Known for its many colleges and universities, Philadelphia, PA is considered a study hub of the northeast. College is commonly seen as a place to find yourself, but the stress of school may quickly become overwhelming. Not to mention that many people can feel lost with the life changing events that come at them during this period of life. Whether you’re a student, a busy professional, a parent, or some combination of all of these, therapy can help manage the stressors and big feelings that come with trying to create a more fulfilling life. 

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, research shows that 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. 

From Kennedy Blvd to Logan Square, from Independence Hall to the Rocky steps, 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.

This is Rozanne Secrest's avatar and link to their profile

Rozanne Secrest

Offering therapy in PA
License: MS, LPCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

Welcome. Well, as you might know, there are times when we encounter challenges to the difficulties or changes in our life circumstances. While we are able to resolve some of those challenges on our own or by talking about them with close friends and family members, there are other times when we need some professional help. You may have found yourself in such a situation, so, thank you for reaching out. I am here to help. I am licensed in both Ohio and Pennsylvania, and for over 24 years, I have been helping people of all ages as a professional clinical counselor. I offer a supportive atmosphere so as to help to reduce any feelings of depression, anger, stress or anxiety. I also help to develop more rational, confident ways of thinking. My treatment style is active, instructive, and informative. I use an integrative approach to therapy as I draw primarily upon cognitive-behavioral, family systems and psychodynamic theories as needed. Additionally, I offer strategies for parents who are finding that they are having behavior difficulties with their children. In our first session together, I will most likely be asking you a lot of questions to find out more about you and to more fully understand what you are hoping to accomplish or resolve during our time together. Since counseling has a direction and is goal-oriented, developing a general idea of goals in your therapy with me will set the tone and the focus for the next session, as well as the direction of the counseling process itself. So, if you are ready for some new ways to manage your feelings or behavior and, ultimately, your life, I look forward to working with you.

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Diane Smith

Offering therapy in PA
License: MS,L.P.C.
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
12 years of experience

Hi, my name is Diane Smith. Congratulations on reaching out for help. You have made a huge step towards achieving your goals. I have been working with teens, adults, and couples since 2010. I tailor my treatment approach to each client because I believe each one of my clients is an expert on themselves. I help my clients to recognize, discover and develop their own resources. I use a variety of psychotherapeutic modalities to enable my clients to reach their unique wants and needs. Some of the issues that I provide psychotherapy for are depression, anxiety, panic attacks, O.C.D., trauma, stress reduction, LGBT, family difficulties, couples therapy, grief, and P.T.S.D. I am passionate about helping people and I look forward to supporting you on your journey. Thank you for your time, Diane Smith

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Renee Felder

Offering therapy in PA
License: MSS,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

As a psychotherapist practicing in Pennsylvania and Delaware for over 15 years, I provide therapy to young adults and adults. In my practice, I address a wide range of issues including anxiety, stress, depression, interpersonal relationships, parenting challenges, and life transitions. Using my training and experience as a psychotherapist, I have learned to build a strong relationship with my clients. I am a warm and caring person and an excellent listener. Providing a safe and supportive environment is critical to the work we can do together. In my practice, I use a strength-based approach that focuses on inner strengths and resourcefulness, allowing my clients to build on their best qualities and strengths. I work with my clients to identify problem areas in their lives and and help them to positively and proactively affect change. Working together, my goal is to help you understand and resolve challenges in your life so that you can reach your true potential and live a happy and fulfilling life.

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Kimeesha Reed-Walker

Offering therapy in PA
License: Kimeesha K. Reed-Walker
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with over 13 years of experience providing supports to individuals dealing with behavioral and mental health diagnoses, substance use, depression, anxiety, trauma, co-occurring, suicide, and life stressors. My therapeutic styles are person-centered, nurturing, warm, supportive, compassionate and interactive. I believe that unconditional positive regard, empathy, and being authentic are key elements to building rapport and a therapeutic alliance. I understand that it can be a difficult to ask for help so it's' important for me to provide a safe space for individuals to ensure they are being heard and understood. I use evidenced based therapies including cognitive and behavior therapies, talk therapy, acceptance commitment therapy, trauma-informed, skills training, and an integration of therapeutic techniques and interventions. With trust and collaboration, clients will learn how to make meaningful change towards wellness.

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Sarah Duett

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I specialize in supporting individuals who have experienced trauma as well as prenatal/postpartum concerns. 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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Nicole Cassidy

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
12 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, and depression. I believe that you are the expert on your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. 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 and empower you in that journey.

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Niya Grenevich

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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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Jeffrey Morales

Offering therapy in PA
AddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, bipolar disorder, depression, & coping with life changes. 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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Zandra Robinson

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and 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 things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seek a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Dr. Linda Summers

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

I am a Clinical Psychologist licensed in Florida, Illinois, and Pennsylvania with over 30 years of experience working with people of all ages with a myriad of life concerns. These concerns have included depression, anxiety, relationship distress, parenting problems, and life adjustment issues to name a few. I have also treated people of all ages who have experienced childhood and/or adult physical, sexual, and/or emotional abuse. Having spent the past 14 years working with veterans and active-duty military members and their dependents, I am an expert in treating military related traumas. My therapy style is warm, friendly, and affirming. Every human being deserves to be treated respectfully and without judgment. My clinical approach is a blend of Psychodynamic and Cognitive-Behavioral therapies, but many other strategies and styles are evident in my eclectic approach. From our first meeting I will work to help you to identify the change you are seeking and the approach you will use to accomplish your goals. Change can be hard, but extremely rewarding. I hope you are ready to begin your healing journey. If so, I would be honored to accompany you.

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 19138 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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