When you feel anxious, depressed, or have nowhere to go, you may feel like you're trapped in a small space with nowhere to navigate. No matter where you go or what you do, you just can’t seem to walk around and stretch your legs. In a situation such as this, a counselor can help you.
Union City is one of the most densely populated cities in America. While it’s great to live in, sometimes your mind feels as crowded as the city can be. A counselor can help clear up your mind and get you to your destination faster.
Laura Shaffner
My name is Laura Shaffner, and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and counselor. My counseling style is warm and intuitive. I especially enjoy working with people around life changes, self-esteem work, anxiety, and relationship issues. I use the framework of holistic psychology primarily in my work, along with incorporating other frameworks that may best suit you. This may include cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, or psycho-dynamic counseling, along with yoga and mindfulness techniques as modalities for self-care. Holistic psychology believes that healing is a conscious process that can be lived daily through changes in our habits and patterns. The practice of holistic psychology is rooted in the ideas of freedom, choice, and ultimately, self-empowerment. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Please know that a counseling session with me is always a supportive, safe space to talk about anything that is on your mind. Oftentimes, we seek counseling to get through a difficult experience, manage overwhelming emotions, or improve relationships. While counseling is effective in helping one get through isolated challenges, the goal of counseling is to help identify patterns of ideas, emotions, and behaviors that may contribute to repetitive maladaptive experiences. Our current experiences are often shaped by past experiences. It is common to get stuck in ways that make it difficult to move past a particular state of being. It is important to recognize that counseling is a collaborative effort. The true work of counseling often occurs between sessions in self-reflection, self-awareness, and a commitment to self-improvement. It takes courage to seek for you to reach out and seek help. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to be your sounding board and help you with whatever concerns you are facing today. I very much look forward to working with you!
James Gallagher
I am a Licensed Professional Counsellor with many years of experience dealing with individuals, couples, and families. I have experience in inpatient, partial hospital and outpatient settings. I have been both a clinician and administrator and have many years experience supervising other clinicians. Much of my career has been directed toward alcohol and drug addiction. My principal focus is cognitive behavioral therapy which assists the client in examining the relationship between dissonant thoughts and subsequent behaviors. I also employ Family Systems Therapy.
Shaquala Fields
As a single mom of color, I have witnessed the extreme societal pressure placed on mothers to choose between their career or their children; leaving little room to even provide attention to their own self care. This ignited a passion within me to use my skills to support women to navigate through the chaos. My goal is to work with those women who may need help coping through these very real everyday stressors. Not a mom? That's ok! I can also empathize with the pressure placed on women of color in the workplace to work so much harder than their male counterparts. Its my hope to create a safe space for you to explore these feelings. It can be challenging at times for women to have access to a therapist who can empathize with their experiences. Through a strengths based approach, I would love to share my personal experience with being a woman of color, a mom, a Christian, as well as a goal oriented professional in non-profit leadership and mental health. Through this journey, I want you to find a sense of fulfillment, purpose, and self worth and I would be honored to take that walk with you. Our sessions will not be for me to "social work" you, but for you to unload some of the pressure and burden to make the ride a bit easier. No matter what it feels like, you got this... you can do this!
Nicole Ethridge
I provide therapy to people located in California, Delaware, Missouri, and New Jersey. I reside in California with 6 years of counseling 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.
Cynthia Barrett
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in AL and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in FL with 20 years of experience as a therapist and counselor in a variety of settings. I have helped people with a wide range of challenges including depression, anxiety, stress, career concerns, family and couples issues and military issues. I also have experience working with trauma and abuse survivors. My therapy style is warm, inviting and open. I believe in treating people with respect, sensitivity and compassion, avoiding labels and other stigma. My background is in cognitive behavioral therapy and client-centered counseling. My goal is to work with you to develop treatment plans that fit you and your specific needs and concerns. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and the first steps it takes towards change. If you feel you are ready to take those steps, I am here to support and encourage you. I look forward to working with you!
Dawneisha Spratley
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania with over 20 years experience working as a psychotherapist and counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including stress, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, social conflicts, PTSD, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical & emotional abuse. My therapy style is diverse and engaging. I value treating everyone with dignity, kindness, and am sensitive to their needs. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution focused, eco systemic, humanistic, play, and trauma focused therapy. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It is not always easy to reach out for support and It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life. It takes commitment to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to help. I look forward to working with you!
Elyssa Denton
I am licensed in New Jersey with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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!
Andrew Fort
I am licensed in New Jersey with 4 years of internship and Licensed Associate Counselor experience and have now obtained my Licensed Professional Counseling work experience for my full license through the state. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. I am also a Christian with a strong faith and know that it has been a large part of my journey through healing personally. If you are someone who wants to bring a Biblical, Christ-centered approach into your therapy, I can gladly do that!
Sarah Couch
I am licensed in New Jersey with an LCSW and LCADC including 6 years of clinical work experience, and 11 years in the mental health field. I have had the opportunity to serve a range of clients from adolescents to adults and various cultural backgrounds that allows me to provide treatment to meet the individual’s needs. I am experienced in individual, couple and family therapy. I offer trauma informed care and various other approaches including but not limited to CBT and solution focused interventions. I believe that, taking the first steps towards beginning therapy is often the most challenging. Once you are ready to begin the therapeutic process, I am here to help you build a happier life!
Raquel Ortiz Terron
I am licensed in New York with 20 years of professional clinical work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and midlife transitions. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will customize our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek professional guidance and support in order to take the first steps towards a change in your life journey. I am here to support & empower you and celebrate your transformation.
How to find counseling in Union City
Finding the best therapist close by in Union City 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 Union City. 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 Union City, 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 Union City 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 Union City 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 Union City, elsewhere in Hudson, or in the greater state of New Jersey.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Union City area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Union City 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 Union City 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 Union City may not take health insurance, some in the state of New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 Union City, New Jersey 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 Union City 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 Union City 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 Union City 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:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Behavior therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Talk therapy
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Attachment therapy
- Relationships
- Children, adolescents, and teens
- Addiction (substance abuse)
- Divorce
- Trauma or PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychodynamic treatment
- Career counseling
- Alcohol use disorders
- OCD
- ADHD
- Mood disorders
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
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 Union City 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 Union City 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 NJ, 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 07087 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 Union City 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 Union City 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 Union City, New Jersey 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.
Union City 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Union City:
07087