Boston is one of the oldest cities in the United States, and it has a rich and exciting history. Beantown is home to many firsts: the first Dunkin Donuts, the first public beach, the first public park, the first subway, the first lighthouse, and the first college, to name a few. If you’re trying to make changes in your life and striving to achieve your own firsts, talking to a therapist Boston MA can help. 

A therapist can help you with a variety of mental health challenges, whether you’re dealing with an underlying condition like anxiety or depression or struggling with personal growth and positive change. Whether you need a trauma informed counselor or aren’t sure about which therapeutic approach is right for you, finding a therapist can be challenging. With BetterHelp, most people are matched with a therapist within 48 hours of signing up. Because so many therapists are available on the platform, you can switch at no extra charge until you find the right fit. Most BetterHelp therapists have a master’s or doctoral degree, use evidence based treatments, and work to create a collaborative environment in a judgment free space. 

If you’re worried about therapy cost, BetterHelp is generally more affordable than many in-person therapy options, costing $65 to $90 per week (billed every four weeks). If you’re ready to start a life changing journey, boost self confidence, and improve your everyday life, speak to a Boston-based therapist today.

 

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Denise Whall-Marlin

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker from Boston, Massachusetts (and also licensed in Nevada and Arizona) with fourteen years of experience in providing psychotherapy. I have worked with all different kinds of people, and I have helped them with a variety of challenges and mental health problems. I have post-graduate training in several types of treatment, including cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy, as well as an academic background from New York University in psycho-dynamic treatment. I know that no two people are the same, so there is no cookie-cutter approach to therapy. When I work with you, my preferred approach is to work together to find the unique approach that works best for you. I like to combine support, empathy and humor with skills-building, problem solving and mindfulness to help people better manage overwhelming emotions and improve their relationships - without any judgment. My goal is to help put you back in the driver's seat of your life and gain mastery over your feelings and relationships. I know how important it is to build a strong and trusting relationship with a therapist, and I provide both validation and truthful insights to my clients. Most of all, I strongly believe in a strengths-based, person-centered approach that recognizes each person's unique abilities and helps them to reach their highest potential. What I love about online therapy is that it's so flexible. When you reach out to me, I will be in touch with you within 24 hours, so you can message me any time, anywhere. I am available for live sessions over instant messenger, telephone or video chat. When it comes to your treatment, you're in charge - we can communicate in whatever way makes you feel most comfortable. It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help. I know that together we can overcome any obstacles you are facing and put you on the path to a happier, calmer and more satisfying life. I promise to be right by your side every step of the way on your journey, and that we will work at your pace. I am excited to work with you!

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Hollis Greenspan

Offering therapy in MA
License: MSW,LICSW
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Hello, I'm Hollis Greenspan, a licensed independent clinical social worker. Welcome to my profile page! By choosing to enter into therapy, you've taken the first step towards self-empowerment and making positive life changes. Change is a strange thing. Sometimes, the things that aren't working in our lives require altering something that we'd prefer not to let go of. Very often it's an idea or perception that needs to be released, and it's important to gain an awareness of the thoughts that maintain troublesome behaviors. As an advanced graduate of a transformation-oriented counseling program, I have gained skill in helping people to release stuck patterns of thinking and behavior. I primarily use Mindfulness, a form of thought reframing called "Reality Therapy", Focusing, and Psychosynthesis counseling to assist clients. Let me tell you a little about these latter two techniques. Focusing is a body-oriented practice that you can learn to do for yourself. It involves tuning in to deep levels of bodily sensations and accurately naming them, familiarizing yourself with a felt sense of the problem areas. Psychosynthesis is the foundation of a newly popular modality called "Internal Family Systems" therapy. The goal is to become aware of different, sometimes conflicting parts of your personality, to help them communicate and cooperate with each other. All parts of the personality are seen as having value, and this leads to acceptance of your self as a whole and diverse being. I have worked with people from all walks of life, different ethnicities and cultures, and make room for everyone's point of view. My practice is grounded in Buddhist philosophy, but I don't push anyone to learn or practice that particular view of reality. Here's the nitty gritty: I have a degree in cultural anthropology from Tufts University, a master's in social work from the University of Connecticut, and an advanced certification in counseling from The Synthesis Center in Amherst, Massachusetts. I have a special interest and many years of study in self-care, including nutrition, sleep hygiene, and other ways of embodying wellness. Other areas of interest and expertise: Body dysmorphia, aging, creative blocks and perfectionism, death and dying, career choices and difficulties, pet loss, existential crisis, gender identity. My experience working with depression, bipolar disorder, addiction, chronic illness, grief and loss, relationship problems, personality issues, and LGBTQ issues is extensive. I approach psychotherapy with humor, love, and compassion. You are in the driver's seat, and self-empowerment is the ultimate goal. You will find me open-minded, caring, gentle, and flexible. I look forward to meeting you.

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David lassoff

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

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts with over 7 years of experience. I hold a Master's Degree in Mental Health and Behavioral Medicine from the Boston University School of Medicine. As a clinician, I have worked in educational, residential and Outpatient settings, with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, OCD, and ADHD. I also have worked with clients of all ages., My therapy style is supportive and solution focused. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psycho-dynamic and motivational Interviewing. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards 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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Emily Franko

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Massachusetts, Ohio and Virginia, with 15 years of professional, clinical work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Amanda Baldaro

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

I am licensed in Massachusetts with and LICSW and over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, and depression. I have worked with adults, children, and teens and truly enjoy being a part of my client's journey as they better themselves and become empowered to reach the goals of their choosing. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment, I will never judge you- I am simply here to help guide you down a path to your own self established goals, whatever they may be. I hope to be able to earn your trust and assist you in managing any barriers you see in your life. Therapy can take time, there is no quick fix, but I have time if you do!

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Tara Lacoursiere

Offering therapy in MA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
7 years of experience

Welcome! I believe that every individual is the expert in their own life but can sometimes use a hand moving forward or overcoming life’s many challenges. Reaching out for help is the most important step towards your path of healing and wholeness. My goal is to help empower you to find what is working well and give you the tools to help change what is not working for you. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of Rhode Island. I have over 5 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of settings. Much of my experience includes helping those suffering from depression, anxiety, self esteem issues, personality and mood disorders, ADHD, and difficult parent-child relationships. My counseling style is a combination of warm and empathetic, along with tactful honesty and accountability. The most important aspect of my work with you will be to build a positive, trusting therapeutic relationship in which we can together work through whatever difficulties you may be facing. I believe in helping my clients take ownership of their therapy and to gain the skills needed to advocate for themselves in every aspect of life. I use a combination of evidence based approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical-behavior therapy, mindfulness, psycho-education, client centered and solution-focused approaches. I offer messaging, live chat, phone sessions and video sessions. I look forward to working with you in achieving your therapy goals.

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Michael Galvin

Offering therapy in MA
License: LSCW,MPH
Addictions
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in St. Louis, Missouri with 6 years experience providing direct mental health and behavioral therapy. I have worked with individuals ages ten to adult with a variety of presenting issues though primarily LGBT issues. I approach the therapeutic relationship with an acute sensitivity and respect for cultural factors. My experience is varied as I have provided individual and family therapy in community mental health clinics, research institutions, schools, and treatment facilities. I believe we are all products of our genetics as well as our environment, including family systems and close relationships. I strive to approach treatment holistically. My therapy style and approach use mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), motivational interviewing as well as strengths-based approaches. A top priority for me to is meet you where you are and calibrate treatment and my approach to what will work best for you. The first step to improving your life, or just returning to a sense of normalcy, is asking for help. I am here help you reach those goals.

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Kyla Connor

Offering therapy in MA
License: MA,LMHC,LADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
3 years of experience

At times we feel overwhelmed by challenges in life. This is a reality for us all. The Covid pandemic can create enormous stress and often intensifies what has been burdening us all along. Working through these challenges is extremely important and attainable. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults. I approach the needs of my clients individually. I utilize my experience with different therapeutic methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy, strength based and mindfulness based stress reduction techniques. I am passionate about working with people to understand and overcome things such as anxiety, depression, coping with issues relating to the Covid pandemic, anger and mitigating substance use. Please feel free to contact me for more information or to set up an intake at 508-422-0024

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Kayla Sims

Offering therapy in MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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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Michele Gouin

Offering therapy in MA
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan and Nevada with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & 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. 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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How to find counseling in Boston

Finding the best therapist close by in Boston 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 Boston. 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 Boston, 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 Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston, elsewhere in Suffolk, 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 Boston area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston, 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 Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston 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 02116 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 Boston 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 Boston 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 Boston, 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.

Boston 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 Boston.

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

02108, 02109, 02110, 02111, 02112, 02113, 02114, 02115, 02116, 02117, 02118, 02119, 02120, 02121, 02122, 02123, 02124, 02125, 02126, 02127, 02128, 02129, 02130, 02131, 02132, 02133, 02134, 02135, 02136, 02137, 02152, 02163, 02196, 02199, 02201, 02203, 02204, 02205, 02206, 02210, 02211, 02212, 02215, 02217, 02222, 02241, 02266, 02283, 02284, 02293, 02297, 02298, 02467

Popular cities near Boston, MA

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