If you're interested in connecting with a therapist, Boston, MA has different options available. 

A therapist can help you with a variety of mental health challenges, whether you’re dealing with an underlying condition like anxiety or depression or struggling with personal growth and positive change. Whether you need a trauma informed counselor or aren’t sure about which therapeutic approach is right for you, finding a therapist can be challenging. With BetterHelp, most people are matched with a therapist within 48 hours of signing up. Because so many therapists are available on the platform, you can switch at no extra charge until you find the right fit. Most BetterHelp therapists have a master’s or doctoral degree, use evidence based treatments, and work to create a collaborative environment in a judgment free space. 

If you’re worried about therapy cost, BetterHelp is generally more affordable than many in-person therapy options. If you’re ready to start a life changing journey, boost self confidence, and improve your everyday life, speak to a Boston-based therapist today.

 

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Rebecca Phelps-Smith

Offering therapy in MA
License: MSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the beautiful Berkshires of Western Massachusetts. I have worked in the field for several years in different settings. I am an evidence based, problem/solution focused therapist. I have extensive experience in emergency services, crisis intervention, and suicide risk assessment. I work with individuals of all ages struggling with problems such as anxiety, depression, stress management, body image, self esteem, disordered eating, substance use, anger management, relationship / family conflicts, grief, and PTSD. My professional background in working in emergency services, provides me with first hand knowledge of what it is like to experience vicarious trauma. I utilize that knowledge in helping others, such as law enforcement and first responders, develop healthy coping strategies and provide them a place to safely and openly discuss their experiences and struggles.

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Jamie Morrison

Offering therapy in MA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist in Florida with over 5 years of experience working as a therapist and case manager. My passion is helping individuals with substance use disorders and other addiction issues. I also have experience and feel fulfilled working with individuals with medical health issues, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, relationship issues, body image issues, abuse career challenges and general life issues. Even if I haven't worked with someone who has your specific problem, I am very client centered, willing to learn the best way to help you and utilize dynamic approaches to treating people. I believe that therapy has to be individualized and the only thing that will work for you is what works for YOU. I believe that my counselor style is honest and interactive. I care about my clients and want what is best for them as individuals so I seek to utilize the best approach to help you achieve your goals. I believe in an eclectic approach and utilize motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral, humanistic and solution focused approaches. I want YOU to create your goals, but I will certainly be there to guide you. I will tailor your treatment plan and my approach to meet you where you're at. You should feel proud of yourself for taking the leap towards bettering your life with therapy! I am a real person, with real experiences, so my knowledge does not just come for a textbook, it also comes from life. I get how difficult it can be to chose the path of looking at yourself but you've now taken the first step and I am so excited to work with you!!!

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Lindsay McKinney

Offering therapy in MA
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
18 years of experience

My name is Lindsay McKinney, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor practicing in the state of Massachusetts. I have been working with adolescents, adults, and families for the past eighteen years in a community based mental health setting. My college experience has included Assumption College for both undergraduate and graduate level education, where I obtained a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology. Over the years, I have worked with almost every diagnosis and presenting problem. It is my belief that therapy is truly teamwork between the therapist and the client. I enjoy working with a variety of people and issues, but have specialized over the years in trauma, depression, and anxiety. It is truly an honor to be in this profession, and I enjoy helping people. I am very eclectic in my approaches to treatment and try to tailor to suit each client's individual needs. I am available for live chat, messaging, or phone visits. I look forward to working with you! Here are some links to my pinterest for more resources for all ages: Anger Management https://pin.it/UoGe9oI Trauma https://pin.it/7aThN9w Coping Skills https://pin.it/Pu7TI4m Anxiety https://pin.it/43RJM7J Mood Disorders- Depression and Bipolar https://pin.it/2Mqsa37 ADHD https://pin.it/1YhHSi8 Thoughts and CBT https://pin.it/12jWjRW Breathing and Guided Imagery https://pin.it/5Jr0AO2 Family Relationships https://pin.it/pSV9IWO Inspiration https://pin.it/4dGggaF Positivity https://pin.it/3G97QcJ Behavior Management https://pin.it/7fu9WBq Communication Skills https://pin.it/1JhsgO6 Social Skills https://pin.it/2igNzGT Grief https://pin.it/2fyJXIQ

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Molly O'Brien

Offering therapy in MA
License: MSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a licensed social worker in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Maine who has been working with clients who face chronic illness, loss, and other life changes. I love being a social worker because it allows me to meet so many different kinds of people everywhere and learn new perspectives. My style mainly focuses on identifying your already existing strengths and resources to work toward your goals and objectives. We may also work on basic education about mental health and different coping strategies for symptom management. I would love to meet you, hear about your experiences, and find solutions together.

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Dr. Stephen Carroll

Offering therapy in MA
License: PhD ,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

Dr. Stephen T. Carroll, a licensed clinical professional counselor, has worked in the mental health field for over 25 years. During his career, he has worked with a diverse range of clients from all walks of life. He has most recently served as a clinician and administrator at residential treatment facility serving people with addictions, trauma, and dual diagnosed conditions. Dr. Carroll has vast experience in the fields of treating addictions, mood disorders, grief and loss, and trauma. He has specialized training in spiritually integrated treatment approaches like mindfulness through which clients can enhance their desired change through building internalized resources. He received his doctoral degree in counseling from Loyola University Maryland and a master’s degree in pastoral ministry from Boston College. He served as a visiting professor at Loyola University in the school counseling department and conducted research for Georgetown University’s Woodstock Center for Business Ethics. His research on the impact of religion and spirituality on employment attitudes and behaviors was published in the Journal of Mental Health, Religion, and Culture. He has researched the role of religion and spirituality on employment attitudes and behaviors and recently developed a chapter on this topic for the American Psychological Association’s Handbook of the Psychology of Religion and Spirituality.

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Suzan Cahill

Offering therapy in MA
License: MSW,L ICS W
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

Hi my name is Susan and I have a vast amount of resources and experience with multiple genres. I am visually and hearing impaired; however one would never know. I have what is called an invisible disability. I specialize in substance abuse, trauma, forensic interviewing, engaging along with health and wellness issues. I started off as a CNA and a nursing home and worked there for 10 years before marrying and raising my children from there I went on to school Attending Massachusetts college of liberal arts with a BA in sociology and a minor in health aging and society; from there I went and worked as a family preservationist for one year at the local girls club and then I knew I wanted to set the bar higher for myself, so I enrolled Springfield college school of social work where I obtained my masters in social work. I have a certificate in forensic interviewing , substance abuse counseling , and palliative care . I have also taken many courses in trauma counseling And smoking cessation one of my most recent interests in nutrition and well being and I'm working towards a certificate in that as well. It would be my pleasure to work with you. Please reach out and let's see if we can make a connection. It is my firm belief that all any of us want is acceptance and acknowledgment as well as being loved. I would like to help you become a successful contributing member of our society no matter what your situation is. Everybody's situation is different and everybody deserves a chance.

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Tara Lacoursiere

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
7 years of experience

Welcome! I believe that every individual is the expert in their own life but can sometimes use a hand moving forward or overcoming life’s many challenges. Reaching out for help is the most important step towards your path of healing and wholeness. My goal is to help empower you to find what is working well and give you the tools to help change what is not working for you. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of Rhode Island. I have over 5 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of settings. Much of my experience includes helping those suffering from depression, anxiety, self esteem issues, personality and mood disorders, ADHD, and difficult parent-child relationships. My counseling style is a combination of warm and empathetic, along with tactful honesty and accountability. The most important aspect of my work with you will be to build a positive, trusting therapeutic relationship in which we can together work through whatever difficulties you may be facing. I believe in helping my clients take ownership of their therapy and to gain the skills needed to advocate for themselves in every aspect of life. I use a combination of evidence based approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical-behavior therapy, mindfulness, psycho-education, client centered and solution-focused approaches. I offer messaging, live chat, phone sessions and video sessions. I look forward to working with you in achieving your therapy goals.

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Donna Duggan

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Massachusetts with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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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JoAnne Waite

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Rhode Island with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with coping with grief and loss. 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.

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Kathleen Curzon

Offering therapy in MA
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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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How to find counseling in Boston

Finding the best therapist close by in Boston 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 Boston. 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 Boston, 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 Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston, elsewhere in Suffolk, or in the greater state of Massachusetts.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston may not take health insurance, some in the state of Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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 Boston, Massachusetts 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 Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston 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 MA, 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 02135 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 Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston, Massachusetts 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.

Boston 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 Boston.

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

02108, 02109, 02110, 02111, 02112, 02113, 02114, 02115, 02116, 02117, 02118, 02119, 02120, 02121, 02122, 02123, 02124, 02125, 02126, 02127, 02128, 02129, 02130, 02131, 02132, 02133, 02134, 02135, 02136, 02137, 02152, 02163, 02196, 02199, 02201, 02203, 02204, 02205, 02206, 02210, 02211, 02212, 02215, 02217, 02222, 02241, 02266, 02283, 02284, 02293, 02297, 02298, 02467

Popular cities near Boston, MA

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