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. 

This is Laura Leatherman's avatar and link to their profile

Laura Leatherman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Salem
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in the state of Virginia. I earned my Master's Degree from the University of South Carolina. I have an extensive history of working with diverse clients experiencing issues with anxiety, depression, conflicts in relationships, anger management, and self esteem. I have also worked with people who have experienced trauma and/or abuse. I have worked in numerous settings including an outpatient counseling clinic, hospitals, a residential program, and an emergency shelter. I believe in treating all people with respect and kindness and I provide counseling without judgment. I will treat you as an individual to meet your specific needs and goals. I believe that building a trusting relationship with your counselor is imperative in working to create change, and I will spend time to build a solid connection with you. I utilize cognitive-behavioral, solutions focused, and dialectical behavioral techniques. I am here to support you in your goals in working towards the change you seek to make. I look forward to working with you! Unfortunately, I am not available for live sessions at this time.

Get started View profile
This is Lisa Bradford's avatar and link to their profile

Lisa Bradford

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

I am a Mental Health Counselor Licensed in Virginia with experience in direct care for over 30 years. I have worked with individuals, families and groups. I specialize in working with Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective disorder, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD and personality disorders. I particularly enjoy helping people gain hope and recovery thru personal change. I have helped numerous individuals with Mental Health Recovery, Caregiver Stress, and problem solving to manage their illnesses. My counseling style is warm and nurturing. I enjoy partnering with my patients to work toward change. I believe in being genuine and meeting my patients where they are. I have a very much patient centered approach and do not believe in judgement. I normally use a variety of techniques including Cognitive Behavioral, Rational Emotive Therapy, Solution Focused and Mental Health Recovery and Wellness approaches. I will work with you to set up an individual plan for change and care. Together we will work toward your goals. It takes a great deal of courage to admit that what you have been doing is not working . It takes even more courage to ask for help. If you are at this point, I would really like to partner with you.

Get started View profile
This is Jennifer Evans's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Evans

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Salem
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
21 years of experience

Empowering Others to Live Happier Lives. I am Jennifer Evans, LPC, LMHC. I am a board-certified therapist in multiple states and over 15 years of counseling experience. I am passionate about effecting change and helping work with people to achieve insight in order to gain maximum potential and reach their most desired visions and goals. I know personally and professionally how difficult it is to get here and I am proud of your first step and commitment to change. I know I can be valued support as we work together to reach success, insight, and overcome emotional and psychosocial stressors. A little more about me, I was born and raised in Florida, did my undergraduate at Florida State University, and moved to Virginia to Eastern Virginia Medical School, where I studied clinical counseling and received my Master’s in Art Therapy. As a military spouse, we relocated many times, having to redevelop my career each duty station, which gave me a myriad of experiences with various populations. My passion for treatment is trauma and life experiences that lead us to feel fearful, unsafe, and saddened; sometimes with no explanation as to why we feel the way we do. I work with my client’s in a person-centered format with cognitive-behavioral underpinnings and psychoeducation to not only work through and build a better understanding of ourselves but the experiences and beliefs that built us and ways to endure and build resiliency to better manager those feelings so they are not as overwhelming in the future.

Get started View profile
This is Dr. Natasha Cook's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Natasha Cook

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Salem
Counselor License Type(s): PsyD
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

There have been years of growing stressors and challenges for nearly everyone. My clients typically have described difficulties managing their stress and consistently utilizing stress reduction strategies. They have also shared struggles with managing anxiety, attention, relationships, and depression. Often, my clients want to gain better awareness of their specific challenges; create healthy strategies to manage those difficulties; and establish ways to maintain those changes. My goal is to help others to identify and become the best version of themselves by using a variety of psychological techniques grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Theory (CBT). You want to feel mentally healthy? To show up "better" for yourself and others? To have better awareness and control of your thoughts, feelings, and actions? I invite you to take the next step towards these goals of improved mental health...contact me a call so we can talk about you.

Get started View profile
This is Renae Floyd's avatar and link to their profile

Renae Floyd

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Salem
Counselor License Type(s): ABD, LCSW, CCATODSW
AddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issues
12 years of experience

Hello and welcome to my profile! With a background in evidence-based psychotherapy, community social work & providing culturally competent counseling, I aim to create a healthy rapport with clients free of bias & judgment. I will always validate your concerns and perspective; though at times I may extend alternative recommendations. I am a seasoned professional with a passion for helping diverse clients navigate substance misuse/addiction issues, relationship problems with romantic partners or loved ones, depression, stress, anxiety, and many other areas of concern. I have an easygoing personality. My treatment approach is ethical, objective, personalized & empathetic. As your provider, I value your time, insight and active collaboration throughout your counseling regimen. Your treatment goals are important to me. Change is attainable, but we must work together to get there.

Get started View profile
This is Ashley Battle's avatar and link to their profile

Ashley Battle

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Salem
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
5 years of experience

My name is Ashley Battle and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over five years of experience working with teenagers, adults, and families. I have worked in a variety of settings such as schools, residential, in-home, and outpatient facilities. My therapy style is warm, relaxed, and supportive, yet direct. I provide a client-focused and culturally competent approach to therapy with a primary treatment modality grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT's primary focus is on thinking patterns. Managing our emotions and behaviors, by changing the way we think about our situations. I specialize in helping clients with depressive symptoms, stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, and anger management. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to provide support in that process.Throughout the course of therapy, I aim to assist my clients with navigating challenges, processing feelings, creating personal goals, providing interventions to implement in daily life, and discussing the effectiveness.I am ready to assist you overcome any obstacle life sets before you.

Get started View profile
This is Dr. Tayla Rhine's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Tayla Rhine

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Salem
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf 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, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Get started View profile
This is Alfred Heath's avatar and link to their profile

Alfred Heath

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Salem
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
29 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 30 years of professional work experience in Behavioral Health. I offer support, powerful techniques, and insights to help you overcome chronic stress and anxiety, phobias, depressed mood; family, interpersonal, and relationship issues; traumatic stress and coping and coming to terms 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. Taking the first step to change toward a more fulfilling and happier way of living takes courage. I am here to guide and support you through and beyond those first steps to real life improvements

Get started View profile
This is John Horner's avatar and link to their profile

John Horner

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Salem
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, bipolar disorder, & 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. 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.

Get started View profile
This is Melissa Pickett's avatar and link to their profile

Melissa Pickett

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Salem
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionADHD
9 years of experience

“People start to heal the moment they feel heard.” I have worked in the mental health field for 9 years. I have experience in working with children, adolescents and adults. Some of the disorders I have treated include anxiety, depression, severe mental illness, grief, trauma and addiction. I specialize in treating OCD with the use of ERP, Exposure Response Prevention. I have also worked closely with couples and families to assist with strengthening relationships and family bonds. I am certified in DBT and utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches to include MI, CBT, SFT, talk therapy. My mission is to provide people with a safe and confidential place to offer help, guidance and to improve stability and quality of life. Your emotional well being is my number one priority. If you are ready to begin taking steps toward a more healthy, peaceful, grounded and mindful way of life, please take the first step and reach out.

Get started View profile

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 24157 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 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 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

Popular cities near Salem, VA

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist