If you’re looking for a therapist, Richmond, VA can offer more choices than many smaller cities or rural areas. However, there can be more to finding the right therapist than just looking for one in your area. There are a number of effective, evidence-based approaches to psychotherapy, with some working better than others on specific mental health challenges. For example, a therapist with specialized training in family conflict may not be the best one to see for treatment of mood disorders. Therapy should be person-centered, and the provider that meets your needs may not be available in your area—even in a city.
Online therapy with a platform like BetterHelp can give you a wider range of choice. BetterHelp offers over 30,000 mental health professionals with a variety of specialties from relationship challenges to emotional regulation. By taking a few seconds to fill out an online questionnaire, you’ll be matched with a therapist that meets your individual needs. And because the success of clinical services can rely on effective motivational interviewing, it can be essential to have a good rapport with your therapist. If for any reason you feel that you need to switch, you can do so at no additional cost.
Online therapy through BetterHelp can also be a convenient option for many busy parents, professionals, and students. Sessions can fit easily into any schedule, and video chat, phone, and text messaging options allow you to talk to your therapist from the comfort of your own home or office.
Therapy is not just effective for the treatment of mental health conditions. It can be beneficial for a number of people; couples seeking better ways to communicate, individuals looking for guidance on women’s issues, or those looking for a holistic approach to overall health and well-being. By contacting BetterHelp you can take the first step on your wellness journey today.
Sara Hoesly
I want to welcome you to Better Help! I know that reaching out to a therapist can often be overwhelming and difficult so I would like to applaud you for willingness to take that step. I graduated from SUNY Albany with a B.A. in Psychology and an M.A. and M.Ed from Columbia University in Psychological Counseling. I am licensed in Virginia (LPC) and Massachusetts (LMHC). I have worked in numerous settings including outpatient mental health and addiction treatment centers, as a contractor for the Department of Children and Families, and Day Treatment Programs. I have experience in both group and individual counseling working with children and adults. My treatment approach is adaptable depending on the needs of the client. I believe in the importance of client and therapist collaboration in order to determine the best course of action for the therapeutic process. Therapy is not a one size fits all process and the client’s voice is pivotal when discussing action, change, and needs. I look forward to working with you!
Dr. Cheryl Mansfield
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia with 20+ years experience in the mental health field providing psychotherapy to individuals and couples in a variety of settings including outpatient, hospital, and the military. My job is to help you explore your stressors in life, to build awareness around how those stressors affect you, and work with you to build some techniques and coping skills to alleviate the intensity of that stress and pain. Whether your challenges come from within, your environment, or both my major focus is to help you identify and overcome any obstacles that you may be experiencing. Successful treatment outcomes often depend on a combination of approaches to resolve problems, therefore, I use a variety of evidence- based approaches aimed at giving my clients efficient, long-standing relief. I emphasize a strength based perspective while providing therapeutic services utilizing a holistic, eclectic approach that includes techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and solution-focused therapy. I am committed to working with individuals to successfully overcome their specific life challenges that led them to seek out therapeutic services. I am passionate about working with individuals and strive to offer a warm, welcoming environment that allows you the ability to relax while sharing your thoughts and feelings. Most of all the emphasis is on providing a positive, safe, supportive and confidential environment.
Sonya Bryce
Hi there! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of Arizona and Virginia. In addition, I am a Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner in Virginia. I love working with people of diverse backgrounds who may be struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse/dependency, trauma and adjustment stress. My counseling approach is open and friendly. I encourage my clients to express themselves freely and to ask whatever questions they many need to. I primarily utilize Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing techniques in my work, although I adapt techniques to meet each clients unique needs. I work collaboratively with each client to develop a treatment plan that works for them and to set realistic goals for positive change. I believe it takes courage to step outside of one’s comfort zone to ask for help. I am here to partner with you on your journey to wellness. I look forward to working with you!
Wendy Chinn
Hi, my name is Wendy. I completed a master’s degree in Counseling and Human Development from Radford University in 2008. I also hold bachelor degrees in Communications and Psychology from Virginia Tech. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia since 2014. I have worked as a counselor in a variety of settings, including in both public and higher education, as well as for a private agency and in a religious context. I have clinical counseling experience working with individuals, couples, and families, including adults and children. I utilize a blend of traditional cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused and client-centered approaches with the addition of impact therapy techniques and other specific, targeted techniques, depending on the situation. My goal is to understand why you are seeking counseling, what your desired outcomes are, and to help you develop solutions to achieve those outcomes. I look forward to helping you address your concerns, issues or difficulties in your life and endeavor to develop more effective coping skills and increase personal satisfaction.
Keara Cooper
I am licensed in Virginia with 3 years of professional work experience as a therapist. I have been working in the mental health field for 10 years. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Dr. Scott Shaw
I am licensed in Michigan (LPC & LMSW), Connecticut (LPC), Virginia (LPC), Texas (LPC), South Carolina (LPC Telehealth), and Florida (LMHC-Telehealth) with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Britney Jordan
I am licensed in Virginia with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Wright Doss
In 23 years of clinical experience, I have helped clients like you learn how to manage anxiety and depression due to work stress, cancer diagnosis, and significant life changes. Medical professionals including nurses, social workers, counselors, and other professionals who found themselves burned out because of their experiences during the pandemic have called me for help. The objective is to guide you successfully through these life changes and hardships, manage the impact they have on your closest relationships, and move you forward in life with a renewed perspective.
Melanie James
I am a licensed psychotherapist with 7 + years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with life changes , motivation, self esteem & confidence building. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Mary Owen
I am licensed in Alabama and Virginia with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, depression and loneliness, self esteem, and trauma and abuse. I also work with couples to repair trust, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional intimacy with each other. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
How to find a therapist for counseling in Richmond
Finding the best therapist close by in Richmond 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 in Richmond that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Richmond. 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 Richmond, 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 in the Richmond region and in the state of Virginia. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Richmond or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Richmond area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find Richmond 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 Richmond, elsewhere in Richmond (city), or in the greater state of Virginia.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Richmond area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Richmond 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 Richmond 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 Richmond may not take health insurance, some in the state of Virginia may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Virginia you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.
How is a licensed therapist on this Richmond online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Richmond, Virginia 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 Richmond psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
How does working with a professional 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, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Richmond 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 Richmond helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified Richmond 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:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
- EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
- Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
- Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
- Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
- Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
- Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
- Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
- Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
- Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
- Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
- Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
- OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
- ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
- Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
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 Richmond 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 in Richmond?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Richmond 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.
Richmond therapists 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 Richmond 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 Richmond 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 psychotherapist.
With a lot of people in VA, therapists 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 23298 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Richmond counselor?
Before seeing your Richmond 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 while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Richmond.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. A Richmond 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 with a Richmond counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.
Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?
Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Richmond, Virginia 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.
Richmond 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 during telehealth appointments?
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 for Richmond, Virginia
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 to customer service 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Richmond:
23173, 23218, 23219, 23220, 23221, 23222, 23223, 23224, 23225, 23226, 23227, 23230, 23232, 23234, 23235, 23241, 23242, 23249, 23255, 23260, 23261, 23269, 23273, 23274, 23276, 23278, 23279, 23282, 23284, 23285, 23286, 23288, 23289, 23290, 23291, 23292, 23293, 23295, 23297, 23298