Life can sometimes feel like managing a corporation. When you're feeling down, you may try too hard to salvage yourself and lose it all. When all the parts aren't working, it can bring everything down. When profits are going up, you may be too busy worried if they're going to stay up. A counselor based in Stamford can be the one who helps run your mental health smoothly and keeps your mental profits going up. 

Stamford is home to many companies and corporations, making it a place for business. Even if you're not involved in business, think like an entrepreneur for your mental health. Always be looking for ways to improve it and find unique solutions that can benefit you.

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Jeff Gagliardi

Offering therapy in CT
License: LCSW,DSW
Stress, AnxietyCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
7 years of experience

Hello and welcome! My name is Jeff Gagliardi, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the areas of anxiety, depression, chronic illness and life coaching. I also have significant experience working with clients dealing with behavioral addiction such as gambling and technology use. I leverage my background in finance to counsel clients about financial issues, which often can negatively impact peoples' mental health. I have my Master's of Social Work and Doctorate of Social Work degrees from Southern Connecticut State University. I have been a clinician for six years after leaving a career in finance, and I’m incredibly grateful that I have the opportunity to help people overcome challenges in their lives. I recently began focusing on my private practice work full-time after leaving an intensive outpatient treatment facility where I worked with clients with a broad range of mental health diagnoses. My therapeutic approach involves using positive psychology, which focuses on developing a person’s strengths to allow them to create a greater sense of well-being. My goal is not just to help people survive life, but to help them thrive. Building a healthy counseling relationship is critical for the therapeutic process to be successful. I recognize that finding a counselor is an incredibly important and personal decision. If for any reason an individual does not connect with my approach, I will assist them with finding a therapist that is a better fit for them. I do everything I can to connect with people I work with and help them to feel comfortable and safe. I regularly ask for feedback on how clients feel counseling is progressing so I can make any adjustments that are necessary to improve the process. In our work together, we will determine the goals you are looking to achieve in therapy and establish a plan to achieve them. Every client is unique, and I tailor counseling interventions to each specific person. Most importantly, I will learn about you and support you while we go through this transformative process together. I am continually seeking out new approaches that can help people develop healthier coping strategies and habits, and I then relay these ideas to my clients. I applaud you for taking this step to improve your life and I hope that I can be a person to help guide you on your journey.

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Dr. Lori VanMeter

Offering therapy in CT
License: Ph.D
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
15 years of experience

You have taken the first courageous step to improving yourself. I am here to support you in this process. I have 15 years of experience working with individuals, families, adolescents, and children. With a non-judgmental approach, I help clients feel safe sharing their thoughts and feelings. Relationship issues, mood disorders, parenting challenges, issues of young adulthood including separation, self-confidence and identity, and family conflict are some of the areas I have explored with my clients. Cognitive-behavioral interventions and a strength-based solution focused approach allow individuals to gain insight into patterns of thoughts and behaviors and motivate them to make changes. Becoming aware of skills you have and harnessing them to meet your goals will result in greater satisfaction. My authentic, honest style allows individuals to quickly establish rapport and trust and leaves them feeling cared for and understood. I look forward to meeting you.

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Sarah Steingiser

Offering therapy in CT
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, ODD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have been working in a range of capacities; outpatient, child welfare, addiction treatment facility, nursing homes and extended day treatment programs for children. I have worked with wide range of ages from 3 to 101 years old. My counseling 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 client centered, cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and solution focused counseling, Reiki and Emotional Freedom Tapping. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for 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. I look forward to working with you!

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Tahara DeBarrows

Offering therapy in CT
License: M.A. LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
5 years of experience

My name is Tahara DeBarrows, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Connecticut. I work from an eclectic style that combines solution focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing. These are models of therapy that are commonly used and effective for most reported issues. I also enjoy teaching and utilizing meditation and deep breathing techniques with my clients. My counseling style is warm and I enjoy using humor and my personality to create a more inviting space for my clients. I believe the client's perspective is valuable and important. I will make it a priority to include my client's desires in creating a plan for them to succeed. The majority of my experience has been with individuals struggling with substance use. These individuals had co-occurring disorders such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mood and personality disorders. I've also worked with individuals and families on issues related to parenting, relationships, career changes, and more. I believe that empathy is not something that can be learned, rather it is something that you have and share with others. My empathy for people, along with recognizing and uplifting them for overcoming their struggles is what I tend to use as a catalyst to help client's see their full potential. I believe that addressing one's mental health needs is one of the most important things that you can do. You decided to make the best decision for yourself and that was to reach out for support. It takes courage to ask for help and I appreciate you doing so. You've overcome life obstacles before and you can do it again! I am here to support and empower you to make the steps for a better life for you. Thank you for trusting me with your personal challenges and I look forward to connecting with you.

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Amy M Blazawski

Offering therapy in CT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseEating disordersSelf esteem
25 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker from the State of Connecticut, with over 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience with various therapeutic idioms addressing: Stress and Anxiety; Depression; LGBTQ-related /Coming Out Issues; Trauma Informed /Sensitive Concerns; Addiction; Eating Disorders; and Individual & Family Work w/ individuals with Disabilities such as ID & Autism. I work with Families & Individuals in a solution-focused, person centered manner to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I've used creative modalities in my work including music, art, movement, and adventure therapies to strengthen my approach to assisting individuals with "breakthrough moments", and overall improved mental health and wellness. 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 steps to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. Together, we can initiate a changed path toward that end. I am here to support & empower you in that journey!

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Gina Payne

Offering therapy in CT
AddictionsRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Connecticut with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients struggling with addictions, relationship issues, grief and loss, & parenting issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Debra Struzinski

Offering therapy in CT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
22 years of experience

I am a Connecticut licensed therapist with over 25 years of professional work experience. I’m qualified in helping clients with stress & anxiety, depression, family & personal conflicts, parenting issues, life transitions as well as distinctly Christian counseling. As a marriage & family therapist, I am experienced in working with individuals, couples and families. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, & compassion. I will tailor our dialog & your therapy goals to meet your unique & specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling & happier lifestyle takes courage. I’m here to listen & support you in that process.

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Lauren Vernaglia

Offering therapy in CT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
19 years of experience

I am licensed in Connecticut with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, eating disorders, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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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Theresa Hixson

Offering therapy in CT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
29 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker here in Connecticut with over 29 years of professional work experience. My experience includes helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming the things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Theresa Revans-McMenimon

Offering therapy in CT
License: LMFT,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
15 years of experience

Through improving our ability to communicate, we strengthen the bonds in our relationships. First, we must engage in honest, self-reflection by examining and distinguishing our needs and wants. Once we have gained greater self-awareness, we can then focus on communicating with our partners and family members through respectful talking, listening, and reflection. It is through improved understanding that we create fertile ground for growth and development. As both a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Mental Health Counselor I provide therapy to individuals, couples, and families. In addition, I completed training as a family specialist in LEND (Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities) through WIHD (Westchester Institute for Human Development) and New York Medical College. In my 15 plus years of experience, I have counseled individuals, couples, and families regarding communication issues, parenting skills, and coping with anxiety within the family. I am trained in the areas of special needs, transition, college and careers. I am the creator of Transition Boot Camp that was featured in The Journal News and Arclight Magazine. In addition, I reserve the right to decline referrals if I feel that the client is best served by another counselor.

How to find counseling in Stamford

Finding the best therapist close by in Stamford 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 Stamford. 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 Stamford, 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 Stamford 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 Stamford 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 Stamford, elsewhere in Fairfield, or in the greater state of Connecticut.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Stamford 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 Stamford 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 Stamford may not take health insurance, some in the state of Connecticut 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 Connecticut 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 Stamford, Connecticut 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 Stamford 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 Stamford 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 Stamford 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 Stamford 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 Stamford 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 CT, 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 06906 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 Stamford 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 Stamford 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 Stamford, Connecticut 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.

Stamford 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 Stamford.

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

06901, 06902, 06903, 06904, 06905, 06906, 06907, 06910, 06911, 06912, 06913, 06914, 06921, 06926, 06927

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