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. 

This is Dr. Sartreina Dottin's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Sartreina Dottin

Offering therapy in MA
License: DSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
25 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of Massachusetts with over 25 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have over 9 years of experience teaching in the behavioral sciences and advising students. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma and emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm, interactive and listening I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My therapy approach combines cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic counseling. I will work with you to tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here for you. I will support and empower you to help bring about the change that you desire. I look forward to working with you! Dr. Sartreina M. Dottin, DSW, LICSW

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Karel Morton

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
5 years of experience

I have been a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the Boston area for nearly 25 years having graduated from the University of Virginia and the Boston University School of Social Work with a Master's degree in Clinical Social Work. I have experience with inpatient and partial hospital treatment, but found that I loved working with clients individually on an outpatient basis. Though I worked in a substance abuse program, my clients presented with many other issues ( which often led to their substance abuse) including depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, self-esteem, grief and loss, and relationship conflicts. I took time off from professional work to raise my four children and hold volunteer positions in schools, church, and the community. This has given me a broader life view and an expanded perspective, and I feel I am a much better therapist for having had these experiences. I am a strong believer in the power of the therapeutic relationship and a client based approach. I believe that therapy should be tailored to each client's specific needs, with the therapist acting as an ally and partner in the process of identifying what is keeping you from reaching your goals. My therapeutic approach incorporates elements of cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, narrative therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. I am warm, empathetic, accepting and non-judgmental, but will challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs when needed and help to empower you by teaching coping skills and mindfulness techniques. Sometimes we are all just doing the best we can, but it feels better to have someone offer an objective view, cheer on your strengths and successes, and just be there for you when you need it. I look forward to working with you !

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Susan Morton

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteemCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. My therapy style is strengths-based and utilizes a combination of eclectic and traditional treatment modalities. I am active in my therapy style, meaning I frequently ask questions and provide input as opposed to a style which focuses predominantly on listening. However, if you prefer me to listen, I can do that as well. My specialty areas include anxiety/anxiety-based disorders, eating disorders, depression, relationship issues, women's issues, life transitions, career change (especially mid-life career change), and parent coaching. I work with clients who seek to improve their mental health, strengthen their family, personal or professional lives, or want to set and reach new goals. Specializing in treating adults, adolescents, and therapy for the therapist.

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Bruce Richards

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Massachusetts with over 15 years experience, and I have worked with many different types of mental health issues including schizophrenia, major depression, anxiety disorders, low self esteem and assertiveness issues, relationship problems, and parenting and/or family related issues. I am opposed to discrimination or abuse of any kind by anyone regardless of whether it is a personal or professional relationship, and I have been advocating for people with mental health issues for many years. I try to focus on helping people to believe in themselves, and I choose to work collaboratively with people towards their own life goals. If you are uncertain of which direction you would like to go, we can discuss together what brought you to this site and what treatment plan might work for your needs. I use cognitive behavioral approaches along with solution focused talk therapy to achieve the goals we will set. The level of effort and work required will differ from person to person, but I will be in your corner every step of the way. I look forward to meeting you and working with you.

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Gretchen Raring

Offering therapy in MA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
24 years of experience

My name is Gretchen Raring and I am a dedicated Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-NJ, FL, AZ & ND, LICSW-MA). I received my Master's Degree in Social Work at Temple University in Philadelphia. I have over 20 years experience of specializing in treatment, outreach, and engagement with the mental health, addiction, homeless, incarcerated and/or veteran's population. Clinical managerial and program development experiences focusing on the seriously mentally ill involved in the Criminal Justice System. My key strengths are successful in outpatient therapy, community outreach, community collaboration leader, and history of successful program development. As a therapist, I believe in therapeutic relationships based on deep acceptance, geniuneness and collaboration towards personal development. I believe the needs and abilities of each individual are different and work with you to determine what approaches and techniques are most in line with your needs and strengths. My goal through therapy is to empower and motivate you to make positive changes towards the goals established while we are learning how to have a better understanding of ourselves. In my work with individuals, teenagers, young adults, families and couples, I use an eclectic approach depending on what will be effective. This may include humanistic therapy, CBT, trauma recovery model, supportive therapy, psychodynamic, integrative and/or emotion focused therapy. Please reference the full list below of the different therapeutic approaches that I use depending on the goals that are established together in therapy. I specialize in the treatment of mood and adjustment disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, grief and loss and PTSD. Please see the full list below that outlines what areas of experience I have in regards to the different types of therapies provided. I recognize and respect the courage it takes to make that first step and seek help, and it is a priviledge to me to accompany you/couple/family on your journey.

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Nichole Hardy

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Massachusetts with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Kimberly Rose

Offering therapy in MA
License: MSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

Kimberly is a licensed independent clinical social worker with over two decades of experience in family and youth engagement, child welfare policy, practice and program development.  She’s worked extensively with adolescents, young adults along with families, couples and caregivers, helping clients resolve relationship conflicts, improve communication skills, and cultivate empathetic connections. Most recently, she has worked with individuals, providing counseling services with a focus on grief and loss recovery, including a focus on pet loss. She is adept at assisting individuals navigate grief and loss while they develop the coping skills necessary to adapt to life’s uncertainties. Specialties include: adolescent/transitional age issues, self-esteem & social skill building, grief & loss recovery and anxiety management.

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Dr. Nikol Garcia

Offering therapy in MA
Self esteemCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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. 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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Sarah Kinnane

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, licensed in Massachusetts with 5 years of post graduate professional work experience and 5 years of prior experience in the mental health field. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. The majority of my career has been working with survivors of domestic violence, focusing on recovering from trauma and rebuilding safety and self-esteem. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I utilize an empowerment approach to support my clients in identifying their strengths and finding the solutions that are right for them. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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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Miranda McKinley

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience

My therapeutic style is holistic, inclusive and trauma informed. I support folks with connecting to their most authentic and resilient selves. I work with folks wanting to process, reframe and change behaviors; individuals interested in exploring their generational trauma and how it relates to their anxiety and fear-based behaviors; and those experiencing social justice, burnout and compassion fatigue.

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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 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 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

Popular cities near Watertown, MA

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