Being branded as something awful can be hard on your life, and it sticks around with you. Luckily though, there are counselors in Salem that are ready to help you break free from the chains and show you how great of a person you are.

Salem is a historical city, known for the witch trials that were there, and it also includes the House of Seven Gables, Salem University, and even the headquarters of the satanic temple.  Here, people were put on trial to determine whether or not they were witches. But, the past is n the past, and you can move forward into the future with the help of a counselor here. 

This is Stella Breytman's avatar and link to their profile

Stella Breytman

Offering therapy in MA
License: MSW,LCSW,LICSW
Relationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesBipolar disorderDepression
5 years of experience

SPECIALIZING IN BIPOLAR, SEXUAL ISSUES, AND RELATIONSHIP ISSUES Stella Breytman graduated from the University of New England with a Master’s degree in Social Work. Since then, she has worked with adults, adolescents, and children treating a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief & loss, trauma, domestic abuse, family/couples & relationship issues, sexual issues, and spiritual exploration. Stella has worked in a supervisory role guiding other clinicians and feels comfortable seeing other therapists for treatment or supervision. Stella earned an associate’s degree in Mental Health and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. During her undergraduate program, she received extensive training on domestic abuse and trauma. Additionally, Stella is a certified AASECT sex therapist. Through her private practice, Stella offers online therapy in the state of New York, Massachusetts, Florida, Rhode Island, Virginia, Washington and Ohio, focusing on helping adult individuals, couples and relationships with a wide range of challenges including but not limited to; bipolar, intimacy & communication, and sexual health concerns. Stella helps her clients by empowering them to take control of their life, helping them to better understand themselves and what drives their behavior, teaching them skills to manage their emotions and challenges in a healthy way, improving their negative thinking patterns through objective exploration, allowing them to safely explore their past and present challenges or traumas, providing them with resources to use outside of therapy, providing tools to improve and maintain healthy relationships. Stella believes that every human experience is different and everyone deserves a healing process that supports them best. Through an eclectic approach, Stella combines various forms of therapy to create a treatment plan that is customized for the individual needs of her clients. Stella has unconditional positive regard for each and every one of her clients & families. Her policy of acceptance, a strong sense of empathy, and patience in her practice creates a safe space for her clients to heal and improve their mental health. Stella’s dedication to her clients is evident in the way she presents to each session ready to listen, support and help.

This is Karee Bohman's avatar and link to their profile

Karee Bohman

Offering therapy in MA
License: MSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with experience working with people struggling with their mental health. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, phobias, and a history of physical and emotional trauma. I also have provided support to those struggling with substance abuse. I have additional experience working in a skilled nursing facility, long term care settings, and residential settings. Through this, I have provided support to individuals with chronic medical diagnoses, brain injury, and dementia. Along with supporting these individuals, I have also provided support to family, friends, and caregivers for these individuals. As a social worker, I believe in a person-centered approach and collaborating with my clients to meet their goals. I am very open-minded and want my clients to feel comfortable sharing what they are struggling with, without fear of judgment. It takes a lot of courage to seek support. Sometimes we can be our own worse enemy with reaching our goals and need help. I am here to support you to achieve your goals and find a more meaningful life. I look forward to working with you.

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

Natalie Jones

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
14 years of experience

Hello, my name is Natalie Jones, I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I made a mid-life career change after working for many years in the business world. I earned my Master’s Degree in Social Work from Wheelock College in Boston. I started working in Human Services when I made the transition from working in the field of business. I’ve worked with children and families over the past 14 years, most recently with older adults. Much of my experience has been with clients faced with life’s challenges and the uncertainty of change. Many of my clients have carried the emotional pain of childhood trauma, addiction, emotional distress, depression and anxiety. Treatment Interventions can vary from Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Guided Imagery, Motivational Coaching and The Cycle of Change Model. As a therapist I value the type of honest relationship that can grow over time. I believe a therapist needs to provide a safe, nurturing space to express difficult emotions. I believe in the art of listening and caring to achieve optimum empathy and compassion for the client. I value open mindedness, being non-judgmental and I understand how difficult it can be to trust someone with your inner most thoughts. I strive for clients to feel comfortable expressing their thoughts freely including hopes and dreams. I believe in helping clients to set realistic goals and work as a team to achieve them.

This is Deborah Salant's avatar and link to their profile

Deborah Salant

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
33 years of experience

I am an independent licensed social worker. I have been in practice for several years, taking some time off to raise a family. I work with individuals, families and couples. Depending on the specific situation I will use different techniques. I am skilled in supportive therapy, a family systems model and a 12 step model. I have worked with and continue to work with clients who have a wide range of issues and my areas of expertise are working with chronic depression and anxiety, substance abuse and fertility issues. I have become quite interested in the affected families of aging individuals and those those with health issues. Nevertheless, I still very much enjoy working with the families of young children and utilizing behavioral modalities to help them cope with raising their children. I am skilled at working with clients of all sexual orientations,identifications and lifetyles I generally meet with clients weekly or biweekly depending on the stage of therapy I begin by collecting a brief history of the problems and any other relevant information as it is very important to know why is one seeking help in this trying time. I attempt to form an alliance with whoever is in the room to create a space that will make everyone feel comfortable and able to share. Goal setting is important as well and that is addressed and assessed periodically. I look forward to meeting with you to help you in your journey of feeling better and living a happier life.

This is Jeffrey Forget's avatar and link to their profile

Jeffrey Forget

Offering therapy in MA
License: MA,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
32 years of experience

Hello there, my name is Jeffrey Forget (pronounced the French way, like sorbet or parfait, soft g). I have been a practicing therapist for over thirty years, having completed my graduate training at Antioch New England Graduate School in 1990. I am currently licensed to practice in both Massachusetts and New York. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings over the years, including both inpatient and outpatient work. When first meeting and getting to know a client, I strive to identify and use what might work best for that individual, couple or family, as all of us are unique. I believe that my most important job as a therapist is to try my best to understand my client...who they are, where they come from, where they want to go. Though I consider myself primarily an insight oriented psychotherapist based on my training, I am a strong believer in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and mindfulness techniques. Above all, I believe in the healing power of the human relationship. If we can forge a trusting, honest, and safe therapeutic alliance, we can move forward toward identified goals. I believe that lasting change is possible. I am optimistic. Be in touch, and let's talk. SPECIALITIES: Mood Disorders Adjustment Disorders Adolescence Aging Marital and relationship issues Parenting and Family matters Existential conflict

This is Shardae Collins's avatar and link to their profile

Shardae Collins

Offering therapy in MA
License: MHP,MA,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of California, Washington, Nevada, and Massachusetts. I have over a decade of experience working with individuals and families with various needs in the field of education, health, and social services. For the last 5 years, I've worked with individuals and families across the life span as a Clinical Social Worker providing therapeutic case management, individual therapy, and family therapy. In my role as Clinical Social Worker, I have supported individuals with a wide range of issues such as: childhood abuse and trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family issues, attachment issues, racism and discriminations, and workplace issues. I hold a Master of Arts degree in the field of Social Welfare with an emphasis on mental health from the University of California Los Angeles. I also hold a Master of Arts & Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology with an emphasis on inequalities and diversities from California State University of Los Angeles. I have held numerous positions as an adjunct professor of sociology, senior research assistant, and as a Clinical Social worker. I believe that your lived experiences as well as your environment has an impact on your well-being. My therapeutic approach explores and observes your environment and lived experience to better understand your strengths, needs, and hope for the future. I utilize the person-in-environment approach to better assist you in achieving your goals. I believe that you have the power to heal yourself. I view my role in this therapeutic relationship as a guide. I guide you into discovering and tapping into your own human potential. I believe that healing comes from within, and sometimes people must be reminded of their own strength and resilience. My approach is one that is direct, culturally relevant, sensitive, trauma informed, strength-based, individualized, and client-centered. I use an array of therapeutic modalities such as exposure relapse prevention therapies, behavioral activation therapy , mindfulness, motivational interviewing, attachment theory, psychodynamic, solution focused therapy, CBT, and DBT to awaken one’s healing power. On this platform I offer brief solution focused therapy. Therapy can be hard and sometimes scary. I get it, I am here to support you on this journey. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to healing and self-discovery.

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

Sara Roesler

Offering therapy in MA
License: LCSW (NC) ,LCSW (ME),LICSW (MA)
Stress, AnxietyCareer difficultiesDepressionCoaching
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with individuals who are managing depression, anxiety, chronic illness and life changes. I received my social work degrees from the University of Kansas where the Strengths Perspective paradigm was developed. The Strengths Perspective recognizes the human capacity for resilience, courage and thriving. I also have a Masters in Public Health from Boston University. My MPH has given me more skills to help people with health prevention. My approach to therapy and coaching, is to focus on your strengths to help identify where you want to change and grow. I look forward to working with you!

This is Stencia Sickey's avatar and link to their profile

Stencia Sickey

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

Do you ever feel like your life is always on the ‘go’, struggling to balance life, work, and no time for yourself? Do you ever feel stuck in life? Feel like no matter what you do, things do not seem to get better? Do you ever feel lonely, sad, and at times like no one hears you or understands you? If so, you came to the right place! We all go through challenges in life. You are not alone. As a working parent, I understand the stigma of mental health and seeking support, while balancing the life of providing for your family and taking care of yourself. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with 10 years of professional work experiences in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, depression, coping with life changes, perinatal mental health, grief, trauma, relationship issues, and adjustment. I am passionate about helping adults address their unique challenges and live a more fulfilled life. I utilize multiple treatment approaches including empowerment, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-in-environment (PIE), motivational interviewing, holistic approach, and solution-focused therapy.This, coupled with my professional experience, enables me to provide the guidance and support her clients are seeking. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don’t believe in stigmatizing labels. You are the expert of your life. I will work with you to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. You will feel heard, validated and supported. I take the time to listen to what you are sharing and will always do my best to understand your views and past experiences. I am committed while providing a safe place to talk and addressing anything that is on your mind. 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 wish clients to know that it’s normal and okay to be experiencing these thoughts and feelings—-that they are not alone and there is hope and light at the end of the tunnel. I am here to support you in that process. If you are ready to do the work, schedule an appointment with me today! I look forward to working with you!

This is Susan Estrela's avatar and link to their profile

Susan Estrela

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Massachusetts and Rhode Island and have 12 years of professional experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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 Sydney Crane's avatar and link to their profile

Sydney Crane

Offering therapy in MA
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

Hello! My name is Sydney and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Texas. I am currently the assistant clinical director at a children's behavioral health clinic. I also do some work at a non-profit hospice providing bereavement and grief recovery services to patients and families. I am always appreciative and humbled by the vulnerability people are willing to share with me to better process and explore issues they are wanting to work through. I use a client-centered approach to therapy, meaning that my clients are always the experts in their lives, and I am simply a facilitator and guide to help navigate challenges and help people reach their goals and utmost potential. I work from a systemic perspective of therapy which observes relationships, physical, mental, emotional health, and spirituality. I look forward to getting to know you and work with you!

How to find counseling in Salem

Finding the best therapist close by in Salem 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 Salem. 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 Salem, 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem, elsewhere in Essex, or in the greater state of Massachusetts.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem may not take health insurance, some in the state of Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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 Salem, Massachusetts 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 MA, 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 01970 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem, Massachusetts 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.

Salem 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 Salem.

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

01970, 01971

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist