This is Jill Ott's avatar and link to their profile

Jill Ott

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC,NCC,BC-TMH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionADHD
25 years of experience

I am licensed in the states of Florida and Pennsylvania. To see my other certifications, please refer to my bio. I live in Florida and have over 25+ years of experience in both the mental health and the medical professions. I have worked in private practice as well as hospital and outpatient settings over the years and have experience with depression, anxiety, relationship and family conflicts, career related issues, medical and chronic pain issues, eating disorders and addictions. I have not met a client that I haven't enjoyed working with. My career goal has always been to be a therapist-it's just who I am. I am comfortable utilizing many different approaches depending upon the individual and their presenting issue. Some of those include: Cognitive Behavioral; Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT); Humanistic; Psychodynamic: Behavioral; Solution-Focused or Brief therapy; or Trauma based to name, but a few. The most important thing for me though, is to gain your trust. If you aren't comfortable talking with me and don't feel like I understand you, it doesn't matter what approach I use or what credentials I have, it's not going to work for you. So, the main thing I do in the beginning is to take a little time to build trust between us so you feel that this is a safe space. I am very open and honest and I strongly encourage that with everyone I work with. All feedback is welcome. That is important to me. In my spare time, I'm an artist and I paint when I find time. I do local art shows and commission work. I've taught art in the local elementary school for their special projects during the years. And in a previous life, I've been a musician and have taught music lessons both privately as well as in middle school. I write a mental health blog that you can look up at www.themoodswing.blog and get either information or some humor depending on the subject and my mood when I'm writing. I have been rather absent from it for awhile due to life's ups and downs, but I hope to return soon. I look forward to meeting you and working together to find a solution that is helpful for you.

This is Charles Tyson's avatar and link to their profile

Charles Tyson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW,BCD
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
6 years of experience

Deeply passionate about social justice and facilitating and guiding positive change and development in the lives of others, I am thrilled to connect with you as you begin your journey inward. Healing is truly the risk of showing up for yourself and your resistance to temptation to go back to unsilenced needs, numbing out, disconnection, and erasure. As a black, gender non-binary Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I have a personal stake and insight into the work I do. As you are aware, we are living in unprecedented times. My clinical practice aims to empower and heal individuals, families & communities through therapy, consulting, case management, training, & community outreach. Since graduating with my Master's in Social Work from the University of Pennsylvania in 2013, I have worked with folks across a wide array of presenting concerns, including managing symptoms of anxiety, mood dysregulation, and depression, healing with/from trauma, managing grief and loss, recovery from substance abuse and addiction, chronic illness, & LGBT issues. I work with clients at every stage of development in 1:1, couples, and family sessions. The feedback I receive from clients is that they find me to be innovative, caring and nonjudgmental, and they appreciate that I am responsive, honest and direct with them. You can expect me to walk with you through whatever difficulties you are facing and help you learn more about yourself and the way you interact with the world. When we work together, I will tailor my approach to meet your needs and help you reach your goals. If you feel as though challenges are interfering with your sense of happiness and ability to function to your fullest potential, or if you are ready to alter your current life path, then I am available and able to assist you on your journey towards recovery. I can interact with you in whatever manner you are most comfortable. I find it helpful to participate in video sessions so that we can get to know each other better. But I am also available to you via phone and text if that is more comfortable for you. I know how hard it can be to find a counselor who you feel a connection with and I would be honored to work with you through this stage of your life.

This is Ashley Hershberger's avatar and link to their profile

Ashley Hershberger

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am an Licensed Professional Counselor in PA, with a focus in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling. I enjoy working with a wide age range of clients. As a therapist I take a holistic approach to counseling, focusing on wellness, mind body connection, building self esteem, building healthy expressions of self, and overall mental health. I am also a CTRS who enjoys working on the effects of recreation on building healthy lifestyles and communication. I have my Master's in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling. I am presently working on my PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision.

This is Theresa Connelly's avatar and link to their profile

Theresa Connelly

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Hello and Welcome! Life can bring a lot of challenges and it can be difficult to reach out for extra support, I am so glad that you have taken the first step and are considering supportive therapy. My name is Theresa Connelly and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Pennsylvania, I also am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and have training in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM). I am a strong believer that with the right level of support anyone can feel empowered to face what life is placing in front of them, sometimes we just need a friendly face to help walk through the more difficult times. I have been practicing in the social work field for 10 years; four of those years have been with my clinical license. My experience includes working with individuals and their families in various settings including inpatient psychiatric, mobile crisis, and most recently hospice. A large portion of my working history is helping patients and families deal with end of life issues and grief; however, I also have a special interest in helping individuals who are dealing with anxiety and depression. I believe in a client-centered approach to counseling, meaning that I want to do my best to understand what life looks like from your point of view. Offering an empathetic and non-judgmental atmosphere is important, I am here to listen and help not judge.

This is Daphne Jakstis's avatar and link to their profile

Daphne Jakstis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LICSW,CDBT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepression
21 years of experience

I am a therapist offering more than 20 years of experience helping my clients with a variety of issues. My area of specialty is trauma treatment. I hold certifications in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and advanced clinical trauma treatment. I am a Certified Integrative Mental Health Provider and this allows me to use a combination of traditional evidence-based practices along with holistic approaches for overall wellness. A person's mental health is influenced by many different factors both internal and external. Our mental health can be influenced by our stress, our lack of connectedness to others, our diet, sleep issues, painful past experiences, and our environment. My skillset allows me to provide therapy that helps my clients reach all of their identified goals for wellness and quality of life.

This is Desiree Krise's avatar and link to their profile

Desiree Krise

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Athens
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Michelle Bixler's avatar and link to their profile

Michelle Bixler

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Athens
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & anger management. I am a trauma specialist, as well as a Board Certified Music Therapist. 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 will support you in the therapeutic process. My therapy style is positive, empathetic, and non-judgmental. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and curiosity. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am here to support and empower you, and I look forward to working with you!

This is Jill Foster's avatar and link to their profile

Jill Foster

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): MSEd,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am a clinical mental health counselor with over 12yrs of experience. I am licensed in Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Arizona, and Washington. I have worked with a variety of client concerns including depression, anxiety, women's issues, and life stressors. Many are survivors of childhood trauma and struggle with symptoms of C-PTSD. My counseling style is supportive and empowering. I incorporate a variety of treatment modalities, i.e. person centered, mindfulness, & cognitive-behavioral, etc. No two client's have the same experiences, so individual treatment can look very different. You are the expert of "you". I am here to support you, you decide what we work on, and together we work to get you where you want to be. I applaud you in taking the first steps to improving your wellbeing and quality of life, I know those are often the most difficult. I hope that you now follow thru and learn how beneficial counseling can be. I look forward to supporting you on your journey!

This is Dr. Kanako Okuda's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Kanako Okuda

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): DSW,LCSW-R
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

Hello. My name is Kanako Okuda. I am a licensed clinical social worker in New York and Pennsylvania with over 20 years of experience helping individuals from various walks of life. I earned my Doctorate of Social Work from Rutgers School of Social Work and a Master’s Degree from Columbia University. I have worked with parents of children with life-challenging diseases and adults of all ages. I have also helped them successfully manage major life transitions, chronic health conditions, coping with educational anxiety, and dealing with work challenges. One of my specialties is in managing educational anxiety. I have several years of experience counseling students through their college careers, as well as offering counseling to professionals regarding work-related issues. I've provided counseling at schools, in the home environment, in hospitals, and through web-based platforms. The premise of my work is based on positive psychology. I want to help you cultivate the best parts of you to enhance the areas of your life that you may feel the need to change. I believe that we all have the innate potential to achieve a meaningful life. My role is to help you identify the strengths and resources you already have by recognizing your fears and insecurities through our work together. It is important to work collaboratively to accomplish the most meaningful results, and you will find my approach genuine and supportive. I look forward to collaborating with you to help you discover your best self.

This is Dr. Michael Kaltenbach's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Michael Kaltenbach

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Athens
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Athens

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

Therapists in Athens, 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 18810 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 Athens counselor?

Before seeing your Athens 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. Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens, 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.

Athens 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 Athens, Pennsylvania

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 Athens 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 Athens.

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

18810

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist