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Brandon Graf

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Briar Creek
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCoaching
15 years of experience

Brandon's main areas of focus are anxiety, fear, depression, and stress. These are all things that many people experience at some point in their lives. They are also typical of existential and spiritual crises. Existentialism in the context of counseling refers to finding meaning in life, especially when questions start to arise. Questions about personal values and sense of direction are common. These questions can be become especially frequent during major life transitions like starting or ending relationships, jobs, and geographical moves. His experience is wide-ranging and includes private practice, employee assistance, and drug and alcohol settings. His counseling style is humanistic, person-centered. As such, he takes a non-judgmental approach that seeks to meet people where they are and to help them articulate what they’re experiencing including potential solutions for issues needing resolution. This point of view assumes that the therapist is not an expert on the person seeking help, but an assistant on the journey of self-discovery. Brandon has extensive experience in counseling individuals, couples, and families. He enjoys traveling and has lived in and visited over 30 countries. He’s an avid sports fan who also enjoys exercise, hiking, and reading.

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Steven Lai

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Briar Creek
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepression
32 years of experience

Hello! I have successfully practiced clinical social work for over 30 years and have enjoyed helping the many clients I have counseled during my career. You will find me to be caring, understanding, respectful, nonjudgmental, knowledgeable and attentive to your needs. I have experience as a therapist /counselor, case manager, clinical supervisor and mental health clinic director, working with adults, adolescents and children and families and have been effective in helping my clients consistently achieve positive change. My number one objective is to help you feel better and resolve any difficult issues you are coping with. My approach is goal oriented and problem solving, often using cognitive behavioral therapy strategies and motivational interviewing techniques designed to challenge any negative thoughts and improve and maintain your motivation to make the changes needed to resolve issues and problems you are facing. I graduated from The Hunter School of Social Work in 1990 with a Master's Degree in Social Work in New York City and I am currently a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Pennsylvania. I'm here to help you and look forward to working with you!

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Susan Lockard

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Briar Creek
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionADHD
16 years of experience

Hello! I am Susan and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the State of Pennsylvania and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). I have experience in Trauma Informed Counseling, TF-CBT, and EMDR. I received my MA in Community Counseling from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 2010. I have done in-home counseling, family-based counseling, and outpatient since then. I continue my learning with ongoing trainings which have included Motivational Interviewing, Case Formulation, principles for working with members of the LGBTQI community, using trauma informed care, supporting wellness and recovery, Autism, and other Neurodevelopmental Disorders. I am also a Level 3 Reiki Practitioner. I have worked with clients as young as 3-years of age through adults in their 60’s. I have experience dealing with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, parenting challenges, behavioral issues, ADHD and emotional/physical/sexual abuse and neglect. I have experience supporting members of the LGBTQI community. I engage in advocacy as well. I work diligently to create a trusting, authentic, therapeutic relationship with my clients. I believe a safe, nonjudgmental atmosphere is needed for you to explore life’s challenges. My approach combines strength based and solution focused techniques, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, and trauma-informed care. I believe in supporting the “whole person” not just pieces. You do not live in a bubble and true well-being should incorporate all aspects of your life. This belief has led me to incorporate a holistic approach in treatment which encourages exercise, diet, Mindfulness, self-care, essential oils, and spirituality just to name a few. I am open to almost anything as long as it supports your well-being. I know “one size does not fit all.” I will tailor treatment to your individual needs. I am here to guide you on the journey to wellness. You have the tools and the strength to heal yourself. My purpose is to help you discover your potential and tap into your hidden resources. If you are ready to begin healing, I am ready to walk beside you on the journey. I look forward to working with you! Susan

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Shiloh Johnson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Briar Creek
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LMFT,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
6 years of experience

Welcome! I am so glad you found your way here. It takes courage to reach out and pursue healing. In this fast paced world, peace can be hard to find. Conflict, trauma, and everyday stressors impact all of us. My goal is to provide a warm setting for you to find rest and peace even in difficult circumstances. I help individuals, couples and families work together to find harmony through reinforcing what is working, repairing what is damaged, and building resilient relationships. I am passionate about helping people work through challenges in the present to discover hope for the future. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and have experience in mobile therapy and private practice. I enjoy using creative therapies both in and out of session in addition to talk therapy. I also have experience working work with children and adolescents using Child Centered Play Therapy skills. There is hope for all people and relationships, and I aspire to transfer that hope to you. I look forward to working with you.

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Rachael Morgan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Briar Creek
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania and also hold the national certified counselor (NCC) credential. I earned an MA in Community Counseling from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and have 15+ years of experience working with a wide range of people providing individual, couples, group, and skills training sessions. I have worked with many different mental health issues, such as depression, self-injury, anxiety, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, gender dysphoria, LGBTQIA+ issues, and adjustment to life changes. I also have experience working with dually diagnosed individuals and those coping with substance use issues. I work from a client-centered, judgment free approach combining aspects of DBT, CBT, Personal Medicine, and Mindfulness. I am willing to meet a person where they are at in their journey. I am a guide on your journey. I do not have all the answers, but am willing to work with you to build a life worth living. I do not believe in labeling people as we are all just humans at the end of the day. I empower my clients to make safe, healthy, and effective decisions to better their lives. I use positivity and skills training to help people improve their self-esteem, self-confidence, and overall outlook on life. I use a conversational style to work on the issues that are important to you. Change can be scary, but I believe that by taking small steps everyone has the ability within themselves to change for the better. You have already taken the first step by considering therapy. I would love to work with you toward your goals and help you to see the world from a different perspective. Change your thinking, and you will change your world. I look forward to walking the path toward a happier and healthier life with you.

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Keisha Barnhill

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Briar Creek
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW,LCADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and my qualifications. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I graduated from Georgian Court University with a BSW and Fordham University with a MSW with a clinical concentration working with adults and families. I have over 10 years of experience working in the field of mental health and addiction in both individual and group settings. I have experience working with most mental health diagnosis, substance use and co-occurring disorders.

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Kelly Kiefer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Briar Creek
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
3 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania with 3 years of experience working as a therapist. I am LGBTQ+ affirmative. I have worked with clients with a wide range of difficulties including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, loss of a loved one, trauma, and physical and sexual abuse. My counseling style is warm, reflective and interactive. My clients are the experts' of their life experiences, so I work hard to listen to their needs and meet them just where they are. Together we work to overcome their challenges. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and psychodynamic counseling. It takes courage to ask for help so I applaud you for taking this first step. Please know that I am here to support and empower you and move you towards a more fulfilling and happier life. I look forward to hearing from you and working with you!

This is Karon Hicks's avatar and link to their profile

Karon Hicks

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Briar Creek
LGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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!

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Alan Cole

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Briar Creek
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & motivation, 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Richard King

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, Briar Creek
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
22 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, depression, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe experience for everyone to share and explore solutions to their issues. I am open to spending time in prayer if requested and encourage you to take the steps you need to that enables you to get back on track in your daily life.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Briar Creek

Finding the best therapist close by in Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek. 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 Briar Creek, 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 Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek, elsewhere in Columbia, 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 Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Briar Creek, 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 Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek 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 18603 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 Briar Creek counselor?

Before seeing your Briar Creek 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. Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek, 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.

Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek, 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 Briar Creek 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 Briar Creek.

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

18603

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