This is Dr. Barbara Anderson's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Barbara Anderson

Offering therapy in WV
License: LCSW in Virginia; LICSW in West Virginia ,DSW, MAC, BCD
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

Hi, my name is Dr. Barbara Anderson. I have been providing counseling for over 17 years. I have a Doctoral Degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Tennessee, and a Masters and Bachelors Degree in Social Work from Radford University. My clinical experience consists of working in community mental health outpatient clinics, and I have worked with many different clients with different presenting issues. I believe that everyone is different, and I'm open to getting to know you and helping you. I have over thirteen years of experience working with veterans and family members of veterans. I have been trained in various types of therapy modalities. I am looking forward to working with you through your therapeutic journey.

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Linda Empfield

Offering therapy in WV
License: MS, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
25 years of experience

Hi! My name is Linda Karen Empfield. I have been a licensed clinical mental health counselor for over 20 years. I have extensive experience working with many different diagnoses, including but not limited to, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Domestic Violence, and Codependency to name a few. I am very proud of all the many people I have had the opportunity to counsel and help them to reach positive outcome goals in their lives. I strive to provide the highest quality care, utilizing evidence- based treatment modalities to help individuals in gaining awareness, and to learn the necessary skills, unique to their own life story and situation, in rising above barriers that have inhibited them from reaching their goals. It takes strength, time and courage to begin your own healing journey. It is never too late! I will meet you where you are in life and provide support and encouragement toward a happier, balanced, fulfilling life!

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John Haynes

Offering therapy in WV
Anger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoachingADHD
6 years of experience

I am an independently licensed Therapist who has worked with people of all ages and backgrounds. I have spent time working with adults, children and families over the past five years. I have worked with children who have severe trauma that effects their daily routine and have also worked with adults who have experienced a mental health crisis due to past trauma. My goal is to help people achieve all they want in life by helping them evaluate their needs and organize their thoughts and emotions. I want my clients to have successful relationships in all aspects of their life. It's my goal to help my clients identify stressors in their life and navigate these to improve their current situation. My strength is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Through talk therapy i believe my clients can get all of their thoughts out and use my guidance to help organize them, prioritize them and formulate a plan to move forward. I find great joy in helping people improve their circumstances through action. I look forward to helping you!

This is Dr. Carole  Riley 's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Carole Riley

Offering therapy in WV
License: Ph.D.,LPC-ALPS
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
30 years of experience

I value relationships in therapy, and believe that together we can make a difference. I work with individual, couples in areas of depressions, spiritual need, anxiety and life transitions. I include spiritual needs and hopes into our conversation. Working together for your growth and better living is my goal.

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Philip Bloomer

Offering therapy in WV
License: LCSW,LICSW,LISW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Kentucky, Ohio and West Virginia. I offer therapy for people of all ages and all mental health and substance use difficulties, in whatever combination they occur. I have also helped couples and families work out their problems. As a social worker I look at every area of life, believing that where we live, our physical wellness, our relationships, the way we think, our past, the emotions we experience, what gives our lives meaning and purpose and often so many other factors all play a part in making our lives what they are, so the treatment I offer looks at all of these. Everything we talk about is strictly confidential, allowing us to talk about anything and everything. I never judge and you can expect me to be honest and truthful with you. I absolutely believe in the potential for everyone to experience a positive change in their life. I use a number of different therapeutic styles many of which include helping people manage their problems, figure out what is really important to them, work out what they want from life and what they can do to move them towards their hopes and dreams. I am an American citizen but was born and spent the first 30 years of my life in England and I still retain much of my accent. My first career was working for the British government. I returned to school and obtained my Master’s degree in Social Work at the age of 40. As well as academic and theoretical knowledge, I draw on a broad range of life experiences including having had my own personal struggles with both mental health problems and substance use. At present I offer standard office hour appointments, Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 pm, although I have accommodated individual scheduling requirements in the past. Our initial visit includes a lot of information gathering to help me better understand what I can do to help you. I look forward to meeting you, hearing your life story and helping you write the next chapter.

This is Sara Zahlen's avatar and link to their profile

Sara Zahlen

Offering therapy in WV
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesAnger management
20 years of experience

Hi! My name is Sara and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 20 years of experience in the field. I am licensed to practice in both Florida and West Virginia. I provide clinical supervision for those seeking licensure in the Social Work profession. I specialize in relationship issues, intimate partner violence and domestic violence, as well as anger management. I can work with both those who use and experience violence in their relationships. I offer classes addressing anger related issues and how to improve effective communication in relationships. I practice from a strengths perspective and trauma informed approach with the use of evidenced based treatments. I graduated with my Master’s Degree from Barry University in Miami Shores, FL in 2005. I have experience working with adolescents, Veterans, women specific care, couples, and those dealing with end-of-life related issues for those who are terminally ill and their caregivers. I am also skilled in providing services for those experiencing depression and anxiety disorders. I currently coordinate an intimate partner violence program. I am the mom of one son and who loves to play sports, so that keeps us very active in the community. I enjoy reading in my spare time, gardening and doing home improvement projects. I'm easy going, have a good sense of humor, and use a person-first centered approach. I like the client to identify and set their goals allowing me to guide them through the process to make those goals a reality. I look forward to working with you and providing guidance in your personal growth and journey.

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Carolyn Brown

Offering therapy in WV
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
26 years of experience

I am licensed in West Virginia with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & intimacy related issues. 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.

This is Sarah  Ferretti's avatar and link to their profile

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 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.

This is Jennifer Ratliff's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Ratliff

Offering therapy in WV
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
10 years of experience

Hi, I'm Jennifer Ratliff, MSW, LICSW. I have worked in the social work field for over 25 years, with experience in protective services, foster care, adoption, as well as in adult and juvenile probation. I'm experienced in serving couples, adults, teens, and families. I am currently licensed in the State of West Virginia. I have experience treating individuals experiencing stress and anxiety, relationship issues, communication problems, depression, trauma and abuse, self esteem, and confidence. I've been married 24 years and have 3 children, I understand the struggles of marriage and parenting. I love the outdoors and all things water. I live near the Greenbrier river and enjoy kayaking, swimming and fishing. I'm also an animal lover and have 3 dogs, 2 cats and a rabbit. My family are active members of Bethesda Church and are involved in our community. I believe that you are the expert of your story, and its OK to need help navigating this changing, confusing and at times harsh world. I have found everyone possesses strengths / gifts that will assist you in overcoming the 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 and I look forward to getting to know you better.

How to find counseling in Poca

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Poca 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 Poca 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 Poca 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 Poca, 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 Poca 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 Poca 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 Poca 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 Poca 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 Poca 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 25159 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 Poca 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 Poca 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 Poca, 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.

Poca 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 Poca.

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

25159

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