Cities with interesting, almost explosive histories are often quite engaging, and there are counselors in Watertown that are ready to help with whatever problems come your way.

Watertown is known for its involvement in the Revolutionary War, and it also is the location of the Armenian Library and Museum of America. It also was the place where two o the Boston Marathon bomber engaged with police, so even though it is a town that’s had some struggles, a counselor is always ready to help in this area no matter what the issues may be. 

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Jessica Gerson

Offering therapy in MA
License: LCSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Reaching out for support is an act of courage, and I honor you for taking the first step toward lasting change! You're here because you're going through something, and whatever that is, I'm here to help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Louisiana and Massachusetts (in MA my license is "LICSW") with ten years of experience working as a psychotherapist for children, adolescents, and adults. I have helped clients and families through issues including anxiety and depression, parenting challenging children, career difficulties, issues related to sexuality and gender identity, ADHD, life stress, work-life balance, relationship issues, and more. As someone who has struggled with both anxiety and depression at various points in my life, I come at the therapeutic process with both personal and professional knowledge, and always keep in mind those things that were most helpful to me when I was the one seeking a therapist. My style as a therapist reflects my belief that the relationship you and I forge is the foundation from which change becomes possible. Working through the things which hold us back can mean facing difficult feelings and memories, and it's important to have the right partner on that journey. I aim to be a supportive and encouraging partner in change, as well as getting to know you well so that I can provide interventions that make sense for you rather than a one size fits all approach. I believe in helping you build a toolbox of concrete tools and skills that you can draw from moving forward—in helping you equip yourself to meet not only the challenges you’re facing now, but also leaving you better prepared to manage future challenges as they come. I'm here to support you as we explore ways to help you meet your goals and live your best life!

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Claudia Briceno

Offering therapy in MA
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
6 years of experience

Hi! I am Claudia Ratmiroff, I have a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine from Boston University. I focus on effective communication, empathy, rebuilding self-esteem, and setting healthy boundaries. I consider myself a facilitator to connect and learn tools to allow for a successful navigation of the day-to-day challenges. I believe in the importance of transparency and mutual communication. I am convinced of the power of inner discovery as a vehicle towards a fulfilling life.

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Jesse Burdwood

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in New Hampshire with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Dr. Audni Miller

Offering therapy in MA
License: PhD,,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

Hi! My first name “Audni” is pronounced “Audnee,” not to be confused with “Audrey” or “Audi,” the automobile. Since we like to know where people come from, I'll start by owning up to my Texas heritage. After living in Ohio and Maine, I returned to Texas 13 years ago as a civilian social worker and therapist for the military. Now in private practice as a therapist, I treat clients who seek help for such issues as anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, life transitions, relationship matters, and questions about their purpose, role and identity. My work is client-centered, helping clients to achieve their goals for an emotionally healthy, safe, and satisfying life. Treatment approaches include solution-focused therapy, cognitive-based therapy, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic talk therapy, psychoanalytically informed therapy, and sensorimotor psychotherapy. My education, training, and experience for this work started with a B.A. Degree in English and Drama, an M.A. Degree in Communication, a PhD Degree in Education, and a master’s degree in Clinical Social Work (MSW). I have had multiple careers in higher education, corporate training, and social work in public and private organizations. A Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have been a therapist for 17 years. For clients who participate fully, I know from experience that therapy will open many pathways for their desired change and growth!

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Susan Essich-Kruse

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina , Massachusetts and Nevada, with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Leslie Moya

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

I am licensed in California, Colorado, Massachusetts, New Mexico and Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and 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. 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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Melissa Miller

Offering therapy in MA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
13 years of experience

Hello, and welcome to Better Help! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Delaware and Pennsylvania. I have been a licensed Social Worker for over 13 years specializing in grief and loss, anxiety and depression, addictions counseling for families affected by addiction and most recently caregiver burnout and compassion fatigue. I have worked with clients of all ages including adolescents’, adults and older adults. My counseling style comes from a strengths-based perspective with a focus on assisting my clients in recognizing the many strengths they already possess while helping them to adapt those strengths to better manage the current crisis or situation they may be experiencing. I adapt my practice style to fit the needs of each client and will adjust my approach based on the goals and outcomes experienced throughout the therapeutic journey. Asking for help is never easy but here you are, and you should be proud of yourself for taking this first step. I would like to assist you in this journey as you allow yourself to discover the strengths that you possess and the tools you can use to become a stronger healthier you!

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Megan Russis

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Massachusetts with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Marissa Gurello

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health counselor, licensed in Massachusetts, with 4 years experience working with adults, adolescents, and children. Through my work I have supported clients in navigating life’s stressors, anxiety, depression, family conflict, self-esteem, motivation and beyond. I collaborate with my clients to create an open and honest space, where they can feel safe to share and grow. My style incorporates a collaborative strength-based approach with components of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and client-centered practice, while keeping in mind individual experience and specific goals. Taking the first step to seeking therapy can feel uncomfortable and is very brave! I am here to support you in that process and help to make this a positive and personable experience for you.

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Lynda Harkins

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

With 14 years of dedicated experience in mental health and substance abuse counseling, I bring a wealth of expertise to the therapeutic journey. My approach includes an array of modalities including experiential therapy, incorporating innovative methods such as writing and role play. Guided by the belief that therapy is a collaborative partnership, I am committed to fostering a supportive and transformative environment for individuals seeking personal growth and healing.

How to find counseling in Watertown

Finding the best therapist close by in Watertown 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Watertown. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Watertown, 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. 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 to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Watertown or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers 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 Watertown area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy 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 Watertown, elsewhere in Middlesex, or in the greater state of Massachusetts.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Watertown area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Watertown therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Watertown due to a higher cost of living. 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 Watertown may not take health insurance, some in the state of Massachusetts may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Massachusetts you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Watertown, Massachusetts 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. They 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, they 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Watertown 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 lead by a therapist in Watertown helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Watertown 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.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

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 Watertown therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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 are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist 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 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 Watertown 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 lot of people in MA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles 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 02472 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Watertown counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy 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, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. 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 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 therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Watertown 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 through therapy 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 Watertown, Massachusetts 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.

Watertown has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy 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?

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

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 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 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 Watertown.

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

02471, 02472, 02477

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