This is Frances Berniger's avatar and link to their profile

Frances Berniger

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Rural Retreat
Counselor License Type(s): M.Ed, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and Texas with 20 years of experience. My first career choice was as a Special Education Teacher for sixteen years. My Counseling focus is with Adults , 35+, experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, being a spouse/child of individual with a Personality Disorder, specific to Narcissism. You will be provided a safe and compassionate space. Guidance will be provided utilizing CBT(Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Mindfulness, Strength Based and Solution Focused approaches. You will be encouraged to achieve success though counseling while acquiring skills and strategies for meeting life's challenges. In my four years as an independent contractor with BetterHelp, it appears the majority of individuals prefer Audio sessions. I am open to video sessions if that would be your preference.

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Elizabeth Ozalas

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Rural Retreat
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor and have been working in the mental health field for 18 years. I feel comfortable working with clients who are struggling with a wide range of issues including substance abuse, anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-esteem, life transitions, etc. I utilize a client-centered approach in my therapy, working hard to create a non-judgemental and supportive environment. I also use cognitive behavioral techniques and an existential perspective in my work. I believe in my client's capacity for change and look forward to working with you!

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Elizabeth Craun

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Rural Retreat
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,MA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and have been counseling since 2014. I graduated from Ashland Theological Seminary with a Masters of Arts Degree in Clinical Counseling. I further specialized in additional training in trauma counseling through trainings with PESI. I have worked with clients struggling with stress and anxiety, depression, parenting challenges and coping with life challenges. I have worked in various settings, including correctional facilities, residential facilities and outpatient clinics. I utilize a Client Centered Approach to counseling; this means that we work together to help accomplish goals. You are the expert on your own life so that means I will not tell you what to do but work with you to find solutions that work in your life and with your unique situation. I meet my clients where they are at on their journey in life and it is a privilege to accompany you on your journey. In addition to the Client Centered Approach I also utilize Cognitive Behavioral Techniques and Existentialism, or making meaning. Reaching out for help is a very brave thing to do and everyone needs additional support at different times in life. Seeking a qualified counselor may be the first step towards living the authentic, meaningful life you want to live. I look forward to hearing from you!

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Danielle Crawford

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Rural Retreat
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
5 years of experience

Danielle is a creative problem solver who is empathetic and compassionate and uses a combination of Cognitive Behavioral and solution-focused therapeutic approaches to specialize her treatment approaches for her clients. As a counselor in residence, she works with individuals, couples, families, parents, and children to address issues related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, grief and loss, and eating disorders. Danielle also assists with developing positive social skills, including anger management and emotional regulation skills, building self-esteem, and navigating life transitions, such as divorce and separation. Works with: Children, Families, Parents, Couples, Individuals, Groups Specializes in: Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, ASD, Social Skills Impairments, Anger Management/Emotion Regulation, School related concerns, Self-esteem, Transitions, Separation & Divorce, Personal Development, PTSD, Trauma, Grief & Loss, LGBTQAI concerns, Suicidality. At Inner Tranquility Counseling Group, we help you balance your life by encouraging emotional and physical health improvement. Our caring team-based approach to holistic therapy integrates nutrition, fitness, and coaching to analyze your whole person, including your relationships and living environment.

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LeNora Black

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Rural Retreat
Counselor License Type(s): MS,MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
20 years of experience

Hello. My name is LeNora Black and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Virginia. I have over 25 years of experience consistently developing as a therapist. Born with a natural curiosity about people, their thoughts, journey, story; I would say, counseling claimed me. Listening is what I like best because hearing is how I can provide the help you are seeking. My journey started with helping individuals and families reach career choice goals and professional development while serving as a recruiting and retention specialist in the U.S. Army. I further developed professionally, earning an M.A. in Guidance and Counseling, and a M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have partnered with clients addressing a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, anger management and substance abuse. I am Certified as a Prevention Specialist (CPS) in the State of Virginia, Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and fully trained in Play Therapy and EMDR. I’ve helped many people who have experienced physical, sexual trauma and emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm, open, and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. I am committed to safety, unconditional positive regard, and confidentiality in our therapeutic relationship. My approach to therapy is informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) integrated with the holistic framework of the Polyvagal Theory. I encourage clients to learn about the different approaches and will provide information and resources, accordingly. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. Let’s get started. I look forward to working with you!

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Victoria Lewis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Rural Retreat
Trauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia with 10+ years of professional work experience within the mental health arena. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, ADHD, trauma and abuse, anger management, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with individuals coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My therapeutic approach is interactive and engaging. I don't believe in stigmatizing labels; instead, I believe that everyone should be treated with respect, consideration, and kindness. I use a combination of rational-emotive, humanistic, psychodynamic, person-centered, and cognitive-behavioral treatment. I'll adjust our conversation and therapy strategy to fit your special needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Kathryn Shumate

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Rural Retreat
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Lauren Mears

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Rural Retreat
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 3 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 believe that you are the expert of your story and your time is valuable. Together we will highlight your many strengths and promote them to assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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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Zakiya Pollard

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

Welcome! My name is Zakiya and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania with 7 years of experience. I received my Masters in professional counseling from the University of Pennsylvania. Most of my work has been in substance use counseling, but I also have experience with mental health therapy. I have worked in outpatient, intensive outpatient, and short-term residential settings in Pennsylvania, New York, and Virginia. I have a strong belief that every person has the innate ability to become the best version of themselves, and I believe that my role as a counselor is to help them to reach that point. I use a person-centered approach by ensuring that the "best version" I get my clients to reach is a version that they have chosen based on their personal goals. In my work, I have assisted individuals with issues such as substance use , post traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. I have been trained in the use of Seeking Safety as a treatment for post traumatic stress disorder. I utilize this and other evidence-based techniques in my work, including cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness. I am also flexible with learning and trying new techniques. I want to make sure I use the best strategy for each individual I encounter! I look forward to helping you to reach your goals!

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Emily Schmid

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Rural Retreat
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I love helping people navigate the complicated time of pregnancy and postpartum. 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Rural Retreat

Finding the best therapist close by in Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat. 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 Rural Retreat, 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 Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat, elsewhere in Wythe, 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 Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Rural Retreat, 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 Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat 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 24368 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 Rural Retreat counselor?

Before seeing your Rural Retreat 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. Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat, 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.

Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat, Virginia

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of Rural Retreat 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 Rural Retreat.

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

24368

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