If you’re navigating issues like low self-esteem, mood disorders (like anxiety or depression), or you just want to work on being more at peace in the present moment, psychotherapy may be worth trying.
When you’re searching for the right therapist, Altoona, PA has a range of options to consider. For example, if you’re looking for preventative mental health services to improve your wellbeing, you might want to consider counseling psychology services at an outpatient counseling clinic like Blair Family Solutions—which is in Altoona, PA, 16602. This clinic offers both psychology and psychiatry services (psychiatrists are medical Drs. who specialize in mental health). In contrast, people who want to address family conflict and are interested in faith-based services may want to try family counseling at a clinic like the Christian Counseling Associates.
Many people prefer online therapy services to in-person therapy, because it’s typically more affordable and it’s easier to schedule sessions at a time that’s convenient for you. Additionally, while in-person therapists often have long waiting lists, most people using online therapy services are matched with a licensed provider within 48 hours.
The licensed mental health professionals listed below all provide online therapy services in Altoona, Pennsylvania. You can read through their profiles to learn more about each therapist’s background, professional experiences, and licensing information. On their profiles, you’ll also find client reviews, which highlight how these therapists can help you achieve your mental health goals.
Melinda Noel
Welcome to Better Help! Whether you are here for yourself or someone you care about - because you're curious about how this works or you already know you want to sign up - welcome! You've made the click so you've already made a step. My name is Melinda Noel and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Pennsylvania. I was born and raised in Pennsylvania but have enjoyed some schooling outside of my home state. I received my Bachelors degree in Foods and Nutrition from Meredith College in Raleigh, NC. I then went on to obtain my Masters in Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh. I've worked in other's homes with reunification, in an office setting as a practice manager, as a counselor and as a clinical supervisor, to name a few. I have an extensive background in treating children and adults that have been through trauma. I have several certifications in trauma because I feel it is so universal. Most of us have dealt with something traumatic in our lives whether it be a car accident, the loss of a loved one, an attack, a divorce, etc. Unfortunately, many of us will experience numerous trauma's in our lives, and let's face it, trauma is not an easy thing to overcome. Along with specializing in trauma treatment, I work with people struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship problems and adjustment to life transitions to name a few. I believe that a person's view of the issues is most important. It is our job as counselors to then help people identify patterns in unhealthy behaviors or additional issues that may be important in treatment, but you know you best. That means that whatever it is you feel is a problem, I will take it seriously and work towards improvement. I love the idea of a counselor being available whenever someone needs help the most - in the moment or as close to the moment as possible. I'm excited to get started with you and am confident you will feel comfortable, supported and motivated throughout our time together. Let's get started!
Stacie Brethauer
Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist, and a Behavior Specialist. I have enjoyed over 13 years working in the mental health field, helping my clients change their lives in positive ways. Those that I come alongside often say I provide warm, heartfelt support and professional guidance as they found hope and transformation through their struggles. Taking part in their journey as an expert guide, I have helped individuals navigate their way through depression, anxiety, relationship issues, lack of self-confidence, major life transitions, grief, and loss. Refreshing to my clients, I have a unique and individualized approach to my counseling, while at the same time being highly educated and expertly trained in mental health. I make coping strategies simple and easy to apply in real life. Cognitive-Behavioral, Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Trauma-Informed Care, and Strength-Based are just some of the theories that I draw from. I tailor my service in unique ways to support the specific needs of my clients while drawing from proven theoretical strategies. During our sessions together, you can expect that we will sort through the challenges you are facing, choose the strategies that work the best while focusing on making the changes that matter the most to you. What's on your mind most and how may I support you is a theme of the service I provide. I am confident of this: the life you want is already within your reach and the struggle that you are feeling right now is just temporary. You’ve already done the hardest part; you reached out and asked for help. Now it's time for you to take the next best step. Know I am here for you, as you begin this journey. Let’s take that next step, together.
Ann Marie Morreale-Lafoca
Hi and thank you for looking at my profile. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience. True to the social work profession my approach to therapy is client centered focusing on strengths. I am accustom to many therapy models; however, I do not subscribe to just one or a handful. We are all truly unique and we can't always fit into a model. I have years of experience with children, adolescents, adults, senior citizens, individuals, relationships, families and groups. I have spent the later years helping people with chronic health care conditions, as well as their families, significant others and their communities. When working with my clients I very much try to make the therapy experience a positive safe place. I fully believe in unconditional positive regard. So, what is unconditional positive regard? A general definition is the attitude of complete acceptance and love, whether for yourself or for someone else. When you have unconditional positive regard for someone, nothing they can do could give you a reason to stop seeing them as inherently human and inherently lovable. It does not mean that you accept each and every action taken by the person, but that you accept who they are at a level much deeper than surface behavior (Rogers, 1951). In therapy, the idea is much the same, although with a more specific purpose: to build a positive, trusting relationship between the therapist and the client. It is a defining feature of client-centered therapy (and an important feature in many other forms of therapy), in which the client is accepted and supported by the therapist no matter what they say or do (Rogers, 2001). https://positivepsychology.com/unconditional-positive-regard/ I look forward to building a positive working relationship!
Greg Martray
Greg specializes in individual, family, and couples therapy for depression, anxiety, anger management, and various maladaptive behaviors. Greg is recognized as a National Certified Counselor. He uses a cognitive-behavioral approach and techniques from a variety of therapeutic approaches to meet clients where they are and help them reach their goals. Greg received a Master’s Degree in Education and Counseling from Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He has been working in the field for over 16 years and he is currently accepting new clients.
Antoinette Bogan
LPC in PA and NJ. I have 14 years of experience in social services, including working as an investigator and helping people in crisis in the individual and family services industry. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, parenting issues, & anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion at all times. I strive to help others develop a sense of hope that will propel them as they transition into new ways of being. I completed two Master of Science degrees. One in Criminal Justice and the other in Clinical & Counseling Psychology, specializing in Diverse and Underserved Communities. I strongly believe in the power of self-love being the foundation for helping people lead successful productive lives. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific individualized 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. I work with my clients to create an open and nonjudgmental environment where thoughts, feelings, and experiences 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.
Marcella Krance
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in Pennsylvania with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, the impact of a medical diagnosis and parenting issues. I have worked with children and families in a medical setting for over 20 years. I have also worked closely with individuals and families who have been touched by cancer. I believe in treating everyone with compassion and respect. I believe you are the expert of your life. We are all unique and have our own strengths. My approach is client centered, strength based, and solution focused. I strongly believe that we all at some point in our lives need someone to talk to. When working with clients I work to make the experience respectful, safe and positive. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can be the most difficult part. I am looking forward to getting to know you.
Mary Elaine Sheehan
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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.
Kathryn Auen
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ related issues, family conflicts, & motivation, trauma and abuse, PTSD, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I believe every individual has the capacity to improve the quality of their life through self-awareness and self-exploration. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Corinne Jones
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, depression, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Moriah Kreppein Riquelme
I am licensed in New York with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
How to find a therapist for counseling in Altoona
Finding the best therapist close by in Altoona 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 Altoona 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 Altoona. 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 Altoona, 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 Altoona region and in the state of Pennsylvania. 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 Altoona 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 Altoona 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 Altoona 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 Altoona, elsewhere in Blair, or in the greater state of Pennsylvania. 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 Altoona 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 Altoona 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 Altoona 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 Altoona may not take health insurance, some in the state of Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania 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 Altoona online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Altoona, Pennsylvania 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 Altoona 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 Altoona 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 Altoona 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 Altoona?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Altoona 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 Altoona 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 Altoona 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 PA, 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 16601 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 Altoona counselor?
Before seeing your Altoona 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. Altoona 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 Altoona 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 Altoona 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 Altoona, Pennsylvania 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.
Altoona 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 Altoona, Pennsylvania
To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.
Take some time today to learn more about the team of Altoona 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Altoona:
16601, 16602, 16603