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Charlotte Whipkey

Offering therapy in WV
License: LICSW
AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

We will get along well if you are a problem aware individual who is looking for ways to build relationship with your emotions. You want to quit overcoming, conquering, strategizing AT your emotions. You are now ready to get to the root cause of what is troubling you, to experience long term change and learn to show up from an authentic place.

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Darren Wiley

Offering therapy in WV
License: MA, LPC, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyIntimacy-related issuesBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hello, I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of West Virginia, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Maryland, and have worked as a mental health counselor/ Psychotherapist providing, home-based, school-based, and outpatient (office-based) counseling to individuals, families, and couples since 2014. In addition, I have been actively providing telehealth-based therapy for the last three years. I graduated with my Master of Arts in Human Services Counseling with a concentration in Marriage and family Therapy in 2014 then again with my second Master of Arts degree from Liberty University in Professional Counseling in 2017. I have worked with an array of clients with varying mental health disorders including trauma, serious depression, anxiety, personality disorders, gender identity issues, life changes/adjustment issues, bipolar disorders and psychotic disorders. I consider myself an eclectic therapist who whole-heartedly believes in the importance of individualizing my counseling approaches to best meet the needs of each member I work with. I have specialized training in Trauma-Based Play therapy, Trauma Focused- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and am currently a Nationally Certified Counselor. My professional style incorporates Existential, Cognitive Behavioral, Person-Centered and Narrative Therapy approaches to provide treatment that is unique to each of the member's needs. In addition, I have extensive experience providing vocational counseling and working with people and families of people who have intellectual disabilities. I believe in the power of therapy and am a strong clinician ready to assist with motivation and eliciting positive change. I would be happy to work with you!

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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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Ophelia Opoku Acheampong

Offering therapy in WV
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I’m Ophelia and I’m excited you have found my page. I love working with young adults and adults to find their passion in life, remove the blocks that prevent them from being their most awesome self and learn to live a life they've envisioned. Over the course of my professional career, I have acquired significant clinical experience with individuals and groups in the following areas: • Christian Counseling • Communication skills • Depression and Bipolar Disorder • Immigration and Adjustment Distress • Anxiety Disorders • Acculturation Issues • Conflict Resolution • Family and Relationship Issues • Anger and Stress Management • Chronic Mental Illness • Couple’s Conflict • Self-image and Self-Esteem Issues I utilize a variety of techniques, including dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, emotionally focused couples therapy, crisis intervention, stress management, assertiveness training, mood management, anxiety reduction, empowerment and work/life balance. I firmly believe that even the most precious of all gems needs to be chiseled and faceted to attain its best shine. I am excited about your decision to work to be the whole person you were created to be!

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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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Deborah Osborn

Offering therapy in WV
License: LCSW,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issues
25 years of experience

Thankyou for reading my profile. It is difficult to convey my work in few paragraphs. I have been counseling since 1998 when I completed my first master's degree in Counseling. I later earned a second masters in Clinical Social Work. I understand that change is not easy and I know that no single approach to change works for everyone. With this in mind, I am willing to draw upon a number of modalities. I use techniques from mindfulness and gratitude along with traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Reality Therapy to develop a plan of growth. I am always in partnership, working alongside the client and family as we move towards health. I believe that the client is the authority or expert with regard to their goals and needs. I follow the client's lead in developing those goals while offering my expertise in creating a successful plan. I also believe that focusing on a whole person strength-based relationship contributes to a solid base of trust and acceptance. With this solid therapeutic relationship established, the client can feel safe to be authentic and vulnerable.

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Laura Eagle

Offering therapy in WV
License: LICSW,AADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Hello! I offer a warm, accepting, and confidential space to explore your problems and concerns, and a partnership where we can work together to address them whether you are here for yourself, your child, or your family, I approach therapy and counseling as a collaborative and relational endeavor where we put together my expertise with the strengths and the strivings that have gotten you (or your child) this far. I currently work with adults and children across a wide range of problem areas and therapy modalities. My integrative approach relies most on psychodynamic and interpersonal approaches, and incorporates cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness techniques. I am knowledgeable about the courts and community resources, and experienced in providing interdisciplinary consultation. I take a very collaborative approach with other professionals and agencies who are involved with the client

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Lisa Henthorn

Offering therapy in WV
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
7 years of experience

I am a professionally licensed counselor. I obtained my Master's Degree from Lindsey Wilson College in 2017. I have experience in helping clients with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, mood disorders, PTSD, personality disorders, stress and anxiety, motivation, communication, self esteem and confidence, career counseling, depression, grief, and adjustment disorders. 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 and empower you in that journey.

This is Laura Viars's avatar and link to their profile

Laura Viars

Offering therapy in WV
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
8 years of experience

I am licensed in West Virginia with 8 years of professional work experience. For 5 years, I have worked specifically with young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, levels 1 and 2, in a college setting. I have experience in helping clients with communication issues, executive dysfunction, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with adolescents and adults who are coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, kindness, and compassion. I will work to tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. You are the expert on yourself and my hope is that our collaboration can help you start facilitating healthy change in your life. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Donald "Joe" Hupp's avatar and link to their profile

Donald "Joe" Hupp

Offering therapy in WV
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in over 10 States with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

How to find counseling in Smithers

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Smithers 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 Smithers 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 Smithers 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 Smithers, 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 Smithers 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 Smithers 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 Smithers 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 Smithers 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 Smithers 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 25186 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 Smithers 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 Smithers 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 Smithers, 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.

Smithers 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 Smithers.

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

25186

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