Cities with interesting, almost explosive histories are often quite engaging, and there are counselors in Watertown that are ready to help with whatever problems come your way.

Watertown is known for its involvement in the Revolutionary War, and it also is the location of the Armenian Library and Museum of America. It also was the place where two o the Boston Marathon bomber engaged with police, so even though it is a town that’s had some struggles, a counselor is always ready to help in this area no matter what the issues may be. 

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Maryann Whalen

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW,
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
27 years of experience

I began my career in the field of addictions in 1996 and haven't looked back since, having worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings for both addictions and dual diagnosis in the state of Massachusetts including Methdone and Suboxone clinics. Along the way I realized the need for further education and training in the areas of trauma and abuse, and am a certified member of the International Association of Trauma Professionals. In addition to this, I have gained a vast amount of knowledge in the areas of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, parenting issues, relationship issues, LGBT issues, as well as helping people increase their sense of self esteem and confidence. I believe in meeting the client where they are at and never force them to discuss sensitive issues until they are ready to do so on their own. Over the years I have found the most strength is believing in my clients and encouraging them to be the person they always wanted to be. I have various approaches, and the approach I use is client based depending on their needs whether it be CBT,, strengths based, or motivational. I am also DBT trained, and received my certification in 2004 from intense workshops through Marsha Linehan. The objective for me has always been to meet the client where they are at, not where I think they should be. I do not believe in forcing someone to talk about something they are not ready or not comfortable to talk about as I understand the importance of trust in a therapeutic relationship. My mannerism with clients comes from genuine care and compassion and I love to celebrate their successes with them as well as help troubleshoot the stumbling blocks along the way. I would love the opportunity to guide you along your journey as well!

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Denise Whall-Marlin

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker from Boston, Massachusetts (and also licensed in Nevada and Arizona) with fourteen years of experience in providing psychotherapy. I have worked with all different kinds of people, and I have helped them with a variety of challenges and mental health problems. I have post-graduate training in several types of treatment, including cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy, as well as an academic background from New York University in psycho-dynamic treatment. I know that no two people are the same, so there is no cookie-cutter approach to therapy. When I work with you, my preferred approach is to work together to find the unique approach that works best for you. I like to combine support, empathy and humor with skills-building, problem solving and mindfulness to help people better manage overwhelming emotions and improve their relationships - without any judgment. My goal is to help put you back in the driver's seat of your life and gain mastery over your feelings and relationships. I know how important it is to build a strong and trusting relationship with a therapist, and I provide both validation and truthful insights to my clients. Most of all, I strongly believe in a strengths-based, person-centered approach that recognizes each person's unique abilities and helps them to reach their highest potential. What I love about online therapy is that it's so flexible. When you reach out to me, I will be in touch with you within 24 hours, so you can message me any time, anywhere. I am available for live sessions over instant messenger, telephone or video chat. When it comes to your treatment, you're in charge - we can communicate in whatever way makes you feel most comfortable. It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help. I know that together we can overcome any obstacles you are facing and put you on the path to a happier, calmer and more satisfying life. I promise to be right by your side every step of the way on your journey, and that we will work at your pace. I am excited to work with you!

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Sara Hoesly

Offering therapy in MA
License: MA,M.Ed,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepression
7 years of experience

I want to welcome you to Better Help! I know that reaching out to a therapist can often be overwhelming and difficult so I would like to applaud you for willingness to take that step. I graduated from SUNY Albany with a B.A. in Psychology and an M.A. and M.Ed from Columbia University in Psychological Counseling. I am licensed in Virginia (LPC) and Massachusetts (LMHC). I have worked in numerous settings including outpatient mental health and addiction treatment centers, as a contractor for the Department of Children and Families, and Day Treatment Programs. I have experience in both group and individual counseling working with children and adults. My treatment approach is adaptable depending on the needs of the client. I believe in the importance of client and therapist collaboration in order to determine the best course of action for the therapeutic process. Therapy is not a one size fits all process and the client’s voice is pivotal when discussing action, change, and needs. I look forward to working with you!

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David M Poles

Offering therapy in MA
License: LMHC, CRC, LADC1
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteem
22 years of experience

I am passionate about helping men from various walks of life, level up and grow, adjust to changes whether it is loss of relationship or job or entering into a new personal or professional situation. I also enjoy doing marital and premarital couples counseling, helping couples learn how to communicate more effectively and be kinder to each other. I also strive to help my clients in making meaning from adversity, feeling better about themselves and being better in relationships. Those who grow more quickly also enjoy learning and are open to honest but caring feedback.

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Christine Frederick

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsGriefDepression
13 years of experience

Hi my name is Christine and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and have been a clinician for over 12 years in Massachusetts. I have worked with clients regarding depression, anxiety, drug and alcohol abuse, addiction, PTSD, marriage and family issues and some personality disorders, grief and loss, end of life issues and caregiver fatigue. I practice a strength based, humanistic approach, working with clients to discover their strengths and use them in the therapeutic process. Focusing on our strengths and goals are beneficial in therapy and I look forward to working with you to find out what yours are and how you can weave them into your life to enhance your well being. Regards, Christine

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Amanda Johnson

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Massachusetts with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, depression, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I utilize a person-centered, strengths based, humanist approach that incorporates techniques drawn from CBT, solutions focused therapy, narrative therapy and internal family systems. I look forward to walking with you on your journey.

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Heidi Martin

Offering therapy in MA
License: MS,LMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyGriefIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changesCoaching
11 years of experience

Hi my name is Heidi and I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida, Massachusetts, and Washington State, as well as a board certified coach. I have over 10 years of experience, primarily working in private practice Please note I am currently only taking clients within Massachusetts. People come to therapy because they want to feel better. It may be relationship problems, anxiety/depression, work related concerns, etc., but whatever the reason, they want to feel better and do better. In my experience, most people want a greater understanding of themselves and their situation. Making life work and feeling more comfortable with themselves is the goal. I focus on altering self-defeating behaviors and beliefs, helping my clients to gain perspective with a focus on improving the quality of their lives. Among the many tools that promote growth and well being, I utilize insight and mindfulness to help achieve client goals. The people I work with tend to be bright and high functioning yet they sense something is missing. My job includes, among other things. noticing hidden themes and repetitive patterns. Many people treat others better than they treat themselves and usually are much harder on themselves than others, which causes untold pain. I have a lot of admiration for people who embark on a therapeutic journey, it takes courage to seek a more fulfilling life but as serious as I take my work, I also conduct therapy in a relaxed manner where laughter and collaboration is encouraged. I look forward to working with you!

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Megan Dunn

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Massachusetts with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialouge 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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Melina Freeman

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients of all ages and backgrounds with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, relationship conflicts, trauma and abuse, PTSD, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert on your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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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Nichole Gardner

Offering therapy in MA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyDepression
6 years of experience

Hello, my name is Nichole Gardner and I am a LCSW in NYS. As a social worker, my main priority is to work collaboratively with my clients to overcome the different challenges in their lives. I seek to empower all my clients, so they can implement positive and healthy change. For the past four years, I've worked as a psychiatric social worker at a mental health clinic. During this time, I've work with a wide range of populations addressing several different concerns. Some of these concerns addressing symptom management (wide range of diagnoses), implementation of healthy coping, relationship dynamics, finding life balance, and communication skills. One this past year, I've been dedicated to doing my part in assisting others manage the many of concerns of the COVID 19 pandemic. My social work values are integrated into every session, which will create a safe, open, nonjudgemental environment for each client. I believe deeply that mindfulness practice open our hearts, minds, and bodies and that use of cognitive behavioral techniques will build a clear understanding of who we are inside and out. I look forward to joining you on your journey to a happier and healthier you!

How to find counseling in Watertown

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Watertown 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 Watertown 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 Watertown 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 Watertown, 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 Watertown 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 Watertown 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 Watertown 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 Watertown 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 Watertown 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 02472 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 Watertown 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 Watertown 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 Watertown, 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.

Watertown 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 Watertown.

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

02471, 02472, 02477

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