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Rachel Wilson-Snyder

Offering therapy in PA
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteem
23 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania with over 20 years experience providing counseling across a variety of professional settings with a diverse clientele. A well-practiced and experienced professional, I am comfortable assisting with a broad spectrum of clinical issues. Areas I am exceptionally well-versed in include: development and adjustment issues over the lifespan, career challenges and unexpected life changes, developing a stable and positive sense of identity and self-esteem, and finding a deeper meaning and sense of purpose in one’s life struggles. Key issues include anxiety, depression, parenting issues, ADHD, ODD, developmental issues and/or special needs, supporting adults with autism, PTSD, sexual abuse or trauma issues, and helping adults recover from a traumatic or life-altering event such as a brain injury. As the parent of child with autism, there is a special place in my heart for supporting individuals on the autism spectrum, their caregivers and their loved ones. I am adept in helping individuals develop skills in a variety of areas including setting and achieving life-changing goals, bettering themselves in key life areas such as relationship skills, parenting skills and support, time management and organizational skills, problem-solving skills, conflict resolution skills, executive functioning, and developing a daily routine that reflects their individual goals for their life. My counseling style is warm, empowering, and collaborative. My approach combines humanistic and cognitive therapies and employs motivational interviewing and reality therapy to help you develop a clear vision of the life you want for yourself, determine the steps necessary to achieve that life, and provides coaching as you work towards achieving your goals. I look forward to joining alongside you on your life journey.

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Avia James

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementDepression
10 years of experience

Hello, and congratulations on your first step in becoming BetterHelped. With blended experience in different therapeutic settings and modalities, including Inpatient, Outpatient and Corrections, I am confident that I have the tools, experience and knowledge to assist and support you in your endeavor to rise above life challenges. I hold a Master's of Arts in Professional Clinical Counseling and I am licensed as a Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I am certified as a Co-Occurring Counselor by the Pennsylvania Certification Board and specialize in providing counseling to those affected by both mental health and substance use disorders. I believe that having a strong therapeutic alliance is at the core of successful outcomes. I believe that having a good connection with your counselor is key to putting theory into practice. That being said, my main goal, with any therapeutic encounter I have, is to create a working environment that feels safe, positive and non-judgmental. I employ creative methods in my effort to encourage and allow you to be YOU and to help you feel more comfortable in your own skin. I strive to empower you as an individual and help you bring all your personal strengths out to the forefront. I aim to assist you to strengthen the connection with the inner voice I am confident you have deep down, as I aspire to get you to see your ability to self-heal. Thank you for considering me as your next counselor and I look forward to being a part in your self-search endeavor.

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William Besterman IV

Offering therapy in PA
License: LCSW,LISW
Trauma and abuseGriefBipolar disorderDepression
6 years of experience

I am a social worker in Florida with 6 years experience. I have worked with crisis and suicide prevention for many years. My specialties include substance abuse counseling, and grief and loss counseling. I find that I am able to understand my clients in ways that others cannot. With a technique that incorporates finding one's own Inner Strength and uncovering things that they do not know about themselves. It is important to realize the positive qualities of not only yourself but your life in general and use that as the basis to better yourself. It is time to make the decision to be better.

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Dr. Marsha Chase

Offering therapy in PA
License: PhD,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
8 years of experience

I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in Pennsylvania with over 8 years of experience working in family homes, residential setting, school setting, and outpatient settings. Clients have reached out to me for a wide range of reasons including depression, anxiety, attachment disorders, personality disorders, relationship concerns, parenting struggles, and personality characteristics. I have specialized in working with clients who struggle with attachment disruptions and trauma and abuse. My counseling style is caring and interactive. I believe that a therapist should be able to empathize, be genuine, and treats clients with unconditional positive regard. Every client is unique and should be treated as such. I will work to get to know you personally to develop the most personalized plan for you combining a humanistic, personal centered, cognitive behavioral and solution focused approach. My goal is to help you work through whatever challenges you may be faced with while helping you to develop skills to manage other difficulties as they arise. I want to be able to give you a time and a place to feel safe and secure exploring those challenges so you can identify what it is you need and how you can meet those needs. I work with you so that you can feel better about yourself and where you are in life. It takes courage to accept there are challenges and it takes motivation to begin to explore and process those challenges and struggles. When you are ready to begin the journey in your life, I will be ready to walk that journey with you. I look forward to talking to you soon.

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Jim Disantis

Offering therapy in PA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepression
38 years of experience

I am Jim Disantis and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker(LCSW) who has been a psychotherapist for 35 years. I have worked in settings from child development to geriatric. I also have experience with inpatient and outpatient mental health, both non-profit and commercial as well as private practice. I have supervised other therapists among additional professionals. Life has taught me that non judgmental based therapy can be successful and I am able and willing to help you deal with issues by using well established professional methods. This includes interventions of cognitive behavioral and solution focused therapy. I also help those who are in recovery. Your spiritual and religious beliefs are "safe" to bring to the table with me if you choose to do so in a "guilt free zone".

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Nicole Baker

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC,BCBA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
32 years of experience

Hello, I am a licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania; I believe that there are solutions within us, and sometimes a guide is needed to unearth them. I received a Bachelor of Arts in Music Therapy from Mansfield University in 1992 and became a Board Certified in Music Therapy within the same year. In 1997 I completed a Masters of Arts with a concentration in Music Psychotherapy from Temple University. Seeking to find a balance between the arts and science, I returned to school for a Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Behavioral Analysis through Penn State’s Worldwide Campus (2008) and a year later became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. My therapeutic approach is rooted in expressive arts techniques with the guiding principles of trauma-informed care. I use specific therapy interventions, including the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music, the Mandala MARI Art technique, Positive Psychology, and Attachment-Based therapies. These techniques are woven together in a creative tapestry for individual growth and wellness. My areas of interest include: 1) Performance Anxiety; 2) Depression; 3) Sleep Disturbance; 4) Parent-Child Relational Problems; 5) Stress Management; 6) Compassion Fatigue; and 7) Vicarious Trauma

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Dr. Geri-Lynn Utter

Offering therapy in PA
License: PsyD.
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am a clinical psychologist licensed in Pennsylvania with over 10 years of experience. I have worked with clients with substance use disorders (i.e. opioids, stimulants, alcohol, etc.) in conjunction with other concerns including depression, anxiety, and trauma as well as relationship conflict related to these issues. I have also helped many people who have experienced learning differences, ADHD, and bipolar disorder. My counseling style is approachable, non-judgmental, and empathetic. I believe in treating individuals with respect and compassion and have worked respectfully with the LGBTQ+ community. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, psychodynamic and motivational interviewing forms of counseling. I will customize our dialog and treatment plan to meet your specific needs and goals. It takes courage to reach out for help and take the first step towards change. I know taking this first step may not seem like a big deal - but it is! If you are ready to take this important step, for you, I am here to support, motivate and empower you on this journey! I am truly looking forward to working with you. Warmly, Dr. Geri-Lynn Utter, PsyD.

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Hannah Hill

Offering therapy in PA
License: M.S.Ed.,MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

Seeking therapy requires a great deal of strength and courage. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping my clients find that strength and courage in a safe space free from judgment. I work with adults struggling with: substance abuse, co-occurring disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, life stressors, communication issues, interpersonal and relationship challenges. My therapeutic approach combines compassion, honesty, humor and lived experience. I believe therapy should be an enjoyable experience and I strive to create a relaxed atmosphere where people can share with ease. I draw from multiple therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy and utilize a trauma-informed approach.

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Amy Florence

Offering therapy in PA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefBipolar disorderDepression
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, i.e. therapist, licensed in Pennsylvania and New York (only serving clients within those states) with over 12 years of experience working as a counselor in a clinical setting. For seven years I was working with hospice patients and their families. For the past five years I have been working with clients in a non-profit clinic. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, bereavement, relationship issues, parenting problems, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. My passion is helping others become the best they can be. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, person centered, mindfulness, and brief solution focused therapy. I will work with you to create a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. You have made the first and most important step. I would be honored to walk with you on this journey. I look forward to working with you!

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This is Laura Hank's avatar and link to their profile

Laura Hank

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with over 14 years of experience in various settings, including school, telehealth, and community-based outpatient mental health helping adults, adolescents, and families navigate life’s challenges. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I provide a safe space for clients to share their feelings as they take their first step toward better emotional awareness and mental well-being. I have have expertise in treating a wide range of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life changes. I want to help clients develop the skills and insights they need to achieve their goals by using evidence-based approaches such as person-centered, strengths-based, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy and mindfulness-based strategies. I believe that everyone has the capacity to heal and grow, and I am dedicated to helping clients achieve their full potential by taking the step toward a happier, healthier life.

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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 Lancaster, or in the greater state of Pennsylvania.

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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania 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, Pennsylvania 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 PA, 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 17501 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, Pennsylvania 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:

17501

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