This is Amanda Spencer's avatar and link to their profile

Amanda Spencer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VT
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW, MSW, Lic_School_Counselor
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
16 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello and welcome. I am so glad that you reached out for support. Finding the "right" therapist is important. Below, I have shared some information about myself and my experience to hopefully, help you determine if I am the right therapist to support you. Since graduating in 2004, from The University of Vermont with my Masters in Social Work (MSW), I have worked in a variety of clinical and therapeutic settings (a community mental health agency, outpatient and private practice, in schools, in a crisis response program, in a short-term residential setting and finally, in a private educational consulting firm). In addition to my clinical license, I have my Vermont Educators License with an endorsement in School Counseling. During my years in the counseling field, I have supervised both clinical social work interns, as well as school counseling interns. Additionally, as part of my ethically-focused, trauma-informed clinical practice, I participate, monthly in an inter-disciplinary (psychologists, nurse practitioners and social workers) group for consultation and supervision. I have been part of this group since graduate school! My style is collaborative, compassionate and supportive and my clients tell me that I am comfortable to be with, and easy to talk to. I have many years of experience working with children and young adults to help build positive self-concept, reduce stress and worry, increase personal wellness, and develop and work to achieve client personal, academic, relationship, and social-emotional goals. The work I do is grounded in theory - including, Humanistic (“Whole Child’, "Whole Self"), Psycho-dynamic (focused on importance of interpersonal relationship between client and therapist as the model for understanding and self-reflection, and development of positive self-concept) and Behavioral (understanding/reflecting that individuals respond with thoughts, feelings, actions, behaviors to our environments and experience). As an outgrowth of the above approaches, The Strengths Perspective (Dennis Saleebey), is a cornerstone of my clinical practice; I strive to help clients identify internal strengths (ie. grit and resilience), as well as external strengths (ie. education level and family supports). Additionally, I can work with clients on goal-setting, solution-focused work, Narrative Therapy and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, with attention to the Wellness Wheel (UMatter, Princeton University) and reflection on the “whole” self. I often include some very popular, and research-based Mindfulness, Meditation and Yoga tools. Finally, as part of an overall assessment, I use clinical tools and my ability to engage with clients to assess level of depression and anxiety to screen for any other issues that may reveal themselves in the course of our session(s). The results of the clinical tools help guide work with clients, and of course, I listen closely to the issues clients raise and the goals they focus on, and together we will work to address their needs. My passion for counseling includes supporting individuals - across the life-span - to shift from discomfort and distress, to acceptance and joy. When I am not working with clients and students, I like to walk with my dog, play cards with friends and family, and volunteer with Therapy Dogs of Vermont. I look forward to meeting with you “in person.”

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Christine Reid

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VT
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionADHD
28 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Vermont and Maine licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience working as a therapist, supervisor and program manager in community mental health and outpatient settings. I have worked with individuals, children and families with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, self-esteem issues, OCD and ADHD. I have also helped many individuals and teens who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive, balancing humor and tasks in a way to create a safe space for you to explore, heal and grow. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines client-centered, solution-focused and cognitive-behavioral therapy approaches, which essentially means that my focus is on you as an individual and I will adjust my treatment methods and plan in order to meet your unique and specific needs. Our sessions are for you and I want to make sure that you are able to get the most out of them that you can by learning and partnering with you on your journey to wellness. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change by reaching out for help. I know that is not always easy to do. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Michele Pilz

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

I am a mental health counselor licensed in Vermont. I am also an alcohol and drug counselor and am happy to treat co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance abuse). I specialize in working with adults with depression, anxiety, grief, complicated grief as well as with issues with communication, confidence and identify issues. My approach is to listen and then to reflect back what I hear to be sure I have captured my patient's struggle. From there, we work together to develop skills to help the patient to be able to more successfully navigate their life.

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Susan Urtz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VT
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionADHD
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed mental health therapist in the state of Florida with over twenty-five years of counseling experience working with individuals, couples and family systems in a therapeutic capacity to promote constructive solutions that lead clients to live more positive and productive lives. I have worked with clients to address a variety of issues, to include depression, anxiety, ADHD, low self-esteem and family conflict. As a therapist, I strive to provide my clients with a consistent level of compassion and support, ensuring to respect clients' diversity and life experiences. I utilize a whole-person approach, implementing cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness to assist clients in reaching their identified goals. I firmly believe that in life we always have some form of control, including the ability to change the things that are not working for us. If you are ready for change, I would love to join you on your journey!

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Katrina Whyman (Carbee)

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Vermont with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Dr. James (Jimmy) Clifton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VT
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,Master of Science in Psychology,Doctor of Ministry in Biblical Counseling
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience as a mental health therapist

My name is Dr. James W. Clifton. I am licensed in the State of Indiana as a Mental Health Counselor and as a Clinical Social Worker. I am also licensed in Idaho (LCPC), Vermont (LCMHC), Utah (CMHC), New Mexico (PCMHC), New Hampshire as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I have a Master of Science in Psychology from California Coast University, a PhD from Bethany Divinity College and Seminary where I studied various therapeutic modalities, and a Doctor of Arts in Theology and Chaplaincy from JJBIHL. I teach clients how to change their thinking, be responsible for their feelings, and make better choices. I look forward to working with you. I focus on the present and behaviors and not on the past and feelings. I do not work with anyone under the age of 25 or relationship issues, or family issues, or addiction issues of any kind.

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Kristin Mason

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Vermont with over 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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. Reining Hope Counseling Services, LLC, offers traditional and experiential forms of counseling. Specializing in Clinical Mental Health, Addictions, and Trauma/Grief Counseling, I work with youth and families from a humanistic, mindfulness, and narrative approach utilizing the client's strengths as part of the therapeutic process. Through positive regard and understanding that each person, each circumstance, is unique to the individual's experience and perspective, I work together with clients to build trust, develop goals, and work towards personal positive outcomes. Psychotherapy and counseling services are developed with you for you/your family with compassion. You are your future!

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Andrew Donahue

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionADHD
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Massachusetts with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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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Kathie Land

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

With a wealth of experience spanning over three years, I am a dedicated LMHC specializing in youth mental health. My current role at Truecore Behavioral Solutions involves working closely with youth in the juvenile justice system, conducting biopsychosocial assessments, crafting treatment and safety plans, and conducting both individual and group therapy sessions. I previously served as a Mental Health Counselor at Westcare, where I provided comprehensive care for clients with mental health and substance use challenges. My commitment to fostering mental well-being is underlined by my extensive work history in various clinical roles, where I honed my skills in assessment, treatment planning, and therapy. As a compassionate therapist, I prioritize empathy, validation, and therapeutic techniques, ensuring that clients receive personalized care. My experience extends to managing clinical documentation, billing, and serving as an emergency screener. I am also proud to have volunteered with Crisis Text Line, providing vital support to individuals in crisis. My multifaceted career path reflects my unwavering dedication to helping individuals overcome challenges and find their path to mental wellness.

This is Courtney Shelton's avatar and link to their profile

Courtney Shelton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Colorado with 3 years of clinical work experience. Through a compassionate and empathetic approach, I create a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to explore your emotions and experiences, offering you tools to navigate challenging situations. With a trauma-informed lens, I work collaboratively with you to process your experiences and cultivate resilience. As a clinician, I am mindful of the impact of compassion fatigue on individuals in helping professions. I understand the emotional toll it can take and offer support to professionals experiencing burnout or vicarious trauma. I provide a nurturing space for self-care, reflection, and developing strategies to enhance well-being and maintain a healthy work-life balance. I believe in focusing on the individual as a whole, with their experiences, emotions, and values at the center and extending beyond therapy to encompass broader societal contexts. I am honored to walk alongside you on your journey of self-exploration, acceptance and personal growth.

How to find a therapist for counseling in North Bennington

Finding the best therapist close by in North Bennington can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services in North Bennington that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in North Bennington. 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 North Bennington, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the North Bennington region and in the state of Vermont. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in North Bennington or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater North Bennington area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find North Bennington 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 North Bennington, elsewhere in Bennington, or in the greater state of Vermont.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the North Bennington area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed North Bennington 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 North Bennington 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 North Bennington may not take health insurance, some in the state of Vermont may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Vermont you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this North Bennington online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in North Bennington, Vermont 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 North Bennington psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in North Bennington 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 North Bennington helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified North Bennington therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a North Bennington therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in North Bennington?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a North Bennington 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.

North Bennington therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of North Bennington 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 North Bennington therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in VT, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 05257 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a North Bennington counselor?

Before seeing your North Bennington therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in North Bennington.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice from a therapist. A North Bennington licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy with a North Bennington counselor can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in North Bennington, Vermont 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.

North Bennington has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for North Bennington, Vermont

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of North Bennington.

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

05257

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