Melissa Strauss
Hi there! My name is Melissa Hochbaum Strauss and I am looking forward to working with you. I have over 7 years of experience working with individuals, families and couples as a Licensed Professional Counselor. I believe that every client can teach me something and my approach is warm and engaging. I hope that you feel you have control over our time as well. Every individual has strengths and it is important to use this in the therapeutic process. My approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, Emotionally Focused and Internal Family Systems Therapy. I tailor each therapeutic style to the individual's needs. My experience includes; Depression, Anxiety, Relational Issues, Family Dynamic Issues, Trauma, Sexual Identity Work, School and Career Work, Infertility and Parenting.
Jill Ott
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.
Dr. Todd Witmer
The decision to talk with a counselor is significant. All of us have developed skills to deal with life. Most of us have also experienced overwhelming circumstances, and in these moments, we realize the coping/managing skills we usually turn to fall short. Counseling provides opportunities to develop new perspectives, additional skills, and insights to apply in our current situation. Together, as counselor and client, we can establish goals to give hope for a future on the other side of the present issue. I look forward to the opportunity to hear your story and work together on formulating the next steps. I began my education in Marriage and Family Therapy over 30 years ago. Out of the desire to understand my own family dynamics, as well as to be of better help to members of the congregation and local community, I obtained my Marriage and Family Therapy license in Pennsylvania. For the past three decades I have worked with individuals, couples, and families in a variety of settings, both in more formal counseling offices as well as in our local church. I have experience with clients with a broad range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, life-change challenges, parenting and family struggles, career transitions, faith-related issues, and communication, among others. I am committed to hearing people’s stories and assisting them in the process of understanding. As such, to address the issues, I utilize methods such as : cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, client-centered, psychodynamic, multi-systemic, and motivational interviewing therapies are all considered for the best fit.
Paul Pangburn Jr.
I have been working as a Clinical Social Worker since 2005 after 30+ years in the Chemical Industry. I have a good understanding of what it means to be human and my life experience has led me down many paths. I believe that therapy provides us a way to discover ourselves. . Based upon my own experience with therapy, I find that having a connection with another human being can help us clarify our own needs and find a path to recovery. I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy but also use facets from other types. I like DBT and Mindfulness therapy and borrow from them. As a therapist my goal is to help you find the answers that you are seeking. I believe we are in control of our own lives but sometimes we need some help finding our path.
Gabriel Gross
Your pain deserves space to breathe and be heard. Your authentic self deserves tending to. Being human is hard work. In the limited time we exist, we have countless choices to make as we shape the direction and purpose of our lives. In our struggles, perhaps we may feel phony, unsure of ourself, pressured to hide or distort our feelings and thoughts. We may feel paralyzed when trying to make the “right” decisions. We may feel deeply isolated, unable to sustain relationships where we are cherished exactly as we are. We may be haunted by past traumas and unable to forgive. Or we may wonder about our life's meaning. Counseling is a way to explore these and other concerns that are part of being alive. As a humanistic counselor, I am here to hold space for your pain and the story of who you are, and help you make meaning of your experiences. I can offer you a safe and confidential sanctuary where you can express yourself freely, without judgment or criticism. I would be honored to support you as we talk through the fearful, tragic, and chaotic parts of life; connect to your authentic self and genuine feelings; and make meaningful choices about how you care for yourself and your pain, and how you wish to show up in the world. Welcome. May you continue to find your courage to ask for help when you need it.
Kimberly Sylla
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker ( LCSW ) with over 20 years of experience as a therapist working with diverse populations and age ranges. I received a Master of Social Work Degree from Temple University with a concentration in Direct Service. My Bachelor's Degree in Psychology was obtained at La Salle University. I also have a certification in advanced drug and alcohol counseling. I have worked with clients experiencing a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, psychosis, substance use disorders and vocational, educational, social and familial stressors. My therapy style is warm, engaging and non-judgmental in order to highlight the unique strengths of each individual. I am dedicated to meeting people where they are and creating a therapeutic alliance based upon trust and mutual respect. My integrative approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy ( CBT ), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy ( DBT ), Ecological Systems Theory, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Trauma Informed Care. I look forward to joining with you and supporting you each step of the way along the path you choose at your own pace and within your own context. In my spare time I enjoy literature, travel, culture and quality time with my son. Fun fact! I graduated from the Beasley School of Law at Temple University in 2009. It would be my pleasure to work with you!
Dr. Sharon Zaffarese-Dippold
Hello, I am licensed in Pennsylvania and New York with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with ADHD & ADD, stress and anxiety, depression, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & couples. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Desiree Hatton
I am licensed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
John Shustitzky
I am licensed in California, Illinois and Pennsylvania with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Michelle Pote
I am licensed in Maryland with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to 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 Avalon
Finding the best therapist close by in Avalon 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 Avalon 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 Avalon. 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 Avalon, 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 Avalon 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 Avalon 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 Avalon 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 Avalon 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 Avalon, elsewhere in Allegheny, 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 Avalon 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 Avalon 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 Avalon 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 Avalon 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 Avalon online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Avalon, 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 Avalon 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 Avalon 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 Avalon 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 Avalon?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Avalon 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 Avalon 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 Avalon 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 15202 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 Avalon counselor?
Before seeing your Avalon 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. Avalon 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 Avalon 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 Avalon 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 Avalon, 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.
Avalon 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 Avalon, 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 Avalon 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 Avalon:
15202