Sarah Yonan
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Pennsylvania, with over 15 years of experience working with clients ranging from youth through middle age. I earned a Masters in Social Work from the University of Connecticut and have extensive experience working within the school settings, supporting youth and families, as well as the university setting with undergraduate and graduate level students. Most recently I have worked as a consultant to the Hawaii Department of Education and as the Director of Community Outreach for Mt Sinai Hospital in New York City. I have worked with clients in a variety of areas including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, conflict resolution, life skills, parenting skills, relationship dynamics, trauma, life transitions, international/expats, artists and dancers. My counseling style is both nurturing and supportive. Having worked with diverse populations, I feel strongly about creating a non-judgmental, open and understanding environment. Each person enters the counseling relationship with their own unique story and needs. It is essential to listen and learn, while supporting and empowering the individual to grow in a manner that bests fits them. Although I do not hold fast to any particular modality I do draw from a variety of different sources. The most influential are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Strengths Based Perspective, and Solution Focused Therapy. I look forward to the opportunity to hear your story and work with you.
Angela Wychunis
Hello there! Let me first start by saying thank you and congratulations! You should pat yourself on the back for taking the initiative to becoming a better version of yourself. Admitting that you may need guidance is hard, but here you are taking steps towards mental clarity. For that, you should be very proud of yourself, as you have crossed one of the biggest hurdles. My name is Angela, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania. I earned a masters degree in Clinical Psychology in 2013. My undergraduate degree is in Clinical/Counseling Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice. I recently earned a School Counselor Certification to expand my horizon in the counseling field. For 8 years, I worked as a Psychology Services Specialist in a correctional setting (Virginia and Pennsylvania). In this setting, I worked closely with clients experiencing many issues in both individual and group settings. A lot of my time has been spent helping people manage depression, anxiety, crises, grief, trauma, substance abuse, thoughts of suicide and/or self-harm, family conflict, anger, sexuality, and identity issues. I have also been lucky to attend many trainings to strengthen my awareness in the field. I currently work as a School Counselor in a middle school and absolutely love it! I take a very client-centered approach and try to be as eclectic as possible to best meet my clients' needs. It is important that we can build a rapport combined with mutual trust to make your therapeutic experience a powerful and helpful one. I really enjoy an integrative approach that uses both cognitive-behavioral and humanistic therapy methods. I am a strong believer in mindfulness and would love to provide clients with different worksheets and techniques that would be helpful in their daily lives. Self-care is extremely important, so I will certainly be encouraging that on the regular. In my spare time, spending time with family and friends, traveling, exploring nature, reading, or hanging with my dogs is where you will find me (REMEMBER: self-care is key)!! Whether it be myself or another therapist you see fit, I absolutely hope you find what you were looking for on your journey. If I seem like someone who may fit your goals and needs, please feel free to reach out. I look forward to talking to you soon!
Zakiya Pollard
Welcome! My name is Zakiya and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania with 7 years of experience. I received my Masters in professional counseling from the University of Pennsylvania. Most of my work has been in substance use counseling, but I also have experience with mental health therapy. I have worked in outpatient, intensive outpatient, and short-term residential settings in Pennsylvania, New York, and Virginia. I have a strong belief that every person has the innate ability to become the best version of themselves, and I believe that my role as a counselor is to help them to reach that point. I use a person-centered approach by ensuring that the "best version" I get my clients to reach is a version that they have chosen based on their personal goals. In my work, I have assisted individuals with issues such as substance use , post traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I have been trained in the use of Seeking Safety as a treatment for post traumatic stress disorder. I utilize this and other evidence-based techniques in my work, including cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness. I am also flexible with learning and trying new techniques. I want to make sure I use the best strategy for each individual I encounter! I look forward to helping you to reach your goals!
Andrea Gahagan
I am a licensed clinical social worker in Pennsylvania working as a therapist in mental health and substance use disorders. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, substance use disorder, and childhood trauma. I have also helped many people who experience low self-esteem, and who struggle with body image/self-love. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, strengths-based, and solution focused approaches. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I look forward to working with you!
Wanda Siller
Hello, I’m Wanda Siller, a dedicated therapist with a Master’s degree in Counseling and Human Relations from Villanova University. With over 20 years of experience as a yoga teacher and a lifelong passion for reading, I bring a unique blend of empathy, mindfulness, and insight into my therapeutic practice. I believe in the profound value of connecting deeply with individuals, regardless of their backgrounds or perceived differences. My approach is grounded in non-judgment and respect, creating a space where you can feel truly seen and heard. Building a trusting relationship is essential to me, and I strive to help my clients feel relaxed and safe enough to share their innermost thoughts and feelings. My focus is on exploring the more challenging aspects of ourselves, those parts we may find difficult to confront. I am committed to helping you navigate these areas with compassion and sensitivity. Sometimes, simply knowing that you are not alone in your struggles can be incredibly healing. As someone who is kind, sensitive, and genuinely cares about people, my goal is to support you in understanding and connecting with your own experiences. Together, we can work towards greater self-awareness and personal growth. If you're looking for a therapist who values your unique journey and is dedicated to helping you uncover and address your deepest concerns, I’m here to help. Let’s work together to find a path that feels right for you. Feel free to reach out or schedule an appointment if you have any questions or if you’d like to start this journey together.
Jessica Hollander
I am licensed in New Jersey with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & coping with life changes. 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.
Lila Hughes
I have learned through my work that it is sometimes difficult to ask for help, however, being willing to take a chance can yield positive results. I am here to provide you with the support you need to help you make a positive change in your life. I am confident that we can work together to develop a constructive relationship in order to accomplish the goals you feel are important. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in helping my clients with diverse issues such as Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, Grief, and relationship issues. I have worked with individuals navigating the early stages of a chronic illness or a terminal diagnosis. I have supported their caregivers, family and survivors during their difficult and emotional journey. I offer non-judgemental, empathic, person centered support tailored to each person's wants, needs and interests. We will work together to find healthy coping skills based on your strengths, we will decrease barriers and meet your goals in a way that supports your values and beliefs.
Rachel Berger
Hello, my name is Rachel M. Berger, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas, Colorado, and Pennsylvania and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maine with more than eight years of experience. I have experience in anxiety, depression, emotion regulation, life transitions, relationship strategies, and self-esteem development. The counseling theories that I draw from include Cognitive-Behavioral-- identifying and understanding thoughts and actions that influence decision making. Feminist--encouraging self-empowerment and advocacy. Humanistic--focused and directed by the client's goals. Dialectical Behavioral--coping with discomfort, emotion regulation, interpersonal relationships, and mindfulness. Rational Emotive Behavioral--identifying, challenging, and replacing irrational thoughts/beliefs. I offer an open and validating environment. I will adjust my methods to accommodate your goals and therapeutic needs. I have a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Texas of the Permian Basin and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Texas Woman's University. I am here for you when you are ready to start your journey towards a more satisfying life.
Nicholas Pelescak
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Cynthia Benzing
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, anger management, & bipolar disorder. 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.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Houston
Finding the best therapist close by in Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston. 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 Houston, 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 Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston, elsewhere in Washington, 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 Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Houston, 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 Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston 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 15317 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 Houston counselor?
Before seeing your Houston 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. Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston 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 Houston, 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.
Houston 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 Houston, 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 Houston 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 Houston:
15317, 15342