Your mental state can make life a challenge. When you're going mentally strong, it can be an easy task to deal with life, but when one is suffering from depression, anxiety, or any other trouble, it’s a challenge. A counselor based in Somerville can help you. 

Somerville is a town with a rich history and it’s a great place to live. Everyone has a history, and a counselor can make you live the best history you have. Speak to a therapist and see what they can do for you. You can break free from the shackles of poor mental health.

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Jill Ortolano

Offering therapy in MA
License: MS, LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
17 years of experience

Hi I'm Jill, a Mental Health Counselor licensed in Massachusetts with 16 years experience. For 6 years I met with clients and did initial evaluations in a bustling city clinic; I had the opportunity to work with different populations of people to address and treat a full range of mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, sexual problems, social phobias, communication issues, and self-esteem. I also helped many people who experienced trauma and abuse either during childhood or more recently. My counseling style is honest, engaging, friendly, and humorous- all of which will come across in my writing. I don't pass judgment and would prefer you feel comfortable talking to me, rather than stay isolated. I'm comfortable with -and often use- self-disclosure (we're all human and can learn from each other!), and I will make therapy action-oriented. I use cognitive-behavioral approaches BUT I will tailor our dialogue to meet your needs to make progress happen! I hear often from clients that therapists seem afraid to be honest, and come off generic. That will NOT happen here. No one should have to suffer silently, or alone. I'm glad therapists and clients can connect online ~ We no longer have to wait for an appointment time to share our thoughts, reflect, or start working on feeling better. I look forward to working with you! -Jill

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Laetitia Rodde

Offering therapy in MA
License: MS,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyCoping with life changesADHD
10 years of experience

First off, don't be baffled by my name! Just call me "Tish". I am an LMHC licensed in Massachusetts and have worked in the counseling field for 10 years. I have worked in both outpatient and crisis counseling, helping people ages 18 to 60 with issues relating to anxiety, substance abuse, parenting, relationships, ADHD, educational and work goals and depression. My treatment approach is wellness-oriented and I encourage a healthy lifestyle balance and good self-care in my patients; because this is my own philosophy in living life, it comes naturally to integrate it into the therapeutic relationship. I have played many roles in my life including student, mother, head of family, and ex-patriot. I have lived in different parts of the US and Europe, and am familiar with a variety of cultures. I like to think that I am flexible in my counseling style, client-centered, and collaborative; I am very interactive and provide ongoing feedback. You can think of me less as an "expert" and more as a structured support.

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Heather Watson

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepression
12 years of experience

I believe you deserve to live your best life possible. I am an independent social worker licensed in Massachusetts with over 20 years of experience working in human services. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, bipolar disorder, adoption, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and ADHD. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I believe our experiences are life lessons, not life sentences, and that we can learn and grow from our mistakes. I also believe that life is better with laughter, and many clients have commented on how my sense of humor has helped them through some difficult times. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you and to be by your side every step of the way. I look forward to working with you!

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Anne Keyes

Offering therapy in MA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Hello, I am a Marriage and Family Counselor licensed in Massachusetts. I have over 15 of experience in working as a mental health clinician. In this time, I have worked with people with a wide range of concerns, such as: drug and alcohol addiction, depression, anxiety, and trauma history. My therapeutic approach is client-centered, and my counseling style is warm and supportive. In sessions, I create a safe, nonjudgemental space for clients to address and work on their issues. Thank you for taking this important step toward positive change and growth! I look forward to working with you.

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Dominique Decoster

Offering therapy in MA
License: MSW, LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepression
4 years of experience

I obtained my MSW from Springfield College in 2005. My education included an internship in a correctional facility and a second internship at a cancer center. I was employed as a therapist at a clinic for three years. I have been employed as a social worker for the public defender's office for the last 15 years. This work consists of providing services to indigent individuals who are facing criminal charges.

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Amy Freeman

Offering therapy in MA
License: LCSW-C
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
9 years of experience

My name is Amy Freeman and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) in the state of Maryland, Arizona and Massachusetts with experience working with young adults ( 15 - 22) with developmental disabilities and there families in a non-public school setting. My background includes working with individuals and their families in a school setting with a understanding of the importance of working with clients, families, and multidisciplinary team members (education, speech, occupational therapy and behavior) in order to asses and address areas of need. My nonjudgmental and accepting personality allows for the foundation for an effective therapeutic relationship. Working with me means overcoming and powering through challenges in life by discovering healthier coping mechanisms and thought processes. You took the first step by beginning the exploration for better well-being. All that is needed now is to reach out; I look forward to working with you!

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Laurel Stanley-Glynn

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
25 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, South Carolina and in Massachusetts with over 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience working with clients with anxiety, trauma, grief, stress, depression, domestic violence, PTSD and other mental health issues. I use multiple theories depending on the patient and the issue they wish to resolve. 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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Leeann Hall

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
17 years of experience

Hello! I'm Leeann, a licensed therapist and ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider in Florida and Massachusetts with over 17 years of experience. My specialization lies in supporting people facing ADHD and/or anxiety challenges. Beyond my ADHD and anxiety niche, I've had the privilege of helping clients navigate a range of mental health concerns including depression, low self-confidence, and relational conflict. Everyone's preferences and needs are different, and that's why the treatment plan we devise will be tailored to meet your distinct goals.

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Helen Blackstone

Offering therapy in MA
License: MA,LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

Throughout the course of life many of us have experienced challenges around getting needs met, and feeling entirely safe within our environments. Many of the tools we develop to emotionally survive our experiences can later become automatic interpersonal response systems that we operate from long after they serve us. This can impact the relationship we have with ourselves and others. I strive to bring the utmost compassion and insight into the room while we work together to figure out how one's way of being in the world can become more aligned with the demands and concerns of the present circumstance. Together we will identify how various systems impact mental health and well-being. Unpacking personal identity components while utilizing a strength-based approach is a process that should be collaborative, and can be empowering if done in a safe and comfortable environment. The result is often decreased anxiety and an overall increase in life satisfaction. Please contact me so that we can discuss your needs and preferences.

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Linda Gardepe

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

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & 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!

How to find counseling in Somerville

Finding the best therapist close by in Somerville 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 Somerville. 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 Somerville, 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 Somerville 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 Somerville 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 Somerville, 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 Somerville area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Somerville 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 Somerville 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 Somerville 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 Somerville, 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 Somerville 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 Somerville 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 Somerville 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 Somerville 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 Somerville 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 02144 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 Somerville 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 Somerville 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 Somerville, 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.

Somerville 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 Somerville.

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

02143, 02144, 02145

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