This is Benjamin Shoch's avatar and link to their profile

Benjamin Shoch

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LPC
LGBTTrauma and abuseGrief
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi I'm Ben. I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I have been a counselor since I graduated from school in 2015. I have worked with children experiencing behavioral problems, teenagers and adults with substance use disorders, and people of all ages with concerns related to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, grief, developmental trauma, and OCD. I have worked as a counselor in an outpatient mental health agency, outpatient drug and alcohol clinic, university, and outpatient private practice. I have particular interest in working with LGBTQ+ individuals and people experiencing problems related to drugs and alcohol. My counseling style is eclectic. I use a variety of counseling techniques and approaches when I am working with a client. The approach I take and techniques I use depend on what the client needs and what is the best fit for them. Some of the techniques I frequently utilize come from Experiential, Cognitive-Behavioral, and Person-Centered Therapy. I am a very easy-going person. I am very approachable and easy to talk to. I have a good sense of humor and use this in my work with client's when appropriate. I look forward to meeting you if you decide to have me as your therapist.

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Mary Boyle

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LMHC,LPC and NCC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a therapist with thirty years of experience. I have worked in community mental health and private practice, providing a wealth of knowledge and experience with the seriously and persistently mentally ill, along with conditions such as depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict, and personality disorders. I have a history of couple's therapy, although currently I am not accepting clients of this type. My approach is caring and compassionate, and I'll want to hear about your symptoms and strategies you've used for dealing with them. In addition, I'll want to know about your living situation and family of origin to get a better sense of whom you are. I use a variety of modalities including interpersonal therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy. In addition, I'll use other approaches, depending on what you are dealing with and what will help you in the best way possible. I'll look forward to meeting you soon to begin your journey of improving your life situation. I especially enjoy working with females suffering with low self esteem, codependency, life adjustment and relationship issues. Some additional points: If you have had suicidal thoughts, with or without intent, within the past year, my recommendation is that you seek more intensive treatment than online therapy. I understand that all of us have emergencies and are sometimes late for an appointment. If you are late, I will wait for you for fifteen minutes, but after that, I will ask you to reschedule so you get the benefits of your whole session. I also expect you to attend your appointments. We all have emergencies; but, with that said, if you no show or cancel without 48 hours advance notice more than once, I will ask you to be reassigned to another therapist.

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Alba Miranda

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania. I have been in the mental health field providing counseling and life coaching for close to 20 years. I have experience working with people who struggle with a variety of reasons including but not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Stress, relationship issues, intimacy issues, parenting problems, career uncertainty and life stressors. I use several of different approaches that best fit the client needs that may include, solution -focused, cognitive -behavioral and/or problem solving modalities. My main goal is to assist my clients to live a life they enjoy and full of purpose. I am here to help and empower you on your journey to better health! Alba Miranda, MSW, LCSW

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Dr. Sean Spelgatti

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): PhD,NCC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionADHD
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello and thank you for taking the time to read this :) My name is Dr. Sean Spelgatti. I am a Nationally Board Certified Counselor with a PhD in Counseling, Approved Clinical Supervisor credential, as well as being a State Licensed Professional Counselor. I have intentionally diversified my experiences during my master's and doctoral-level internships in an effort to be a well-rounded thorough holistic, metacognitive and integrative therapist. The majority of my clinical experience has been in the outpatient mental health setting working with kids, families, couples, individuals, groups, and more. I am a published psychological researcher with a mind for solving problems in the most efficient and comprehensive manner possible. I strive to consider every angle and reach optimal well-being through a comprehensive and whole-person-centered approach. Lastly, I am a compassionate great listener who is very adaptable, and am great at finding solutions and seeing through layers to efficiently but also thoroughly support you. Thank you again for taking the time to read this, I would be happy to be on YOUR team :)

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Seleena Lindsey

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): MA,NCC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a nationally certified licensed professional counselor with a passion to journey alongside clients in their discovery and movement towards hope and healing. My approach to treatment is integrative and holistic in nature. I utilize multiple theoretic foundational approaches in therapy to best fit the healing needs of the client with respect to individuality and culture. This includes incorporating strength based and trauma informed principles to a variety of treatment modalities such as acceptance commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, client-centered therapy, solution focused brief therapy, and motivational interviewing. I work with clients to manage a broad range of concerns including, but not limited to, anxiety and adjustment, depression, anger management, mood management, bipolar, attention and focus, stress management, improving self-esteem, coping with grief and loss, and developing healthy relationships and communication patterns. I seek to encourage the development of healthy patterns of relating to self and others, identification of and connection with core values, and forward movement towards hope, healing, and acceptance.

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Susan Frey

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepression
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I have been a therapist for over 16 years. I received my master’s degree in counseling psychology from Seton Hall University, and my Bachelor of Science degree from York College of Pennsylvania. However, this is a career change for me. This change was brought about by a sudden disruption to my life. As a therapist I have experience in treating addictions, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, bipolar disorder, anger management, and more. I employ cognitive behavioral therapy, most of the time. However, depending on the client and their needs I may use short term solution focused therapy or ACT. What is important to me to is for you, the client, to reach your goals and lead a more fulfilling, satisfying life. Let me help you to become a better you.

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Kyle Balasco

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your own story and that you have many strengths to unlock that can assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and meaningful life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Lauren Krall

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi! My name is Lauren and I am a licensed counselor in Pennsylvania (LPC) with 15 years of professional work experience. I received my Masters degree from Edinboro University of PA in 2008 and became licensed in 2011. I have experience in helping clients with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, and attachment style issues. I am skilled in a variety of treatment interventions and most often utilize person centered therapy, solution-focused therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. It is my goal to provide a safe and effective 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! I view the therapy process as a “team effort” and I look forward to beginning your journey with you!

This is Paige Fitzmaurice's avatar and link to their profile

Paige Fitzmaurice

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Nancy Malwitz's avatar and link to their profile

Nancy Malwitz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA
Counselor License Type(s): M.A.,LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi I am a licensed professional counselor and I have been counseling for about five years now. I have a lot of experience with families and young adults and children. I spent the majority of my time when I was in school working with families who were in crisis with children who had behavior issues. I have since gained experience with adults and enjoy this as well. My counseling style is to be attentive and engaged with my clients so that they know that they have my full attention and that I am there to help them with whatever they are going for. I am kind and compassionate and empathetic due to my own experiences that I had growing up with a dysfunctional family. So I really understand what that is like in Real life and from these experiences I am I have gained valuable knowledge that can be helpful to those that I counsel with. I look forward to working with you to achieve our goals in counseling so that you can become whole and healthy and happy in life.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Port Allegany

Finding the best therapist close by in Port Allegany 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 in Port Allegany 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 Port Allegany. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Port Allegany, 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. 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 to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Port Allegany 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 Port Allegany 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 therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers 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 Port Allegany area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Port Allegany therapists, have in mind what type of therapy 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 Port Allegany, elsewhere in McKean, or in the greater state of Pennsylvania.

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 Port Allegany 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 Port Allegany therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Port Allegany due to a higher cost of living. 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 Port Allegany 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 sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this Port Allegany online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Port Allegany, 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. They 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, they 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 Port Allegany 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 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 therapist, including the therapists in Port Allegany 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 lead by a therapist in Port Allegany 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. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Port Allegany 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.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques 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 - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy 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 Port Allegany therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Port Allegany?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Port Allegany 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 are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Port Allegany 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 Port Allegany 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 Port Allegany 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 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 16743 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. 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 Port Allegany counselor?

Before seeing your Port Allegany therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy 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, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They 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 in Port Allegany.

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 therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice from a therapist. A Port Allegany 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 through therapy with a Port Allegany 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 Port Allegany, 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.

Port Allegany has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy 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 Port Allegany, 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 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 Port Allegany.

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

16743

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