Steven Lai
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!
Naomi Kim
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). I am also a 14 year Air Force veteran. I started my adult life in Florida and have settled here in Pennsylvania after living in several states as well as a couple of years in South Korea. I have worked for the past 13 years on an inpatient psychiatric unit and have a vast experience with depression and anxiety and how they affect one's well being and self confidence. Prior to that I worked with an agency that worked closely Children and Youth Services and have gained much experience in working with family issues, parenting concerns, and communication challenges. I have also worked with adults with developmental disabilities and enjoy exploring what you can do as opposed to what you can't do. I have experience using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) to help a person better understand the relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behavior as well as the power of automatic thoughts. I can help you with issues of self esteem and confidence as well as helping you learn how to problem solve and make decisions more effectively. I have experience using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) which provides a person with concrete tools to help deal with interpersonal relationships and as well as helping to develop tolerance for distressful situations. I can help you learn how to say no to unwanted requests and develop healthy boundaries for yourself as well as learning the power of being able to realize what you can and cannot change and deal with the consequences. I am a trauma informed therapist and understand the need for a specialized approach to traumatic events and memories and so will not bring up or focus on those events in our interactions. I will work with you on relaxation techniques to help you get past the memories and focus on the moment. I am a military veteran and understand how hard it is to open up about some events and issues. And I understand how difficult it is for those around you who don't understand. I can be there for you. I look forward to working with you as you face the crossroads in your life. I will be there for you. You are not alone.
Tom Post
I love what I do, and I know why I do it. Since 2007 my focus has been coming along side of people and assisting them with challenges they face in life to become the most authentic and genuine person they were meant to be. In my own journey I've come to accept and appreciate the gifts I've been given, even if they're seemingly unrelated. I love my work as a therapist and I will always be passionate about performing music. How the two coexist within me is the journey I'm on. My focus has been in becoming a better therapist each day ... but I also know I'll never stop playing guitar and performing music, it's part of who I am. I have been singing and playing guitar forever. I have worked with a variety of people, with a variety of personal struggles, and a variety of ages. I am very passionate about understanding and helping people with the effects of trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, distressful emotions, and broken relationships. I believe that we all have inherent value, and I strive to truly understand my clients and give all of them the respect and honesty they deserve.
Andrew Kohl
I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania with over 13 years of experience working as a mental health therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, autism, impulsivity, mood issues, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma and/or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating each person with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and accepting someone in their entirety. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, Gestalt & Adlerian approaches to counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Change is difficult. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Quiana Sydnor
I am a licensed counselor in Georgia and Pennsylvania with over 20 years of experience working as a therapist, life coach and leader of mental health and intellectual / developmental programs. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, psychosis, relationship issues, self-esteem struggles, career challenges and difficulties adjusting to life transitions. My counseling style is compassionate and interactive. I believe there are multiple paths to recovery and healing. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused and client centered therapy. It takes courage to ask for help and take the first steps towards making a change in your life to be happier and more fulfilled. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Andrew Charney
Hello! My name is Andrew Charney and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Pennsylvania, a National Certified Counselor (NCC), am certified in Family Therapy, Level 1 Rational Living Therapy (Reality), and Gambling Addiction. I incorporate cognitive behavioral interventions, mindfulness with DBT, and motivational interviewing. I have 9 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults providing individual, couples, and family therapy, in addition to addiction counseling and group counseling. I emphasize the importance of holistic wellness to connect the body, mind, and spirit which allows my clients to achieve their optimal level of physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness. I would describe my approach to be person-centered overall while seeing importance in being genuine, empathetic, and warm. My primary goal is to provide a safe, therapeutic space for each client. When working with families and couples I utilize a systemic focus with the structural family therapy (SFT) model to create/manage boundaries, assess relational patterns, and emphasize on the value of connection among family members. I enjoy running, weightlifting, eating at new restaurants, hiking outdoors, spending time with my family, and relaxing with my two dogs as self-care. You’ve taken a big step in changing your life by being here. I am happy to serve as a source of hope and motivation on your journey to a better place.
Meredith Seltzer
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting 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. 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. My aim is to assist my clients clarify and achieve their goals through listening, exploring, and conversation. I am dedicated to providing high quality counseling within a safe, caring, and nonjudgemental environment.
Melody Dascanio
It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. Licensed in Pennsylvania, with over 11 years of professional work experience, some of my specialty areas include treating survivors domestic violence and narcissistic abuse, adult children of emotionally immature parents, severe trauma, trichotillomania, BFRB disorders, mood disorders, and anxiety. I am a level 2 Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Certified Compassion Fatigue Specialist. I offer many treatment modalities, including EMDR. I have experience in helping clients with LGBTQ+ -related issues, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I believe that you are the expert of your story! You have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming challenges in your life. The role of therapy is to help you realize your own power and support you through your personal journey. I'm humbled by each and every person that allows me to be a part of their journey and look forward to working with you! In my free time, I enjoy taking care of my cats, dogs, parrots, and horses. In addition to a degree in psychology/counseling, I also have a degree in music and enjoy playing piano, clarinet, and violin. I am proud to be a bass clarinetist in the North Pittsburgh Symphonic Band and a Bb Clarinetist in the Musician's Concert Band. I also enjoy bluegrass music and have been a singer in my family's bluegrass band "Keep Off the Grass" for many years. My friends describe me as unique, humorous and quirky; all qualities that I am proud to incorporate into the way I provide therapy. I do not always post all available times throughout the week onto the calendar, as my schedule can be flexible when needed. If you need a day or time that is not offered, don't worry, just send me a message- I pride myself in working hard to find days and times that work for each individual person!
Lora Casteline
Hello, my name is Lora Casteline. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania with 20+ years of professional work experience in the field of Mental Health and Substance Use. I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and I am a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) in Pennsylvania. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with individuals who are coping with grief and loss. 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.
BJ Snader
I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, depression, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to 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 Polk
Finding the best therapist close by in Polk 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 Polk 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 Polk. 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 Polk, 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 Polk 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 Polk 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 Polk 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 Polk 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 Polk, elsewhere in Venango, 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 Polk 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 Polk 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 Polk 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 Polk 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 Polk online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Polk, 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 Polk 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 Polk 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 Polk 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 Polk?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Polk 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 Polk 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 Polk 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 16342 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 Polk counselor?
Before seeing your Polk 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. Polk 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 Polk 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 Polk 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 Polk, 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.
Polk 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 Polk, 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 Polk 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 Polk:
16342