or you just want to take stock of your life in general, you are acknowledging that you would like things to be different. For change to happen, well, things need to change. What we often don't realize is that changing requires taking action, and that in of itself is a skill to be learned and practiced. My name is Jes Conway and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 19 years of experience working with individuals, families and couples in a wide range of settings. I really am excited to get to know you and to see how I might be of service. You and I both have knowledge to bring to our work together, for you are the expert on your own life and experiences, and I have some skills to teach and methods to help you find the ways to practice these that best suit your personality and preferences. A major theme in much of my work is teaching clients how to capitalize on difficult moments, thoughts and feelings rather than attempting to push them away. By learning to take a peek at these unpleasant experiences, we can begin to realize that they are very useful in helping to identify some of the thought and behavior patterns that have led to our frustrations and dissatisfaction. Of particular interest to me is exploring with clients how alcohol/substance use is affecting their lives. I find that some of my most rewarding work is with people who suspect or know that they are having difficulty due to powerlessness over substances. I utilize a non-judgmental and curious approach and truly am interested in helping others discover what substances are doing for them, so that we can find alternate ways to achieve the same results. If abstinence or recovery is already your goal, it's helpful to know that outpatient counseling is a wonderful compliment to your chosen recovery program. In addition, I enjoy working with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, lack of purpose or meaning, low self-esteem/ self-worth, life transitions/feeling "stuck," and relationship issues. I am also a strong proponent of communication and assertiveness training; I believe that it’s essential to affirm and validate one another's experiences, regardless of whether we agree or disagree. I look forward to meeting and working with you. Take care until then.

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This is Dr. Sharon Coffey's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Sharon Coffey

Offering therapy in VA
License: PsyD,LPC,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
31 years of experience

Hello. I am pleased that you are taking time to learn more about me and my practice philosophy. I am a Doctor of Psychology practicing as a licensed mental health counselor. I am a licensed in both Florida and Virginia. I have been practicing in the field, helping individuals achieve healthy happier lives, as an individual, in their personal relationships and at work, for over 21 years. I have worked with clients who have a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, and career challenges, to name a few. I also assist many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. I meet you where you are and am focused in assisting you in reaching your personal goals. My approach combines cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, other Cognitive Behavioral therapies, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, and Structural Family Therapy, as well as Art Therapy. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families in a variety of settings and phases of life. Each experiencing a range of life struggles and mental health concerns. My areas of specialty include working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief/loss, ADHD and family issues, both parenting and couples. My counseling approach is eclectic in that I use what makes sense to my client’s needs. Predominantly, I use client-centered, cognitive behavioral and solution-focused therapies in addition to elements of mindfulness. I am passionate about helping others feel good about themselves and effectively manage through life’s trials and tribulations, in an effort to lead a life of purpose, fulfillment, and joy. I always consider feedback I receive from clients. I believe that YOU have the answers and I am there to assist you in locating these answers and use them to fulfill your goals and enrich your life. As we take this journey together, I am sure that we will be able to use your strength and knowledge in combination with mine to get through any challenge you are facing. I can interact with you in whatever manner you are most comfortable. I know how hard it can be to find a counselor who you feel a connection with. I would be honored to work with you through this stage of your life.

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Sherrell Wynder

Offering therapy in VA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
14 years of experience

Greetings! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia with over 10 years of experience working as a Psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, familial and relationship issues, life stressors, grief and loss, and even career challenges. I also have strong connections and experience working with our wonderful service members and their families as I am a Navy brat and former Air force spouse. My counseling style is personable and interactive. I believe in meeting everyone where they are in their journey, but also to challenge them to reach for and meet attainable goals. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psycho-dynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our interactions and treatment plan to meet your unique journey. From a strength’s perspective, you are already winning simply by being on this site and reading this information. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. Let’s work together to help you become the Change Agent of your own story!

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Dr. Marie Smith

Offering therapy in VA
License: Ph.D.,NCC,LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience

Dr. Marie Smith I have received a Ph.D. and possess board licensure and certification at the state and national l level, as a licensed professional counselor, counselor supervisor, school counselor: k-12, educator and administrator. I have over 25 years of counseling experience. My clinical experiences have been across the age-span. I have provided treatment in schools, hospitals, clinics, and correctional facilities for adults and juveniles. My scope of professional practice crosses the age span, focusing on societal established transitional milestones and the expectations in which we measure and develop personal self-acceptance through family, peer groups, school, career, and intimate relationships, as we cross various developmental stages. As a veteran educator and administrator, I am able to integrate past and present experiences, with reflective thoughts of how we arrive to our current place, from childhood to adulthood. My educational training also includes the ability to work with individuals previously diagnosed in childhood, young adulthood, or adult acquired disabilities, such as developmental disabilities, ADD/ADHD, impairments in learning: Specific Learning Disability, behavior, including sensory impairments such as autism, and cognitive/intellectual disabilities. Family and couples' therapy is highly advocated, in my practice, when the evidence presents the need beyond individual or online therapy to achieve the articulated counseling goals. Referrals will be recommended, as identified. In the therapy session, the presenting concerns may include, but is not limited to: Coping Skills Anger Management Anxiety Depression Interpersonal Relationships-Teen through Adulthood Adjustment and Adaptive Behavior Concerns Trauma and Resiliency: Adverse Childhood Experiences Divorce, Custody, and Mediation College and Career Readiness Workplace Dynamics Problem Solving Skills

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

Shojuana Watson-Ayers

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
3 years of experience

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!

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This is Cynthia Harford's avatar and link to their profile

Cynthia Harford

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
19 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. 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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This is Dr. Maureen Kelly's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Maureen Kelly

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
26 years of experience

I have over 26 years of experience treating children & adults with a variety of mental health concerns & diagnosis. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, with a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. I have worked in group homes; hospitals; outpatient settings; correctional facilities; & private practice. I also have a background in education. In therapy, I apply the principles of counseling & psychology to diagnose & treat adults & children, while helping each individual achieve a healthy sense of self & a strong ability to process life's challenges. When requested, I incorporate a sensitive Biblical approach to the techniques of cognitive behavioral & family therapies in order to provide individualized treatment, in a Christian, community-based, outpatient setting.

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This is Vanessa Latorre's avatar and link to their profile

Vanessa Latorre

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed clinical social worker in Virginia with over 15 years of professional experience. I have helped both teenage and adult clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, self esteem issues and depression. My treatment approach is client centered and humanistic. I specialize in methods such as DBT, CBT, motivational interviewing and solution focused talk. I understanding the importance of working thru a trauma informed lens and 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. I look forward to meeting you and hope we are good fit for one another.

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Robert Lambert

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Hello! Taking the first step to reach out and better yourself through therapy is a courageous thing. I am licensed therapist in Arizona and Virginia with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorders, Complex Trauma, PTSD and life changes.. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I believe in meeting the client where they are at in their journey, with no judgment to provide a place of comfort and to work on hard issues. I am very easygoing while holding us accountable in the sessions to achieve therapy goals.

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This is Francine Schwartz's avatar and link to their profile

Francine Schwartz

Offering therapy in VA
Relationship issuesCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

I am licensed in District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, career difficulties, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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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How to find counseling in Merrifield

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Merrifield 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 Merrifield 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 Merrifield 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 Merrifield, 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 Merrifield 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 Merrifield 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 Merrifield 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 Merrifield 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 Merrifield 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 22116 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 Merrifield 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 Merrifield 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 Merrifield, 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.

Merrifield 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 Merrifield.

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

22031, 22042, 22081, 22082, 22116, 22118, 22119, 22180

Popular cities near Merrifield, VA

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