Deciding to pursue therapy with a licensed mental health professional has been a proactive and beneficial first step for many. While seeking therapy often comes with many positive outcomes, initiating a process of personal growth can sometimes feel overwhelming. Choosing a therapist may feel similarly challenging, and it is usually helpful to start by considering the main reasons you are pursuing therapy. 

Understanding your main therapy needs can help you choose a psychotherapist with professional experience in your area of concern. For example, if you’re experiencing challenging feelings related to stress and anxiety, seeking a therapist with expertise in anxiety disorders may be helpful. In addition to specializing in certain mental health conditions, practitioners often pick specialty areas based on a particular group or population. For instance, some therapists work primarily with a certain age range, such as pre-teens to older adolescents, while others may specialize in working with older adults. 

Other therapists may focus their clinical work on marginalized populations or those receiving social work services. If you are considering a therapist, it is commonly worthwhile to ensure that you are among one of the patient groups they serve. In addition, while it is helpful to understand your goals for therapy, it is not essential. You can seek therapy for any reason, even if you don’t have a specific concern and want to focus on general self-improvement or bolstering well-being. 

A therapist can work collaboratively with you to help address mental health concerns, learn to overcome negative thought patterns, or work to solve practical problems in your life. Many therapists utilize techniques based on unconditional positive regard, a therapeutic principle that prioritizes supporting a patient’s goals and directions for therapy rather than pushing a patient in a particular direction.

If you’re ready to find a therapist, Burlington, VT, has plenty of committed professionals from which to choose. You may also want to consider online therapy, which can connect you with local professionals remotely using a computer or phone. You can attend sessions online without needing to travel to a physical office. When practicing online, therapists use the same evidence-based techniques as they do in person, meaning that, in most cases, online therapy is just as effective as traditional therapy.

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Asa Whitcomb

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VT, Burlington
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

Hi! I'm Asa and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). I have experience working with adolescents, adults and geriatrics, as well as extensive work with Veterans. I work with people who are suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD and substance abuse disorders among other things. I also have extensive training and experience with grief and loss and working with those suffering from chronic/terminal illness. I believe that everyone has unique strengths which can help them succeed in life and overcome obstacles that may come their way. Sometimes you need help to identify these strengths and utilize them in the most effective way to make changes in your life. That is where I use client centered approaches as well as cognitive-behavioral therapy to assist my clients in overcoming barriers to their happiness. Additionally, I have training in and utilize mindfulness based approaches to create change.

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Chad Brunet

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VT, Burlington
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW
Trauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who has worked in mental health for over 10 years. My specialty is the treatment of Military and Veteran populations. In addition, I have experience in trauma based therapy, grief and loss, behavioral and psychodynamic treatment modalities addressing a wide variety of needs. My overall treatment style and approach is rooted in the principle that change can occur when we learn to better understand ourselves and others. Knowing and understanding is the path to forgiveness, trust, and healing. Recovery is a process of change. Looking forward to working together!

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Jennifer Emerson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VT, Burlington
Counselor License Type(s): MS Counseling
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesParenting issues
23 years of experience

Welcome! I’m so glad you are here. I believe that our most challenging moments often carry the greatest opportunities for growth and self-discovery. These struggles are not roadblocks, but invitations to deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and uniquely personal place where you can explore the sources of distress in your life in the presence of a dedicated and enlightened witness. Together, we will uncover your unique strengths and forge a path toward greater clarity, self-understanding, personal integration, and peace of mind. I have been passionate about helping individuals and families thrive since 2003; working with both adults and children in a variety of settings. I hold an MS in Counseling from California State University, East Bay, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Vermont (100.0116919). With over 15 years of experience studying and supporting early parent-child relationships, I bring specialized expertise to working with perinatal women and families with children ages 0–5. As a full-time working parent of a neurodivergent child, I understand firsthand the challenges, growth, and humility that come with navigating many of life’s complexities. This experience informs my work and deepens my commitment to offering compassionate care to individuals and families alike. I work with individual adults, couples, and teens facing a wide range of concerns. My approach integrates attachment-focused, client-centered, strength-based, and solution-focused modalities tailored to your unique needs and goals. Whether you are seeking support during a difficult transition, struggling in your relationships, or working toward deeper self-understanding, I would be honored to join you on your journey. If you’d like to learn more about my approach or see if we’re a good fit, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I look forward to partnering with you as you take this meaningful step toward healing and growth.

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Marcia (Marcy) Milton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VT, Burlington
Counselor License Type(s): MMH, LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
36 years of experience

I am licensed in Vermont with more than 35 years of professional work experience since earning a Masters in Mental Health (MMH) degree from Johns Hopkins University. I have a great deal of experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, and coping with grief and loss. I am skilled at guiding clients through major life transitions such as career challenges, moving, significant losses, divorce, parenting difficulties. My background is in psychodynamic/developmental theory and solution- focused therapy with additional training in hypnotherapy and EMDR. I help clients better understand the sources of their difficulties and develop effective skills to manage them. I tailor my approach to therapy to meet each client's individual and unique goals. I treat each person I see with respect, patience and without judgment. Clients often report a reduction in stress or depression in their lives, resulting in increased self-confidence and self- esteem. Committing to therapy can be challenging, as is any change, but the pay off is big! I look forward to working with you!

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Tanya Edwards

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VT, Burlington
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
GriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
15 years of experience

Hi There ! My name is Tanya Edwards. I am a LCSW with over 10 years of clinical experiences. My practice focus areas include issues associated with depression, grief, self image, career challenges, parental caregiving and entering new life stages. I typically employ Cognitive Behavioral, therapy, Rational Emotive therapy, Narrative therapy ,and Acceptance and Commitment therapy. Other forms of helping are also used as needed. There are multiple ways to arrive at your desired outcomes. I am a strengths oriented practitioner. I believe in the power of collaborative partnerships. My approach to helping reflects this mindset. I walk with, not ahead. I endorse a holistic approach to overall well being and I pride myself on being culturally competent. I look forward to working with you!!

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Alyssa Doolittle

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VT, Burlington
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseGrief
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Vermont with 8 years of professional work experience. I am a mindfulness nature based somatic therapist. How can I be drawn to working in this electronic modality as a nature and body based therapist? Because a real connection can be made using video and chat platforms! I have been working online through the pandemic and have seen what can be accomplished! I have experience in helping clients learn practices and techniques to work with stress , anxiety, depression, emotional overwhelm, trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with integrating grief and loss. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. You are unique and so are your experiences and needs. Within the space of our shared humanity, I respect the work you are willing to do here and I will do my best to join with you to tailor our dialog and treatment goals to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage- good for you for making and taking the time to prioritize your well being! Due to rules of professional licensure in Vermont, I require my clients to be residents of Vermont. Thank you!

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Supriya Shanti

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VT, Burlington
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Vermont & New Hampshire with 13 years of professional work experience. I am currently accepting clients for short term therapy (6-8 sessions, weekly) Cognitive Behavioral, Goal oriented, IFS & Somatic. I also specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community. 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 support you in that process.

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Jennifer Cetin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VT, Burlington
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I have been licensed in the State of Vermont for over Twenty years. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I have run a full time Private Practice, Jennifer Cetin Counseling LLC, in Central Vermont since 2023. I find Betterhelp is a great resource in helping to make positive therapeutic connections which often lead to clients continuing to transition into my private practice. I look forward to seeing if we may be a good match. 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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Emily Hakkinen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VT, Burlington
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Vermont with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Matthew Sheft

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VT, Burlington
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Creating an environment filled with empathy, collaboration, unconditional positive regard and communication are vital to success in therapy. As a licensed therapist in the state of Florida, I take pride in my work with clients and building strong therapeutic relationships that allow for us to grow together towards reaching stated goals. Building a foundational level of trust during our early work together is of paramount importance and allows for a solid structure to be built off of. I operate from a strengths based approach and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy amongst other evidence based practices. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, coping with life changes and individuals with relationship issues. I believe each person has their own unique story and I look forward to hearing yours and working together!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Burlington

Finding the best therapist close by in Burlington 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 Burlington 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 Burlington. 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 Burlington, 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 Burlington region and in the state of Vermont. 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 Burlington 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 Burlington 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 Burlington 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 Burlington, elsewhere in Chittenden, or in the greater state of Vermont. 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 Burlington 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 Burlington 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 Burlington 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 Burlington may not take health insurance, some in the state of Vermont 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 Vermont 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 Burlington online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Burlington, Vermont 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 Burlington 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 Burlington 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 Burlington 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 Burlington?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Burlington 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 Burlington 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 Burlington 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 VT, 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 05408 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 Burlington counselor?

Before seeing your Burlington 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. Burlington 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 Burlington 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 Burlington 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 Burlington, Vermont 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.

Burlington 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 Burlington, Vermont

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 Burlington 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 Burlington.

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

05401, 05402, 05405, 05406, 05408

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