Salem, Virginia is a sports town with the Salem Red Sox (class A affiliate of the Boston Red Sox), the NCAA Basketball Championships, and the Amos Alonzo Stagg Football Bowl. People who play sports are 20% less likely to be affected by mental health illnesses such as depression or anxiety disorders but there are some awesome therapists in Salem available to help, if needed. 

Are you or someone you know is having any signs of depression or anxiety disorder such as changes in sleep, feeling rundown, lack of concentration, and isolating yourself from others? If so, talk to one of the therapists in Salem today. 

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Brittany Stratton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Salem
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

“Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning to dance in the rain…” ~Vivian Greene My focus in therapy is teaching individuals how to dance in the rain. I have had the pleasure of serving individuals and families in various community behavioral health settings with a wide range of concerns to include anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress/trauma, and grief/loss. Through a structured, empathetic, and collaborative approach, I have been able to effectively support individuals/families with rediscovering their strengths, embracing their humanness, and finding their balance. I am known for my sense of humor, compassion, and creativity. I enjoy incorporating art, meditation, and journaling into therapy. I have been in the social work field for over 10 years. I attended Virginia Commonwealth University, earning my Bachelor of Social Work Degree in 2010 and Master of Social Work Degree in 2012 – GO RAMS! I became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2019. Witnessing the growth and resilience of the individuals and families I serve is what motivates me to remain in the field. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my senior pup, visiting local and national parks, being in the company of my amazing family & friends, and, most importantly, dancing in the rain!

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Sherry McClanahan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Salem
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
3 years of experience

I believe that each one of us has unique life circumstances and that the counseling process should meet your specific needs. My style is straightforward and compassionate. My focus is on identifying your strengths and helping you to recognize your potential. I employ a client-centered approach in a collaborative effort with you to foster hope and the positive change that you desire. I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, and a solution focused, strength-based approach. I work with individual adults and couples. I have worked with individuals facing issues of trauma, loss, physical and sexual abuse, and domestic violence for over 25 years. I have extensive training in complex trauma and a great deal of experience working with adults who have experienced childhood trauma My goal is to provide an open and welcoming environment for all. This is an LGBTQ safe place. My practice hours are 5pm-9pm Monday - Friday and 10am - 1pm Saturdays. I generally can respond at least once per day and sometimes more! You can also book a live session with me ahead of time. Please remember that BetterHelp (or sister site!) is not appropriate if you are in crisis or in immediate need of support. In crisis situations, please call 911 or local emergency services or go to your local emergency room.

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Delinda Swanston

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Salem
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoaching
20 years of experience

I am a therapist licensed in Virginia with over 25 years of experience working as a counselor and coach. I have worked with clients who have a broad range of of personal goals and concerns including addressing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career goals and professional development challenges, parenting objectives and concerns, OCD, and ADHD. I also work with many clients who have experienced victimization, trauma, and/or emotional abuse. My clientele have come from all walks; I have worked with both civilian sector and members of the military and federal government; I work with families, individuals and couples. My style is one of acceptance and warmth, emphasizing open interaction. I value respect, autonomy, and dignity, and I strive to treat all of my clients with compassion and understanding while encouraging and reinforcing positive change. I enjoy meeting people exactly where they are in life, and working with each client to individualize the coaching or treatment plan and the content of sessions to their specific circumstances and personal goals and objectives. My approach to working with clients, includes the following: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Client-Centered Approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), including ERP, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Existential and Solution-Focused Therapy. When working with couples I utilize Relationship Enhancement counseling techniques, and the Gottman Method when addressing relationship goals and objectives. It takes just a little courage and a first step to improve one's quality of life; I would love to work with you as you move forward.

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Dr. Misty Brady-Lee

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Salem
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionADHD
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, licensed in both Texas and Virginia, with over 8 years of experience working as a mental health counselor and a family crisis counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, self esteem, perfectionism, bipolar, ADHD, relationship issues, family crisis issues., trauma and abuse. I have also provided non-medical counseling to military service members and their families. I provide a warm caring environment so you can feel comfortable opening up. My therapeutic approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, motivational and client-centered therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your specific needs and abilities. I believe everyone has the ability to change and or adjust to any situation. Therefore, It is my goal to help you identify and develop your personal strengths so you can manage challenging situations and live a more positive meaningful life. If you are ready, let's get started! Together we can work to expand your inner strengths and self-awareness so that you can make long-lasting positive changes. I look forward to working with you!

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Ariel Phelps

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Salem
Family conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia and have several years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Victoria Lewis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Salem
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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Demetre Curry

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Salem
Stress, AnxietyDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Margaret Joern

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Salem
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & relationship issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Sharifa Mckain

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Salem
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Dr. Emma Norfleet

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Salem
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia, with over 40 years of experience in the mental health field. Over the past 2 decades, I have explicitly focused on TRAUMA and its negative impact on the lives of children, teens, adults, and the elderly population. I integrate both evidenced-based psychotherapies and faith-based principles to help survivors of trauma learn how to "TRIUMPH OVER TRAUMA." I help clients with mood-related disorders, stress and anxiety, cope with grief and loss, and trauma, including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. As a Certified Anger Management Specialist (CAMS I), I offer an eight or 12-week anger management class. I have over 20 years of experience working with couples and families to improve their communication and relationships with each other. I provide a therapeutic, open, and safe environment for clients to share their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey. So, let's step up into the PAIN to access your GAIN.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Salem

Finding the best therapist close by in Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem. 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 Salem, 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem, elsewhere in Salem (city), or in the greater state of Virginia. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Salem, 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 24153 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 Salem counselor?

Before seeing your Salem 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. Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem 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 Salem, 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.

Salem 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 Salem, 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 Salem 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 Salem.

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

24153, 24155, 24157

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