Janita Ramar
Hi there! My name is Janita Ramar and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with experience working with individuals with a host of mental health diagnoses including (depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders) as well as stress-related difficulties, trauma-related issues, and substance use disorders. The stigma associated with obtaining mental health treatment can be discouraging at times, so I applaud you for finding the strength to seek help and focus on YOU! My main focus during the initial stages of therapy is establishing a therapeutic relationship which is based on empathy and trust, then working toward collaborating and creating goals based on the client’s needs/preference. I encourage clients to partake in their process of healing and growth while having the platform to share thoughts/feelings freely without fear of judgment. I find it essential to discuss therapeutic techniques and approaches with clients in order to enable them to engage and begin to establish ownership of their treatment. I operate from the stance that a therapeutic alliance that encompasses honesty, openness, and unconditional positive regard is key in promoting progress in a client’s treatment process. My approach in assisting clients is strength-based, person-centered, as well as solution-focused to name a few. I find it is essential to meet a client where he or she is at and assist them in processing and deciding what they hope to focus on. Being a source of support, acceptance, and trust are qualities that I strongly value and contribute to the counseling relationship. I am passionate about assisting clients with growing, healing, and ultimately bettering themselves and leading fulfilling lives. I believe that the process of change is largely person-based and levels of motivation play a large role in regulating change. I strongly believe that each client has the ability to overcome obstacles and is able to progress greatly with the development/utilization of coping skills, and having empathetic support from a dedicated therapist which I hope to be for you. You have already taken ownership of your therapeutic process by starting here! I would be honored to assist you in your road to developing a healthy and happier YOU!
John Shafer
By way of introduction, I am John Shafer, LCSW-R. In 1998, I graduated from Syracuse University's School of Social Work with my master's in social work. Throughout my social work career, I strived to learn from the highest credentialed and experienced professionals. Background wise, I have experience working with people in the following areas: rural community mental health settings, school-based mental health settings, city and suburban settings. Vocationally, diversification of approaches to working with people from an array of different environments provided my basis for success. I worked with people across the spectrum of age ranges from three years old to people in their nineties. Also, I gained experience working with people from different socio-economic statuses. Over the years, my ongoing diversity training afforded me opportunities to hone my clinical skills related to populations covering a wide gamut of racial and ethnic backgrounds. I sought to develop techniques to address gender identity expressions that was done in a culturally sensitive manner. Along the way, I prided myself on developing counseling and psycho-therapy skills. In the course of working with people, the therapy models I used most often included: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, Strengths Based Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. In general, my employment opportunities accorded me the chance to develop clinical skills. I implemented different types of therapy such as individual therapy, couple's therapy and group therapy; all of which provided me with professional development opportunities. Interweaving professional experiences with evidence based therapy models, I work collaboratively with people to attain client-centered and person-centered goals.
Jenna McDonald
*Hello and Welcome ! I'm Jenna McDonald . I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) based in Western New York and also working with clients statewide (NY) via Telehealth. I work with teens, adults, and couples; specializing in anxiety, stress, life transitions ( ex : work/school stressors), relationship concerns, substance use and trauma. I use different types of therapies to help my clients make progress and start feeling more in control and on their way to a more mentally stable wellness.* My approach to therapy varies based on the needs of each client I work with. I most frequently use Person Centered Therapy as I find it helps the client to organize his/her goals so that we can work through those together, based on what is most important and meaningful to that client. Solution Focused therapy, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), are other modalities that can help myself and the client build a shared understanding of their reality, and allow us to work together to create a path forward. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for clients who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions ( work/life balance, job change/ school/social pressures), relationship issues, anxiety, and depression . I work to help my clients navigate these transition periods and to build skills to allow them to feel better about themselves and develop a more positive outlook on life. I have had success working with shy clients, young adults , or just those new to therapy who are apprehensive to open up at first , given my down to earth personality. My communication style is working with my clients to understand what it is they are experiencing and build that rapport. My hope is to provide supportive problem solving and collaboration, while I can also be that listening ear. I pride myself on my ability to listen without judgment. I will also be that realistic reminder to my clients of what is healthy/what is not, so that we can work towards optimal mental wellness. I will challenge my clients and not be a person to enable negative behavior. My approach to goal setting with clients is all about working together to define what you want to accomplish in our time together. This often starts by building trust between us, and getting comfortable with what it means to be in therapy. Over time, we’ll work together to set goals and track your progress. Sometimes we just want someone to listen to us and have the ability to vent our emotions and frustrations. I can be that person who is neutral, which can give me a great outside view and ability to provide assistance when needed. What you can expect from our first session together is for us to spend the majority of our time talking about your past experience with coming to counseling, what worked well with past counseling/ what didn’t, what you are coming to counseling for currently and me asking questions to better understand some of why you may be feeling that way. The first session is about us building an initial connection and helping me get a sense of where we should go from there.
Bertha Taillefer
I am licensed in New York with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with ADHD, depression, stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Carol Harris
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years experience working with ethnically diverse populations and their young adult children. I am also experienced in supporting the mental health issues experienced by geriatric clients and those with medical conditions. I have helped people with depression and anxiety and those experiencing relationship and parenting problems. As a seasoned therapist I understand the challenges that the young and older client face and can guide you through life transitions. I am experienced, patient and kind. I believe you made the right choice in reaching-out to me.
Ellen Loveless
I am a mental health counselor licensed in New York with over 25 years of experience working as a therapist with an emphasis on Christian counseling. I have worked with clients having a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, family and relationship issues and PTSD. I have worked with a diverse population of all ages. I have helped the people who have taken that extra step and sought assistance with life's trials by listening and allowing the individual themselves to work towards their goals with the support that is needed. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach is client centered, solution focused, and Christian based. I practice active listening with treatment focused on specific needs The courage it takes to reach out for help is just the first step on a journey towards the changes necessary to have a fulfilling and contented life. I look forward to working with you.
Megan Renz
I am licensed in Florida and New York State with 10 years of professional work experience in mental health. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, & depression. I also specialize with those in the penal system as a specialty since 2020. 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.
Tammy Piazza
My name is Tammy. I have 5 years of experience working with patients with dual diagnosis with substance abuse disorder and mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar and PTSD. I use the person centered approach and I will meet you where you are comfortable to begin therapy. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy , Emotional Functional Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and EMDR Therapy. If you are looking to learn coping skills , self-soothing techniques and moving past trauma, please contact me. I look forward to working with you.
Luann Esen
I am licensed in New York with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Sharisse Ramos
Hello there :) I am licensed in New York with over 10 years of professional work experience. I believe in meeting clients where they're at mentally, and empowering them with each step towards a life of fulfillment. I treat everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I have provided therapy in clinical settings, helping clients with stress and anxiety, financial literacy, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem/confidence, depression, and ADHD. I have experience in a plethora of modules, such as Motivational Interviewing, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, Anger Management, Creative Arts Therapy as well as Trauma Interventions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy are at the foundation of my expertise. I will always tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your specific needs, and goals. Acknowledging that you're ready to take the first step and signing up for therapy takes a lot of courage!! & I am proud of you for getting started :)
Keith Dean
I am licensed in New York with 29 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Cheri Hardial-Pitamber
I am licensed in New York with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, bipolar disorder, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.
Kishea Paulemont
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 15 years of experience, I offer a compassionate and supportive space for both adults and children navigating emotional and behavioral challenges. My approach is client-centered, culturally sensitive, and rooted in building trust and connection. I specialize in supporting individuals through anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship struggles, life transitions, and low self-esteem. When working with children, I incorporate age-appropriate techniques to help them express themselves, build emotional awareness, and develop healthy coping skills—often involving caregivers as active partners in the process. Whether you're seeking therapy for yourself or your child, my goal is to create a space where healing, growth, and self-discovery can take place. I believe that meaningful change begins with feeling seen, heard, and understood—and I’m honored to walk alongside you on that journey.
Shira Smith
As a licensed therapist in New York, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering adolescents, young adults and women through transformative healing experiences, with a deep understanding of challenges related to stress, anxiety, relationships, and personal growth. My therapeutic approach is rooted in compassionate, culturally responsive care. I have extensive expertise in addressing depression, trauma, grief, and social challenges, with a particular focus on helping clients develop self-love, overcome isolation, and explore life purpose. I create a supportive environment where individuals can safely explore their experiences, especially those impacted by prejudice, discrimination, and significant life transitions. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I'm committed to walking alongside my clients as they build resilience, cultivate meaningful connections, and discover their inner strength. Whether you're struggling with social anxiety, processing difficult experiences, or seeking personal growth, I'm dedicated to providing thoughtful, affirming support tailored to your unique journey.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Pelham, New York
Finding a therapist near you in Pelham, New York starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. New York is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In New York, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across New York, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in New York
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In New York, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in New York
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' copay is as low as $15, some pay $0.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in New York
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in New York through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in New York
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across New York, including residents in Pelham.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in New York do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' copay is as low as $15 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' copay is as low as $15 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Pelham, New York
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Pelham and the surrounding NY area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.