This is Natalie Criss's avatar and link to their profile

Natalie Criss

Offering therapy in WV
License: M.A. LPC, NCC
LGBTTrauma and abuse
12 years of experience

Hello, my name is Natalie Criss and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I identify as a lesbian and my pronouns are she/her. Thanks for taking a minute to look at my page! I specialize in treating LGBT clients and PTSD. I treat older teens and adults. I am trained in EMDR and have been using that technique to treat PTSD for about 4 years now. My ideal client is anyone who is willing and ready to work. I never judge and always seek to help my clients become whoever it is they want to be. Being a member of the LGBT community myself gives me a better understanding for what LGBT clients are experiencing. I do my very best to earn the trust of my clients and help them recognize and build upon their own strengths. A little more about my background... I got my bachelor's degree in Film and Television Production (St. John's University) and I do videography on the side. I have two master's degrees. One in Religious Education (Fordham University) and one in Counseling (Marshall University). I spent 5 years working as a Campus Minister on a college campus. Counseling students is what helped me realize my passion for counseling. I pursued a master's in counseling and then spent 3+ years working for a foster care agency. I now work in private practice which has been perfect for mommy life. My wife and I have two daughters that keep us active. We love chasing them around and spending as much quality time with them as possible. I am thrilled to be able to offer online counseling and to have the opportunity to reach more clients. I got into this profession because I truly love helping people and seeing people become exactly who they want to be. I had a lot of help when I was younger and struggling with depression myself so I am honored to be able to pay it forward. I look forward to working with you!

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Debbie McClintic

Offering therapy in WV
License: EdS,LPC,NCC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

Hello, I am a graduate of Marshall University with an Educational Specialist degree in Counseling. I am also a National Certified Counselor and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Approved Licensed Professional Supervisor(ALPS) in West Virginia. I have over 25 years of experience working with children, teens and young adults. I continue to attend conferences and am always seeking to learn new techniques to better assist my clients. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, and career challenges. My counseling approach is a combination of humanistic and reality solution therapy. I believe in the goodness of all people and like to place emphasis on the client's self-growth and self-actualization. Through genuine care and compassion, I utilize a variety of approaches to help clients find meaning in their lives by focusing on free will, self-determination and taking responsibility. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. 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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Erin Krusec

Offering therapy in WV
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepression
11 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2008 in WV and PA with significant clinical experience in a variety of settings including inpatient, residential and community treatment. My clinical experience includes working with clients who present with mood and related disorders, depressive disorders, anxiety, trauma and stress related disorders, gender responsive treatment, healthy communication skills, substance abuse issues and other mental disorders. I utilize integrated therapeutic approaches to include Trauma-based treatment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Theory, and Strength-based Therapy. I tailor my treatment to what is most helpful to you based on my training and experience. 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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Christina Renzler

Offering therapy in WV
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

"Healing takes time, and asking for help is a courageous step." -- Mariska Hargitay Hi there! You have made a huge decision to take care of your mental health and I am so glad you're here. The hardest part is often times reaching out for help, but you have done just that and just know that I'm proud of you already. My name is Christina Renzler, and I've lived in West Virginia much of my life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of WV, and a National Certified Counselor. I received my Bachelors degree in Psychology & Family Studies from Alderson-Broaddus College in 2010, and my Masters in Counseling degree from Waynesburg University in 2012. I have 13 years of experience working in mental health and substance use disorders. I've worked in a variety of settings such as inpatient, outpatient, substance use treatment centers, acute psychiatric hospitalization, and local community mental health. I have longstanding experience with those who struggle with mental health concerns, alcohol and drug abuse, relapse prevention, suicidal ideation, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, ADHD, anger management, relationship issues, and legal problems. I believe that a trusting relationship between the client and therapist is crucial to building rapport. I like to create a safe space for you to feel comfortable opening up about the most difficult topics in your life or on your mind. I like to meet you where you are in your healing journey in order to gain an understanding of your current stressors, what has been poking those emotional wounds, and help identify the goals you wish to achieve. I am passionate about helping you identify your current triggers, stressors and conflicts in order to help you develop healthier coping strategies to improve those areas of your life. I believe that quality of life in the current moment is extremely important. When working with me, you will find that I have a laid-back conversational style approach to my therapy sessions. We can be structured when and if we need to be, but I find that we work best together when we can just talk about what's going on in your life, instead of me drilling you with questions. You will find that I talk a lot about attachment, control versus no control, how to self-regulate your emotions better, comfort yourself, ways to change your self talk, and how to educate yourself about what you're struggling with. In my free time, I enjoy sitting on my front porch, crocheting, camping, finding backroads in my Jeep, spending time with my two sons, being outside, trying new dinner recipes, and being on the lake. I have quite the zoo at my house, with a dog, a cat, a bunny and 20 exotic geckos!

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Elizabeth Williams

Offering therapy in WV
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSleeping disorders
3 years of experience

I am licensed in West Virginia with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & sleeping disorders. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Karissa Barr

Offering therapy in WV
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I have been practicing for the last 7 years in West Virginia as a licensed counselor. Four of those have been spent working at Marshall University with college students and the three before that was spent at a foster care agency working with foster families and the community. I have a true passion for serving humans and meeting them where they are in order to work towards a greater future for themselves. I have worked with people who have experienced and are challenged with trauma, depression, anxiety, mood instability, relationship difficulty, parenting issues, and much more. I believe the therapeutic relationship is so important and I want to always treat those with compassion and care. My approach pulls from client-centered, trauma focused CBT, CBT, strength based and psychodynamic. Congrats on making the first step to healing and a better you.

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Sarah Ferretti

Offering therapy in WV
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in West Virginia with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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.

This is Erica Graham's avatar and link to their profile

Erica Graham

Offering therapy in WV
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.

This is Tabitha Coffindaffer's avatar and link to their profile

Tabitha Coffindaffer

Offering therapy in WV
Relationship issuesCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am licensed in West Virginia with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues & coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Dr. Peggy Proudfoot Harman

Offering therapy in WV
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio and West Virginia with over 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find counseling in Pennsboro

Finding the best therapist close by in Pennsboro 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 Pennsboro. 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 Pennsboro, 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 Pennsboro 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 Pennsboro 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 Pennsboro, elsewhere in Ritchie, or in the greater state of West Virginia.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Pennsboro 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 Pennsboro 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 Pennsboro 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 BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of West 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 Pennsboro, 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. 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 Pennsboro 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 Pennsboro 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 Pennsboro 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 Pennsboro 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 Pennsboro 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 WV, 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 26415 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 Pennsboro 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 Pennsboro 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 Pennsboro, 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.

Pennsboro 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 Pennsboro.

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

26415

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