For many people, deciding to pursue therapy is one of the most significant moments in their lives. Whether they are attending therapy to manage mental health concerns, foster positivity, or get help solving life’s practical problems, a mental health professional can likely ease the process by offering support, resources, and encouragement. Many therapists also work with families and caregivers to help children and teens work to overcome obstacles or improve the family unit's cohesion.
Many therapists use a holistic approach, meaning they see you as a whole person, not a list of traits or symptoms. While a rigid diagnostic model works in some cases, a holistic process may align better with your treatment goals. For example, if you want to work on bolstering positivity in your life or boosting self-esteem, you might benefit from person-centered counseling approaches, which are common among holistic practitioners.
Finding the right therapist can often be a process of trial-and-error. If a therapist you meet with doesn’t “click” with you, it may be more challenging to access the benefits of therapy. Consider trying multiple practitioners as you search for the best fit for you, taking a session or two to evaluate your interactions with your potential therapist.
If you’re ready to start working with a therapist, Holyoke, MA, has several options available. You can find a licensed clinical therapist prepared to help you address nearly any concern you have. You can begin by looking up independent or group practices near Holyoke or by conducting a web search for reviews of nearby therapists. If you find meaningful results, contact the site owner for more information.
You might also want to try online therapy, which allows you to attend sessions from home, potentially substantially increasing the ease of attending therapy. In the past, some were concerned that administering therapy over the Internet would lead to limited effectiveness, but contemporary research suggests that, in most cases, online therapy is just as effective as in-person.
Christel Charlesworth
Hello and Welcome! I am glad you are here. I understand that coming to the decision to start therapy can be a challenging one and can come with lots of emotion. It also comes from a desire to have a happier, healthier life. Since graduating from Simmons College School of Social Work in 2006, I have worked in various healthcare settings as a social worker. In my work in community health, hospice, VNA/home care as well as in care delivery within a health plan, I have always been drawn to alternative and holistic ways to heal the mind, body and spirit for myself and my clients. With a particular interest in mindfulness, meditation and stress reduction techniques, I have a passion for working with people to find their happiest, healthiest and most authentic self. I truly pride myself in being open-minded, authentic and approachable. I feel truly honored to be doing this work and feel great responsibility in being entrusted to provide a safe, open place for people to heal, grow and to work towards being their most contented selves. I am a certified professional organizer as well as trained in Reiki Level II, Yoga Nidra and am trained in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). I look forward to speaking with you!
Christina DeSantis
Hello, my name is Christina DeSantis. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I earned my Master’s Degree in Social Work from Simmons College. I have been in the Human Services field for over 15 years. I’ve worked as a therapist in various capacities for over 10 years. I have worked with individuals of all ages. The areas in which I have the most exposure are with people dealing with addictions, trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, people dealing with life changes, and people who are struggling with emotional distress due to medical conditions. I do not subscribe to one treatment modality in particular. I think it is important to customize treatment based on the person’s individualized needs. I do have experience in using Cognitive -Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. As a therapist, I consider my most important values to be the ability to be open-minded, empathetic and non-judgmental. I believe the thing that sets me apart from other therapists is my ability to be real and authentic but being compassionate at the same time. I strongly believe in honesty within a therapeutic relationship. I commit myself to being honest to the people I work with. In return, I hope to provide a safe space for people to be comfortable and candid. I understand that therapy can be hard work, and taking the steps towards working on you can be scary. My hope is to be a guide in this experience and to offer support as you tackle some of life’s biggest challenges. I look forward to walking through this important journey with you.
Dominique Decoster
I obtained my MSW from Springfield College in 2005. My education included an internship in a correctional facility and a second internship at a cancer center. I was employed as a therapist at a clinic for three years. I have been employed as a social worker for the public defender's office for the last 15 years. This work consists of providing services to indigent individuals who are facing criminal charges.
Shardae Collins
I am Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of California, Washington, Nevada, and Massachusetts. I have over a decade of experience working with individuals and families with various needs in the field of education, health, and social services. For the last 5 years, I've worked with individuals and families across the life span as a Clinical Social Worker providing therapeutic case management, individual therapy, and family therapy. In my role as Clinical Social Worker, I have supported individuals with a wide range of issues such as: childhood abuse and trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family issues, attachment issues, racism and discriminations, and workplace issues. I hold a Master of Arts degree in the field of Social Welfare with an emphasis on mental health from the University of California Los Angeles. I also hold a Master of Arts & Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology with an emphasis on inequalities and diversities from California State University of Los Angeles. I have held numerous positions as an adjunct professor of sociology, senior research assistant, and as a Clinical Social worker. I believe that your lived experiences as well as your environment has an impact on your well-being. My therapeutic approach explores and observes your environment and lived experience to better understand your strengths, needs, and hope for the future. I utilize the person-in-environment approach to better assist you in achieving your goals. I believe that you have the power to heal yourself. I view my role in this therapeutic relationship as a guide. I guide you into discovering and tapping into your own human potential. I believe that healing comes from within, and sometimes people must be reminded of their own strength and resilience. My approach is one that is direct, culturally relevant, sensitive, trauma informed, strength-based, individualized, and client-centered. I use an array of therapeutic modalities such as exposure relapse prevention therapies, behavioral activation therapy , mindfulness, motivational interviewing, attachment theory, psychodynamic, solution focused therapy, CBT, and DBT to awaken one’s healing power. On this platform I offer brief solution focused therapy. Therapy can be hard and sometimes scary. I get it, I am here to support you on this journey. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to healing and self-discovery.
Jeyran Shahgaldiyeva
Hello, and thank you for beginning this journey. My name is Jeyran and I am a licensed therapist in Ohio, Massachusetts, and Florida (telehealth) with a solid professional work experience. I work with people that experience symptoms of depression, stress and anxiety, are coping with grief and loss, dealing with dramatic life changes, have sleeping disorders, and other disturbing mental health issues. My imperative is to treat everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Throughout our interactions I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. During the sessions I draw the best from Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, Client Centered and Solution Focused Brief Therapies, and other evidence-based approaches to help you get to the roots of your concerns, identify your strengths, and guide you to the happier life. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here for you and am honored to support you in that journey.
Jeimy Cabral
I am licensed in Massachusetts with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.
Sarah Sabbides
I am Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Massachusetts with 19 years of professional work experience in mental health and human services. I have 9 years experience in helping clients in individual and family therapy. I have expertise with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, PMDD, PPA & trauma and abuse. 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!
Kristen Shores
I am an independent social worker licensed in Ohio with over 15 years of counseling experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, ADHD and grief and loss. I also have helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and client centered therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first step towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you! I look forward to working with you!
Toni Lawrence
I am licensed in Texas with 6 years of professional work experience and 14 years of military service. I have experience in helping clients with PTSD, stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, 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. 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.
Onessa Robertson
Hello and congratulations to the second step in taking care of you! My hope and intention is to be of assistance to those who are open to change and healing. We all go through experiences that may leave residual hurts, lingering pain, confusion or even a need for re-discovery. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of experience and have an eclectic style in my approach to therapy. I work to help those gain insight, stimulate change and create new connections while being a witness and support throughout their journey. My specialties include Anxiety, Functional Depression, Trauma, Personal Growth & Life Changes. I have experience working with those who struggle with (but not limited to): various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety & post traumatic stress, sexual violence, trauma, abuse, coping with life stressors, grief & loss, and relationship issues. I have worked with individuals, families and couples, professionally and voluntarily, in providing various modalities of therapy facilitated on a local and international level. The variety of techniques I provide are as follows: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Play Therapy, Sandplay Therapy, Art Therapy, Faith-based Spirituality, Motivational Interviewing and the Gottman Level I method all which are directed by the needs and goals established by the client. Take a step, jump and dive right into your own success in progress. Looking forward to being a part of your journey to wellness. One last thing, if you were wondering what the first step was. Well, it was your decision to face your concerns and ask for help. Keep it up, you got this!
How to find a therapist for counseling in Holyoke
Finding the best therapist close by in Holyoke 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 with therapists in Holyoke that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Holyoke. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Holyoke, 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 for therapists. 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Holyoke region and in the state of Massachusetts. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Holyoke or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Holyoke therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Holyoke area offering:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Holyoke, elsewhere in Hampden, or in the greater state of Massachusetts. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Holyoke area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Holyoke therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Holyoke due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Holyoke 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 a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Massachusetts you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).
How is a licensed therapist on this Holyoke online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Holyoke, 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Holyoke psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?
BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Holyoke 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 helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified 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.
Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
- EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
- Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
- Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
- Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
- Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
- Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
- Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
- Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
- Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
- Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
- Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
- OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
- ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
- Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
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 Holyoke provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Holyoke?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Holyoke 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.
Therapists 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 Holyoke 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 Holyoke 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 psychotherapist.
With a lot of people in MA, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 01040 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Holyoke counselor?
Before seeing your Holyoke therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Holyoke therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. 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 for therapy 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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Holyoke 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 with a Holyoke counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.
Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?
Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Holyoke, 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.
Holyoke has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions 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 during telehealth appointments?
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 for Holyoke, Massachusetts
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 Holyoke 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 to customer service 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Holyoke:
01040, 01041