Cleveland, OH, was founded in 1796, but it wasn’t until the Ohio and Erie Canal was completed in 1832 that the city began growing rapidly. Once the connection was made between the Ohio River and the Great Lakes, Cleveland took off, becoming the fifth-largest city in the country in 1920. Today, it’s the home of John Carroll University, the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame, and the famous West Side Market. 

If you’re struggling with life challenges or having trouble growing, a therapist Cleveland Ohio may be able to help you make the connections you need to thrive.

There are many therapists in Cleveland OH, but finding the right one can be challenging. Community counseling and individual practices are options, but finding an available appointment can sometimes be difficult. When you connect with a therapist through an online platform like BetterHelp, you can participate in clinical mental health counseling around your schedule from the comfort of home. Every BetterHelp therapist has a master’s degree or higher, and you can work with a range of professionals, like a licensed professional counselor or licensed independent social worker. Community mental health is essential, but one-on-one therapy through an online platform is a convenient, personalized way to get the care you need. 

Whether you’re dealing with family conflict, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, or any other type of mental illness, speak to a Cleveland-based therapist to get the support you need.

 

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Dr. Linda Bell

Offering therapy in OH
License: Ph.D.,ABPP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefParenting issues
40 years of experience

ABOUT ME Hello! My name is Linda Bell, lindagbell.com. I am a family psychologist. For 30 years I trained students in individual, couple, and family therapy. I am a licensed psychologist in Ohio. I have researched families and have worked with clients around a wide range of concerns -- including anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, mid-life challenges, and adult child-elder parent relationships. I have also been able to help people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I've written two books based on my research: "Love and Respect in Families: from Generation to Generation" and "Lifelong Marriage in the Greatest Generation." I received my undergraduate degree from Oberlin College in Psychology and my Masters in Psychology from the University of Texas in Austin. With my husband I served in the Peace Corps in Africa and then completed my Ph.D. at Duke University. After completing an internship in clinical psychology, I completed an additional two years of training in couple and family therapy at the Family Institute at Northwestern University in Chicago. I’ve also taught and practiced family therapy in Japan. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I treat people with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My therapy is solution focused. My work encompasses cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and family systems therapies. I will tailor our work together to meet your specific needs and goals. It can be difficult to reach out and seek help. I applaud the courage it took for you to do so! I am here to help and support you. I look forward to getting to know you and helping you reach your goals. SPECIALTIES Midlife challenges Couple concerns Family issues Anxiety Grief I also have experience in parenting issues, histories of physical and/or emotional abuse, elder parent concerns. SERVICES OFFERED VIDEO PHONE MESSAGING LICENSING OHIO Psychology License: P.07616 (Expires: 2022-09-30)

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Sara November

Offering therapy in OH
License: LISW-S
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsBipolar disorderDepression
13 years of experience

Hi and welcome to Betterhelp! My name is Sara November and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over 15 years of experience, based in NE Ohio. My work has focused on helping individuals overcome a wide array of issues in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I have worked with individuals and families struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and grief and loss. I have a special interest in working with individuals who are exploring behavioral change in conjuction with weight loss. My passion is helping others to realize that with support, they have the power to overcome tremendous obstacles and to attain a better quality of life. My approach to counseling is described as warm, empathic, and with a primary focus on tailoring treatment to each individual's needs. It's important to me that as the therapeutic relationship is built, we maintain an open dialog and constantly reevaluate efficacy. I believe in being consistent with therapy and tend to look for solutions that will provide lasting changes. Quick fixes are not something that I am interested in. I take an integrated approach. Thank you for taking the step of coming to Betterhelp. I firmly believe that asking for help is one of the hardest things we can do! My hope is that we can work together to help you find lasting solutions!

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Joseph Rifici (He/Him)

Offering therapy in OH
License: M.Ed.,LPCC-S
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am a licensed professional clinical counselor with over 13 years of practice in the field of counseling. In 2006 I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from The Ohio State University in Social and Behavioral Sciences, and in 2009 I graduated from the University of Akron with a Master of Arts in Education degree for Community Counseling. I began my career as a counselor at IBH Addiction Recovery Center (Interval Brotherhood Home), a residential treatment center for chemical dependencies in Akron Ohio. While at IBH I worked as part of a treatment team, and delivered individual therapy, group therapy, brief family therapy, crisis intervention, and case management services to adult men suffering from addictions and co-occurring mental disorders. In 2015 I was promoted to assistant clinical director at IBH, which shifted my focus to supervising counselors and case managers, directing the men’s treatment team, coordinating admissions and discharges, and co-administering an electronic health record software. I have specialized training in trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, and addiction treatment. I also received specific, advanced training on Cognitive Behavior Therapy from the Beck Institute in Philadelphia. Since 2018 I have been working in private organizations delivering treatment services to adults with a range of mental health issues. I primarily utilize Cognitive Behavioral methods with a warm approach, and will tailor my style based on the needs of my clients. I live in Ohio and spend my free time reading, listening to music, hiking, visiting with family and friends, and hanging out with my cat, Charlie.

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Candice Alig

Offering therapy in OH
License: MS, LPCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hi! My name is Candice and I am a licensed professional clinical counselor; holding my independent license in both Kentucky and Ohio. I have been working in the mental health field for over 7 years. I have served as both an individual and group counselor for people struggling with addictions, anxiety, depression, self esteem issues, communication troubles, family and/or relationship conflict, and much more. I have extensive knowledge in substance abuse issues, having worked with that population for nearly 5 years. I obtained my bachelor's degree in anthropology and master's degree in clinical mental health counseling, both from Northern Kentucky University. I have always been interested in learning about people through their stories and decided to become a counselor in hopes of making a positive impact in people's lives. I understand that seeking counseling can be a big (and sometimes scary) step, therefore I embrace my clients with kindness and without judgement. I enjoy assisting clients in identifying their own strength and using these to achieve the life they desire (and deserve). I do this by utilizing mostly CBT, ACT, and MBSR strategies, tailoring these to my client's needs. I am grateful for the privilege to work along side of you as you take this step in your life!

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Dr. Joanna Kristeva

Offering therapy in OH
License: LCSW,LISW,PhD
Trauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

Dr. Joanna Kristeva specializes in treating mental health conditions, and she uses a cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy approach in her clinical practice. Her multicultural background helps her to apply person-centered and strength-based treatment modalities. Dr. Kristeva is a licensed psychotherapist in New York and Ohio with twelve years of direct clinical experience. She holds a postgraduate degree from New York University and has earned a doctorate in philosophy. Kristeva received clinical training in the treatment of psychological trauma and complicated grief counseling at Columbia University. She is the author of several peer-reviewed journal articles and books.

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Norene Vello

Offering therapy in OH
License: MALPCC
GriefSelf esteem
20 years of experience

I am Norene Vello, I am a licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Ohio. I received my Masters in Pastoral Clinical Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary in Ashland, Ohio and have been practicing 19 years. Life is a journey and at certain points, we all need guidance and direction to navigate the bumps and roadblocks along the way. We need fellow travelers to come alongside, to be present, to listen, guide and direct without judgement, criticism, or condemnation. If you allow me, I would like to be that person. I have collaborated with people ages 6-82 working to better understand themselves and make peace with their struggles using Cognitive and Achievement assessments, Mindfulness breathing exercises, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I have participated in and co-facilitated small women's groups for 18 years using Biblical principles, Spiritual Mindfulness, meditation, prayer, journaling, art, nature, music, CBT, Positive Therapy and Psychotherapy. These groups have addressed issues of depression, anxiety, self-esteem, self-confidence, abuse, and self-destructive behavior patterns. My focus in Psychotherapy includes the physical, emotional, intellectual, social, and spiritual aspects of self because when one part hurts all parts hurt. We are spiritual beings with a need to belong, loved, accepted, and have meaning and purpose to maintain and develop a sense of well-being which, starts in childhood and continues throughout life. My goals in every session are safety, peace, well-being, health, contentment, healing and wholeness in God. I welcome the privilege of walking with you and alongside you if you choose to invite me.

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Dr. Joseph Lukas-Drouillard Hogan

Offering therapy in OH
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
17 years of experience

Hi! My name is Joseph G. Lukas-Drouillard Hogan, LCSW (Joe Hogan) and I am a Client Centered and Mind/Body/Spirit therapist who has been helping people for over 17 years. I am currently licensed in New Mexico and Ohio. I grew up outside Toledo, Ohio, and have Midwestern values, a loving heart, a kind disposition, and a good sense of humor! A 1990 graduate of the University of Toledo with a BA in Psychology, I started my journey as a career counselor. I went from there to working as a inpatient psychiatric social worker. In 2002, I received an MSW from Eastern Michigan University. I also obtained an MBA in 2007, and a non-academic PhD(Hon.) in Metaphysical Religious Counseling in 2000. I have worked in a lot of settings. I have also worked as a drug and alcohol counselor. I have had a private practice for many years working with seniors. I have worked with musicians on Music Row in Nashville. I have worked in rural areas of northern NM and OH. I have even worked on a Native American reservation (Kewa). I am open to also work with those currently being treated with Medical Cannabis. I am also a Veteran. I served in the Ohio Army National Guard. I have worked as a civilian LCSW (social worker) at Fort Campbell, KY, Kirtland AFB in NM, and the VA in Taos, NM. In my free time as well, I have served as an adult officer in the Navy Sea Cadets, and currently serve in the Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Air Force CAP program. Right now I live in Albuquerque, NM where I also enjoy flea markets, driving in the mountains, listening to classic rock, getting to the beach if I can, and watching college and pro football! Learning and practicing self love and self care, and showing love and understanding to other bring happiness to life. That does not mean that difficult people don’t exist in this world. We are all spirits in human form just trying to find happiness! We can rise above the negativity! Let’s take this journey together through this mystery we call life and find the special one which is you!

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Danyell Goggans

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
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, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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.

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Stacey Webb

Offering therapy in OH
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio and Michigan with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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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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.

How to find counseling in Cleveland

Finding the best therapist close by in Cleveland 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 Cleveland. 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 Cleveland, 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland, elsewhere in Cuyahoga, 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 Cleveland area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Cleveland 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland, 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland 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 44192 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland 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 Cleveland, 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.

Cleveland has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Cleveland.

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

44101, 44102, 44103, 44104, 44105, 44106, 44108, 44109, 44110, 44111, 44112, 44113, 44114, 44115, 44119, 44120, 44127, 44128, 44135, 44144, 44181, 44188, 44190, 44191, 44192, 44193, 44194, 44195, 44197, 44198, 44199

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