This is Jill Foster's avatar and link to their profile

Jill Foster

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Gary
Counselor License Type(s): MSEd,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am a clinical mental health counselor with over 12yrs of experience. I am licensed in Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Arizona, and Washington. I have worked with a variety of client concerns including depression, anxiety, women's issues, and life stressors. Many are survivors of childhood trauma and struggle with symptoms of C-PTSD. My counseling style is supportive and empowering. I incorporate a variety of treatment modalities, i.e. person centered, mindfulness, & cognitive-behavioral, etc. No two client's have the same experiences, so individual treatment can look very different. You are the expert of "you". I am here to support you, you decide what we work on, and together we work to get you where you want to be. I applaud you in taking the first steps to improving your wellbeing and quality of life, I know those are often the most difficult. I hope that you now follow thru and learn how beneficial counseling can be. I look forward to supporting you on your journey!

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Jenna Lapointe

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Gary
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
13 years of experience

Hello! I want to welcome you and praise you for being proactive regarding your mental health. It is a powerful thing to acknowledge there are areas of your life or symptoms you are experiencing that you would like to change, and signing up for counseling is a big step towards reaching your goals. Below is some information on who I am and how I will be able to help you throughout this journey. I believe the cornerstone to therapy is empathetic understanding paired with proactive behavioral change. Together we will create a secure place in which you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a non-judgmental way in order to understand what they are trying to provide to you. By reframing our cognitive, somatic, and behavioral actions in this way, we can learn to make sense of even the largest, scariest misbehaviors. With that new understanding, we will then discuss and practice applicable techniques you can utilize outside of therapy to achieve that reward in a different, healthier way. In my practice, I use a client-centered, eclectic approach. I have experience in several empirically-proven therapeutic modalities, and I choose which modalities to use based on what changes you, the client, decide you want to make in your life. I tend towards more process-oriented approaches, including (but not limited to) Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Eye Movement Desensitizing and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR). I have found that these therapies reprocess symptoms clients are experiencing with their somatic, right-brain processing centers and their verbal, left-brain processing centers simultaneously, leading to more integrated and sustainable life changes in a shorter amount of time. I also have experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Assertiveness Training, and Behavioral Modification techniques. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, currently practicing in West Virginia. I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Washington College in 2009 and a master’s degree in social work from West Virginia university in 2011. I have been providing mental health therapy in an outpatient setting for the last nine years and have had the pleasure of meeting and helping a wide variety of people learn to understand, process through, and manage a range of symptoms. If this type of therapy resonates with you, I would love to work with you. Regardless of whether you choose me as your therapist, I am very happy you have chosen to start proactively working on your mental wellbeing, and I wish you the best on your journey!

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Dr. James Kowalski

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Gary
Counselor License Type(s): EdD,MS ,MAC(Master Addiction Counselor)
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefAnger managementDepression
30 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been in the helping profession for over 30 years. I am licensed in four states which are Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and West Virginia. The journey has been both professionally and personally rewarding! My professional experiences have helped me build a distinctive and solid skill set to facilitate clients in developing life-long well being. I have extensive experience and certifications working with clients that have substance abuse related challenges. I am certified as a Master Addiction Counselor. I have training and expertise working with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety and stress challenges. I am a certified Anger Management treatment provider. I also work with the geriatric population. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating every one with respect, dignity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, motivational interviewing techniques. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life. I believe that persons change and grow only when they decide to do so. Take the first steps towards a change is a courageous undertaking. I offer help to support and empower you. It is at this time when we experience a growth that helps us thrive toward being our personal best. To your wellness, I look forward to hearing from you soon!

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Donna Borders

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Gary
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in West Virginia with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Dustin Baldwin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Gary
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepression
18 years of experience

Hello! My name is Dustin Baldwin. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the great State of Wild, Wonderful West Virginia. I have been licensed via the West Virginia Social Work Board since 2006. I began providing outpatient therapy in the fall of that year, and have been fortunate to have helped countless clients cope with psychological distress, enact change, and achieve life goals. I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida in 2003 and a Master of Social Work degree in 2006 from West Virginia University. I have completed additional coursework in psychology from Yale University and The Ohio State University. I serve in capacities outside of BetterHelp as well, working as a medical social worker specializing in kidney dialysis, and as a graduate field instructor with The Ohio State University since 2008 and the University of Southern California since 2012 providing supervision to graduate students earning their Master of Social Work degrees. I provide postgraduate supervision to social workers earning their clinical/independent licenses as well. I am also licensed as a Licensed Independent Social Worker - Supervisor (LISW-S) via the Ohio Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) via the Oregon Board of Licensed Social Workers. I have been trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Therapy, and specialize in Mindfulness Meditation. Working in the helping profession has been truly rewarding. I am dedicated to assisting individuals cope with life’s challenges, both internal and external, helping couples and families meet goals of improved communication, increased intimacy, and general harmony and happiness, and being an agent of change, working with others toward social justice as a proud social worker! I look forward to meeting you! Please see my schedule for openings and feel free to message anytime! Mindfully, Dustin

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Dr. Ruifeng (Richard) Cui

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Gary
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersDepression
7 years of experience

Hi reader, I’m Richard Cui and I'm a clinical psychologist licensed in the stated of West Virginia. I graduated with a PhD in clinical psychology from West Virginia University. I have over 7 years of experience helping people with a range of concerns including: anxiety, depression, and sleep problems. My therapy focuses on helping people identify problems they want to work on, supporting them as they face these problems, and helping them to come up with solutions and overcome these problems. Sometimes the problems we face are caused by others and sometimes they are caused by ourselves. However, no matter the cause, we can work together to start coming up with some solutions. Thank you for reading about me and considering working together with me. I hope to hear from you!

This is Anthony Locascio's avatar and link to their profile

Anthony Locascio

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Gary
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in West Virginia with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & career difficulties. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Stephanie Casto

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Gary
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist based in West Virginia. I am also certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). TF-CBT is an evidence-based treatment for children and adolescents impacted by trauma and their parents or caregivers. I have 5 years of therapy experience with clients of all ages, including kids, teens and adolescents. I have provided services both online and in person through an agency and in my private practice. The majority of my work over has been with clients who have experienced complex trauma due to abuse and neglect issues. I use a trauma-informed approach that focuses on gaining emotional regulation and processing experiences so that events of the past do not keep clients from building their best lives. I also have experience helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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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Dr. Sara Lewis-Stankus

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Gary
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
26 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor with 26 years of professional work experience helping clients become the best version of themselves without judgement! I am honored to assist clients on their personal transformation journeys. Together, we work to break through the barriers of fears, doubts, and frustrating patterns that have been holding them back, empowering them to create the life they truly desire. Personal transformation is a profound process that involves self-reflection, growth, and the courage to make positive changes. As a counselor, I provide a supportive and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their limiting beliefs, identify patterns that no longer serve them, and develop strategies to overcome obstacles. Areas may include; overcoming anxiety, fears, forgiveness, letting go of or repairing relationships, conflict resolutions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps to change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Dr. Peggy Proudfoot Harman's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Peggy Proudfoot Harman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, Gary
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio and West Virginia with over 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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 Gary

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

Therapists in Gary, West 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 Gary 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 Gary 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 Gary 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 Gary?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Gary 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 Gary 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 Gary 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 WV, 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 24836 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 Gary counselor?

Before seeing your Gary 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. Gary 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 Gary 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 Gary 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 Gary, West 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.

Gary 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 Gary, West Virginia

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

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

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

24836, 24888

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