If you’re navigating challenges like difficult life transitions, family conflict, and unhealthy habits, talking to a therapist can help you live a more meaningful life. Talking to a therapist in Akron, OH, can help you find new ways to cope.

Whether you’re looking for relationship counseling or someone to support you through traumatic stress disorder, a therapist can help you explore various approaches to therapy and discover which one is right for you. There are a range of mental health professionals out there; some have experience with social work or are specially trained for treating trauma. When you use an online therapy platform like BetterHelp, you can find a therapist with the expertise you need and availability that fits your schedule. Your therapist can explain what is involved in various approaches to treatment or answer questions about the science behind them. Plus, if you don’t feel a connection, you can switch providers anytime until you find one that’s a good fit.

If you’re ready to start living your best life, connect with an Akron-based therapist below to learn more.

 

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James Bunch

Offering therapy in OH
License: LPCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
7 years of experience

I have nine years of experience counseling clients with a variety of struggles, personalities, and life experiences as well as counseling in group settings. Each counseling experience brings challenges and victories and I consider it an honor and privilege to come alongside individuals or couples in need. I personally see my role as counselor as an opportunity to serve. With this in mind my goal is to listen, to understand and to dive in with my client and fight alongside in their journey toward healing. I have a passion to help others in whatever situation and have spent a lot of time with individuals struggling with depression and anxiety as well as other mental health and life issues. My familiarity has given me confidence and success when coming alongside my clients in these areas. There is also a special place in my heart for those going through marriage problems or relationship issues. I have focused on marriage counseling in the last few years and it has become a major strength area in my counseling. I typically use counseling techniques of cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and reality therapy. I also have a passion for Christian counseling techniques and principles and enjoy counseling individuals and couples seeking biblical guidance. I have lived in Ohio most of my life and have five sons with my wife of fifteen years. I am a follower of Christ and self-proclaimed geek. I also very much enjoy the outdoors, sports, music, reading, and just spending time with friends and family. I have a passion for helping others and being involved in my community. 2008- Graduated from Cedarville University with B.A. Psychology Bible Minor. 2013- L.P.C. Graduated from Liberty University with M.A. in Professional Counseling 2017- L.P.C.C. E.1700001. Expires 2019, Jan.

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Mondie Gonzales

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW-S
Trauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesAnger managementADHD
15 years of experience

My name is Mondie Gonzales and I am a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) in the state of Ohio. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Psychology in 1992 and then a Masters in Social Work in 1999. I have worked with kids and families in a community mental health setting for most of my 30 year career as a mental health professional. I opened a private practice, working with individuals, couples and families 10 years ago. I utilize many different modalities and techniques, depending on your needs and goals. Throughout these experiences I have discovered that the most important aspect of any therapeutic relationship is the relationship! I believe that you are the expert in your own life and my role is to help you implement the changes you are hoping to make. My goal is to help individuals and families gain or improve their life skills in order to make the best choices for what they want to accomplish. My focus as a practitioner is to help you know what you want, name it and define what it looks like, so that you can live your life in a way that moves you toward that goal. I believe that everything in your life intertwines to create your life story and that we all have control over our destiny. I believe in making informed choices, setting appropriate boundaries, and accepting responsibility.

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Janice Sowell

Offering therapy in OH
License: M.Ed,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

Hello, my name is Janice Sowell. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio and a License Professional Clinical Counselor in Kentucky. In 2023, I was approved to practice as a License Professional Counselor in Tennessee. I received a Master of Education with concentration on Professional Counseling and Human Development with specialization in Mental Health Counseling from Lindsey Wilson College, Columbia, Kentucky, in 2016. I work in a Trauma informed setting, providing therapy and crisis intervention. Much of my work has focused on treatment of various mental health issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, domestic violence, conflict resolution, sexual abuse, and grief. Hence, I will work from a place of compassion, authenticity, and collaboration. My goal is to provide a supportive environment where your initial concerns are explored, goals developed, along with discovering your strengths and resources as we move towards what really matters to you. My approach is elective, meaning I will use the best therapeutic approach for each individual client. I am primarily a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I believe that our thoughts influence our emotions and behaviors. Therefore; I deem that the therapeutic relationship can be a vehicle for change. It takes willpower to seek a more gratifying and happier life that is necessary for a positive change to take place. I am here to support you as you make positive changes in your life, to achieve your goals. Thank you for the opportunity to serve. I look forward to collaborating with you!

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Jennifer Davis

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Let me begin by congratulating you on making the choice to start counseling. It can be a difficult, yet rewarding, first step to take. Life might be overwhelming right now but it does not have to be forever. We can work together to identify ways to improve it. My goal as your therapist is to create a safe, comfortable, and supportive space for you to be yourself. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience working individually with college students and adults through a wide variety of mental health concerns (e.g. anxiety, depression, motivation, career difficulties, life transitions, confidence, self-esteem, relationship issues, grief, etc.). I am experienced with using evidence-based approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT). However, as your therapist, I prioritize tailoring my approach to what works best for you.

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Dr. Bridgette Montgomery

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
27 years of experience

Whatever your reasons are for seeking therapy, I am here and I am committed to helping you resolve your problems. I often share that no one is exempt from experiencing life’s difficulties. At some point in life, we all will face some challenges. What I have learned is that not everyone has the proper skills to manage problems effectively. Seeking support puts you on the right track to identifying ways to address those problems you are dealing with more appropriately. To give you an idea of who I am and what I do, I am Dr. Montgomery, a licensed clinical social worker in PA, DE, NJ, and OH. I have over 27 years of professional work experience in the field. I consider myself to be a trauma therapist, utilizing a generalist approach. My treatment modalities consist of psychoanalysis, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and person-centered therapies. These approaches are at the core of my practice. I treat a range of social, emotional, and behavioral disturbances. I have experience in helping clients manage and/overcome OCD, Anxiety, Depression, Complex Trauma/PTSD, and Sexual Abuse issues. I am a National Certified Sex Offender Treatment Specialist. My Forensic Specialty is treating individuals with deviant sexual acting behaviors. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Yes, change is hard and seeking help can be a frightening experience. My only goal is to encourage, empower, and assist you in becoming a better version of yourself. So, call today.

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Kristen Buchannan

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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.

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Natalie Varrone

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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.

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Jeyran Shahgaldiyeva

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyGriefSleeping disordersDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

Hello, and thank you for beginning this journey. My name is Jeyran and I am a licensed therapist in Ohio, Massachusetts, and Florida (telehealth) with a solid professional work experience. I work with people that experience symptoms of depression, stress and anxiety, are coping with grief and loss, dealing with dramatic life changes, have sleeping disorders, and other disturbing mental health issues. My imperative is to treat everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Throughout our interactions I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. During the sessions I draw the best from Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, Client Centered and Solution Focused Brief Therapies, and other evidence-based approaches to help you get to the roots of your concerns, identify your strengths, and guide you to the happier life. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here for you and am honored to support you in that journey.

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Eriq Rory

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with four years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & 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. I primarily work via video sessions with messaging support in between sessions. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Vanessa Collier

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issues
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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 & empower you in that journey.

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How to find counseling in Akron

Finding the best therapist close by in Akron 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 Akron. 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 Akron, 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 Akron 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 Akron 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 Akron, elsewhere in Summit, or in the greater state of Ohio.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Akron 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 Akron 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 Akron may not take health insurance, some in the state of Ohio 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 Ohio 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 Akron, Ohio 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 Akron 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 Akron 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 Akron 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 Akron 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 Akron 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 OH, 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 44320 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 Akron 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 Akron 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 Akron, Ohio 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.

Akron 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 Akron.

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

44301, 44302, 44303, 44304, 44305, 44306, 44307, 44308, 44309, 44310, 44311, 44312, 44313, 44314, 44315, 44316, 44317, 44320, 44325, 44326, 44328, 44334, 44372, 44396, 44398

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