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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Alyson Whitaker

Offering therapy in Virginia
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hello! My name is Alyson, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I have spent over half of my profession working with clients in crisis. I have worked with clients experiencing issues with depression, anxiety, trauma, life changes, stress management, those managing disabilities and student (college) populations. I have a person centered, solution focused style. I believe in honesty, dignity and respect as core values. My goal is to meet you where you are and assist you with moving to where you want to be. I am aware it takes courage to seek professional help. My goal is to provide you with a safe, nonjudgmental space, to assist you with the tools and skill sets to help you be the best you in moving forward. Iā€™d love to help guide you along the way.

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Menzo Faassen

Offering therapy in Virginia
License: LPCC
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
24 years of experience

Hi, my name is Menzo Faassen. I received my B.S. in Psychology in 1999 from Middle Tennessee State University and I received my M.S. in Community Counseling from Austin Peay State University in 2009. I got my initial hours for my licensure in a community mental health center. My experience there gave me skills and abilities to work with a wide variety of people and issues. I go my first counseling license in Tennessee in 2015. I was licensed previously in New Mexico and Kentucky. Currently, Virginia is the only state where I am actively licensed. Due to telehealth laws, if you are not physically in the state of Virginia during a session, we will have to reschedule. I work full time in Richmond, Virginia (moved here in January of 2022). I work in an outpatient clinic in the Richmond, VA area. I have worked in a variety of therapy settings including outpatient, Intensive Outpatient, Residential Substance Abuse, and Partial Hospitalization. I have worked with clients with a variety of issues but my areas that I am most adept at are trauma, addiction, depression, grief/loss and LGBT issues. I am also a proud member of the LGBT community. My approach to therapy starts out with the basic Rogerian (person centered approach). But, I also incorporate Psychodramatic techniques into my therapy (I can only do this in video sessions). Psychodrama was created by J. L. Moreno and seeks to use a persons creativity and spontaneity in the healing process. Some techniques from this method include doubling (helping you speak your unspoken truth), role techniques (role play, role taking, and role reversal) and empty chair. I'm also fluent in cognitive behavioral therapy and utilize the unconditional positive regard of Carl Rogers. I start where you are. I believe that you are the expert on you and that this is your therapy not mine. The methods and techniques I use will be guided by what you want out of therapy as a whole and what you want out of each session. A few things to be aware of: 1. While you can send messages to me 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, you will not get an immediate response. BetterHelp is not a crisis line or appropriate for crisis situations or situations where you need an immediate answer. My work for BetterHelp is a part time, weekend structure. So, if you send me a message during the week you may not get an answer until the evening (between 7 PM and 10 PM Eastern Time in the US) or on Saturday or Sunday. If you need someone with more availability, you should chose a different therapist as I will not be able to meet your needs. 2. Prior to beginning therapy I request that you send me your home address and phone number. If you prefer you can send a copy of a photo ID. I request this information for a few reasons. The first is so that if there is an emergency (you present with a plan to hurt yourself or somebody else, or I suspect there is child abuse involved) I can alert the authorities in your location. It is also my ethical duty to assure that I am licensed to provide services in the state you reside. 3. Sending messages back and forth is fine, but you will get more value out of BetterHelp if you schedule a live chat, phone or video session with me. You can do that by selecting the schedule session on the right hand side of the screen. 4. As I said in section 1, the techniques and methods I use will be informed by the goal you have. I will start each session with the question "What do you want to get out of our time today?" Based on that information, I will gear my methods to accomplishing that goal for that session. As I said earlier, I do use Psychodrama techniques. I may have you using a chair or an object to "stand in" for a person or part of you. I may have you take the role or and speak from the role of that person or part. This may involve moving. So, when you meet with me, it is important that you have an idea of what you want to work on, be in a quiet private place and in a space that allows for some degree of movement. I realize that the first few sessions will be getting to know each other and me getting some background information. We will not be working on traumatic issues or a lot of deep work in the first session. 5. The more information I have about you the better. So, in way of introduction, some things you may want to share include (your childhood information, any traumatic events, previous relationships, current relationships, work history, family background/relationships, your previous therapy experience, etc.). In other words, use the first message to give me the autobiography of you. I have been in counseling myself and know how scary it can be to enter into the process and I try to make this as comfortable as possible. I look forward to walking with you as you begin this journey of healing and transformation.

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Dr. Lolita Allen

Offering therapy in Virginia
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
27 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience working with families in individual, couple and family therapy. I am committed to helping adults and children develop personal/relational skills and strategies needed to build and maintain a positive, meaningful life and healthy relationships. I received my Master degree in Social Work from Howard University, my Doctorate degree in Social Work from University of Southern California. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia and Georgia. I am passionate about working with anyone who wants to take the first steps to becoming a better version of themselves by exploring therapy and healing. I integrate multiple modalities of practice, including: systems approach, structural family therapy.

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Evelyn Saunders

Offering therapy in Virginia
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSleeping disordersSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed as a LPC and LMFT in Virginia for more than 10 years. I have experience with clients who are dealing with depression and anxiety along with other issues involving sleep disorders, motivation and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, and dignity, showing sensitivity, and compassion as we work through issues that are unique and specific to your needs. I am here to give you support and encouragement .

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Paula Knighton

Offering therapy in Virginia
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia and possess 25 years of professional work experience. My expertise is in helping clients manage stress and anxiety, overcome addictions, deal with trauma and abuse, and work on issues related to motivation, self-esteem, relationships, and interpersonal problems. My approach centers on creating an open and safe environment where clients can comfortably share their thoughts and feelings without fearing judgment. Taking the first step towards a more fulfilling and happier life requires immense courage, and I am here to support you throughout the process. Please note that my work schedule is Monday through Thursday from 5 pm to 8:00 pm, Friday from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm, and Saturday at 10:00 am ( I will add two more slots on Saturday if needed).

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Dr. Andrew Mendonsa

Offering therapy in Virginia
Stress, AnxietyLGBTIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience

Your Authentic Self, Your Strongest Self: Therapy Tailored in a Safe, Supportive Space Hello! I'm Dr. Andrew Mendonsa, a clinical psychologist and therapist with 20+ years of experience helping folks like you navigate life's complexities and embrace their true potential and authentic self. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, those struggling with problematic sexual behavior, kink/alt lifestyle/polyamory-focused issues, and anyone seeking a male therapist's perspective. My journey through the worlds of mental health and addiction ā€“ from community mental health and marginalized groups, to the criminal justice system, to high wealth clients and corporate boardrooms ā€“ has equipped me with a deep understanding of the challenges clients, especially men and those from specialized populations, face today. I've helped countless individuals overcome shame, guilt, depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and the unique pressures of modern life. As an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist, I offer a safe and judgment-free space to explore your identity, gender, relationships, sexual expression, and sexuality. Whether you're questioning, coming out, or navigating the unique stressors of the LGBTQIA+, kink, alt-pop, or straight communities, I'm here to support you on your journey! For those grappling with problematic sexual behavior that is causing issues with your work, relationships, finance, or other areas, I provide a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to recovery. I will not tell you to stop what you are doing or else, instead we will identify what is motivating your behavior and desire to change. Knowing these, we can then develop a tailored treatment plan and achievable goals. Together, we'll address the underlying issues, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and rebuild a fulfilling life free from shame, guilt, and compulsive behaviors. My extensive background working with high-achieving individuals in business and academia makes me uniquely equipped to understand the pressures of professional life. If you're struggling with work-related stress, burnout, or career transitions, I can offer practical strategies for success and well-being. I have owned, sold, and managed companies and worked in high levels within the public sector. My approach to therapy is collaborative, goal-oriented, and results-driven. I believe therapy should be a catalyst for change, not a lifelong commitment. Think of it like a tune-up for your mind ā€“ we'll get you back on track and running smoothly. You wouldn't leave your car in the shop forever, would you? So why force yourself into a lifetime of therapy? I invite you to visit my website, www.AndrewMendonsa.com, to learn more about me and my approach. Let's work together to build a life that is authentic, fulfilling, and true to you.

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Amanda Dodd

Offering therapy in Virginia
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSleeping disordersDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression and anxiety, relationship issues, sleeping disorders, and much more. I can provide faith-based OR secular therapy. I am also a kink-friendly, poly-friendly, sex-positive therapist. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have MANY strengths that will assist you in overcoming the things that challenge you. I am here to support you on the journey to a more fulfilling and satisfying life, whatever that may look like for you!

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Samantha DeJesus

Offering therapy in Virginia
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Charles Halloran

Offering therapy in Virginia
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 24 years of professional work experience. 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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Anna Huddleston

Offering therapy in Virginia
Relationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. My passion is in Sports Psychology, Performance Psychology, and High Functioning Anxiety Resiliency. I use my experiences as a college athlete, coach, and counselor to aid clients find a path to their wellness. 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. 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.

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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