Navigating life stressors can be difficult, and speaking with a therapist can help. When finding a therapist, Chesapeake, VA has a few different options.

Different in-person professional counseling practices and outpatient community centers are available, or you can work with an experienced counselor on an online platform like BetterHelp. Whether you are seeking mental health services for behavioral challenges, low self-esteem, anxiety disorders, or family conflict, speak with a Chesapeake-based professional in the mental health field to find your authentic self and live a more fulfilling life.

 

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Shirley Louisor

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Chesapeake
Counselor License Type(s): MA, NCC, LPC, LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesDepression
12 years of experience

Life is ever changing; the challenge is to be able to manage and keep moving forward while maintaining a positive and healthy mindset. Most of the time the answers to our questions, fears and even desires are just a matter of reaching forward to take action and working through it. Let's work together, I'm here to help. We are communal beings and benefit from the assistance of someone coming along side us to help. That is what I believe therapy is a collaborative effort to reach your desired goals. I am a graduate of Regent University (2011) with a Master's degree in counseling, a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia, and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida. As an outpatient therapist, I enjoy working with individuals, families, and children. I have extensive experience working with groups, individual counseling, premarital, marital, couples, family relationships, adults, adolescents and children. I have worked with children in schools as a therapeutic day counselor, intensive in-home counselor working with at- risk children and their families. I have also facilitated support groups for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety and bipolar.

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Dr. Darlene Anderson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Chesapeake
Counselor License Type(s): PhD, LPC, NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Hello, I am Dr. Darlene Anderson, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Virginia, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in the state of North Carolina, and a Nationally Recognized Board Certified Counselor (NCC). I have 30 years of experience working with teens, adults, couples, and families in various settings such as community mental health facilities, schools, hospitals, detention centers, and private practice. I graduated with my bachelors degree from Purdue University - West Lafayette, IN, my masters degree in Counseling from the University of the District of Columbia, and most recently with my doctorate degree in Social Work from Morgan State University - Baltimore, MD in 2018. I have worked with clients in the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina through various issues and concerns, which includes depression, drug and alcohol abuse issues, low self esteem, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflict, codependency issues, trauma, behavioral issues, and stress related issues. My clinical approaches include the following: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Existential Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Trauma Focused Therapy . Taking the steps to improve one's life requires courage, change, and commitment. So great job in taking this first step. I believe that everyone has the internal capacity to bring positive change in their thinking and overall lives . I am here to help you through the process and at the pace in which you are most comfortable. Looking forward to working with you!

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Cristina Daniels

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Chesapeake
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
5 years of experience

Hello and thank you for taking the first step to better mental health. My name is Cristina Daniels and I am a Licenced Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia. I am here to guide you through your journey to resolve whatever feelings and situations you need to address and work through. Deciding to come to therapy can be a big decision and sometimes a tough one. Congrats on making that decision! Let me tell you a little more about myself and background. I graduated from VCU in 2007 with my Master of Social Work, Clinical Practice degree. I have been working with individuals, families, and children since 2000 in the following areas: mentoring, tutoring, caregiving, benefits delivery and employment programs, community-based care, parent education, life skills coaching, in home counseling, and outpatient therapy. I have had training in domestic violence, the impacts of trauma on children and adults, attachment and its impact on cognition, emotions, and behavior, motivational interviewing, CBT, and talk therapy. I have experience working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, refugees, abused and neglected children, adoption and attachment issues, and I am LGBTQ+, ENM, and kink informed and friendly. I have worked with individuals diagnosed with PTSD, bipolar disorder, conduct disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment disorder, and disruptive mood dysregulation disorder. I use an integrative style of therapy that is client centered, strengths focused, and trauma formed and blends mindfulness, CBT, and psychodynamic concepts in the work that I do with others. I work with children ages 8 and up, families, and adults. It would be my pleasure to work with you on whatever you feel you need help with. Please feel free to ask any questions you might have about therapy. I try to check messages at least twice a day and will get back to you as soon as I possibly can. I look forward to working with you!

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Brenda Cahill

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Chesapeake
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I have over 20 years of experience as a clinical social worker providing individual therapy for adults across the age spectrum. I have experienced with a diverse population with focus on life transitions issues of grief, aging and anxiety. I use an approach that includes working with a person's strengths and encouraging their capacity to change. I see clients and develope treatment goals and improve the quality of life in order to develop a more positive self-image and a more effective way of coping and decreasing stress.

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Tonia Taylor

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Chesapeake
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepression
30 years of experience

I am a LCSW clinician in Virginia with over 30 years of experience in the mental health and substance use treatment fields. I have vast experience working with all-aged populations, but primarily with adolescents and adults for the past 20 years. I would identify myself as a Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy clinician, one who utilizes Motivational Interviewing and Brief, Solution-Focused therapy strategies to help my clients reach success with their therapy goals, preferably within a 1 hour/weekly, 10-12 session timeframe. I believe that most of my clients would identify me as warm and compassionate, while also being focused on helping them achieve their goals and see the successful outcomes in their life. I support the use of psychotropic medications under a prescriber's care, if necessary, as well as Medication Assisted Treatment for opiate and alcohol dependency. I will also support and often encourage expanding the client's healthy social network for ongoing support once the therapy has concluded. I would love to be able to work with you.

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Dr. Rhanada Vazquez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Chesapeake
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Darlene Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Chesapeake
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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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Kristen Lewis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Chesapeake
LGBTTrauma and abuseParenting issues
25 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in North Carolina and Virginia with 25+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse and parenting issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths. My hope is to assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process and your journey. With kind regards, Kristen

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Monica Gutierrez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Chesapeake
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

Monica Gutierrez is an Arizona-native who earned a Master of Social Work from Arizona State University. Monica is passionate about supporting young people in becoming the best versions of themselves and has been lucky enough to work with them in different settings including outpatient, inpatient, and now as a part of the Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (VIOP) team. She believes strongly in supporting clients and families with the use of a strengths-based, client-centered, humanistic and family systems approach, in order to empower the individual within the family, and the family as a unit. Monica has utilized her training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Informed Care, as well as in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to support teens and young adults through their personal growth journey while in our program. She understands the importance of therapeutic alliance as it relates to optimizing progress in treatment and does her best to really get to know each and every client to make their treatment experience as unique and individual as possible. It is an honor to be part of each treatment team and she is inspired by each client’s journey and growth. When Monica is not at work, you will find her spending her free time with friends, crafting, spending quality time with family, or going on long walks with her dog!

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This is Monique Selman (Williamson)'s avatar and link to their profile

Monique Selman (Williamson)

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Chesapeake
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia and Washington with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with confidence. I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with greater self-awareness, emotional balance, and resilience. My approach combines evidence-based strategies with a warm and empathetic style, tailored to meet each client's unique needs. Whether it’s setting healthy boundaries, improving relationships, or enhancing self-care, my focus is on empowering clients to achieve personal growth and well-being. Let’s work together to create the life you deserve—authentic, balanced, and enriched with purpose.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Chesapeake

Finding the best therapist close by in Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake. 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 Chesapeake, 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 Chesapeake region and in the state of Virginia. 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake, elsewhere in Chesapeake (city), or in the greater state of Virginia. 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake may not take health insurance, some in the state of Virginia 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 Virginia 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 Chesapeake online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Chesapeake, Virginia 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 VA, 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 23328 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 Chesapeake counselor?

Before seeing your Chesapeake 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. Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake, Virginia 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.

Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake, Virginia

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 Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake.

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

23320, 23321, 23322, 23323, 23324, 23325, 23326, 23327, 23328

Popular cities near Chesapeake, VA

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