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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Maryann Whalen

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW,
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
27 years of experience

I began my career in the field of addictions in 1996 and haven't looked back since, having worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings for both addictions and dual diagnosis in the state of Massachusetts including Methdone and Suboxone clinics. Along the way I realized the need for further education and training in the areas of trauma and abuse, and am a certified member of the International Association of Trauma Professionals. In addition to this, I have gained a vast amount of knowledge in the areas of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, parenting issues, relationship issues, LGBT issues, as well as helping people increase their sense of self esteem and confidence. I believe in meeting the client where they are at and never force them to discuss sensitive issues until they are ready to do so on their own. Over the years I have found the most strength is believing in my clients and encouraging them to be the person they always wanted to be. I have various approaches, and the approach I use is client based depending on their needs whether it be CBT,, strengths based, or motivational. I am also DBT trained, and received my certification in 2004 from intense workshops through Marsha Linehan. The objective for me has always been to meet the client where they are at, not where I think they should be. I do not believe in forcing someone to talk about something they are not ready or not comfortable to talk about as I understand the importance of trust in a therapeutic relationship. My mannerism with clients comes from genuine care and compassion and I love to celebrate their successes with them as well as help troubleshoot the stumbling blocks along the way. I would love the opportunity to guide you along your journey as well!

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Leslie Long

Offering therapy in MA
License: MA, MEd, CPsyA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
16 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health counselor, certified psychoanalyst and executive coach specializing in helping people thrive through life and work transition. Having been a counselor for more than 16 years, I have re-created my own professional identity through three significant careers: from teacher (public, private elementary) to sales and marketing executive (telecom, advertising) to psychotherapist in private practice (worklifetogether.com). It is never too late to find a path to greater vitality, emotional vigor and sense of self. I offer guided assistance and an emotionally supportive relationship that clears obstacles and makes room for an authentic sense of greater potential and future in work and life. Some of those obstacles may be a loss of confidence, changes in your present work environment, relationships, and a long-felt lack of engagement. Facing these obstacles, it is normal to feel overwhelmed, stuck, anxious and depressed. I offer therapeutic support, a way to regulate negative emotions and a path to resilience. (Please note, I am not available for sessions after 5pm or on weekends)..

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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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Sharlene Swainamer

Offering therapy in MA
License: MSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Life is a journey with so many unexpected twists and turns. As we travel through each day, it allows us to make choices either to live in the moment or get caught in the cycle of worry. I have 33 years of experience working with children and families @ the most vulnerable points in their lives. I have experience in grief and loss issues and am able to guide you as you go through the stages of grief. I pride myself in having patience, being able to carefully listen to empower individuals, couples, and families to be the best that they can possible be. I have an extensive background in Child protection, Guardianships of you ng and old, the Juvenile Court system, and the impact that it can have on family systems. I have worked closely with families, lawyers, schools, medical professionals, and social service providers in a collaborative manner to achieve the best possible outcome for my clients and their families. I take great pride in being able to empower my clients to set realistic goals so that they can navigate their course to achieve their goals. I am committed to helping you break down your worries and identify your perceptions, and possible your unknown fears. I will help you to become more aware of your strengths, your areas of weakness, and to develop a plan that allows you to grow personally using various techniques to help you to slow down, live in the moment, and trust the process of your journey. My commitment to you and your family system is sincere and respectful. I value family systems and believe that with awareness comes change. I believe that whether couples stay together or grow apart that they have a responsibility to one another to be kind, and respectful to themselves, each other, and their family. We will use techniques that will allow you to dig deeper into your biggest fears and your highest hopes and dreams. We may be laughing in one session and crying or on the verge of tears in another. I will be with you in every step of your journey. Women's empowerment Trauma and abuse Grief and Loss Intimacy-related issues Anger management Coping with life changes Compassion fatigue

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India Kyles

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Massachusetts with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts, feelings, and topics of faith 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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Dr. Ted Horowitz

Offering therapy in MA
License: DSW, LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
32 years of experience

I am a Doctor of Social Work with 35 years of professional experience providing psychotherapy to individuals and couples. I am licensed in Massachusetts and New York. I have extensive experience working with relationship issues, emotional and physical intimacy concerns, the full range of anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, and stress management. Everyone in my practice receives treatment with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.

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Jill Clark

Offering therapy in MA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

As a fully licensed clinical therapist, I have had the pleasure of providing mental health support to children, teens and adults in a variety of settings over the last 17 years. I have worked in children shelters, hospitals/clinics, private practice and schools. Throughout my experiences in supporting clients and their families through difficult life events has helped me understand the importance of starting where the client is and being sensitive to each individual in their own process of learning how to cope. I provide counseling and support on issues such as: depression, anxiety, life transitions, self-esteem, setting boundaries, relationship issues, addictions, abuse, and trauma. As a social worker, I believe in providing a holistic approach in order for my clients to break out of their mental and emotional traps so they can live a happier, healthier life and meet their treatment goals. In working with me, you will find that I am genuine and down-to-earth, offering a safe and accepting environment. My hope is to partner with my clients in their journey to healing and growth.

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Stefani Rubeski

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf 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, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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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Cynthia Barrett

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in AL and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in FL with 20 years of experience as a therapist and counselor in a variety of settings. I have helped people with a wide range of challenges including depression, anxiety, stress, career concerns, family and couples issues and military issues. I also have experience working with trauma and abuse survivors. My therapy style is warm, inviting and open. I believe in treating people with respect, sensitivity and compassion, avoiding labels and other stigma. My background is in cognitive behavioral therapy and client-centered counseling. My goal is to work with you to develop treatment plans that fit you and your specific needs and concerns. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and the first steps it takes towards change. If you feel you are ready to take those steps, I am here to support and encourage you. I look forward to working with you!

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Virmarit Davila

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

I am licensed in Massachusetts with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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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