Finding a therapist in Philadelphia, PA may feel like just one more overwhelming task in an already busy life, but online therapy platforms like BetterHelp can make it simple. BetterHelp has over 30,000 experienced therapists, licensed social workers, and other mental health professionals who provide a number of counseling services that can address anything from depression to addictive behaviors. 

If your past experiences with therapists have left you less than impressed, finding the right therapist can make all the difference in therapeutic approach and effectiveness. With BetterHelp, individuals living in Philadelphia and nearby cities can simply fill out an online questionnaire to be matched with a therapist that meets their specific needs. If you feel you need a change of therapist you can switch at no additional cost until you find the perfect match for you. 

With the convenience of video chat or text, you may find that sessions feel far less cumbersome and overwhelming to schedule. Online therapy offers all of the tools needed for managing stress and improving mental health and well-being, but without the hassle of trying to get to an office appointment. 

If you’re someone living in Philadelphia and are looking for some guidance in building the fulfilling life that you deserve, online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp can be the starting point to get you moving in the right direction.

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Brenda Wise

Offering therapy in PA
License: CAADC, LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
29 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Brenda Wise and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I also have my CAADC, Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I have over 29 years of experience working in various counseling settings to include: substance abuse counseling for a drug and alcohol out-patient treatment facility, faith-based counseling, and working with clients struggling with grief, marriage problems, anxiety, depression and other mental health concerns. Often times people just need someone to help them get through a difficult time in their lives, counseling provides that additional support. In order to determine which treatment approach will best help my clients, I evaluate each client’s individual situation then utilize whichever therapeutic technique will be most successful in helping them overcome the obstacles they face. I integrate treatment theories to meet the needs of my clients. My primary focus is Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) where I help the client challenge their negative thoughts that will often times lead to negative behaviors. I will also incorporate Psychoeducation as needed to help my client understand possible coping and problem-solving skills. I would describe my style of counseling as supportive and encouraging. My counseling sessions are centered around the client learning to recognize how to overcome the obstacles in their life and/or relationships. Often times this will include improving communication skills and learning to rebuild trust with self and others. I encourage self-care and discuss the importance of boundaries of self and others. I believe setting goals is imperative for both the individual and the overall treatment process; I believe we all need to establish short-term and long-term goals for ourselves, our relationships, and our careers. Specialties Stress, Anxiety, Depression, OCD Isolation, low self-esteem Family relationships, Marriage concerns Coping with life changes; grief Substance abuse/addictions

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Ryan McMillian

Offering therapy in PA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefAnger managementSelf esteem
13 years of experience

Welcome, and thank you for your courage as you take the first step toward improving your mental health. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and I have a private practice in PA. I also counsel students at both Villanova University and Princeton Theological Seminary. You may be an over thinker. "I should" or "what if" may be phrases that run through your mind repeatedly until you either worry about events that may never happen or listen to a self-critic that is really hard on you. You may be a "strong" person where others count on you to hold it together. Putting your needs on the back burner may be the norm, and taking on more is simply expected. You may not feel like yourself anymore, and you miss the person you once were. You're more anxious or angry than ever before, and your motivation is declining as the days pass. I work with over thinkers, perfectionists, men issues, relationship issues, anxiety, spiritual concerns, and grief. I use evidenced based models that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. I look forward to meeting with you soon as you rediscover you.

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Susan Samek

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC,ATR-BC,LCAT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Creative Arts Therapist for over thirty years, I offer two different approaches for those seeking help to make sense of life’s challenges, identifying needs and setting achievable and meaningful goals for growth. With my calm, gentle demeanor, I offer my clients a safe and comfortable place in which to delve into self discovery. My thoughtful engagement style, with unconditional positive regard and empathy, set the stage for real understanding, and when necessary, change. It is my sincere hope that I make my clients feel like they have been heard and validated. For as long as I can remember, I had a passion for understanding why our experiences and environment make us who we are, and how they affect the way we relate to the world and each other. Art was my safe space for self reflection and expression, and an integral tool for processing complex life events. After a long and committed engagement with my own therapeutic journey, it became my life’s calling to make the tools of art and talk therapy accessible to others for their own healing journey. I have a firm belief that we begin to heal when we truly understand the roots of our habits, patterns, and trauma. We can’t control our past or things that have happened to us, but we can begin to cultivate an awareness around those things and use that awareness as a tool to create the futures we want. With acceptance and forgiveness we can experience an inner growth and a resilience that will prepare us for all the ups and downs of life.

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Eden Diasio

Offering therapy in PA
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

Hello, my name is Eden Diasio and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I provide individual counseling to adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, substance use issues, relationship challenges, and other life stressors. I offer the opportunity for you to discover and explore your concerns in an unbiased and safe place where you can build confidence and learn new tools towards improving your mental health and quality of life. Sharing about your experiences, thoughts, and feelings might feel uncomfortable however, leaning into discomfort does not have to be done alone. It takes great strength to allow an outsider into your world and it is a tremendous privilege for me to share this therapeutic relationship with you. In my approach to counseling, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing techniques while working to meet the needs of each individual. Together we can explore and understand thoughts and perceptions and how they influence behavior. We will also work to identify your opportunities for growth and healing, while building upon your strengths. The act of seeking therapy is courageous as you are allowing someone else into the private and sacred places of your life. Fostering a trusting relationship with you will always remain at the forefront of my practice as I am committed to providing you with a meaningful and honest connection.

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Victoria Seltzer

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC
Stress, Anxiety
5 years of experience

Victoria is a Licensed Professional Counselor who earned her Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She has over six years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. Her expertise is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and she works with clients to help them identify how their thoughts, behaviors, and feelings interact. She works with clients in a person-centered approach that focuses on client’s strengths and experience. Victoria offers kind and supportive guidance to help clients identify and work towards therapeutic goals.

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Alyssa Kirk LPC

Offering therapy in PA
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania with over 11 years experience in therapy. I also have a background in social work with expertise in linking individuals to community resources. My approach in therapy is person centered with the goal of developing a good therapeutic relationship, which has been shown to be the most important ingredient in a successful therapeutic experience. I also have experience in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) which are helpful in treating many issues. I have experience with the following diagnoses: dépression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, substance abuse, PTSD, and psychotic disorders.

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Ashley Solt

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 3 years of professional counseling experience. As an NBCC-certified Licensed Professional Counselor, I help clients with presenting problems such as anxiety, mood and personality disorders, behavioral disorders, relationship dynamics and boundary-setting, self-esteem and self-advocacy, parenting, and stress management. I have worked with individuals of all ages throughout my counseling career, which has helped build my skill set immensely. Ethics are a priority in my practice as a counselor; therefore, I believe that a client-driven, individualized approach is most effective. I believe that you are the expert on your story and that you possess many strengths we can utilize to reach your goals. I enjoy tailoring my approach to each client’s individual needs, so no two clients will receive the exact same course of treatment. I take pride in my ability to connect with clients on a personal level and have received positive feedback from many that they feel comfortable, supported, and empowered during their sessions. My goal is to create a safe environment where clients can work through their presenting problems while also being challenged to explore new coping strategies, communication skills, and perspectives. 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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Dr. Ashley Milspaw

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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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Aimee Senott

Offering therapy in PA
LGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesAnger management
22 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Pennsylvania with 21 years of professional work experience. I have worked in private practice for the last 10+ years. I have 20+ years of specialized experience in helping clients with sexual related issues[within the norm & otherwise including: issues of deviance, paraphilias, fetishes and issues of offending. As well as issues that arise from sex related employment i.e. working in the pornography industry, as an exotic dancer, or as a prostitute], I also have significant experience in working with those who struggle with lgbtq+ related issues, relationship & intimacy related issues, and trauma and abuse. I also see clients who have more general issues. I'm casual, friendly, and nonjudgemental, making me extremly easy to talk to. I have a great sense of humor that I find extremly valuable in the therapeutic process. Despite that humor will likely happen, I assure you that you will be treated with respect. However as a caution those who desire a highly professional, more formal, relationship with their service provider, or those whom are sensitive, substantially serious, or are highly religious may not be a successful match with me. I believe that you know you best and that you have a multitude of strengths and talents that will assist you in overcoming issues that challenge you. Your unique strengths and talents will aid in your success. Making changes to encourage a growingly meaningful and successful existence takes time, courage, and work. I would be honored to work with you, support you in this process, and watch you be succeed in meeting your goals.

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This is Tara Rickard's avatar and link to their profile

Tara Rickard

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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 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 Philadelphia

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 19191 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia, 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.

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia.

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

19019, 19092, 19093, 19099, 19101, 19102, 19103, 19104, 19105, 19106, 19107, 19108, 19109, 19110, 19111, 19112, 19114, 19115, 19116, 19118, 19119, 19120, 19121, 19122, 19123, 19124, 19125, 19126, 19127, 19128, 19129, 19130, 19131, 19132, 19133, 19134, 19135, 19136, 19137, 19138, 19139, 19140, 19141, 19142, 19143, 19144, 19145, 19146, 19147, 19148, 19149, 19150, 19151, 19152, 19153, 19154, 19155, 19160, 19161, 19162, 19170, 19171, 19172, 19173, 19175, 19176, 19177, 19178, 19179, 19181, 19182, 19183, 19184, 19185, 19187, 19188, 19190, 19191, 19192, 19193, 19194, 19195, 19196, 19197, 19244, 19255

Popular cities near Philadelphia, PA

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