Along the banks of the Kanawha River, you will find the small town of Dunbar, West Virginia. Incorporated in 1921 by the Act of the West Virginia Legislature, the land was granted to George Washington and was named for Mary Dunbar, who inherited it from Washington.

The Dunbar area also has a ton of therapists and counselors who are on hand to provide a wide range of mental health services. If you or someone you know needs help working out your mental or emotional issue, contact one of the many professionals in and around the town right away.

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James Rusk

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Dunbar
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 16 years of clinical experience serving diverse populations in various agency, private practice, and medical settings. I am primarily a Narrative Therapist and use principles from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to inform my work with clients. I believe that one of the central tasks of one's life is to make meaning out of experience, regardless of whether that experience is perceived to be "good" or "bad." How we feel about our life's path depends a great deal on the stories we tell ourselves about our past and our future. Even though these elements of past and future are important, how we feel about ourselves in the present, and in fact our ability to be willingly present with whatever circumstances come up for us, is a powerful predictor of feelings of competence and well-being. Many times we struggle "against" our own experience, causing needless suffering for ourselves and even for those around us. In my experience, the only prerequisite for meaningful change is a willingness to believe that it can be possible. Even if you question whether you're willing to believe this, I believe that we can work together to influence factors that ultimately lead to willingness and a meaningful excursion into a change process. In my therapeutic process, we are partners - you're the expert on you, and I bring the Narrative, Psychodynamic, and ACT focus to train different lenses on your situation, all with respect and compassion, and without advancing an agenda of "shoulds." If you're courageous about digging into the rich material of your inner life (even if you're anxious about it too), we'll be a good fit.

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Maria Gaum

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Dunbar
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor, currently licensed in West Virginia and South Carolina, with 10 years of clinical work experience in both intensive outpatient group therapy and individual therapy with adults with serious mental health diagnoses to develop and improve coping skills to manage life- and mental health related stressors. I work with clients to improve skills to manage stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, history of adverse childhood experiences and attachment rupture. I am well versed in trauma therapy and in accompanying clients to come to terms with past trauma. I also work with clients to develop skills to cope with life changes such as loss of role, changes in health, and adjusting to developmental stages in adult life. I have experienced and seen the benefits of a warm therapeutic relationship in creating change in clients, and the importance of engaging clients to recognize their existing strengths and skills that can be applied to manage stressors, overcome challenges, and to improve quality of life. I use a variety of theoretical treatment approaches as it fits the client - no one theory fits all. I will work with you to develop a therapeutic language that resonates with you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and you have taken that first step! I am looking forward to work with you!

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Patrick Whaley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Dunbar
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
11 years of experience

I am licensed in West Virginia and Pennsylvania with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & 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. I have done research on the Impact of ADHD on Family Functioning. This research has improved my understanding of how important counseling is to families who have a loved one with ADHD. I also have specialization in treating addictions. I have been trained to use motivational interviewing and CBT for addiction. I also have experience in trauma and have used a DBT approach as well as CBT and Gestalt.

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Jessica Lynch

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Dunbar
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in West Virginia with 7 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. 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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Lauren Latham

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Dunbar
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Hello I'm Lauren, It's nice to meet you. I am a Licensed Professional Counsellor in West Virginia with over 10 years of professional work experience both in the U.S and in the U.K. I'm from England originally but live and work in Ohio now since 2018. I trained in the UK first and practiced for a few years as a bereavement counselor and a general therapist. I decided to get my Masters in counseling from West Virginia University and have a dual masters in Clinical Mental Health and School counselling. I worked as a School Counselor for a few years in WV, before moving back towards working with adult clients. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, Anger, Anxiety, Depression, Developmental Trauma, Children and Young people, ADHD, LGBTQIAA+ issues, Family Conflicts, Substance abuse disorders, Suicide and Self Harm, Trauma and Abuse, & coping with Grief and Loss. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our time 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. I look forward to meeting with you soon!

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Dr. Sara Lewis-Stankus

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Dunbar
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
26 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor with 26 years of professional work experience helping clients become the best version of themselves without judgement! I am honored to assist clients on their personal transformation journeys. Together, we work to break through the barriers of fears, doubts, and frustrating patterns that have been holding them back, empowering them to create the life they truly desire. Personal transformation is a profound process that involves self-reflection, growth, and the courage to make positive changes. As a counselor, I provide a supportive and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their limiting beliefs, identify patterns that no longer serve them, and develop strategies to overcome obstacles. Areas may include; overcoming anxiety, fears, forgiveness, letting go of or repairing relationships, conflict resolutions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps to change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Erica Graham

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Dunbar
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

Hi, I’m Erica. If you’re feeling stuck in a negative spiral dealing with past trauma, anxiety or depression, I’m here to help you experience the change work that makes a real difference in the lives of individuals and children that I see. I’ve worked with so many people who were struggling with difficult conditions which they have learned to overcome with the help of evidenced-based treatment.

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Ashley Stevens

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Dunbar
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in West Virginia with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, 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. 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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Caitlin Johnson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Dunbar
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionADHD
4 years of experience

Hi! My name is Caitlin and I am licensed in West Virginia as an Independent Clinical Social Worker with 4 years of professional work experience, though I have worked as a Social Worker for about 10 years. My experience comes from providing direct mental health and behavioral counseling for kids, teens, and adults with a variety of presenting issues including stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. You can read more about my background, education, experience and therapy approach by clicking on my name above our messages. I love to work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where they set their own goals and we work together to achieve them. I believe that each person has the right to determine how their life should be lived and that my role is to help them find what they consider to be the best version of themselves. I often use humor to form connections and believe that without a strong therapeutic relationship therapy is often unsuccessful. I generally check messages here once before noon and once after 7pm each day Monday through Friday and respond as quickly as I can. I do appreciate your patience when it takes a bit longer at times, as I may be tending to other clients or professional/personal responsibilities. I'm so glad that you have decided to take this step toward a more fulfilling and happier life. If you are ready to get to work, I'm here to support and empower you.

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Jasmine DeBeary

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Dunbar
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, serving clients in LA, OR, PA, VA, WV, with over 14 years of experience in behavioral and mental health across various settings, including hospitals, schools, and outpatient facilities. As a Certified Trauma Professional, with extensive and ongoing training and certification in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I primarily treat clients with ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, grief, and trauma. My therapeutic approach is centered on tackling current issues with practical solutions that improve your well-being. It involves holding you accountable and providing the insights you need, rather than what you might want to hear. I recognize that no textbook or degree can rival first-hand experience. Bearing in mind that I may not fully grasp my client's personal experiences, I excel at offering a professional and personable perspective, maintaining an open mind, and always remembering that my clients are the experts on their own lives. The evidence-based treatment modalities that I use in session, are solely determined by my client's individual needs and personal goals. I appreciate research and utilize only evidence-based treatment modalities that have proven to be effective. Life's tough and oftentimes, the demands of daily life can become overwhelming, leading to feelings of defeat, exhaustion, and stress that impact one's relationships, job performance, self-esteem, and overall quality of life. Whatever it may be that you are going through, be encouraged to know that you certainly are not alone. I am here and I am here to help.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Dunbar

Finding the best therapist close by in Dunbar 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 with therapists in Dunbar 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 Dunbar. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Dunbar, 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 for therapists. 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Dunbar region and in the state of West Virginia. 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 Dunbar 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 Dunbar therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Dunbar area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Dunbar, elsewhere in Kanawha, or in the greater state of West Virginia. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

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 Dunbar 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 Dunbar therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Dunbar due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Dunbar may not take health insurance, some in the state of West Virginia 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 West Virginia you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

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

Therapists in Dunbar, West 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Dunbar 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 and therapists 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 professional, including the therapists in Dunbar 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 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. Get matched today.

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

BetterHelp's verified 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.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used 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 - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this 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 Dunbar provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

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

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Dunbar 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

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 Dunbar 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 Dunbar 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 WV, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 25064 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. 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 Dunbar counselor?

Before seeing your Dunbar therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Dunbar therapists here 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.

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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Dunbar 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 with a Dunbar 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 Dunbar, West 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.

Dunbar has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions 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 Dunbar, West Virginia

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 Dunbar 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 Dunbar.

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

25064

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