If you are looking for a therapist, Norfolk, VA offers a few options. 

Finding the right therapist can be challenging, but finding one that you work well with may lead to a unique and intimate relationship and an effective, collaborative approach to treatment. You can find solution-focused therapy from an in-person provider or through an online therapy platform. An online platform like BetterHelp can help make it easier to find a therapist who’s a good fit. You can change providers at any time until you find the right one.

A therapist can help with a variety of challenges. They can help you find the right therapeutic techniques to help with mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. But you can also talk to a therapist if you need help finding a good work-life balance or learning how to resolve conflict and overcome past hurts. If you’re interested in a holistic approach to treatment, talk to a Norfolk-based therapist to learn more.

 

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Sabrina Cleveland

Offering therapy in VA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
4 years of experience

Hi there! My name is Sabrina and I am so excited that you’re taking this step to reach out for help.  I’m passionate about creating a safe space where people are free to be open and genuine without fear of judgement. Everyone faces trials and difficulties in life and it is my honor to be able to walk alongside someone and offer support.  In the past there has been a stigma on people who seek out mental health treatment and my hope is that one day, that stigma will disappear completely. Caring for your own mental health and well being is a vital component to overall healthy living. Getting help when you need it is absolutely the best thing you can do for yourself and the other people in your life. My approach is somewhat laid back – no two people are the same so each time I work with someone I want to tailor my style and feedback to best meet their needs. I want to make sure you feel safe enough to be authentic in communicating your needs with me. We will work together to help you meet your goals and get you where you want to be! I’m looking forward to meeting you and learning about what makes you who you are and how I can support you in your journey toward wellness. Let’s get started! 

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Jennifer Lawrence

Offering therapy in VA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

My name is Jennifer Lawrence and I am a licensed professional counselor. I grew up in rural Virginia with a large “village.” From a very young age, I was known to be a helper by my family and friends. I have worked with youth, adults, and families through providing academic, career, and mental health counseling. I am passionate about helping people of all ages, from diverse backgrounds through offering encouragement and support as they pursue their goals. I have served in a variety of settings, including educational institutions and a residential treatment facility. I operate from a person-centered approach with a mixture of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused counseling techniques. You are the expert about you. My focus is to assist you with deciding the path that you would like to follow, acknowledging the reasons that you are motivated to follow that path, identifying and learning the steps to follow that path, and supporting you as you continue on your life’s journey. I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology, a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration, and a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling. I also hold a Certification in Rehabilitation Counseling (CRC) that focuses on working with individuals with chronic illnesses and disabilities. In my free time, I enjoy kettlebell workouts, traveling and spending time with family and friends. I am elated and honored to be able to work in a virtual therapeutic setting that provides services that positively impact the lives of others. I look forward to working with you.

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Hannah Phillips Hale

Offering therapy in VA
License: MA,LPC,ATR
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
7 years of experience

My name is Hannah Phillips Hale. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia, as well as a Registered Art Therapist, currently working toward Art Therapy Board Certification. I am also currently working on my Infant Mental Health certification, as I spent a great deal of professional time focusing on early child development and the dynamics of family interactions. Though I have been licensed since only 2019, I have over 16 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked with individuals of various ages (pregnant mothers and their unborn children, children from birth on and their caretakers, adolescents, teenagers, parents, older individuals), families and couples in a variety of settings (in-home, in office/outpatient, schools, community programs, and more). I strive to approach others with curiosity and an opportunity to learn while also teaching. I see the therapeutic relationship as a kind of partnership, where both you and I work together to collaborate and determine what is or isn't working, and what goals are most appropriate for now or for the future. By using a simplistic approach and focusing on the present moment, we often find confidence and motivation more easily, in order to achieve that "low hanging fruit" of achievable goals. Then, we can also address the big picture with further focus on the small and important details. It is about the process rather than the product. This is the phrase that I like to reference, in regards to our life experiences and within therapy/counseling experiences. As we work toward healing, we often want to find a solution or an answer. Oftentimes, the solutions or answers arise during the process of experiencing and learning. I hope to offer this process of discovery to you, through various therapeutic techniques, and especially through Art Therapy. One does not have to be an artist or have any experience making art, in order to be able to benefit from Art Therapy techniques. In my work, I utilize creative and expressive techniques with clients in order to support a sense of exploration, discovery, and the power that comes with creating. Other approaches and methods that are used in my work include Person-Centered, Supportive and Motivational Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, Humanistic/Existential, Mindfulness Based techniques, Psychodynamic Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Family Systems Therapy. Much of my time in the field has focused on working alongside individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, lack of purpose or motivation, low self-esteem/self-concept, managing life changes or stagnancy, and relationship issues/communication challenges. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a powerful tool that can be used both in the counseling experience itself and also in other relationships, as our interactions and learning opportunities ripple out to impact us in other environments and situations. I look forward to potentially meeting you, learning about you, and working to support you, as we move forward in this life!

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Kristin Pacello

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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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Juanita Stokes

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

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia and in Washington, DC. I have a MA degree in Mental Health Counseling from Marymount University in Arlington, VA and a MA in Religious Studies from Howard university School of Divinity, Washington, DC. I have more than 10 years of experience in helping clients (Individuals and couples) with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I take a person-centered approach to therapy to help the client increase self-awareness, respecting the individuality and uniqueness of each client. I believe self-awareness is key to staying on top of your typical reactions to specific events, challenges, and people. As a retired US Government, GS-15 Deputy Director, I am also familiar with workforce issues. 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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Marci Gilpin

Offering therapy in VA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changesADHD
20 years of experience

Marci Brown Gilpin, LCSW, Certified Telemental Provider (CTMH) Reclaim Counseling: Licensed Clinical Social Workers are professionals that help individuals, families, and groups change behaviors, emotions, attitudes, relationships, and social conditions to restore and enhance their ability to meet their everyday needs. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, it is my mission to contribute to the community by providing quality psychotherapy and supportive services. My work identifies the inherent strengths and qualities of individuals, and assists individuals toward applying these within problem areas. My goals focus on providing counseling services that maintain mindful consideration of family and other environmental influences. I believe individuals do not live separate from familial and environmental influences. I also attend to the multifaceted areas that make up the whole of any person’s life experience. An individual’s emotional, physical and spiritual needs require consideration and assessment in order for effective service delivery. I provide counseling to a wide range of individuals experiencing diverse and unique needs. Throughout my career, I have worked with clients experiencing symptoms of grief and loss, past trauma, anxiety, depression, sleep difficulties, disabilities, attention difficulties and hyperactivity, relationship and family problems, infertility and adoption, as well as coping with adjustments due to life changes .

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Dr. Mary Ann Callen

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I am a VA licensed clinical psychologist who believes that an effective therapeutic relationship blends mutual respect, supportive candor, and gentle humor. I have extensive experience working with Active-Duty service members and retired veterans, first responders, healthcare professionals, and their family members. I work with individuals who are experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, grief, burnout and/or other life stress and challenges. Many of my clients experienced traumatic events, combat or first-responder incidents or forms of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. These individuals, and frequently their family members, were negatively impacted by symptoms of PTSD. I have extensive experience using evidence-based trauma therapies including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. I am also a certified provider and ASCH approved consultant for Clinical Hypnosis. Please know that treatments are available and research shows that evidence-based therapy can improve both personal and professional functioning. Let’s work together.

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Leslie Davis

Offering therapy in VA
License: JD,MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

Hello! My name is Leslie Davis. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the states of California , Virginia and Texas, with over 20 years of experience in the clinical psychotherapy and professional counseling arena in a multiple of backgrounds within private practice, community mental health and hospital settings. I have provided direct services, to both individuals and groups of culturally diverse adults and adolescents experiencing a wide range of concerns and mental health challenges, including bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, complex trauma/PTSD, grief/loss, substance abuse and relationship issues. I am specially trained in Mindfulness- Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Crisis Intervention. I am also a Registered Yoga Instructor (RYT-200). Please reach out to me regarding your best day/time for sessions and I will do my best to accommodate your schedule needs if you do not see appointments available on my calendar. Note: I offer only live video or telephone sessions to my clients at this time. My counseling style is warm and compassionate, with emphasis on the importance of providing a safe, strength-based, and non-judgmental space to my clients. I combine my therapeutic techniques with mindfulness and a sense of humor. As a therapist, I am passionate about work that is collaborative in nature, forming a partnership to explore together. We work for change, growth and acceptance that is both affirming and liberating. Methods that guide my practice are a combination of Cognitive-Behavioral( CBT), ACT, Solution-focused, Dialectical (DBT), Psychodynamic, Mindfulness-based and Motivational Interviewing. I offer cutting edge evidence-based tools to help clients cope with barriers to their life's goals. I believe every person is unique, which means that our time together would be tailored to your particular needs based on cultural background, family dynamics and personal values. You may need some additional time to talk and make some sense out of your predicament. Or you may desire to learn practical skills to cope with your pain. Either way, I will be present with you and assist you as you journey toward a meaningful life. I look forward to working with you and honoring your path of self-exploration.

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Allison Gilbert

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with work experience as a Professional School Counselor and a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem/confidence, & coping with life changes. I have a holistic approach that is flexible, creative, person-centered, and goal-oriented. I enjoy the creative process of collaborating with clients to help them articulate how they think/feel/behave, and developing goals and strategies in order for them to live an authentic, purpose-filled life. 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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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.

How to find counseling in Norfolk

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Norfolk 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk, 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk 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 23519 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk, 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.

Norfolk 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 Norfolk.

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

23501, 23502, 23503, 23504, 23505, 23506, 23507, 23508, 23509, 23510, 23511, 23513, 23514, 23515, 23517, 23518, 23519, 23523, 23529, 23541, 23551

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