Salem, Virginia is a sports town with the Salem Red Sox (class A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox), the NCAA Basketball Championships, and the Amos Alonzo Stagg Football Bowl. People who play sports are 20% less likely to be affected by mental health illnesses such as depression or anxiety disorders but there are some awesome therapists in Salem available to help, if needed. 

Are you or someone you know is having any signs of depression or anxiety disorder such as changes in sleep, feeling rundown, lack of concentration, and isolating yourself from others? If so, talk to one of the therapists in Salem today. 

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Alissa Green

Offering therapy in VA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
12 years of experience

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia. I have over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I have experience supporting individuals and families through difficulties due to separation, grief, loss, depression, and relationship challenges. I have extensive experience working with individuals of all ages who experienced abuse and/or neglect during childhood. I utilize a strength-based, solution focused approach. You will be in the driver's seat regarding your goals. I will help you see how to capitalize on your strengths in order to feel better and more confident. You've already taken the first step to a better life by seeking support. I look forward to being a part of your journey!

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Courtney Grossnickle

Offering therapy in VA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
5 years of experience

Hello, my name is Courtney but I go by CC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia. I have been in the field for 4+ years working with clients in various fields including; crisis counseling, in-home therapy, family therapy, hospitalization, and foster care. In all those fields, I have primarily worked with clients who have suffered from depression, anxiety, mood disorders, conduct disorders, co-occurring disorders, personality disorders, family conflict, and many more. Those are big ways of saying that I have worked with a wide range of problems and a range of client populations. I am an eclectic counselor who believes that every client is different and deserves a unique treatment plan that is created together. I will work diligently alongside you, creating a treatment plan that will help you reach your goals in counseling. I also deem confidentiality most important and will always protect your rights in our counseling relationship. Seeking out counseling can often feel scary and overwhelming and my goal is to help you feel comfortable, accepted, and cared for. Not only is it my job to help others, but it has been a passion engraved in me since I was a kid. Other than confidentiality, i believe that listening to my clients makes the most difference. The last thing a hurting person needs is another person giving them advice. I focus on listening to my clients and hear their needs and wants. Once I have grasped the issues at hand, together we will work on bringing you to a healthier place where you feel peace. If you are wanting to be heard and understood than I am the counselor for you; so go ahead, take this next step with me and let's begin the journey of becoming the you that you want to be!

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Jeffrey Williams

Offering therapy in VA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
12 years of experience

Therapy should be interactive and dynamic and this is generated from focusing on a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy approach with a strong grounding in Strengths Perspective. A variety of issues to include Depression and Anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, men's issues, and personality disorders are areas in which I have particular experience in treating. The relationship between therapist and client should be one of trust and competence and it should promote open communication and honesty for change to occur. My clinical experiences began in acute psychiatric treatment facilities and have taken me through a variety of environments and populations to include adolescents as well as adults. I feel the therapeutic relationship can produce change through hard work and guidance as well as creativity and persistence. The therapeutic relationship is one of the most important foundations for change. The following information regarding Live Text Chat sessions is important ..please read over!!! Please take some time to read through the following guidelines. For optimal experience please be sure to have either Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox installed as your browser or have the BetterHelp app on your mobile device. Please be sure to log into BetterHelp at the time of your appointment and remain on the therapy page - your therapist will initiate the live session. If your live session hasn't started even when you are logged in and are on the therapy page, message your therapist to let them know you are ready. Live sessions are usually 30 to 50 mins (please check with your therapist). Please be punctual so you can get the most out of your time with your therapist. If you need to cancel or reschedule your session, please do so up to 24 hours prior to your session start time. This will free up your therapist to help other members.

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Vivian McCorey

Offering therapy in VA
License: LPC,CCTP,CP
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
5 years of experience

As your clinician, my goal is to meet you where you are and to assist you with fastening the tools that you need to reach your personal and professional goals. We will work collaboratively to determine your treatment objectives and to make real-time adjustments to your campaign. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, as well as couples, families, and groups on diverse issues (e.g., life changes and day-to-day experiences, stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, psychosis, psychosomatic, gender issues, LGTBQ+ issues, substance abuse, eating disorders, personality, disruptive behaviors, and so much more). I have a certification in working with clients who have experienced trauma and have extensive crisis training.

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Gwendolyn Young

Offering therapy in VA
License: LPC,Addiction Specialist
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

My name is Gwendolyn Young, I come to the counseling profession with life experiences that have molded me into the unique and determined person that I am today. While in my storm I did not understand, at times I felt hopeless. However, once I was able to break through the tension, I became mindful and aware of who I am as a person. Today I now understand that there are lessons to learn from the good things in life as well as the bad experiences that life has to offer. The benefits of those lessons were astronomical. Through it all I never gave up on myself even if the odds were totally against me. I am a licensed professional counselor and addiction specialist. I have earned a master's degree in professional counseling, a master's degree in addiction counseling and a post-master's in addiction specialization. I am a dedicated counselor that understand the many turmoil’s of those who seek my help. Additionally, I am a person-centered clinician skilled in the use of various theoretical orientations that will help the person to break through their life situation (s).

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Laura Walls

Offering therapy in VA
License: MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
21 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has more than 21 years of experience in a variety of counseling settings. My holistic approach to counseling addresses your physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. I approach therapy in a very integrative, client-centered manner. To ensure the highest quality care is provided, I draw on a variety of therapeutic techniques including cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, solution-focused, psychoeducational, trauma-informed, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and more. I promote growth by offering a safe, accepting atmosphere in which you feel heard, validated, and empowered. It is important to note that due licensing regulations, I am only able to work with clients who reside in VA. Also please refer to the this link, https://www.betterhelp.com/terms/, to review the terms of service. In accordance with these terms I do not provide documentation (meaning letters/reports indicating a diagnosis or attesting to mental fitness for situations such as custody, disability, court mandates, service animals, etc.)

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Diane Witmer

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

I am an LCSW in the states of Tennessee, New York and Virginia, with over 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in several therapy modalities including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral therapy, Trauma focused Treatment and EMDR. I am here to help clients with stress and anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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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Rose Cope

Offering therapy in VA
Depression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression. 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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Harold (Mark) Lester

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Brandi Motley

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCompassion fatigue
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & 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.

How to find counseling in Salem

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem, 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 24153 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem, 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.

Salem 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 Salem.

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

24153, 24155, 24157

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