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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Ellen Curran

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Ellen Curran is a licensed independent clinical social worker who received her masters in clinical social work from Boston University School of Social Work in 2000. She works collaboratively with families, and adults in an empathetic, client centered hopeful environment. She respects the client’s strengths, making her clients aware of them so that they can utilize these strengths to improve their relationships, find self- acceptance and reach their goals. Offering a calm accepting haven, Ellen utilizes CBT and mindfulness techniques to work with clients to improve self esteem for those who battle with ADHD, PTSD, OCD, anxiety/depression, anger and relationship issues that often appear during life stage changes. When not working with her clients, Ellen enjoys travel, biking and working with local environmental groups. Ellen meets with her clients on Tuesdays in the morning and late afternoon. Presently there are openings at 8:00 am, and 7:00 and 8:00 pm until they are filled.

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Molly O'Brien

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

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

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Dr. Mary Louise Mesquita

Offering therapy in MA
License: PhD
Relationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

Hello, I'm Dr. Mary Louise Mesquita and I'd like to welcome you to my BetterHelp page. Therapy is a team endeavor and I propose that you and I work together to determine how best to meet your objectives in a healthy, constructive way. Whether it's a couple of consultations to explore something very specific (such as a recent disagreement) or a more extended collaboration to tackle long-standing concerns, we'll take a strategic approach. This approach begins with accurately defining the problem. It includes identifying your beliefs, emotions and expectations, and exploring the obstacles to a fulfilling outcome. This approach also entails devising alternative options and expanding your mindset so that you’re in a better position to assess, select and implement a viable course of action. My qualifications are founded on a comprehensive education, extensive training, considerable experience and a keen interest in human nature. I have a B.A. from Yale and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from George Washington University. I was a Clinical Fellow with the Harvard Medical School for three years and I've worked with clients ranging in age from four to eighty-four, each of whom had their own compelling story and brought to life everything I learned in academic settings. My aim is to bring my training and experience as well as an open mind to our collaboration in order to learn about you, and in turn to help you learn more about yourself. Knowledge is power and self-knowledge is an invaluable asset. It is the foundation to one's ability not only to take advantage of the opportunities and to adapt to the challenges life presents, but to thrive in the life that is uniquely one's own. If I sound too abstract or philosophical, rest assured that I’m a pragmatist at heart and an efficient and determined one at that. Wish you well and look forward to hearing from you if you find that our perspectives align.

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Melissa Gilgun

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionADHD
24 years of experience

Hi! My name is Melissa, and I am a licensed clinician in Arizona and Massachusetts with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, attention issues, trauma and abuse, eating disorders, coping with grief and loss, and depression. In addition, I am very knowledgeable about goal-setting and helping my clients be able to manage their symptoms through the use of coping strategies and cognitive-behavioral therapy. I believe strongly that counseling provides the empowerment, acknowledgement, and validation that is necessary to help process feelings and work through concerns. I would love to be the therapist to help you today. Please contact me if you feel my experience would be a good fit for you, and I look forward to hearing from you.

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Jennifer Shafran

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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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Doreen Sanabria

Offering therapy in MA
License: LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

Greetings! I am a bi-lingual Eng/Span Licensed Clinical Social Worker LCSW in both Florida and Texas. I am a therapist that believes in a holistic approach to healing by combining a faith based approach along with clinical modalities. I am passionate and dedicated in guiding individuals on a journey to find balance and purpose in their lives. My goal is to help those I work with see their strengths and tell their story from a victorious and empowered position. I want to encourage and walk alongside those who have the desire to connect to their "Higher Power", that source of love, peace and joy we all need. I am fluid in employing different modalities of clinical practice to tailor to my client's needs as they strive to overcome the many demands of life. I have worked 10 plus years with families and their children and/or adolescents on the challenges of communication, generational trauma and co-dependency. As a therapist I appreciate the privilege it is to assist families in breaking communication barriers and fostering a nurturing environment to thrive as a family unit. I also have worked in the areas of Grief and Bereavement, Anxiety and Anger Management, Suicide Prevention and Post Partum Depression. I am looking forward to being a part of your growth and newfound awareness as you uncover the marvelous creation you are!

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Lachelle Taylor-Boyd

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesAnger managementDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Massachusetts with 10+years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy related issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Sherry Kravitsky

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Massachusetts with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Jennifer Nelson

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas, Massachusetts, and Oregon with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, family conflicts, 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 issues that challenge you. I often use the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solutions Focused approaches to help my clients work their way out of what is distressing them. I also use Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to help my clients with history of trauma when they desire more focused work to overcome challenges. I find the CBT, Solutions Focused, and CPT approaches to be very effective, because you will begin to recognize what is going through your mind and how it affects your feelings and way that you react/respond to every day situations. I strongly believe “change your thoughts, change your life,” and using these approaches can help a person to recognize how self-defeating thought patterns can hinder their growth. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, and you can be proud of yourself for taking that step! I am a supportive cheerleader to my clients and care about your success. I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals!

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Brian Kerschen

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Kansas with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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.

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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