Amanda Spencer
Hello and welcome. I am so glad that you reached out for support. Finding the "right" therapist is important. Below, I have shared some information about myself and my experience to hopefully, help you determine if I am the right therapist to support you. Since graduating in 2004, from The University of Vermont with my Masters in Social Work (MSW), I have worked in a variety of clinical and therapeutic settings (a community mental health agency, outpatient and private practice, in schools, in a crisis response program, in a short-term residential setting and finally, in a private educational consulting firm). In addition to my clinical license, I have my Vermont Educators License with an endorsement in School Counseling. During my years in the counseling field, I have supervised both clinical social work interns, as well as school counseling interns. Additionally, as part of my ethically-focused, trauma-informed clinical practice, I participate, monthly in an inter-disciplinary (psychologists, nurse practitioners and social workers) group for consultation and supervision. I have been part of this group since graduate school! My style is collaborative, compassionate and supportive and my clients tell me that I am comfortable to be with, and easy to talk to. I have many years of experience working with children and young adults to help build positive self-concept, reduce stress and worry, increase personal wellness, and develop and work to achieve client personal, academic, relationship, and social-emotional goals. The work I do is grounded in theory - including, Humanistic (“Whole Child’, "Whole Self"), Psycho-dynamic (focused on importance of interpersonal relationship between client and therapist as the model for understanding and self-reflection, and development of positive self-concept) and Behavioral (understanding/reflecting that individuals respond with thoughts, feelings, actions, behaviors to our environments and experience). As an outgrowth of the above approaches, The Strengths Perspective (Dennis Saleebey), is a cornerstone of my clinical practice; I strive to help clients identify internal strengths (ie. grit and resilience), as well as external strengths (ie. education level and family supports). Additionally, I can work with clients on goal-setting, solution-focused work, Narrative Therapy and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, with attention to the Wellness Wheel (UMatter, Princeton University) and reflection on the “whole” self. I often include some very popular, and research-based Mindfulness, Meditation and Yoga tools. Finally, as part of an overall assessment, I use clinical tools and my ability to engage with clients to assess level of depression and anxiety to screen for any other issues that may reveal themselves in the course of our session(s). The results of the clinical tools help guide work with clients, and of course, I listen closely to the issues clients raise and the goals they focus on, and together we will work to address their needs. My passion for counseling includes supporting individuals - across the life-span - to shift from discomfort and distress, to acceptance and joy. When I am not working with clients and students, I like to walk with my dog, play cards with friends and family, and volunteer with Therapy Dogs of Vermont. I look forward to meeting with you “in person.”
Kirk Postlewaite
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 20 years in the mental health field. I received my M.S. in counseling and community mental health in 2013 and my licensure in 2017. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, parenting problems, trauma, anger management and ADHD. I have worked with children, families and adults. My counseling style is honest and compassionate. I believe in treating people with respect and compassion and also challenging them to take responsibility for their own life circumstances. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, solution focused therapeutic techniques. I also am a regular practitioner of mindfulness and infuse this into all my work. It takes courage to take steps to make positive changes in your life. It also take patience and self acceptance to recognize that the life you are living right now is the perfect place and time to begin or return to self reflective work. I believe that taking an approach that balances these seemingly contradictory (paradoxical) ideas can yield a rich and fulfilling life. It would be my honor to join you in this journey. I look forward to working with you!
Dr. Nancy Kenyon Richardson
Hello and congratulations on taking this brave step of looking for help. My name is Dr. Nancy Kenyon Richardson, but I usually just go by Dr. Nancy. I strongly believe in the potential of all people to heal and move forward from trauma history, substance use disorders, and other mental health struggles. My passion is assisting people on their journey of healing. The course of my journey as a mental health professional has been two-fold. My master's degree is in psychology with a concentration in counseling. My Ph.D. is in psychology with a concentration in addiction and is research based. My research in successful recovery post-medication-assisted treatment (MAT) lead to an emerging theory on MAT as an aid to long-term opioid recovery without medication. I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) and a licensed alcohol and drug counselor (LADC). I also hold several certifications including EMDR therapy and Dr. Gottman's Loving Couple's, Loving Children. My grandparents were all Portuguese immigrants who did not have the opportunity for much education. My lifelong dream was to complete my Ph.D. Of course reaching this goal was a wonderful feeling, but I am more proud of the 2012 Victim Activist of the Year Award I received for my work in the field of intimate partner violence. I am fascinated by brain science and often include psycho-education around trauma and the brain when helping people understand why they continue to engage in behaviors they wish to stop or why they continue to be impacted by past traumatic events. I have several years of experience helping people to move forward by identifying the "hooks" from their past that are holding them back from fully healing. I often state, only half kidding, that if I am still your therapist in 5 years and we're working on the same issues, fire me! Although I grew up in a predominantly Portuguese community in Rhode Island, I have resided in Vermont for nearly 30 years. My family and I enjoy travel and I have visited 49 of the 50 states. Our youngest two children are now teenagers so my spouse and I are beginning to explore what the empty nest chapter of our lives will look like. I truly feel honored and that it is a privilege to be trusted with the role of helping people heal from mental health problems. I look forward to being a part of your journey.
Krystal-Lynn Baptiste
I am a licensed counselor in Vermont who primarily does individual counseling. I have worked in the field of human services for the past decade in a variety of roles, most recently working in a health center. I bring a whole health approach to my work, identifying how mental health and physical health connect. I work with clients on identifying symptoms and coping strategies to support their wellness. I counsel individuals with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship problems and general life stress. I have also counseled people who have experienced trauma, both physical and emotional, and support them to improve their quality of life. I provide a style of counseling that is genuine and discussion based. I believe that you are the expert on your own life and know what interventions would work best for you. I believe in taking small steps toward long-term goals and will help you break them down to manageable tasks. I will offer a variety of strategies from different counseling perspectives including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy. I am excited to work with you and support you to make small changes over time to improve your well-being.
Daphne Jakstis
I am a therapist offering more than 20 years of experience helping my clients with a variety of issues. My area of specialty is trauma treatment. I hold certifications in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and advanced clinical trauma treatment. I am a Certified Integrative Mental Health Provider and this allows me to use a combination of traditional evidence-based practices along with holistic approaches for overall wellness. A person's mental health is influenced by many different factors both internal and external. Our mental health can be influenced by our stress, our lack of connectedness to others, our diet, sleep issues, painful past experiences, and our environment. My skillset allows me to provide therapy that helps my clients reach all of their identified goals for wellness and quality of life.
Katrina Whyman (Carbee)
I am licensed in Vermont with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Sudhir Shantinath
I am licensed in Vermont with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with executive and professional coaching. 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.
Natalie Gomez
Hello, Thank you for reading my profile. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor / LPC in the states of Florida, New York and New Jersey. I have over 18 years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. The majority of my experience has been with victims of trauma, sexual abuse or rape. I also specialized in men's issues. I also have experience working with clients who have HIV/AIDS . Coming from a multicultural military family, I understand the stressors and situations that come from being in a military lifestyle. I also understand the challenges that come with being multicultural. I offer a warm, compassionate, non-judgmental environment for each individual to express themselves openly and address the issues of concern. Although I do follow the therapeutic approach of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I am eclectic in my therapeutic approach, based on the fact that each person I meet with is a unique individual. so as a therapist I must adapt to your needs and provide assistance and insight into the issues that are causing you concern. Remember that therapy is the first big step to freedom, and I appreciate your courage. I look forward to working with you! Specialties: Multicultural Military Trauma - Rape, Sexual Assault & Abuse HIV/AIDS Self-esteem issues
Melissa Gaudio
I am licensed in Vermont with 4 years of professional experience in individual, one on one therapy on a telehealth platform . I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & depression. I use a person-centered approach with an emphasis on utilizing solution-focused and cognitive behavioral techniques in our work together. 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. 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.
Joi Allen-Baaqee
I am licensed in Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
How to find a therapist for counseling in Hyde Park
Finding the best therapist close by in Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park. 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 Hyde Park, 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 Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park, elsewhere in Lamoille, 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 Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Hyde Park, 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 Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park 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 05655 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 Hyde Park counselor?
Before seeing your Hyde Park 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. Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park, 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.
Hyde Park 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 Hyde Park, Vermont
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 Hyde Park therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.
If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Hyde Park:
05655