Dumfries, Virginia is a town that reinvented itself over and over. Dumfries started as a merchant town before tobacco plantations and smaller farms sprang up in the early 1800s. Nearby waterways providing shipping transportation for crops. As the nutrients in the land wore out, townsmen went to work in the iron mines. Today, Dumfries is experiencing revitalization once again as the population from Washington D.C. experiences growth. Too much change can cause some people to struggle with staying mentally healthy.
Change doesn’t have to mean you have to live with feeling unsettled. The professional mental health counselors in the Dumfries area stand ready to help you feel more stable. The right match of a counselor can make a positive difference.
Jeanne Brown
My name is Jeanne Brown and I am very happy you reached out and look forward to working with you! I want to provide you with an understanding of my mental health training and experience. My hope is that you will receive clarity through the discussion of my counseling approach, values and goals for our therapeutic relationship. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in both New York State and Virginia, Registered Play Therapist - Supervisor (RPT-S) and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC). I graduated from Capella University and earned a Master’s degree in Human Services with a specialization in Mental Health Counseling and moved to Virginia where I improved my skills and expertise. I obtained a Certificate in Contemporary Theory of Compulsive and Addictive Behavior and a Certificate in Play Therapy from Capella University. I have worked in Virginia in the mental health profession as an individual, family and group therapist since 2012 and before that, in New York State since 2010. I have over 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents, parents, adults, families and groups in many different roles. Counseling is both multi-faceted and multi-cultural; empathy, sensitivity, and the ability to adapt are important factors in implementing therapist and individual roles. The relationship between therapist and the individual is one of common choice exploring human needs and goals culminating in the wellness of the person. The individual remains the central priority in the counseling relationship. I utilize a non-directive person-centered approach, which provides a safe and secure environment where individuals can explore strategies to effectively grow and make healthy changes in their lives. My passion is working with adults, adolescents and children and adolescents with substance use issues, anxiety, depression, anger, and defiant behaviors. I have worked in a community-based setting, an outpatient setting and held several administrative roles. I utilize a non-directive person-centered approach when working with adults. My belief is that individuals know what they need to do to make improvements in their life, and by taking an active lead, will discover their own solutions. My role is to provide support, empathy and acceptance as their growth takes place. I also utilize a non-directive person-centered Play Therapy approach when working with children and adolescents. Play Therapy is a way of helping children cope with distress, using play as the medium of communication between child and therapist. The method is based on the central assumption that play is the way that children communicate, explore their environment and eventually work through their challenges. It is the child’s way of making sense of their environment. You are welcome to message me anytime through Better Help. Having access to a counselor to reach out to for support and encouragement is extremely beneficial for most and a great change from traditional counseling. I usually check my messages at least two times per day, everyday. I offer messaging, live chat and phone sessions. I look forward to meeting you!
Shakiya Harrison
Hello! My name is Shakiya Harrison. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia. I received my undergraduate degree in Social Work from Virginia State University and my Masters degree in Social Work from Norfolk State University. I have been a Social Worker for more than 7 years and have vast experience working with individuals from all different backgrounds who are struggling with a wide variety of challenges. Much of my experience has been with individuals who are struggling with life sustaining medical conditions, end of life challenges, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma, PTSD and substance abuse. As a clinician, I am always open-minded, willing to learn and enjoys learning about each of my clients psychosocial needs and how I can assist them in achieving their goals as well as improving themselves. The therapeutic interventions that I primarily use includes cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, task centered practices and the crisis intervention model. I look forward to empowering my clients and uplifting them throughout their therapeutic process. I am available for chat, email, phone and virtual sessions.
Gwendolyn Young
My name is Gwendolyn Young, I come to the counseling profession with life experiences that have molded me into the unique and determined person that I am today. While in my storm I did not understand, at times I felt hopeless. However, once I was able to break through the tension, I became mindful and aware of who I am as a person. Today I now understand that there are lessons to learn from the good things in life as well as the bad experiences that life has to offer. The benefits of those lessons were astronomical. Through it all I never gave up on myself even if the odds were totally against me. I am a licensed professional counselor and addiction specialist. I have earned a master's degree in professional counseling, a master's degree in addiction counseling and a post-master's in addiction specialization. I am a dedicated counselor that understand the many turmoil’s of those who seek my help. Additionally, I am a person-centered clinician skilled in the use of various theoretical orientations that will help the person to break through their life situation (s).
Laura Walls
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has more than 21 years of experience in a variety of counseling settings. My holistic approach to counseling addresses your physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. I approach therapy in a very integrative, client-centered manner. To ensure the highest quality care is provided, I draw on a variety of therapeutic techniques including cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, solution-focused, psychoeducational, trauma-informed, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and more. I promote growth by offering a safe, accepting atmosphere in which you feel heard, validated, and empowered. It is important to note that due licensing regulations, I am only able to work with clients who reside in VA. 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.)
Melanie Sexton
I am licensed in Virginia and Utah with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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!
Dr. Michael Till
I am licensed in Michigan, Illinois, and Missouri with 29 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, problem-solving, conflict-resolution, marital and couples therapy, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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.
Teresa Mefford
I am licensed in Alabama and Virginia with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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!
Dr. Joseph Bullock
My name is Dr. Joseph Bullock and I have over 30 years of experience as a professional counselor. I highly prioritize creating a safe place for my clients to experience their vulnerabilities while sharing their stories. I have focused my counseling experience using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Psychoeducation interventions in my practice. I have found when using any of these interventions, individuals can better understand and overcome their problems while also developing healthier thought and wellness processes. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, alcohol and drug misuse, career challenges, work challenges, relationship challenges and mid-life challenges. I also individuals with lived recovery experience and need preventative maintenance support to continuing growing physically, mentally, emotionally and professionally. I will will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I believe that it takes courage to seek professional support for achieving a more fulfilling and happier life. I look forward to partnering with you to take the first steps towards a change you desire. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and co-partner with you on your journey.
Laura Ponds
I am licensed in Virginia with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & bipolar disorder. 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!
Elizabeth Kate Griles
I am licensed in Virginia with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Dumfries
Finding the best therapist close by in Dumfries 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 Dumfries 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 Dumfries. 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 Dumfries, 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 Dumfries 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 Dumfries 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 Dumfries 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 Dumfries 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 Dumfries, elsewhere in Prince William, 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 Dumfries 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 Dumfries 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 Dumfries 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 Dumfries 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 Dumfries online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Dumfries, 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 Dumfries 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 Dumfries 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 Dumfries 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 Dumfries?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Dumfries 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 Dumfries 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 Dumfries 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 22026 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 Dumfries counselor?
Before seeing your Dumfries 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. Dumfries 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 Dumfries 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 Dumfries 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 Dumfries, 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.
Dumfries 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 Dumfries, 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 Dumfries therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.
If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Dumfries:
22026