Picking the right counselor for the job can be a tough decision. So many counselors, so little time. Your mental health issues need someone who can fully understand, and at times, it may feel like no one does. Who can you turn to for solutions? Well, look no further. A counselor based in Tempe can be your one-stop for your mental health needs, giving you the solutions and care that you deserve. 

Tempe is known for its giant shopping mall. In life, finding the answer can be like wandering through a giant, crowded mall. Nothing looks interesting, and it’s hard to navigate. Luckily, you can fix this by speaking to a counselor. They can be your way out, or the store that you can go to for all your mental health needs. Speak to a counselor today and see how they can help. 

This is Heather Scarbrough's avatar and link to their profile

Heather Scarbrough

Offering therapy in AZ
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
9 years of experience

Hello, I am Heather Scarbrough. I have a Bachelors in Psychology, Bachelors in Family & Human Development, and a Masters of Advanced Study in Marriage and Family. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) that works with children ages 3 and up, individuals, couples, and families. In my undergraduate studies I tutored youth in underprivileged communities. I also volunteered at a daycare for a women’s shelter. In 2014 I was an intern clinician at La Frontera, working with children, adults, and families. In 2014 I concurrently interned at a private practice, Arizona Marriage & Family Therapy Clinic, working with individual adults and couples. In 2015 I began working for Jewish Family & Childrens Services (JFCS), where I also become trained in A-CRA, DBT and EMDR therapy. In my 4 years at JFCS I served as a clinician, a CMDP intake specialist, interim clinical manager, and Clinical Manager for the Child Crisis Hospitalization Team (CCHT). In May 2019 I transitioned to the role of Trauma Specialist at StreetLightUSA. There I served as the clinical director and primary therapist where I created and implemented policies and procedures, trainings, programming, and therapeutic curriculums for the opening of their new Behavioral Health Residential Facility for adolescent females at risk of or confirmed victims of commercial sexual exploitation (i.e., sex trafficking). I supervised staff providing services to residents and personally provided intensive group therapy, individual therapy, and family therapy services to clients and their families. I became a therapist for BetterHelp in April of 2020 to expand my experience using a telehealth platform while we were restricted from in-person therapy services during the peak of the COVID pandemic. I have found in being a provider for BetterHelp how we are making services so much more accessible and plan to continue being a provider here for years in the future. I approach therapy from a use of multiple modalities in order to provide my clients an individualized approach that best fits their needs, versus a one-size-fits-all approach. I utilize empathy throughout our sessions, but there are times I may need to be directive and challenge my clients to try something new in order to help them reach their goals. I also may utilize humor when appropriate to relate to my clients and lighten our sessions, however you can be sure that I take our sessions very seriously. I will assign homework to be completed in between live sessions, in order for us to take what we discussed during live sessions and put it in action. This helps you to regularly practice coping skills, changes in thought patterns, or other items that we are working on to help you reach your treatment goals.

This is Lynette Belknap-Williams's avatar and link to their profile

Lynette Belknap-Williams

Offering therapy in AZ
License: MA,LPC LCPC PC, LMHC
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemADHD
13 years of experience

Hello! My name is Lynette. I have been practicing therapy for over 12 years. I am currently licensed in Arizona, Florida, Idaho, Montana, New Hampshire, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming. I believe in treating all people with dignity and respect. Your privacy is precious to me and I will protect it. I have enjoyed helping many different populations of people with all sorts of issues and concerns. Helping people reach their individual potential for success is a joy for me. I am a trained in EMDR, SFBT, CBT, MRT, MI, and Prime for Life, and practice as a full time professional counselor in several venues. I believe in meeting people where they are and walking with them on their journey to accomplish their goals to be their personal best. Sometimes in life, there are situations that arise, that cause problems we struggle to cope with on our own. Anxiety, stress, feelings of being overwhelmed or depression, just to name a few. I can help by working together, with you, on creative solutions, setting goals and guiding you through the steps of accomplishing those goals. I specialize in trauma and PTSD as well as anxiety and depression concerns, as well as substance abuse, and I have significant experience in families and relationship issues. There are solutions, we can find them together, and we can accomplish your goals to reduce negative emotions, relieve stress and build a path to overall health and wellness. I am an eclectic therapist. I believe in building a a custom strategy that is tailor fit to your specific situation and needs. You are the expert on your situation. With you choosing the destination, my navigation will see you through to great success! Whenever you're ready...so am I!

This is Michele Kahn's avatar and link to their profile

Michele Kahn

Offering therapy in AZ
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Arizona with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy-related issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe that you are the expert on your story and have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. I have many years of experience in the creative arts and like to incorporate different tools . I believe everyone has the ability to make a wonderful life for themselves. Sometimes we need help! Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Elizabeth "Liz" McDowell's avatar and link to their profile

Elizabeth "Liz" McDowell

Offering therapy in AZ
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and currently hold licenses in the following states: Idaho, California, Arizona, Utah, and Maine. I’ve provided services to individuals, couples, and families, for more than 16 years, working with various populations, including inpatient and outpatient settings, providing assessments, therapy, and support. I genuinely care about the individuals I work with and appreciate the opportunity to help with life challenges. I tend to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused therapy, Art therapy, and Motivational Interviewing techniques in sessions. Some of the areas I can help with are, crisis situations, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, attachment issues, traumatic events, relationships, and communication skills.

This is Bethany Kelley's avatar and link to their profile

Bethany Kelley

Offering therapy in AZ
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

Hey there and welcome! I am a Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working in the Mental Health and Addiction fields. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, parenting problems, career/life change, military adjustment concerns, LGBTQ+ and relationship issues. I believe each person is unique and so I use a person centered approach with a very warm, non-judgemental and compassionate style. I believe in treating others with the highest level of respect and dignity. I will meet you where you are and move with you at your pace. I don't believe in stigmatizing labels--the world does enough of that. I acknowledge the courage it takes to seek out answers and create a more rewarding life! I also commend you for your choice in owning the goal to be a healthier YOU! I look forward to joining you on your journey to an improved, happier YOU!

This is Dr. Veryl Williams's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Veryl Williams

Offering therapy in AZ
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoaching
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Arizona and Michigan with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. 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.

This is Emily Schram's avatar and link to their profile

Emily Schram

Offering therapy in AZ
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

One of my greatest pleasures of being a counselor is the honor of witnessing and helping a client along their personal journey to a life worth living. I assist my clients, which include adolescents and adults, to find healthy perceptions of themselves, identify skills, and strengthen their relationships to find peace, hope, and joy. There is no single approach for every client, and I have been trained in a range of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and client centered techniques. I have a Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of Mississippi. I have a B.A. in Psychology from The University of Memphis. I have been practicing as an outpatient therapist in community and private clinic settings since 2013. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Minnesota, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Wisconsin, and a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC). I have just recently moved to the sunny Southwest - Albuquerque, New Mexico to be exact! So if you're in MN or WI I'm just an hour behind. :) I look forward to talking with you and helping you on your journey towards the life you want. *she/her

This is Nerissa Pratt Franklin's avatar and link to their profile

Nerissa Pratt Franklin

Offering therapy in AZ
License: MS, LMHC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteem
20 years of experience

Hello! My name is Nerissa Pratt Franklin and I am mental health counselor that is licensed in Florida,Georgia, Kentucky, and Arizona . I have been counseling for the past twenty years and during that time, I specialized in working with couples, adults, children, and families. I help my clients address a variety of issues including (but not limited to) military lifestyle issues, relationship issues, life transitions, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ issues, and grief. I am very passionate about helping my clients build strong relationships and coping skills through counseling. I will help you accomplish your therapy goals through person-centered therapy combined with cognitive behavioral therapy. I believe that these two therapeutic approaches will help to empower you and change the thinking/behaviors that are causing difficulties in your life. For your safety and due to my licensure states legal and ethical requirements, if you choose to work with me I will need a copy of your driver's license, contact information, and emergency contact information. Please be informed that anything in our sessions remains confidential unless you say you are going to harm your self or someone else. Congratulations on taking the first step towards becoming a better you! Remember to trust yourself and the process. I am here to help you. Let’s get started today!

This is Courtney Williams's avatar and link to their profile

Courtney Williams

Offering therapy in AZ
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

I AM HERE TO HELP YOU HEAL, FEEL BETTER, HAPPIER AND START ENJOYING LIFE AGAIN! As a mother of two and a military spouse, I understand the demands of being everything for everyone else outside of yourself. I’ve worked with children, teens, and adults of various backgrounds including military, psychiatric, and individualized therapy, but my passion lies with women/couples and their over all mental wellness!

This is Denee Canady's avatar and link to their profile

Denee Canady

Offering therapy in AZ
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find counseling in Tempe

Finding the best therapist close by in Tempe 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 Tempe. 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 Tempe, 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 Tempe 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 Tempe 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 Tempe, elsewhere in Maricopa, or in the greater state of Arizona.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Tempe 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 Tempe 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 Tempe may not take health insurance, some in the state of Arizona 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 Arizona 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 Tempe, Arizona 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 Tempe 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 Tempe 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 Tempe 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 Tempe 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 Tempe 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 AZ, 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 85287 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 Tempe 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 Tempe 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 Tempe, Arizona 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.

Tempe 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 Tempe.

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

85280, 85281, 85282, 85283, 85284, 85285, 85287

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist