In life, your mental state is important. Too many people avoid trying to improve themselves mentally, and one reason for that is because they have no idea where to begin. Luckily, a counselor based in Providence can help you make sure that your mental health is improved and that all your life goals are accomplished and achieved. 

Providence was once known as the beehive of the industrial world. In life, you may feel like a busy bee, but if you're not making honey for yourself, that’s a bit of a problem. Talking to a counselor based in Providence can help you reach your goals and help you make sure your beehive is filled with honey for yourself.

This is Colleen Hayes-Costello's avatar and link to their profile

Colleen Hayes-Costello

Offering therapy in RI
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

Hello, Welcome to Better Help! My name is Colleen Hayes-Costello, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Rhode Island. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Rhode Island College. I’ve worked in many different settings with individuals and families who experience a variety of personal issues. I have spent the last ten years working with families involved in the child welfare system. As a clinician, I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, family problems, parenting struggles, life changes, trauma/abuse. I believe we all go through experiences in life that are a challenge, having someone to talk it through with helps us move forward. I practice with a client-focused mind set, patience, and non-judgement. Some of my practice tools include mindfulness, attachment theory, solution-focused, and trauma informed cognitive behavioral therapy. You’ve taken a big step in exploring Better Help, a step that is not easy. I’d be honored to work with and support you at your own pace.

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Kelly Baraf

Offering therapy in RI
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

Welcome! I'm Kelly, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Therapist, originally from the heart of the Midwest. I've also lived in and loved the western mountains and now have the privilege of accessing the beautiful waters of New England. I love being a therapist AND a social worker, and I list both titles because therapists who are also licensed social workers are unique. Our training helps clients evaluate themselves (with an emphasis on the not so hidden word VALUE in the word, eVALUate), their environments, and how you AND your internal and external worlds are working together to either support your growth, or hold you back from experiencing your BEST life/self. I am an experienced and creative practitioner who can tailor my therapeutic approach to meet your needs. I regularly incorporate elements of mindfulness, body-based strategies, and narrative therapy into my practice, which is strongly grounded in both attachment and family systems theories. While every client's work with me will vary, here is a general idea of what our work together may look like... I will work with you to really recognize your authentic strengths and your value - the qualities that make you unique and wonderful. We will work together to clarify what you need from the therapeutic partnership. Sometimes clients can identify why they are seeking help, and are exceptionally goal-driven. Others aren't sure - but they know they don't like how they feel, and are looking for help to simply FEEL BETTER. Our work together will be purposeful - and dare I say it, BRAVE. We will look for emotions and not hide from them. We'll consider what they are telling us. We'll sit with them - together - and learn from them. As we develop together your goals, we may focus on identifying any patterns or behaviors that aren't serving you well, and on bringing into clearer focus the activities, people, and even objects that bring you the most joy. (There are often simple shifts we can make that help us feel more connected to ourselves - to what we need and what we truly enjoy.) Many of my clients identify that they have "things to work on" to help them move to the next chapter of their lives - they see the therapist as a partner to travel with them down a certain, difficult part of their life's journey. I often hear from many clients that the voices of those around them - even the voices of people that really love them - can sometimes cause them to edit or even rewrite their own story of their experiences, of their situation. I'd like to help you articulate your OWN narrative, so that when you do interact with people around you, loved ones or otherwise, you'll find it easier to hear their comments, suggestions and questions (well-intended or not), and still feel rooted in your own knowing, in your own truth about your own internal and external experiences. Sometimes, we may determine that there is some "family work" to do - where we explore the various roles and ways of communicating in families that get patterned over time, and that aren't serving you well. When our therapeutic relationship closes, it's my goal that you will look back at this work we'll do together and will feel certain that you accomplished something of real value, something to feel proud of.

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Nadine Thompson

Offering therapy in RI
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issues
30 years of experience

My name is Nadine Thompson, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Rhode Island and Massachusetts. I earned my Master of Social Work degree, specializing in Clinical Practice, from Smith College School of Social Work in 1991. I also have post-graduate certification in Addiction counseling, multicultural practice, DBT, and Couples and Family Therapy. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, trauma/abuse, addiction, relationships/parenting, and more. Over the past 30 years as a clinician, my experience has taught me that the most important aspect of counseling by far is the rapport, connection, and comfort you feel with your therapist. Recently, i have come to really see the value in being able "to hold space" for clients to express their deepest feelings and possibly find the answers and direction that they need as they become more self-aware. We all want to be able to share our personal truths and be accepted and understood. I believe in the power of “telling our stories”, as a pathway to healing and resilience. Our work together may include you being able to see yourself and those around you more clearly and develop tools and strategies for creating change in your life. My counseling style is warm, and empathic and I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I approach counseling through a client-centered, narrative approach. My philosophy is that every client has strengths and solutions available for what they are going through. It is important for me to help my clients feel empowered to overcome their present life circumstances. I look forward to meeting you and being on this journey with you!

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This is Daphne Jakstis's avatar and link to their profile

Daphne Jakstis

Offering therapy in RI
License: MSW,LICSW,CDBT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepression
21 years of experience

I am a therapist offering more than 20 years of experience helping my clients with a variety of issues. My area of specialty is trauma treatment. I hold certifications in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and advanced clinical trauma treatment. I am a Certified Integrative Mental Health Provider and this allows me to use a combination of traditional evidence-based practices along with holistic approaches for overall wellness. A person's mental health is influenced by many different factors both internal and external. Our mental health can be influenced by our stress, our lack of connectedness to others, our diet, sleep issues, painful past experiences, and our environment. My skillset allows me to provide therapy that helps my clients reach all of their identified goals for wellness and quality of life.

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This is Katia Blevins's avatar and link to their profile

Katia Blevins

Offering therapy in RI
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Rhode Island with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & 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. 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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This is Thomas Malo Jr's avatar and link to their profile

Thomas Malo Jr

Offering therapy in RI
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Thomas Malo Jr., and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over twenty years of experience in the mental health field. I earned my BSW and MSW from Rhode Island College. I have experience helping clients of all ages, including children, teens, adults, and members of the LGBTQ+ Pride Community. I also have experience treating anxiety and depression, stress, parenting issues, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, and procrastination. Additionally, I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment course to meet your unique needs. Taking the first step in pursuing therapy requires strength, and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Coyna Pena Peralta's avatar and link to their profile

Coyna Pena Peralta

Offering therapy in RI
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Rhode Island with 3 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. 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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This is Brittany Grant's avatar and link to their profile

Brittany Grant

Offering therapy in RI
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionADHD
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Rhode Island with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, depression and anxiety. I have experience utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapy. I have experience working with children between the ages of 5 to 18. I also have experience working individually with adults who struggle with depression, anxiety and trauma as well as working with couples. I have experience with Teen Counseling, Christian Counseling and Couples Counseling. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Sara DeCarvalho's avatar and link to their profile

Sara DeCarvalho

Offering therapy in RI
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

Hello! I am a mental health counselor licensed in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. I have been in the mental health field for 13 years. I have worked in a variety of settings including community based support, inpatient, partial hospital, and integrated primary care settings. I tend to utilize interventions across CBT, DBT, with a understanding of life experience, circumstance, and trauma stored within the body. I work with my clients to determine what goals and success means for them and I aim to create an open and safe environment where we can learn and grow together. 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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This is Leah Houston's avatar and link to their profile

Leah Houston

Offering therapy in RI
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoachingADHD
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Rhode Island with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, & executive and professional coaching. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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How to find counseling in Providence

Finding the best therapist close by in Providence 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 Providence. 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 Providence, 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 Providence 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 Providence 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 Providence, elsewhere in Providence, or in the greater state of Rhode Island.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Providence 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 Providence 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 Providence may not take health insurance, some in the state of Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 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 Providence, Rhode Island 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 Providence 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 Providence 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 Providence 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 Providence 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 Providence 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 RI, 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 02918 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 Providence 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 Providence 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 Providence, Rhode Island 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.

Providence 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 Providence.

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

02901, 02902, 02903, 02904, 02905, 02906, 02907, 02908, 02909, 02912, 02918, 02940

Popular cities near Providence, RI

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