Oakland, NJ was recently ranked the 3 rd best place in New Jersey on Business Week’s list of “Great Places to Raise Kids – for Less.” Local school test scores, the number of schools in the area, crime risk, living costs, and cultural and recreational activities all factored into the award. While Oakland has many features that make raising a family easier than in other places, sometimes, you may need a bit of help through both family-related and personal struggles.

Oakland-area counselors are available now to assist you and your family with a multitude of things. These mental health professionals can provide you with support confidentially, including teaching you coping skills for dealing with the issues you’re facing. If you or your family need help, consider reaching out to a nearby counselor today.

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William Dougherty

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Oakland
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,CAADC,CCS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesAnger management
16 years of experience

I have always seemed to be in a helping position. Before graduating high school I started work at a large veterinarian hospital/boarding kennel in Blue Bell, PA as an animal health technician and then the hospital administrator, where I stayed for over 15 years. I decided to return to school to pursue a degree in psychology and have been in the mental health field since 1998, working for such organizations as Special Equestrians as a side aid volunteer assisting people with physical and/or mental health disabilities and Lenape Valley Foundation as both a house advisor and a Partial Hospital Program group therapist for people with severe and persistent mental illness. I also worked for Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia for their Narcotic Addict Rehabilitation Program where I was a counselor for people addicted to heroin. I recently worked for Catholic Charities in NJ in the roles of therapist for the Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program working with kids diagnosed with substance abuse or dependence, as well as a clinical supervisor for the Comprehensive Family Treatment of Addictions Program (CFTA). This led to the position of Program Director for CFTA, the Therapeutic After-School Program (a therapeutic group for kids ages 8-12) and an In-home therapy/case management program, while also carrying a small direct-service caseload at my private practice. Finally, after taking the position of Service Area Director, with responsibility for 13 substance abuse, mental health and social service programs, I realized that I was moving further and further away from my original ambition of providing one to one service to clients. This realization led to my decision to get back into direct service. The ability to provide a safe environment for people to share their feelings, thoughts, and experiences is essential to effective counseling. Studies have shown no one therapeutic modality utilized by therapists is superior to another; rather, clinicians themselves ultimately determine whether treatment will prove effective. It’s not about the model being used; it’s the relationship between the counselor and client. This principle guides my work, in that I strive to provide a client-centered, strength-based counseling setting to individuals, couples and adolescents for issues related to addiction, anxiety, career or relationships. I look to my clients to be the experts of themselves, which encourages them to guide the therapy where it needs to go. What I offer is a space to gain insight in order for that insight to become the catalyst for change. I believe that once a person sees their truth, they have no choice but to accept that truth…though we often do our best not to. Each of us develops psychological schemas that teach us how to interact with people and the world. When we grow accustomed to a certain pattern of behavior, however, we look to repeat it, even after it’s outlived its usefulness. Addiction, for instance, is a maladaptive coping skill that worked at one time but does no longer. With a background in English literature, I bring a decidedly post-modern perspective to my therapeutic approach. One of the concepts I utilize is Narrative Therapy, which encourages and compassionately challenges clients to be mindful of the story they’re telling to better utilize their strengths. This theory acknowledges the power of language, in that not only does the language we use reflect how we feel, it also affects how we feel. Therefore, the words we choose to use can help to manifest the changes we hope to bring about. The idea is to encourage the use of more positive words as opposed to negative words while telling our life story. I have found this approach to be remarkably effective in helping clients confront the challenges of their lives in order to bring about lasting and meaningful change. Other approaches and techniques I draw from include Humanistic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Enhancement Therapy (with a strong working knowledge of Motivational Interviewing), Trauma Informed Therapy, and Systems Theory. I find it satisfying to be part of helping people discover who they can be and realize that perhaps they’re more than who they thought they were. Ultimately, if each of us can achieve balance and make our own little corner of the world a little bit more satisfying and a little safer, we help to create a better reality for all of us. Degrees and Credentials Bachelors Degree in Psychology/English Literature from Arcadia University in Glenside PA Masters Degree in Clinical/Counseling Psychology from La Salle University in Philadelphia PA PA Board Licensed Professional Counselor PA Board Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor PA Board Certified Clinical Supervisor PA Board Certificate of Competency in Problem Gambling NJ Board Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor NJ Board Licensed Professional Counselor NJ Board Certified Clinical Supervisor Member of the Psi Chi, Phi Theta Kappa, and Sigma Tau Delta National Honor Societies. Modalities and techniques I draw from include Humanistic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Enhancement Therapy (with a strong working knowledge of Motivational Interviewing), Trauma Informed Therapy, Mindfulness, and Systems Theory. I have experience in dealing with: Relationship issues Anxiety/stress Chemical addiction Gambling addiction Compulsive behaviors (such as sexual “addiction”) Anger Management Codependency Self Esteem PTSD

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Michael Michnya

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Oakland
Counselor License Type(s): MEd,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issues
39 years of experience

I specialize in building relationships and personal growth: I help parents get more cooperation and compliance from their children with less energy so that the can enjoy each other; I help couples beat the odds to stay happily married; I help all kinds of creative people overcome barriers and roadblocks to fully express their artistic vision; and I help diverse individuals and families adjust to the inevitable and often difficult transitions we all face in life. My most successful clients believe that positive change is possible, are hopeful about the future and are ready for change. They understand that true and lasting change comes from within and requires patience and persistence. They value our time together and trust our relationship enough to do the work (even when it gets hard) both in and between sessions. As long as you appreciate creativity, risk-taking and open, honest communication, attend sessions on time, do assigned homework and are willing to honestly describe what is and isn't working, then I want to work with and help you. I am dedicated to helping everyone I work with access and use their creativity to find and add the resources they need to the strengths that they have so that they can achieve their therapeutic goals as quickly as possible. When you're ready for success, then I would be honored to help you find the solutions that work and make the changes that last so that you can live your very own ‘happily ever after’! I began working with and helping people in 1980 as a preschool teacher. In 1981, while volunteering for the Child Abuse Prevention Effort, I found my second calling. From 1982 to 1986, I worked as a counselor at The Bridge (aka, The Therapeutic Center at Fox Chase), a long-term rehab for teenage substance abusers. After obtaining my master's degree in counseling psychology, I served as the primary counselor and coordinator for Cape Counseling Services Family-Adolescent Alcohol Program providing individual, group and family counseling to children, teenagers and families from 1986-1990. As a program manager at Family Service Association between 1990 and 2014, I trained and supervised over 30 in-home counselors working with families in which children were at risk of out-of-home placement (usually due to abusive or neglectful parenting, but often due to teenage non-compliance and acting out behavior), a less intensive in-home parenting education program as well as three juvenile diversion programs. Since then, while building my private practice, I have provided individual, group and family counseling at a short-term rehab for adults with addictive disease, at a for-profit community agency, and in a federally qualified health center. In my various roles as teacher, counselor, coach, program manager and clinical supervisor, I have helped thousands of people change their lives for the better. My vision is of a world full of kind, loving, compassionate people who live and work peacefully together to provide abundance for all. My purpose is to help people learn, grow and make new and better choices to improve their lives and their relationships so that they live as long, healthy, happy, loving, connected and meaningful lives as possible. My mission is to use my "signature strengths" of creativity, optimism and knowledge, and research-tested methods, to encourage and foster the personal, relational and spiritual growth and change needed to make those changes possible.

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Marylee Burns

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Oakland
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in both New York and New Jersey with over 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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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michael geisert

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Oakland
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
27 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in working and empowering clients manage stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, addictions, supportive counseling and anger symptoms in an array of settings. Some approaches I employ to assist you to meet your goals include Client Centered, Positive Psychology, EFT, ACT and Mindfulness. Some of these settings include outpatient and inpatient Addictions and mental health, Juvenile Justice, US Military and Veteran mental health, Public School and College. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, as we navigate this journey together. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out strategies and awareness to move forward. I am here to support, develop tools to manage yourself and clear these disruptions and enhance your life.

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Stacey Polson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Oakland
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC,NBCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
26 years of experience

Hello! My name is Stacey Polson and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wyoming with 26 years of counseling experience. I have worked in the mental health field primarily as a Middle School Counselor, but have extensive experience counseling individuals, families, couples, and groups outside of the school setting. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Developmental Psychology and a Master’s in Counseling, both from the University of Wyoming. I enjoy working with clients with a wide range of concerns including, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief, relationship issues such as divorce and infidelity, parenting concerns, family conflict, careers and job satisfaction, disability issues, self-esteem and confidence, trauma, and abuse. My counseling style is fun and personable. I use a person centered approach in which the client is the leader and I am the supporter. I am here to break down problems, help set goals, and find manageable ways to meet them. I also often like to incorporate a rational-emotive approach that helps clients see the connections between their thoughts and patterns and how they affect behavior. My goal is to help my clients develop a more positive outlook on life by restructuring their thoughts and beliefs so they may reach their fullest potential. I am passionate about helping people find their way through tough times. My priority is meeting your unique and specific needs. Sometimes the hardest step towards change is the first one and I am here to help you take that risk. I look forward to working with you to reach your goals!

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Leslie Stanton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Oakland
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 17 plus years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & 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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Angela Mesenburg

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Oakland
Counselor License Type(s): MSW, LCSW, CCTS-F
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Utah with nine years of experience supporting people with improving their mental health. I have multiple additional certifications and strive to continuously stay educated in current modalities and treatment through research and training. My approach is solution-focused, client-centered, and strengths-based with a strong foundation in healing past negative experiences or trauma. When working with clients I strive to make the therapy experience genuine, respectful to assist in creating a safe place to process and share feelings openly. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you know best what you need in our sessions. I love honoring your strengths and hardships and exploring ways you can evolve as an individual. My areas of specialties include but are not limited to Acute, Chronic and Complex traumas, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders, Substance Abuse and Dependency, Suicidality, Eating Disorders, domestic violence, Gender dysphoria, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Body Image, Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality, Histrionic and Dependency Disorders with families, couples, and children/adults of all ages. I am a certified yoga and Nidra Meditation teacher in which I use in my sessions as needed/requested to help with grounding and getting clients into a relaxed body. I encompass a holistic approach to my therapy services. I have an array of experience working with multiple populations. I have learned from these experiences that every individual is unique in who they are and what they need. I prefer to read my client's energy and be present in the moment with them to support them in seeking what they need in their healing. I have my own personal experience to add to my professional experience. I feel my personal experience has assisted me in being more empathetic and authentic in treating clients.

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Jacqueline Warren

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Oakland
Trauma and abuseParenting issuesBipolar disorderCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & bipolar disorder. 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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Joseph Haber

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Oakland
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoachingCompassion fatigue

I am a clinically licensed social worker in New Jersey with several years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & executive and professional coaching. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Dr. Marjorie Woodruff

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NJ, Oakland
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 30 years of professional work experience. I have the most experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety. I also specialize in coping with grief and loss, and with caregiving challenges. For the past 15 years, I have specialized in working with older people and their caregivers dealing with the challenges of aging and lifestyle changes. I have clients who have been with me through their ups and downs and still remain connected professionally. My personal professional strengths are listening, empathy, problem solving, and helping people change thinking patterns that no longer work for them.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Oakland

Finding the best therapist close by in Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland. 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 Oakland, 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 Oakland region and in the state of New Jersey. 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland, elsewhere in Bergen, or in the greater state of New Jersey. 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland may not take health insurance, some in the state of New Jersey 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 New Jersey 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 Oakland online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Oakland, New Jersey 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 NJ, 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 07436 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 Oakland counselor?

Before seeing your Oakland 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. Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland, New Jersey 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.

Oakland 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 Oakland, New Jersey

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 Oakland 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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Oakland.

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

07436

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