Finding a therapist in Philadelphia, PA may feel like just one more overwhelming task in an already busy life, but online therapy platforms like BetterHelp can make it simple. BetterHelp has over 30,000 experienced therapists, licensed social workers, and other mental health professionals who provide a number of counseling services that can address anything from depression to addictive behaviors. 

If your past experiences with therapists have left you less than impressed, finding the right therapist can make all the difference in therapeutic approach and effectiveness. With BetterHelp, individuals living in Philadelphia and nearby cities can simply fill out an online questionnaire to be matched with a therapist that meets their specific needs. If you feel you need a change of therapist you can switch at no additional cost until you find the perfect match for you. 

With the convenience of video chat or text, you may find that sessions feel far less cumbersome and overwhelming to schedule. Online therapy offers all of the tools needed for managing stress and improving mental health and well-being, but without the hassle of trying to get to an office appointment. 

If you’re someone living in Philadelphia and are looking for some guidance in building the fulfilling life that you deserve, online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp can be the starting point to get you moving in the right direction.

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Arielle Manganiello

Offering therapy in PA
License: MS,MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor licensed in the state of Pennsylvania. I have experience with family and couples therapy. I have worked with many different age populations including parents, couples, adolescents, and children, for example. I have worked with clients bringing a wide range of concerns to the table including relational and intimate issues, depression, anxiety, addiction, self-esteem, parenting problems, career change and life transitions, among others. My therapeutic style is warm and interactive and tailored to your needs at the time. I am trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment, Mindfulness, and Eco-systemic structural family therapy. I also draw on Positive Psychology and the Jungian Approach. With my many hats, my plan is to utilize a unique approach, drawing on my experience and expertise, that works and fits best for you. Through our work together, in therapy, I am committed to helping and supporting you to make the changes you want to see in your life. Collaboratively, the essence of our work includes making meaning of your experiences and relationships and the thoughts and feelings that accompany them. My goal is that through our work, struggles and patterns will become illuminated, and by identifying these areas change becomes possible. Together, we can identify the areas that you wish to improve in your life and come up with a plan together on how to address them. Our work together will adapt as your life changes and progress occurs. We are in this therapeutic dance together. It takes a lot of bravery to show up to do the work in therapy. You should be proud of yourself for wanting to take this step. I look forward to working with you in this space.

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Elizabeth Casey

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
25 years of experience

ELIZABETH CASEY - COUNSELOR, MAPC, LPC ABOUT One of my favorite writers, Henri Nouwen said, “Your future depends on how you remember your past.” This quote holds the foundation of my approach to therapy. I have leaned through the years that there is much to be said for the beliefs about oneself that are tangled up in traumatic memories. I have become certified in EYE MOVEMENT DESENSITIZATION AND REPROCESSING or EMDR as a way to shed usually negative self-beliefs that can become cemented to a memory. It is not about forgetting that memory as much as it is to relearn positive beliefs about oneself and attach them to the memory. I understand that approaching counseling for many can be overwhelming. It is not easy to begin the task of self-exploration. However, for those who do, I firmly believe the reward is worth it. The reward can be an ability to recognize the strengths within that allow us to face the stress and obstacles that life inevitably throws our way. Another of my favorite quotes is “Life is not waiting for the storm to pass; it is learning how to dance in the rain.” I utilize an eclectic approach, including EMDR when appropriate, combining several different counseling methods with a down to earth style. I tailor the therapeutic process to your needs work with you to identify goals that are attainable. I specialize in creating connections. Connections that we all innately strive to achieve. These connections may be hindered by grief and loss, or difficulties with attachment that may be a result of adoption or bonding issues. I passionately believe that many emotional issues are the result of unrecognized or unresolved loss. These responses make healthy relationship building difficult. My background professionally and personally in adoption allow me to offer insights into bonding and attachment difficulties in past and present relationships. Depression and anxiety certainly are issues that one can develop from the experience of past trauma or anxious attachment. I am a seasoned counselor, which is a polite way of saying well aged. After obtaining my BA degree in Psychology from Moravian College I worked with various social service agencies starting in the 1980’s. This led to working more directly with people suffering the acute results of mental illness in an inpatient setting. I then worked in adoption field preparing both families and children for relationship building. I obtained my master’s degree in Pastoral Counseling in 2008. This allows me to join with you if you choose to explore a spiritually based journey. I obtained my licensed professional counseling designation in 2011 and followed a path to private practice. This experience brings with it the ability to quickly assess situations as well as solutions. I enjoy working with adults and couples. I strive to connect in a way that enables you to find the confidence that is within yourself to live an emotionally rich life!

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Eileen "Bonnie" Hires

Offering therapy in PA
License: CAACD,CCDP,LPC
AddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteem
24 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with certifications in Addictions and Co-occurring disorders in PA. I have been counseling in this field for over twenty years and believe the first and most importance piece of therapy is building a strong therapeutic alliance with my client. To that end, I am open, a good listener, willing to work with you on your terms with no judgment. Depending on your present issue, my approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness practices, Client Centered Therapy , Problem Solving Therapies, tapering our efforts to your lifestyle. Family conflicts, anxiety, depression, Adult Children of Alcoholics, Co-dependency issues are all related to addictions, and are part of my history in this field. I will bring my experience, education, credentials and open mindedness to our meetings, and you will bring your honest self. I know how difficult it is to reach out and ask for help, and do hope that you will do this for yourself and for those you love. You do not have to do this alone nor suffer any longer! I look forward to hearing from and working with you!

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Daphne Jakstis

Offering therapy in PA
License: MSW,LICSW,CDBT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepression
21 years of experience

I am a therapist offering more than 20 years of experience helping my clients with a variety of issues. My area of specialty is trauma treatment. I hold certifications in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and advanced clinical trauma treatment. I am a Certified Integrative Mental Health Provider and this allows me to use a combination of traditional evidence-based practices along with holistic approaches for overall wellness. A person's mental health is influenced by many different factors both internal and external. Our mental health can be influenced by our stress, our lack of connectedness to others, our diet, sleep issues, painful past experiences, and our environment. My skillset allows me to provide therapy that helps my clients reach all of their identified goals for wellness and quality of life.

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Teresa Villbrandt

Offering therapy in PA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

Being able to support people through their transitions and challenges is such an honor for me. I've been fortunate enough to do this work for over fifteen years, and every person that I've worked with has been a gift! My goal with every person I serve is to support them in achieving their ideal life, and to use every barrier they encounter as an opportunity to grow. I've learned so much from my own personal struggles, and I would love to have the opportunity to support you as well, and to help you create new ways of taking care of yourself and having the healthy relationships that you deserve.

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Bradley Barninger

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & bipolar disorder. 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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Shawn Beard

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) operating in Pennsylvania with 10 years of professional work experience. I am the proprietor of New U by Design, a Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor (NBCC), Strengthsbased Family Worker (SFW), and Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. My experience in includes helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, grief, & career difficulties. I believe that you are the expert of your narrative and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that can be a challenge to you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward affecting change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Amy Baker

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
9 years of experience

Monday through Thursday 7am-5pm I am licensed in Pennsylvania with over 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I am a certified Addictive Behavior Specialist, a certified Autism Specialist, and am EMDR Trained. 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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Valentina Hollinger

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with several years of experience helping people overcome a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and life transitions. I believe that everyone has the potential to heal and grow. In therapy, I help my clients to understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I also teach them coping skills and strategies for managing their anxiety, depression, or day to day stressors. My approach to therapy is collaborative and client-centered. I believe that the best way to help someone is to listen to them and understand their unique needs. I also believe that therapy is a journey, not a destination. It takes time and effort to heal, but it is possible. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or day to day stress, I encourage you to reach out to me. I'm here to help you on your journey to healing.

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Abner Santiago

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

The counseling process is a collaborative experience. A main goal is to improve overall functioning and quality of life. I'll work with you to regain that positive outlook and make life changing strides. I have extensive experience working with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, and depression. I look forward to assisting you on this journey.

How to find counseling in Philadelphia

Finding the best therapist close by in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia. 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 Philadelphia, 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia, elsewhere in Philadelphia, or in the greater state of Pennsylvania.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia may not take health insurance, some in the state of Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania 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 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 PA, 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 19141 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 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.

Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia.

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

19019, 19092, 19093, 19099, 19101, 19102, 19103, 19104, 19105, 19106, 19107, 19108, 19109, 19110, 19111, 19112, 19114, 19115, 19116, 19118, 19119, 19120, 19121, 19122, 19123, 19124, 19125, 19126, 19127, 19128, 19129, 19130, 19131, 19132, 19133, 19134, 19135, 19136, 19137, 19138, 19139, 19140, 19141, 19142, 19143, 19144, 19145, 19146, 19147, 19148, 19149, 19150, 19151, 19152, 19153, 19154, 19155, 19160, 19161, 19162, 19170, 19171, 19172, 19173, 19175, 19176, 19177, 19178, 19179, 19181, 19182, 19183, 19184, 19185, 19187, 19188, 19190, 19191, 19192, 19193, 19194, 19195, 19196, 19197, 19244, 19255

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