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.
Mahiboob Syed-Vardhan
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York state with approximately twenty years of experience in working with multicultural individuals dealing with wide range of challenges. I am passionate about helping others become the best version of who they are meant to be. I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families focusing on mending relationships, stress, anxiety, depression, parenting issues, women's issues, and life coaching. I believe every individual is unique, so I tailor my person-centered approach from a variety of modalities; including, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Holistic approach. I like to focus more on the present and help you be able to move forward to a better, happier and healthier life. I have extensive experience with working with individuals of all different ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds. Coming from a multicultural background I pay special attention to the cultural context. I am especially passionate about working with clients from culturally diverse backgrounds, and providing linguistically sensitive, culturally appropriate, and multicultural focused treatments tailored to your background and presenting concerns. I am a strong believer in positive thinking. I am all about moving forward. I would like to know your past; however, I don’t like to dwell on it. I would like to help you move forward so you can enjoy your present and look forward to your future. With lots of empathy and dash of humor, I can help you overcome anything!
Wayne Rowan
I am a licensed therapist (LCSW) in both Florida and New York. I am a Master's Level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP) in Florida and a Certified Addiction & Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) in New York. I bring over eighteen (18) years of dedicated experience in supporting individuals through complex life challenges. The last four (4) of those years were with Betterhelp. My professional approach is based on a Strengths Perspective. It centers on helping clients achieve emotional wellness, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and especially, addiction recovery. I focus on empowering individuals to develop deeper self-understandings of themselves, to improve their communication skills, and to overcome the personal barriers in their way. My practice is particularly attuned to supporting older adults and individuals experiencing workplace challenges, isolation in general, and stressful life transitions. My therapeutic style emphasizes a compassionate, goal-oriented path through collaborative work and guided discovery. The aims of therapy are to explore personal growth, to heal from past experiences, and to develop meaningful strategies that help generate more fulfilling lives. Whether you're struggling with emotional pain, seeking purpose in life, and/or working through interpersonal challenges, we'll put our heads together and work to resolve those issues. I provide supportive, non-judgmental care in relationships that are neither normal-abnormal, ordinate-subordinate, nor superior-inferior.
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.
Elizabeth Winslow
I am licensed in New York with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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.
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.
Malak Alsaidi
I am licensed in New York with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.
Rodney Pride
As a licensed therapist in New York with over three decades of professional experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate family dynamics, career difficulties, and personal growth, with a particular focus on men's issues, young adult challenges, and attachment-related concerns. I bring a compassionate and nuanced approach to addressing social anxiety, panic disorders, self-esteem challenges, and emotional healing. My work is deeply rooted in understanding the unique experiences of individuals across different life stages, from young adults to those navigating midlife transitions. My therapeutic style emphasizes empowerment, personal insight, and holistic well-being. I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, work through guilt and shame, and develop strategies for meaningful personal transformation. Whether you're dealing with family conflicts, seasonal emotional shifts, or seeking guidance through significant life changes, I'm committed to walking alongside you with respect and understanding.
Chance Olivas
As a licensed clinician, I have several years experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression, and any other challenges that can get thrown your way. I also have experience working with adults, college-age students, and athletes. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion, and we will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Mental health can be a real challenge to manage on your own, but if you are looking for some support, it may be time to take a chance and see what help is out there!
Michele Paladino
As a licensed clinician in Colorado, Missouri and New York, with over 15 years of professional work experience, I have had the opportunity to work with clients in a variety of settings. I take a strength based approach, blending together various treatment modalities, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, mindfulness, as well as client centered approach, with the understanding that individuals or families are the experts in their life. It is my goal to work collaboratively with you to provide the tools and techniques necessary to achieve desired counseling outcomes.
Asma Alqahtani
I am licensed in New York with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & 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.
Bethany Walton
I am a licensed clinical social worker with specialized experience supporting individuals navigating life’s most difficult challenges. My work focuses on helping people cope with the emotional, physical, and practical impacts of anxiety, depression, cancer, and chronic pain. I understand that each person’s journey is unique and I strive to create a safe and compassionate space where you can process what you’re going through and find meaningful ways forward. Together, we’ll work on building resilience, reducing distress, and strengthening coping skills so that you can live with greater peace and balance. My Approach: I use a combination of evidence-based practices tailored to your needs, including cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness, and supportive counseling. Above all, I believe in walking alongside my clients with empathy, understanding, and respect. Whether you are facing a health diagnosis, living with ongoing pain, or struggling with mental health challenges, you don’t have to go through it alone. I’m here to help you navigate these challenges and support you in finding healing and hope.
Brian Mandel
I am licensed in Florida and New York with over 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. 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.
Angelica Rubio
Life is full of both positive and challenging experiences that shape us in unique ways. As a licensed psychotherapist in New York, I support individuals in understanding what is working well in their lives and what may benefit from deeper therapeutic exploration. My goal is to help clients achieve greater emotional stability, a sense of tranquility, and a deeper feeling of fulfillment. I work with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, social anxiety, and relationship difficulties, as well as those navigating major life transitions such as starting a new job, entering a new relationship, adapting to a new lifestyle, or immigrating to the United States. I understand the emotional, cultural, and practical challenges that come with these transitions and strive to help clients cultivate contentment, acceptance, and confidence as they adjust. I also specialize in working with individuals and families involved with ACS and with clients managing immigration-related cases. My approach is compassionate, structured, and culturally sensitive, providing support tailored to the unique needs of those facing these circumstances. My practice is grounded in helping clients develop self-compassion, strengthen communication skills, and build resilience. I am deeply committed to creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their identities, personal histories, and daily experiences with openness and safety. I hold a particular interest in women’s issues, workplace dynamics, multicultural concerns, and areas of personal growth. Drawing upon years of clinical experience, I work collaboratively with clients to enhance self-esteem, develop meaningful strategies for emotional well-being, and maintain the positive changes achieved in therapy. I recognize that each person’s journey is distinct, and I honor individual strengths, values, and lived experiences throughout the therapeutic process. My work is rooted in empathy, respect, and a genuine dedication to helping clients connect with their inner resources and discover their capacity for healing and transformation. I am committed to providing accessible, high-quality psychotherapy to individuals and families from all backgrounds as they work toward healing, stability, and personal growth.
*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.