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Dayna Pitzer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OH, Independence
Counselor License Type(s): MSSA,LISW-S
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

At the start of 2022 I realized that through BetterHelp I could finally reach my goal to work private practice full - time. Through my career, I have primarily worked with adults in various settings, but in 2016 shifted my dedication to teenagers in the criminal justice system. I have Hospice experience which is where I gained my passion for grief and loss as well as dealing with phase of life changes. This hit home to me hard, in 2016 as I watched and cared for my mother who battled Ovarian Cancer. She passed away November 2019 and I took a step back from my private practice work and just focused on my healing as well as my work at the Juvenile Center. In August of 2020, I started back up with private practice and did this with BetterHelp. Once 2022 hit, I was ready to transition from working with teens in the juvenile justice system and the parents of juvenile delinquency, to taking a step with BetterHelp full time. I have experience with inpatient psychiatric care, crisis intervention, hospice, and chronic medical illness, as well as a wide range of mental health and relationship issues. I have a passion for helping people find peace of mind and strength to work on the challenges that they are facing.

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Brian Hunt

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OH, Independence
Counselor License Type(s): LISW-S,LICDC-CS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I have had 30 years experience in the mental health and addictions field. I have worked with clients who are chronically ill as well as brief counseling . I believe that we all have the potential for recovery if we desire this for ourselves. My approach is to provide support , active listening and problem solving skills to my clients. I believe in taking each day at a time and being mindful of the world around us in all of our affairs. I am myself am in recovery from addiction and I understand the struggles and courage involved in making this decision to seek help and guidance. I hope to join my clients as an active ally in their recovery journey.

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Erin Foster

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OH, Independence
Counselor License Type(s): LPCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Ohio since 2016. I have a very diverse background and have worked in many different setting. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma and addiction. I have working various types of settings including, hospital, community mental health and private practice. My style is very laid back and really focuses on the needs in the moment to aid in coping with daily and life stressors as well as making those connections to gain insight on different perspectives. I feel that counseling is a collaboration and a partnership. The client needs to have a huge role in their treatment and its direction which gives it more meaning and success. I use primarily a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy approach but have training in additional therapies such as DBT and mindfulness. Being able to explore the thinking process and gaining an understanding of what we think and feel and how that impacts our lives is key to healing and developing better coping methods.

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Nicole Schellinger

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OH, Independence
Counselor License Type(s): LPCC-S,LICDC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

Hello my name is Nicole and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Ohio and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of South Carolina, and I have been working as a counselor since 2006. I look forward to the possibility of getting to have the opportunity to work with you, and being able to be part of your mental health journey. I feel that my counseling style is warm and inviting while trying to remain focused on my clients individual needs. I believe that the sessions are for the client and I try work to meet clients were they are by approaching the counseling sessions with understanding and compassion. I use techniques from many different theoretical counseling approaches and some examples of the commonly used approaches would be cognitive behavioral (CBT), solution focused therapy, and/or motivation interviewing approaches to work with my clients to determine their treatment goals and needs. I have been offering session using BetterHelp for the last 2 years and before my time with BetterHelp I had practiced for 15 years (2006 to 2021) in a community behavioral health setting. I have had the opportunity to work with clients experiencing issues related to addiction, depression, anxiety, coping with stressors, life changes, relationship and/or family issues, trauma, ADD/ADHD, to name a few. I have completed my undergraduate program in addictions studies from University of Cincinnati and have also completed a Masters in Education program from Lindsey Wilson College majoring in Mental Health Counseling. Thank you for taking the time to read about me and I look forward to getting to work with you, Nicole Schellinger M. Ed, LPCC-S, LPC

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Teresa McKibben

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OH, Independence
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPCC
Relationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

My name is Teresa McKibben. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Ohio. I have worked as a therapist for 13 years. Prior to this career, I taught public school and worked in various education related jobs for 16 years. I have had a wide variety of experience in counseling work, and worked with clients across the lifespan, from 3 years old to 93 years old. I have been told I have a very down to earth, non-judgmental approach, that creates an easy dialogue between myself and clients. My therapeutic focus is one of creating and supporting a cooperative partnership with clients. My belief is that you are the expert on you. My role is to bring tools for greater awareness and empowerment, continually bringing the focus of therapy to what is meaningful to you and can be applied directly to your daily needs. My greatest hope is to facilitate your awareness of your own greatness, and help you actualize your decision to thrive and celebrate yourself and your life.

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Margaret Fowee

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OH, Independence
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,LISW,LCDCIII
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteem
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), in Florida and Ohio and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDCIII) with 15 years of experience working with people to help them make changes in their lives. I have worked with people challenged by depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, addiction and life changing situations. My therapeutic approach is strength based, solution focused, client centered, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Theory. I have extensive experience working with the military and their families as well as those struggling with addiction. It takes courage to take the first steps towards a change, but there is power and strength in taking control back and choosing to make a change for the better.

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Joanna White

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OH, Independence
Counselor License Type(s): LISW-S
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

My name is Joanna White. I received my Bachelor's in Criminal Justice and worked in different capacities with the Prisoner Reentry population for many years. I made the decision to shift my focus and I received my Masters in Social Work from the University of Southern California simultaneously working with women and men experiencing Domestic/Sexual Violence. Working with these two different populations has helped me gain a perspective from an offender and victim/survivor perspective. I have years of experience working with people who have experienced trauma, specifically domestic/sexual violence, childhood trauma, and disordered eating; stress/anxiety; life transitions; parental concerns; work-related stress; and stress that life throws at us. I believe any type of change is a journey and my role as a therapist is to help guide you through your journey for what makes sense to you!

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Crystal Bonner

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OH, Independence
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I collaborate with my clients with the goal of working towards mental and physical well-being. I utilize a multimodal informed approach to treat the whole person, not just a symptom. 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. My schedule includes Saturdays and Sundays with limited availability during the week. I conduct sessions via video and phone. *See Below. Clinicians in the state of Ohio are required to provide, prior to the first appointment, an Informed Consent for the client to read, complete and sign. Also required is verification of the client. A copy of the client’s driver’s license, state I.D. or passport must be uploaded to the BetterHelp platform. *To confirm the aforementioned, the first session is completed via video only. Thereafter, clients have the option of scheduling sessions via video or phone.

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Brittany Byers

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OH, Independence
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepressionADHD
9 years of experience

I graduated in 2015 with a Master's Degree in Social Work from Walden University. I am independently licensed in Ohio with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, depression, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, Bipolar Disorder, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming aspects of life that challenge you. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.

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Nancy Breckenridge

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OH, Independence
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, eating disorders and depression.I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Independence

Finding the best therapist close by in Independence 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 Independence 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 Independence. 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 Independence, 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 Independence region and in the state of Ohio. 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 Independence 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 Independence 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 Independence 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 Independence, elsewhere in Cuyahoga, or in the greater state of Ohio. 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 Independence 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 Independence 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 Independence 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 Independence may not take health insurance, some in the state of Ohio 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 Ohio 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 Independence online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Independence, Ohio 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 Independence 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 Independence 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 Independence 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 Independence?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Independence 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 Independence 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 Independence 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 OH, 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 44131 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 Independence counselor?

Before seeing your Independence 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. Independence 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 Independence 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 Independence 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 Independence, Ohio 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.

Independence 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 Independence, Ohio

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 Independence 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 Independence.

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

44131

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