Columbia 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 trying it online, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change 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 treatment.
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Tika Trotter-Mason
No matter who you are or where you are in life, it has it's challenges! Don't go it alone! I'm passionate about creating space for you to be your authentic self while helping you take steps to live your best life. I provide creative interventions for youth (8-18), especially those involved in court services, school disciplinary action, foster care, or have had traumatic experiences. I also work directly with families to help create the communication and atmosphere they desire. I help adults find purpose and direction, as well as strategies for managing depression, anxiety, life's stressors and transitions. Everyone has a unique story, so I believe in flexible and individualized treatment. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, EMDR, Family Systems, Solution-Focused and culturally sensitive approaches. While I work with all walks of life, I also have a niche in working with Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). I see you and would love to build you up and give you the tools to embark on life's journey. Give yourself permission to discover the best you!
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Christine “Chrissy” Bruso
Hello! My name is Chrissy Bruso, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who loves people, the beach, the mountains, spending time outdoors, working out, healthy food, a good cup of cold brew coffee, being a wife and mom, reading and finding ways to help others in any way I can. I have had a variety of careers, including horse farm manager and riding instructor, legal secretary, stay-at-home mom, helping families adopt children and counseling individuals with autism and related challenges as well as their families. I work from a strengths-based approach, and I love empowering my clients to learn more about themselves and grow into their full potential. My counseling style is honest and kind. I will give you tools to help you connect with your most authentic self in order to live an abundant life. I am also a believer in healthy families, so I can help you navigate family relationships and challenges, understand yourself better and employ boundaries that strengthen your relationships with others and yourself. As a mother, I am very passionate about seeing moms live balanced and centered lives. All too often, moms place an inordinate amount of pressure on themselves to be everything to everyone. I love walking with moms to help them set healthy boundaries and put meaningful self care into place so that they can enjoy life and parenthood. My approach includes person-centered, family systems, structural therapy and cognitive behavior therapy. I enjoy building strong relationships with my clients, and I believe that together is always better than alone. I check messages in here usually once per day, Monday through Friday, and I respond as soon as I can. I will respond to your message within the same day if it is received during my business hours (9a-5p EST) or the next business day if received after hours. Thank you for reaching out, and I look forward to working together!
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Raven Daniels
If you are reading this you are either contemplating or have decided to enter therapy; kudos to you for taking this step. Now, take a moment to think about why you’re here. Are you struggling in your relationships? Worried about the future? Grieving ? Unable to relax? Low confidence or self-esteem? Finding it hard to manage life’s stressors or adjust to recent events? Do you lack motivation or the energy needed to function during your day? Or, maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck and don’t know how to start feeling good again. Maybe you can benefit from changing your thought patterns, making changes to your lifestyle, or begin addressing past issues that you’ve avoided for far too long. Whatever it may be, I will walk beside you providing support and empathy without judgement, challenging you if needed. I aim to provide a place where you feel comfortable, understood, & encouraged. Let me help you explore your motivation, strengths, and abilities to identify solutions to your problems and begin to build the life you desire. You absolutely deserve it!
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Jennifer Lawrence
My name is Jennifer Lawrence and I am a licensed professional counselor. I grew up in rural Virginia with a large “village.” From a very young age, I was known to be a helper by my family and friends. I have worked with youth, adults, and families through providing academic, career, and mental health counseling. I am passionate about helping people of all ages, from diverse backgrounds through offering encouragement and support as they pursue their goals. I have served in a variety of settings, including educational institutions and a residential treatment facility. I operate from a person-centered approach with a mixture of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused counseling techniques. You are the expert about you. My focus is to assist you with deciding the path that you would like to follow, acknowledging the reasons that you are motivated to follow that path, identifying and learning the steps to follow that path, and supporting you as you continue on your life’s journey. I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology, a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration, and a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling. I also hold a Certification in Rehabilitation Counseling (CRC) that focuses on working with individuals with chronic illnesses and disabilities. In my free time, I enjoy kettlebell workouts, traveling and spending time with family and friends. I am elated and honored to be able to work in a virtual therapeutic setting that provides services that positively impact the lives of others. I look forward to working with you.
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Dr. Sharon Coffey
Hello. I am pleased that you are taking time to learn more about me and my practice philosophy. I am a Doctor of Psychology practicing as a licensed mental health counselor. I am a licensed in both Florida and Virginia. I have been practicing in the field, helping individuals achieve healthy happier lives, as an individual, in their personal relationships and at work, for over 21 years. I have worked with clients who have a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, and career challenges, to name a few. I also assist many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. I meet you where you are and am focused in assisting you in reaching your personal goals. My approach combines cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, other Cognitive Behavioral therapies, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, and Structural Family Therapy, as well as Art Therapy. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families in a variety of settings and phases of life. Each experiencing a range of life struggles and mental health concerns. My areas of specialty include working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief/loss, ADHD and family issues, both parenting and couples. My counseling approach is eclectic in that I use what makes sense to my client’s needs. Predominantly, I use client-centered, cognitive behavioral and solution-focused therapies in addition to elements of mindfulness. I am passionate about helping others feel good about themselves and effectively manage through life’s trials and tribulations, in an effort to lead a life of purpose, fulfillment, and joy. I always consider feedback I receive from clients. I believe that YOU have the answers and I am there to assist you in locating these answers and use them to fulfill your goals and enrich your life. As we take this journey together, I am sure that we will be able to use your strength and knowledge in combination with mine to get through any challenge you are facing. I can interact with you in whatever manner you are most comfortable. I know how hard it can be to find a counselor who you feel a connection with. I would be honored to work with you through this stage of your life.
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Alisa Branch
I am Alisa Branch and I'm excited you've found my page. I truly aspire to be a breath of fresh air for my clients therefore my approach is interactive, warm, and accepting. My job is to provide support and guidance to my client by providing feedback, task to focus on between sessions, and tools to improve coping skills. Nothing makes me happier than helping my clients feel better about themselves! I obtained my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from University of North Carolina at Greensboro and Master of Science degree in Community Agency Counseling from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia I've amassed over 13 years of experience in Outpatient Mental Health counseling. I have experience working in different settings such as Community Mental Health Agency, Private Practice, and Community Medical Center. Prior to working in the Outpatient Mental Health field I gained 8 years of experience working in different settings such as Inpatient Psychiatric Facility and Mobile Crisis. I believe in utilizing multiple treatment modalities to fit the needs of my clients, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Trauma Informed Care, and Solution Focused. I have gained a wealth of experience working with children, teens, adults, couples, and families dealing with a number of life stressors to include relationship issues, grief, work related issues, past trauma, self esteem issues, behavioral issues, decision making issues, and communication issues to name a few. I also have experience working with a number of diagnoses such as Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, PTSD, and Borderline Personality Disorder to name a few. Seeking therapy can be a scary and intimidating step, however once you make that step, I take immense pride in being a source of guidance and support in your journey to mental wellness.
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Mitra Shahryary
I am licensed clinical social worker (LCSW, LICSW), licensed in Virginia, District of Columbia and Colorado with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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. 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. It is important to note that due licensing regulations, I am only able to work with clients who reside in VA, DC or CO. Also please refer to the this link, https://www.betterhelp.com/terms/, to review the terms of service. In accordance with these terms I do not provide documentation (meaning letters/reports indicating a diagnosis or attesting to mental fitness for situations such as custody, disability, court mandates, service animals, etc.)
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Ashley Lucas
I am licensed in Virginia with over 15 years of professional work experience with adults and adolescents managing emotional, behavioral, spiritual, and relational issues. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. I believe change and growth is possible no matter what your background or current circumstances. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
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Alfred Smith
I am licensed in Virginia with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with 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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Patricia Geel
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in North Carolina, Oklahoma and Virginia. I have over 30 years of experience working with clients presenting with a wide range of concerns including relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD and adjustment problems. I am certified as a telemental health provider.and also as a clinical trauma professional. My intake process involves a thorough assessment of needs and strengths, usually from a Solution Focused Brief Therapy approach. I strive to help clients to clearly identify the problems that brought them to therapy and the challenges they are facing, and then to collaborate with them to formulate specific, measurable goals to address the identified problems and challenges and find effective solutions. I have extensive experience working with both individuals and couples and enjoy working with clients of various ethnicities and cultural backgrounds. Before moving to North Carolina in 2019 I worked primarily with active duty or retired military members, their spouses, significant others or family members through the Department of the Navy's Fleet and Family Support program. Military families experience problems arising from frequent moves, extended family separations due to deployments or other assignments, and the anxiety and fear family members feel when the service member is in a dangerous situation or when regular communication is not possible. In addition I assisted clients who had experienced domestic violence or childhood abuse or neglect. I also have extensive experience working with parents to improve communication with their children, learn and apply more effective discipline techniques, and develop helpful behavior management practices. I am also well qualified and experienced in providing clinical services from a Christian perspective for clients who prefer a faith based therapy approach. My approach to therapy is individualized and focused on the unique strengths and challenges of each client. My therapeutic style is engaging and collaborative exploring with each client the strengths he or she already has to find solutions. I draw on tools and perspectives from several approaches including Brief Solution Focused Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I know that it takes courage to reach out for help. I would be honored to assist you as you address the concerns that are motivating you to seek counseling services. I believe that together we can find solutions.
How to find a licensed therapist serving clients in Columbia, Virginia
Finding the best therapist close by in Columbia can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area. You can get connected with a clinician 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. 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, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.
Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp
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 clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained able to treat individuals and couples, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Columbia 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 professional working through their own in-person therapy practice in Columbia or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A 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 Columbia area offering therapy for:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use
- Couples
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 Columbia, elsewhere in Fluvanna, 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 licensed therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Columbia area can be found below:
How does the cost of an in-person therapist compare to BetterHelp?
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 Columbia 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:
- With a psychiatrist: $150-$500
- With therapists: $100-300
- With a clinician: $100
While many psychologists in Columbia 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 sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).
Read more about this cost related question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
How are therapists on a Columbia online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in 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.
Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Columbia psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
Read more about this license question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
How does BetterHelp online therapy 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 professional, including the therapists in Columbia 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 for in person sessions.
Through BetterHelp, 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, and more. Get matched today.
Read more about this question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
What mental health issues can a therapist address?
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.
Columbia therapists' specialties available through the BetterHelp platform
- Cognitive behavioral
- Behavior
- EMDR
- Talk therapy
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders counselor
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Attachment
- Relationships
- Children, adolescents, and teens
- Addiction (substance abuse)
- Divorce
- Trauma or PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychodynamic treatment with a counselor
- Career
- Alcohol use disorders
- OCD counselor
- ADHD
- Mood disorders
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transition
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 provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain.us, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists.
Read more about this psychotherapist question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
Is BetterHelp right for me?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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.
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 therapy in Columbia 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 therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of 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 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 23038 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 around or in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
Read more about this family question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Columbia therapist?
Before seeing your therapist near you, 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. therapists near you 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 how to best help and support you.
Read more about this first session question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
Should I find a Columbia 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 Columbia 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 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.
Read more about this question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
Is therapy 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. An experienced clinician 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 licensed clinician in Columbia, 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.
Counseling with an online Columbia provider
Do therapists judge you in therapy?
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 BetterHelp, the leading therapist platform serving the population of 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 therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to BetterHelp 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.
- Thehotline.org - National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- Suicidepreventionlifeline.org - National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisistextline.org - Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veteranscrisisline.net - Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Thetrevorproject.org - Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- Samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline - SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- Nationaleatingdisorders.org/help-support/contact-helpline - National Eating Disorder Association Helpline :1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Childhelphotline.org/resources-for-teens/ - Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- Fraternallaw.com/help-us-stop-hazing - National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physiciansupportline.com - Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Rainn.org - Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
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