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Melanie Giarratano

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Allegany
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Hi! My name is Melanie. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Neuroscience at University of Delaware and my Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling at SUNY College at Old Westbury. I have experience with adults, teenagers, children, Veterans, substance users, and the developmentally disabled. I also have a lot of experience with relationship counseling as it is a prevalent factor among most populations. I conduct group and individual therapy in both inpatient and outpatient settings. In my undergraduate studies, I conducted extensive research with PTSD in rats. This was an eye-opening experience as it taught me about the human stress reaction and how humans with trauma function differently from humans without trauma due to lacking the ability to extinguish fear. I use this in my practice as I currently work in an inpatient psychiatric setting with patients who have extreme trauma history. My graduate studies focused on the psychodynamic approach to counseling in which I learned about human development, family context, relationships, and transference/countertransference. I utilize this approach when working with clients as it helps me to understand the individuality if my clients based on their personal development. I use a myriad of theoretical approaches in my practice as I believe that all client's circumstances and personalities are different and treatment should be personalized. I focus on motivational interviewing in my practice as it is goal oriented and encourages a client toward change-talk and change-action. I use person-centered therapy once the client presents as motivated, but needs support and encouragement. I am here to listen without judgement and guide you through your own transitional journey. I am a firm believer of solution focused therapy in which a client is encouraged to focus on the present and future. I love to utilize CBT for a motivated client in order to deconstruct their thoughts/feelings/behaviors and identify the interrelationship between these thoughts/feelings/behaviors. One way to work on this is by teaching about faulty thinking errors/distortions and offering some positive coping skills to restructure thinking. This approach is best for clients who are willing to take their counseling further by completing homework, thought logs, charts, etc. Lastly, I emphasize the need for self-care in my clients. I am personable and friendly in my practice and I owe this to having balance in my life. When I am not counseling, I practice yoga, ride my bike, see my friends or family, play with my dog, go outside, or go shopping. I encourage all clients to utilize self-care and do what makes them feel happy and free.

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Vakhtang Gomelauri

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Allegany
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I have over 7 years of experience providing therapy in person as well as online. My clinical approach is eclectic, I tailor my therapeutic methods and techniques to specific needs and resources of my clients. I specialize in treating issues related trauma, depression, anxiety and how they affect our bodies, everyday functioning, and relationships. I have experience effectively helping individuals from all over the world, different cultures, ethnicities, religious beliefs, and gender identities. My therapist's toolbox contains methods that you can learn and use independently in your daily life to alleviate stress, avoid anxiety and panic attacks and overcome depression. If you want to explore your emotions, be able to be more conscious of your internal processes and work through your early life experiences I can offer you my psychodynamic skills that can help you understand yourself better and reach significant insights through therapeutic relationship. We are living though chaotic and stressful times when it can be hard to find meaning in our experiences, and purpose for our actions, but by exploring your values, relationships and life story we can find a way for you to feel empowered and see the way forward. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me, I check my messages several times a day.

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Sarah Goyer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Allegany
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

My name is Sarah and I have been in the field going on 8 years now. I am a licensed mental health counselor with a master's degree from Hofstra in Rehabilitation Counseling in Mental Health. I have experience with children, adolescents, and adults in an outpatient clinical setting utilizing the following treatment modalities: Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Person Centered Therapy, and Family systems in individual therapy, group therapy, and family therapy settings. My approach is to meet all of my patients where they are at so that together we can determine what goals would assist you in functioning at the highest capacity possible. I am also a strong advocate for providing my patients with education on what makes them survivors of the circumstances that may have led to wanting to seek help to build self esteem and eliminate the mentality that you are a victim and lack ability to take control of your life. I would love the opportunity to be a part of the journey to transforming into the version of yourself that represents strength, health, and stability.

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Susan Vanderpool

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Allegany
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW-R,RN
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
40 years of experience

About Me I have 35 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am also a Registered Nurse. I am licensed in the state of New York and operate a mobile unit in Suffolk County ( Psychotherapeutic Solutions Mobile Unit). I believe that your physical and mental well-being are directly related. I utilize a holistic approach to providing psychotherapy. I have training in family therapy. I have worked with families, couples, young children, and adolescents with a diverse range of mental health issues. Admitting to yourself that you need help is the first step. I am here to help you in this struggle. SPECIALTIES Addiction Codependency Anxiety Panic Disorder Divorce and Separation Depression Bipolar Disorder Grief ADHD Phobia Dementia and other Geriatric Issues Helping elderly parents remain in their home safely Coping with Cancer and other terminal illnesses Anger Management Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Schizophrenia Pregnancy and Child birth Infertility Empty Nest Clinical approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy Years of Experience: 35.

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Dr. Irene Garrick

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Allegany
Counselor License Type(s): PhD
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a mental health counselor licensed in New York and Connecticut as well as a Board Certified Counselor. I have been a counselor for 15 years and specialize in depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship issues, women's issues, parenting struggles, career and academic struggles, motivation, childhood trauma, and chronic pain. My counseling style is warm, compassionate, and encouraging. I provide a safe space for clients to explore their issues and experience their emotions. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Narrative, and Humanistic approaches in my work. I believe in a strengths-based way of helping clients achieve their utmost potential and live an authentic life. We will work together to establish goals for therapy, and I will tailor my treatment approach to each client's unique needs. It is brave to reach out for help when experiencing struggles in life. I look forward to partnering with my clients in their desire for improved mental health

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Maria Cipriani

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Allegany
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
20 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Michael Masters

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Allegany
Trauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

For the last 5 years, I have been in clinical practice with individuals and families in New York City. Before that I was a community organizer that counseled families and individual clients particularly impacted by systemic conflicts, trauma/abuse/neglect, mental health disorders and anxiety or anger management. I experience great joy by supporting your courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life, and I guarantee that I will always be here to support and empower you in that journey.

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Waitsell Jones

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Allegany
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, 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. 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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Emily Kalb

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Allegany
Family conflictsEating disordersSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
22 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, eating disorders, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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.

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Alisha Ellis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Allegany
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia and New York with 20 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, & career difficulties. 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Allegany

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

Therapists in Allegany, New York 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 Allegany 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 Allegany 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 Allegany 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 Allegany?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Allegany 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 Allegany 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 Allegany 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 NY, 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 14706 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 Allegany counselor?

Before seeing your Allegany 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. Allegany 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 Allegany 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 Allegany 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 Allegany, New York 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.

Allegany 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 Allegany, New York

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 Allegany 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 Allegany.

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

14706

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