College towns are great for young people to grow into better people. But sometimes they need a little bit of help from a counselor. Luckily, a counselor in State college is ready to help you understand, and better yourself.

It’s the third-safest metropolitan area in the US, meaning that’s it’s a safe location for those young and old.  It was originally a town, but it grows to help those that were at Penn State.  It is known for the university in the area, but even if you aren't here just to study, having a counselor here will help you feel safe and secure no matter the odds. 

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Brittney DeLine

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

Welcome! Way to go, you are ready to make yourself a priority. This might be the first thing you’ve done for yourself in a long time. Congratulations. I am excited to start this journey together, whether that is to learn to better take care of yourself and your happiness; work through lows, darkness, stressors, or anxiousness; or process a relationship or career you are struggling with. Whatever brings you here, I offer you a nonjudgmental listening ear, support, feedback, and help to achieve your goals. Therapy takes time, I don’t have a magic wand I can wave and make it all better, but we can work together and put you on a track to keep thriving. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, originally from Colorado, I have lived in several states and countries, I love getting to know new people, places, and cultures. I have experience in working with high school and college students, as well as adults in crisis due to mental health, domestic violence, suicidality, homelessness, and substance abuse. In working with teenagers, I work to improve family dynamics, communication, and provide support to parents. I enjoy working with adolescents and young adults because they are curious, exploring, and eager to figure out who they are, who they want to be, who they want to love, and everything in between. I also think that is what a lot of us adults are still doing. We’re just not as open about it. I use a person-centered, multicultural, solution-focused, and a cognitive behavioral approach to therapy. I seek to provide a safe place where you feel comfortable having uncomfortable conversations because therapy isn’t always easy, but I want you to be your authentic self while we work together. Britt

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Zakiya Pollard

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
Counselor License Type(s): MPhilEd,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

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!

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Karen Gano

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
33 years of experience

"And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom." ~ Anais Nin Hello. My name is Karen Gano, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in New Mexico, Colorado, Maine, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, the District of Columbia, and Australia. I received my Masters degree in Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh, and I have over 30 years of clinical counseling experience. My specialty is what I call Empowerment Counseling. I have a Motivational Interviewing style, and I use Compassion-Focused, Client-Centered, Solution Focused Brief (SFBT), Mindfulness, and Strength Based therapies to assist clients in improving their outlook and life. I have a holistic and goal oriented practice, working primarily with women who are going through some type of life transition whether it be separation, divorce, career changes, relocation, empty nest, illness, etc. I also provide counseling to healthcare workers as I have been a practicing medical social worker throughout my career, and I have worked in trauma, emergency medicine, critical care, oncology, palliative care, and domestic abuse. We can all benefit from talking to someone now and again. It is my primary goal to empower clients so that they can build and expand their "team," discover their voice, increase self-awareness and esteem, and make wanted changes in their life. My professional and personal mantra is "Self-Care + Time = Healing." I can help you with healthy coping strategies and tools to guide you from surviving to thriving. I very much look forward to working with you!

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Yen-Pei Huang

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
12 years of experience

I am a license professional counselor with over 10 years of experiences. I believe life is an adventure and everyone has the ability to decide their own routes and to make changes. I believe people has the ability to heal themselves. Through therapy, I assist my clients to learn about themselves and find their unique ways to heal from their life challenges. My Therapeutic approach is client-centered, collaborative, holistic, and integrative (drawing effective interventions from different therapy theories such as CBT, Gestalt therapy, Narrative therapy, expressive art therapy based on client’s need). Graduating with an undergraduate degree in clinical psychology and a CACREP accredited graduate program in counseling (Indiana University Bloomington), I thus have a strong background in counseling theories/ techniques, assessment, and diagnosis. My specialties include, but not limited to grief/lost, trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, couple and family issues, interpersonal problems, communication, stresses, self-esteem, and anger management. As an avid backpacker and a psychotherapist who has experienced working with diverse clientele, I am open-minded, flexible, and am competent when interacting with diverse communities. I am also effectively bilingual in English and Mandarin Chinese.

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Kathleen Walker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

Hello! My name is Kathleen Walker, a Licensed Professional Counselor. In my thirties, I decided to change careers and began my work in the Mental Health field. During the last ten years of education and practice, my love for this work has grown exponentially. I have a deep respect for people who are attempting to work towards bettering their lives, no matter where they are in that process. So much of my experience involves working with those who are fighting addiction and impulse issues. I have also worked alongside individuals with histories of trauma, grief, depression, anxiety and much more. I believe in using evidence based approaches and techniques that most speak to the individual I am working with – in other words, I believe in meeting people where they are in their lives right now. Whether you are battling addiction or depression or simply wanting support in a life change, I look forward to sharing in your journey toward meeting your goals!

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This is Marcie Stover Jividen's avatar and link to their profile

Marcie Stover Jividen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 23 years of professional work experience with children, youth and adults. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & depression. I have experience with interactive and expressive therapy. I am currently working on my certification for EMDR. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Dr. Derrick Williams

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
35 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina and Pennsylvania with 35 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 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.

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Connie Harrington

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Aleta Clark

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
AddictionsRelationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
31 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 31 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, anger management, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Donnelle Super's avatar and link to their profile

Donnelle Super

Clinical therapist offering therapy in PA, State College
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & depression. I also have experience working towards coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in State College

Finding the best therapist close by in State College 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 State College 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 State College. 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 State College, 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College, elsewhere in Centre, 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in State College, 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a State College 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 State College 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 State College 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 16805 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 State College counselor?

Before seeing your State College 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. State College 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 State College 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 State College 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 State College, 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.

State College 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 State College, 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 State College 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 State College.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in State College:

16801, 16802, 16803, 16804, 16805

Popular cities near State College, PA

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