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Keith Karabin

Offering therapy in PA
License: MSCC, LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
29 years of experience

I believe that we all seek to live well and already have within us that capacity to thrive. My approach is straightforward, casual and highly focused on helping you achieve your wellness goals. We do this through refining or discovering your strengths to overcome the barriers that get in the way of your most enjoyable life. I always employ scientifically proven methods and am known for using appropriate humor and positive psychology while encouraging resilient self-awareness in clients. I prioritize the individuality of my clients, so I put my over 20 years of experience to work for you to craft a plan together that is truly unique. I am certified in multiple treatment models for stress, anxiety, depression and trauma and have extensive experience tailoring therapy methods to help adults and families overcome diverse issues. I am a longstanding member of the American Counseling Association (and sub-groups of Wellness, Creativity in Counseling and Neurocounseling) and the American Association of Christian Counselors.

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Monique Sheppard

Offering therapy in PA
License: MSEd,CRC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesBipolar disorderDepression
19 years of experience

Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in Pennsylvania. In addition, I am a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I have 16 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, addiction issues, and other mental health issues. I also helped people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I consider myself an eclectic counselor. I believe that no one individual is the same as another, therefore treatment should be personalized. Based on where the individual is at and their goals for life and goals for counseling will determine what technique I will use. Techniques may change from session to session. Some techniques I use include, but not limited to, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Reality Therapy. People seek counseling for a variety of reasons and seek counseling at different stages in their lives. My counseling approach begins with meeting the individual where he/she is currently. Each person and their situation are unique which is why I am a strong believer that person centered is the best approach as counseling is not one size fits all. I value developing a therapeutic relationship with each individual that I counsel. My goal is to allow the individual to feel comfortable in each session as a result of me offering respect and empathy, being able to accept, and being genuine and authentic. In return I ask that each person is committed to the process and honest throughout. Taking the steps to seek counseling is the first step to seeking change. If you’re ready to take that step, I am here to guide and support you. I look forward to working with you!

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Cheryl Scopinich

Offering therapy in PA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

Welcome to BetterHelp! Reaching out for help is often the first and most difficult step to initiating change in our lives, so you should know that I'm glad you are here. I'm Cheryl, a licensed clinical social worker in Pennsylvania with more than 20 years experience. I've worked with clients who struggle with a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, relationship issues, grief, trauma, and life transitions. I believe there isn't a one size fits all approach as far as treatment modalities go. The therapeutic relationship, in my opinion, is about feeling safe, comfortable, and connected. I care about my clients, and I pride myself on making the "uncomfortable comfortable." Our time together will be focused on personal growth and working to help you develop the tools to find a place of peace and balance. *Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider *Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional

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Jennifer Stahler

Offering therapy in PA
License: MSCP,MBA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
9 years of experience

I am a therapist licensed in Pennsylvania with over 8 years of experience working as a therapist and researcher. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, career challenges, and bereavement. My therapy style is warm, respectful, and interactive. I believe that you are the expert in your life and I am here to help as a guide. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral and motivational interviewing therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. You're already making the hardest step, which is seeking assistance. If you are ready to begin, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Erica Titlow

Offering therapy in PA
License: M.S.,LPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteem
6 years of experience

I am a Professional Counselor Licensed in Pennsylvania with over 5 years of experience working as a School Counselor and Mobile Therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including; depression, anxiety, ADHD, sexuality, grief and loss, self esteem, relational aggression, etc. The age range of the clients I have worked with truly vary as well. My therapy style focuses on empathy and building a positive therapeutic relationship with clients to create a strong and trustworthy environment. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion and providing a safe space free of stigmatizing labels. My approach combines client-centered and solution focused-therapy which allows clients to act as equal partners in the therapy process. Seeking out therapy is a great first step in working towards your goals and I am here to assist in that journey in a positive and encouraging way. At this time, I am solely use live messaging and have a few slots available during the day on Wednesdays. If this does not work for you, please let me know and I can show you how to change therapists. Thank you for your understanding! I look forward to working with you!

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Anthony Mastroianni

Offering therapy in PA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuse
25 years of experience

I am a Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of post masters level experience and licensed in Pennsylvania. My earliest trainings began at a university affiliated psychiatric research institute with focus on therapies for substance dependence and mood disorders. Following this, I focused on family therapy interventions, working with highly conflicted couples and helping persons using aggression and violence in relationships. I am well trained and experienced in both individual and group psychotherapies including psychodynamic, cognitive based, dialectical and relaxation-meditative approaches to increase mindfulness. I have lived and worked in rural, urban and island communities. I have experience working with people across cultures and value the cultural experience of people in shaping their lives. I am experienced in working with active duty personnel and military veterans. My current practice is focused on the treatment of problems of mood and anxiety, post traumatic stress, post-acute recovery from substance dependence, persons with histories of family disruption and codependency, and highly conflicted relationships with and without intimate partner violence. My approach is person-centered and non-judgmental. I believe strongly in a client's ability to find solutions to the difficult issues in life, the importance of individual freedom of choice in seeking out those solutions, and personal accountability in managing the results of those choices. My style is collaborative. We will work together to identify your goals, explore the choices that will move you toward these goals and develop the knowledge and skill necessary for your success. I believe that the discomforts and difficulties we encounter are only part of the rich fabric of life and that it is through the resolution of these that we learn to manage our lives. And so, the life difficulties that you bring to our work together will contain the unique gateways to a more fulfilling and rewarding life for you.

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Kathryn Eller

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania with 10 years of professional work experience working with adolescents, families, and adults with addiction and SMI. I have the most experience in helping clients with family conflicts, specifically 5 years working with the Structural Family Therapy Model as a Family-Based Therapist. 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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Christopher Patchet

Offering therapy in PA
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
9 years of experience

Hello, and welcome to my room. My name is Christopher D Patchet Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Pennsylvania. I have been working in mental health for the past 9 years. I started working with homeless veterans and fell in love with helping others achieving their goals. Since then I completed my Degree in Social Work and got my license to work in therapy. Along with my private practice, I am working with the Veterans Affairs helping veterans with trauma related issues. I have been constantly expanding my knowledge in different treatment styles. I have been formally trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Motivation Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy. My style includes a warm engagement. I provide a completely non-judgmental environment to allow a space to be opened with thoughts, feelings, and communications. You have taken the hardest step of asking for help, and I believe that we can work together to overcome the barriers of your problems, and to achieve your goals.

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Christine Prebble

Offering therapy in PA
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesADHD
19 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Behavior Specialist (LBS), and Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional (CATP) in Pennsylvania with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in supporting and assisting clients through coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, neurodivergence, work/life balance, relationship/attachment issues, family conflict, anger management, LGBTQIA+ stressors and transformation, child/adolescent stressors, and couples’ counseling. I have also worked, providing therapy, in a variety of settings including: inpatient drug/alcohol, state prison, community-based behavioral health (wraparound), and outpatient group private practice. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I have experience working with individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, teens, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I have been described as caring, helpful, and compassionate with a good sense of humor who isn’t afraid to occasionally “tell it like it is.” The evidenced-based treatment approaches I use strategies from most include: Person-Centered Therapy, Dialetical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Motivational Interviewing, Impact Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Reality/Choice Therapy, Art/Play Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and others. This does not mean I am registered nor certified in all these approaches; however, I have engaged in extensive training to use the strategies I employ from these various approaches. 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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KRISTINA KOTECHA

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepression
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & intimacy related 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.

How to find counseling in Avoca

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Avoca 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 Avoca 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 Avoca 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 Avoca, 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 Avoca 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 Avoca 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 Avoca 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 Avoca 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 Avoca 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 18641 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 Avoca 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 Avoca 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 Avoca, 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.

Avoca 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 Avoca.

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

18641

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