Therapy can help you learn healthy coping skills to overcome many challenges in life, like family conflict, low self-esteem, or the symptoms of a mental health condition. If you’re interested in therapy, consider online therapy. Barriers like a lack of available providers or concerns about cost can make it difficult to find in-person treatment. An online platform like BetterHelp can make therapy more accessible and convenient.

With BetterHelp, you can establish a therapeutic relationship with a licensed clinical social worker, clinical psychologist, or other mental health care professional from the comfort of your home at a time that works for your schedule. The therapists on the platform provide individual treatment to young adults, middle-aged people, and seniors, using evidence-based interventions to help them improve their overall wellness and meet their treatment goals.

Whether you feel stuck in your life or need help working through the psychological effects of family conflicts, therapy can help.  If you’re looking for an online therapist, VA has many options available. The Virginia therapists, social workers, and counselors below are licensed to provide online therapy statewide.

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Shakiya Harrison

Offering therapy in Virginia
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

Hello! My name is Shakiya Harrison. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia. I received my undergraduate degree in Social Work from Virginia State University and my Masters degree in Social Work from Norfolk State University. I have been a Social Worker for more than 7 years and have vast experience working with individuals from all different backgrounds who are struggling with a wide variety of challenges. Much of my experience has been with individuals who are struggling with life sustaining medical conditions, end of life challenges, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, PTSD and substance abuse. As a clinician, I am always open-minded, willing to learn and enjoys learning about each of my clients psychosocial needs and how I can assist them in achieving their goals as well as improving themselves. The therapeutic interventions that I primarily use includes cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, task centered practices and the crisis intervention model. I look forward to empowering my clients and uplifting them throughout their therapeutic process. I am available for chat, email, phone and virtual sessions.

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Elaine McFerron

Offering therapy in Virginia
License: LPC,LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
43 years of experience

Greetings: I have been practicing for 40 years in a number of different settings. My Licenses are in the name "Elaine Walters McFerron." During the pandemic I moved my practice online. I have come to love this way of working. My experience runs deep. Many clients return at different stages of their lives when they feel the need for assistance, support and encouragement. How to get unstuck? I meet people where they are in the moment. I believe that change is possible. I am constantly thinking about what creates change. Often it is important to seek a different perspective. I think systemically. That means that I consider you as an individual or couple and all the people you are connected with. I value empathy and compassion. What makes us human beings? Everyone wants to be seen and heard. I believe in the power of presence and deep listening. Finding one's voice. I am direct and straight forward. I help individuals and families make important shifts in their lives, develop self-care plans, process grief, develop lasting relationships, establish spiritual practices. Because I am a writer with an MFA in Writing and Literature, I understand the creative process and help artists who feel challenged to make their art. I often prescribe books and other resources. I am a Certified iRest Yoga Nidra Meditation teacher and know the value of renewal, rest and restoration. It take a great deal of courage to begin any personal growth. I honor this courage.

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Gwendolyn Young

Offering therapy in Virginia
License: LPC,Addiction Specialist
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

My name is Gwendolyn Young, I come to the counseling profession with life experiences that have molded me into the unique and determined person that I am today. While in my storm I did not understand, at times I felt hopeless. However, once I was able to break through the tension, I became mindful and aware of who I am as a person. Today I now understand that there are lessons to learn from the good things in life as well as the bad experiences that life has to offer. The benefits of those lessons were astronomical. Through it all I never gave up on myself even if the odds were totally against me. I am a licensed professional counselor and addiction specialist. I have earned a master's degree in professional counseling, a master's degree in addiction counseling and a post-master's in addiction specialization. I am a dedicated counselor that understand the many turmoil’s of those who seek my help. Additionally, I am a person-centered clinician skilled in the use of various theoretical orientations that will help the person to break through their life situation (s).

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Amelia (Markert) Shaw

Offering therapy in Virginia
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with extensive experience in providing therapy to help people maneuver through life challenges, such as difficult decisions, tension from work or relationship stress, sudden major life changes, issues related to mental health treatment and so on.... I find connecting with each person just where they are at the time allows the process to unfold. New perspectives will reveal opportunities to grow and manage the ups and downs encountered in everyday living. If you are reading this, perhaps you have thought about counseling before, or maybe put it off, wondering if therapy could help when going through a hard time. There is the stigma related to therapy and labels like "crazy" if our mental wellness is not in shape. This is an opportunity to get to know yourself on a new level, to explore things yet considered, acknowledge feelings that have been avoided, and in the process gain a new understanding and perspective about ourselves and paths in life. While time is hard to come by and there can be limitations due to technology, there are no limits to seeking solutions. This may result in learning new ways to manage stress, understand yourself better, recognize how your thinking affects your reactions and emotions. I am very approachable, understanding, and eager to connect with you to work out a plan that will lead to specific intent for change, growth and success. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, so congrats already! I am here to support you along the way wherever you are on this journey...

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Charles Koah

Offering therapy in Virginia
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with executive and professional coaching. 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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Dr. Dorothy Rutherford-Steiss

Offering therapy in Virginia
License: PsyD,LMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Indiana with my doctorate in Clinical Psychology. I primarily work with adults focusing on various concerns including anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, career/job challenges, and end-of-life concerns. I also specialize in concerns that are a result of healthcare diagnoses such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and neurocognitive issues. My counseling style is open, nonjudgmental, and interactive, treating all clients with respect, dignity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and feminine counseling that is specific to each client's needs and treatment goals. I utilize various modalities including talk therapy, Mindfulness Meditation, narrative therapy, and CBT techniques to further a client's processing. I believe that change is possible if the client is ready. Recognizing that change may be difficult, I am here to support, encourage, gently challenge, and assist my clients in their process on their journey.

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LeRoyal Parker

Offering therapy in Virginia
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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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Jeffrey Waters

Offering therapy in Virginia
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Oregon and Virginia with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, depression,, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Monica Gutierrez

Offering therapy in Virginia
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

Monica Gutierrez is an Arizona-native who earned a Master of Social Work from Arizona State University. Monica is passionate about supporting young people in becoming the best versions of themselves and has been lucky enough to work with them in different settings including outpatient, inpatient, and now as a part of the Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (VIOP) team. She believes strongly in supporting clients and families with the use of a strengths-based, client-centered, humanistic and family systems approach, in order to empower the individual within the family, and the family as a unit. Monica has utilized her training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Care, as well as in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to support teens and young adults through their personal growth journey while in our program. She understands the importance of therapeutic alliance as it relates to optimizing progress in treatment and does her best to really get to know each and every client to make their treatment experience as unique and individual as possible. It is an honor to be part of each treatment team and she is inspired by each client’s journey and growth. When Monica is not at work, you will find her spending her free time with friends, crafting, spending quality time with family, or going on long walks with her dog!

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Dr. Jessica Temple

Offering therapy in Virginia
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersParenting issuesCompassion fatigueADHD
12 years of experience

I am a clinical rehabilitation neuropsychologist, licensed in Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Maryland with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with chronic illness, traumatic brain injury, thinking impairments, strokem stress, anxiety, sleeping disorders, parenting issues, compassion fatigue, concentration, & memory. 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!

How can a counselor support you?

Therapists can practice many types of counseling, from marriage and family therapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). They may also assist you with symptoms of depression, stress, or anxiety.

Therapists may help you set and achieve career goals, work on current issues you may be facing, or address your past. Over 3,078,759 people live in VA, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for local licensed professionals may help you find mental health support for personal growth, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health concerns. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek support from one of BetterHelp's licensed providers above.  

The mental health field can include psychiatric medication management, online therapy, marriage counseling, couples therapy, clinical social work, licensed counseling, and other mental health services in person and online. Seeing a licensed provider can help you navigate mental health conditions and life circumstances through mindfulness and other specialized techniques.

Please note that a BetterHelp therapist does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor?

People reach out for mental health support for a variety of reasons. Many individuals work with a counselor for general life advice, while others may attend therapy for a specific concern. Whether you live in a large city or a smaller county, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

The mental health therapists in Virginia support clients with varying issues through therapy, such as:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression or depressive conditions
  • Adjustment issues
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma
  • Relationship conflicts and concerns

Finding a therapist that takes new clients in online therapy can be the first step in finding a treatment plan that works for you. Your therapist can provide a safe space for you to focus on self-care and well-being.

If you're interested in speaking to one of the therapists above or being matched with a counselor in 24 to 48 hours, consider signing up for BetterHelp. BetterHelp has over 35,000 providers, including those listed above.

Emergency services to contact in a crisis

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use the BetterHelp site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some of the most commonly asked questions about therapy can be found in the section below.

How much does a therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $60 to $90 per session, charged monthly in a lump sum. You can also take advantage of this pricing on one of BetterHelp's sister platforms, like ReGain for couples or TeenCounseling for teens aged 13 to 19.

Many therapists may be upfront about their pricing and whether or not they take health insurance from the beginning. Additionally, some in your area may offer a sliding scale plan to allow those with lower incomes to pay less for therapy. However, services online can often save individuals a few hundred dollars per month.

When should I get a therapist in Virginia?

Mental health services and mental health providers may help you navigate various concerns. 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 advice. A counselor may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Mental health issues don't always present as a crisis. Many professionals provide talk therapy and support for life transitions, skills learning, relationship problems, or life coaching. Online therapy sessions can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.

Does insurance cover the cost of therapy?

Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.

Is online therapy the safe option?

Online therapy through BetterHelp and its sister platforms is safe. Therapists are licensed, experienced, and vetted before being contracted with the platform. If you experience any concerns with your therapist, you change your counselor through the platform or app at any time.

In today's fast-paced society, mental well-being has become a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Amid the daily challenges and stressors that can overwhelm even the most resilient individuals, seeking professional guidance often offers a path to clarity and balance. The journey toward improved emotional health involves understanding personal triggers, embracing self-compassion, and developing effective coping strategies. While self-help books and online resources provide valuable information, nothing compares to the personalized support offered by a qualified mental health professional. One-on-one sessions with experienced experts can help uncover the underlying issues contributing to anxiety, depression, or other emotional hurdles. With a careful and empathetic approach, these professionals tailor their advice to suit individual needs, ensuring that each person receives strategies that work best for their unique circumstances. Whether through cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, or other innovative methods, the aim is to foster resilience and empower individuals to take control of their inner lives. For those living in bustling urban centers, engaging in face-to-face sessions in a welcoming environment can be particularly beneficial. Access to a caring clinician provides not only a safe space to explore difficult emotions but also builds a support network essential for long-term recovery. The process encourages self-reflection and greater insight into behavioral patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. While the journey can be challenging at times, the rewards include enhanced emotional stability, improved interpersonal relationships, and a renewed sense of self-worth. In one notable case, the guidance provided by a highly trained therapist proved instrumental in navigating a tumultuous period. Through structured sessions and tailored interventions, the individual learned to identify stressors and develop healthier responses to adversity. This experience underscored the transformative impact that dedicated support can have on one's overall quality of life. In a region like Texas, community-based initiatives and accessible mental health programs further reinforce the value of professional help. These efforts emphasize early intervention, preventive care, and continuous support, ensuring that more people are equipped to face life's inevitable challenges. Ultimately, investing in mental well-being is an act of self-care that yields lifelong benefits. By embracing professional support, individuals can unlock new levels of emotional resilience and discover pathways to a brighter, more balanced future. Each step taken toward healing represents a commitment to personal growth, enabling a life filled with renewed optimism and strength. Embracing this transformative journey consistently paves the way for deeper understanding, lasting peace, and meaningful personal progress.
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