In life, having a bad past can keep you down. Everyone has a few demons from the past they fight, but if you can’t let it go, it can lead to depression, anxiety, and apathy. A counselor based in Utica can be able to help you. 

Utica has had a shaky past. It has been called “Sin City” because of its past involvement with crime and corruption. However, the city has since moved on from that reputation and has since become a shining beacon. You can improve as well, but you need to speak to a counselor first if you want to succeed. 

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Maureen Harris

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Utica
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Hello and welcome! First, I want to acknowledge you for taking the next step to receiving support and help with whatever you are currently experiencing - that takes courage and energy to take care of yourself. My name is Maureen and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York. I have over 5 years of experience working with individuals on various aspects of life, including substance abuse and dependence, addiction within the family dynamic, issues within the family dynamic, various mental health issues, and managing through various life transitions. Specifically, I have experience working in outpatient substance abuse and mental health treatment clinics, inpatient substance abuse treatment, college mental health counseling, group counseling, life coaching and care management. My therapeutic approach when working with clients is first and foremost, to meet you where you are. I believe there is a lot of power in allowing the client to discover and utilize autonomy in the counseling process. I will also provide you with concrete tools to begin utilizing, so you can begin to find relief in whatever you are seeking. I utilize techniques and approaches from cognitive-behavioral therapy (identifying the way we think that may be problematic or disruptive, challenging those thoughts and patterns and changing them to change the way behave and feel), person-centered therapy (allowing the client to play the lead role in their therapy, without judgement from the therapist and unconditionally accepting and supporting you despite what you bring to therapeutic experience), and motivational interviewing (beginning with your existing motivation, discovering underutilized existing motivation, and creating new motivations to create change in your life). Again, I acknowledge you for taking the next step to providing relief and taking care of yourself. I view the mind and our mental health equally as important as our physical health and I believe mental health care is imperative to continued health, growth and life. I look forward to working with you!

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Obaogodara (Preference:Dara) Oluwasanmi

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Utica
Counselor License Type(s): LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor licensed in New York State with four years of experience working as a counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, bipolar disorders, depression, schizophrenia, antisocial personality disorders, relationship issues, aging and geriatric issues, codependency, and self-harm. I also have three years of experience working with individuals with severe persistent mental illnesses and my current full-time position is working in a facility with individuals with such illnesses. My counseling style is based on collaboratively working with clients in achieving the goals set out in therapy. I believe that the building of rapport is an essential element of counseling which helps in building therapeutic alliance. I also believe in treating anyone with respect, understanding and empathy. My approach implements Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Therapy. Each treatment plan will be individualized based on the needs of each client and issue. Seeking therapy is beneficial to one’s mental health and it helps in promoting overall wellness. As you take the step to promote your mental health, I want to mention that doing so is brave. I look forward to hearing from you soon!

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Alexander Abramowicz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Utica
AddictionsGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

Welcome to the profile of a passionate advocate for mental health and resilience, who firmly believes in the transformative power of facing challenges head-on. I am a dedicated therapist committed to helping individuals find strength, growth, and healing by embracing the profound wisdom in the quote, "the best way out is through." This motto serves as the guiding principle in my therapeutic approach, empowering clients to navigate their struggles and emerge stronger on the other side. This forms the bedrock of my practice, inspiring individuals to embrace their pain, heal from past wounds, and forge a path towards a brighter future. My therapeutic approach combines compassion, empathy, and evidence-based interventions to address a wide range of emotional and psychological issues. By drawing from modalities such as CBT, DBT, Jungian, and mindful based practices, clients will be equipped with the tools necessary to confront challenges, build resilience, and improve overall well-being. If you're ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing, I invite you to take the next step. Together, we can navigate the path forward, working through the obstacles that stand in your way. By embracing the philosophy that "the best way out is always through," you can experience personal growth, find renewed purpose, and create a better life.

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Keona Serrano

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Utica
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in New York with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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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Duquinha Thompson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Utica
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hello, my name is Duquinha and I am a licensed mental health counselor in New York with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, trauma, anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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. I have a passion for helping others recognize that life’s challenges can be conquered with the right help, mindset, and willingness! 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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Anne Flaherty

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Utica
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in New York State with 20 years of professional work experience. 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. 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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Danielle Fabregas

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Utica
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & coping with grief and loss. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Nicole Lovass-nagy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Utica
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York with 8 years post-graduate experience as a therapist. I have provided therapy remotely since beginning my Social Work career. I am passionate about providing empathetic, professional and evidence-based therapy. Your health shouldn't be compromised by the distance or the professionalism of your therapist. I have worked in many venues; in domestic violence/sex trafficking shelters, homeless shelters, inpatient hospitals, private practices and as a teacher in a Title I school. Currently I direct a private clinic. I enjoy providing therapy with systems theory in mind-- dynamics within relationships, families and with individuals at the mercy of systems around them. My first calling as a therapist was working with PTSD and Trauma related symptoms, I have worked with Veterans in several capacities for 20 years and with Survivors for 10 years. It is my deepest held belief that everyone has things in life to work through, and seeking therapy should not be stigmatized nor difficult to obtain. I am committed to developing a respectful, warm, dynamic therapeutic relationship with you, that meets your needs--so you can meet your goals.

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David Levine

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Utica
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 25 years of professional work experience. My background is in relationship therapy, body oriented psychotherapy and mindfulness training. I am a deeply philosophical person and enjoy working with clients who have a spiritual practice, be it religious or otherwise. I have experience in helping clients with mood disorders, relationship issues & love working with parents. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and, I also have a good sense of humor ????. 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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Shirley Wright

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NY, Utica
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
13 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Utica

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

Therapists in Utica, 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 Utica 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 Utica 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 Utica 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 Utica?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Utica 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 Utica 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 Utica 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 13503 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 Utica counselor?

Before seeing your Utica 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. Utica 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 Utica 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 Utica 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 Utica, 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.

Utica 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 Utica, 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 Utica 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 Utica.

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

13501, 13502, 13503, 13504, 13505, 13599

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