Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, but many people are too embarrassed or afraid to get treatment when they need it. The stigma of mental illness is still rampant and has made it difficult for many people to get treated. Cortland has some of the most efficient therapists in the state. 

Cortland is a small town of about 18 thousand people and many of them enjoy exploring the many historic places there such as the Tompkins Street Historic District, William J. Greenman House, and the Cortland County Poor Farm. Once you get treatment from one of the Cortland therapists you may enjoy visiting some of these as well. 

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Janet Caldwell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Cortland
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesADHD
20 years of experience

Hello! I'm Janet Larsen Caldwell, a licensed mental health counselor in both New York and Florida and I am wondering: Have you ever scrutinized your relationships with your children or the connection between you and your partner? Are you trying to balance work and home? Are you blaming yourself or have you ever had the feeling that maybe it's you, but would never want to reveal that? If you or a family member has been diagnosed with ADHD, you may be in luck here. Your ADHD personality and/or cultural upbringing may be preventing you from the happiness you desire with the special people in your life! Instead of labeling your issues and behaviors, we can work with what you have. By making changes to accommodate your needs and relieve you of those unwanted feelings of anxiety, depression, stress and, perhaps, loneliness, you and your family will be on your way to increased happiness. Through BetterHelp I provide a safe and welcoming space to discuss the ADHD issues you are tired of ruminating about. If you have reached out to your family and friends and they have not been helpful, it may be too uncomfortable for them, besides not having the answers you need. After studying nursing in college for two years, I decided that the profession was not for me. I have a BA in Human Development from SUNY Empire State College and a graduate degree in Counseling and Community Psychology from Sage Graduate School.

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Saila Akhtar

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Cortland
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC,MS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
8 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health counselor from New York. I have over 10 years of experience working with at risk children and their families. I have worked directly with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, ADHD, substance use concerns and family conflicts. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is interactive. I believe in building good rapport with my clients and providing a safe space to have open dialogues about their concerns. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, and person-centered. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to be aware of your needs and to seek out support to change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to partner with you and work towards the change you crave. I look forward to working with you!

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Erika Butler

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Cortland
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,CASAC
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
28 years of experience

My counseling style is warm and interactive. I strive to provide everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach is from a strengths perspective and combines cognitive behavioral and client centered techniques. I will work in conjunction with you to create a treatment plan that is unique and specific to your needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling, happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you! Styles: Strengths Perspective Cognitive Behavior Client Centered Expertise: Addiction Family Life/Medical Issues Loss/Grief Issues Relationship and Intimacy Issues

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Paul Buehler

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Cortland
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseParenting issues
3 years of experience

Hi, my name is Paul Buehler, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in upstate New York with over 30 years experience in the field of mental health and direct services to youth and families. I strongly believe that developing a solid helping relationship is key to supporting anyone in addressing the changes they wish to make in their lives. After all, all change happens within the context of relationships. I have experience helping children, teens families and adults in coping with stress, anxiety, depression, adjustments to major life changes and conflict in many different areas of life. I also have experience working with the LGBSTQ2SI population as well as children and adults who have experienced trauma. Over the many years the feedback I have received from clients is that I'm compassionate, non-judgmental and truly start where they are and support them in developing or enhancing skills that help them reach their therapeutic goals. I am available by video, phone, text, email, whatever means clients find the most helpful although it is often most helpful to start with a video meeting to help establish our relationship and initial goals and plan for working together. I am available most mornings, evenings and weekends. I know how much courage it requires to take the next steps to change your life for the better, and I want to assure you, I am here to help you make the changes that are best for you.

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Tamie O'Neil

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Cortland
Counselor License Type(s): PhD,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York. I have worked and currently work with clients who have/had a wide range of mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, eating disorders, body dysmorphia, antisocial personality disorder, borderline personality disorder, grief, and loss. I have also worked as a crisis counselor to assist those with thoughts of suicide in getting their basic needs met, develop coping strategies, and identify a support network. My counseling style is client-centered. My goal is to meet people where they are at build a therapeutic relationship and then empowering them to identify the goals that they wish to reach. After identifying the goals then we identify the steps needed to meet those goals. My theoretical approaches are CBT, solution based and mindfulness. Seeking support and assistance is the first step in reaching mental and emotional wellness. I look forward to empowering you to lead a healthy and fulfilling life by facilitating your journey to emotional wellness.

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Stephanie Southard

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Cortland
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

Hello! My name is Stephanie Southard and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience providing therapy to individuals, groups, and families/couples. I am warm and inviting and provide you with a judgment-free space to share your most bothersome thoughts and issues. Your therapy with me will always be YOU-centered as I will always meet you where you are at and develop goals based on what you want to accomplish during our time together. I am relatable, engaging, and accepting of the wonderful person you are and want to become. I utilize practices that are based on evidence, with CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) being my preferred practice because you cannot change your behaviors without first managing your thoughts and attitudes. I also like to include exercises and role playing as part of your treatment. I was born, raised, and am currently residing on Long Island, New York. I received my MA in Social Work from Adelphi University in 1999 and have been working as a social worker ever since. I am a big homebody and I enjoy reading, writing, crafting, and hanging out in the comfort of my home with my family and pets. My passion is helping people figure out how they can live more meaningful, peaceful, and fulfilling lives with minimal and manageable stress and conflict. I look forward to guiding and supporting you on your journey through this process. SPECIALTIES: -- depression, the blues, post-partum -- anxiety and irrational thinking -- addiction and adult children of alcoholics (ACOA) -- PTSD and personal experiences of traumatic events -- OCD and habit forming and breaking -- communication skills, empathy, relating, and acceptance -- parenting and mom struggles, family dynamics -- grief and loss -- stress and anger management/coping skills -- childhood trauma, abuse, abandonment, attachment I am also familiar with domestic violence, child protective services, legal/courts, community resources, and I have an extensive knowledge of psychiatric diagnoses and medications. If I am unfamiliar with a term, condition, or problem, I will become familiar with it! SERVICES OFFERED: live chat, phone, video, and text LICENSE: NY State LCSW: # 73-072535 (expires 5/31/23) EXPERIENCE: 24 years

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Julissa Aquan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Cortland
Trauma and abuseGriefBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am a multicultural, culturally competent licensed clinical social worker in New York with 9 years of professional work experience. I am a licensed clinical social worker, a graduate from Fordham University’s Graduate School of Social Service. I have been employed in the largest hospital system in New York for the past 15 years, with 9 out of those 15 years as a licensed social worker. My dedication to my clients, my love for learning have formed me into an experienced and well-rounded clinician. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss and also a tobacco treatment specialist. I believe that you are the expert of your story, and that one possesses many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage. I am proud of you for getting started!

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Debra Peterson-Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Cortland
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with parenting issues. 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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Samantha Powell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Cortland
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemDepression
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, family conflicts, 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. 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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Cynthia Aronson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Cortland
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
39 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 39 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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 shows that you have many strengths.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Cortland

Finding the best therapist close by in Cortland 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 Cortland 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 Cortland. 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 Cortland, 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 Cortland 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 Cortland 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 Cortland 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 Cortland 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 Cortland, elsewhere in Cortland, 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 Cortland 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 Cortland 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 Cortland 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 Cortland 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 Cortland online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Cortland, 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 Cortland 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 Cortland 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 Cortland 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 Cortland?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Cortland 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 Cortland 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 Cortland 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 13045 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 Cortland counselor?

Before seeing your Cortland 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. Cortland 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 Cortland 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 Cortland 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 Cortland, 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.

Cortland 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 Cortland, 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 Cortland 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 Cortland.

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

13045

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