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, 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. 

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 Denise Bunner's avatar and link to their profile

Denise Bunner

Offering therapy in PA
License: MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
27 years of experience

Hello, my name is Denise. I have been a Counselor/Therapist for over 20 years. Through my years of experience, I have found that a client centered approach is often the most effective. Each client's story is unique and I want to have the opportunity to hear their story before going forward with a specific style of therapy. I listen with compassion and then review with the client the key points of their experience. The goals for treatment are then created with the client based on what they feel would be not only beneficial, but easily attainable. Counseling can be hard work, and so I want the client to feel that the goal they are working toward can be possible. All of us have heard the phrase, "these are unprecedented times." Yes, we all have been introduced to extraordinary change in the past couple of years. As a clinician, I am always searching for new ways of helping myself, my family and my community to work with the changes we are experiencing. Change is difficult for many people, but with help, I feel that each of us is capable of making whatever change is necessary to create a better tomorrow. Over the past 5 years, I have been exploring alternative ways of helping people cope with the issues that have led to anxiety, depression, sadness and grief. After reading Bessel Van Der Kolk's book "The Body Keeps The Score," I recognized that the human psyche needs to learn how to release the pain that is stored in the body. I have been taking part in the Eden Energy Medicine program and will share ways to release the pain stored in our body by sharing simple techniques that help to ground and relax the body. I often refer the members I am working with to one of Donna Eden's books that detail many of the techniques that I have been sharing with people. I encourage you to look for Donna's book, "Energy Medicine: Balancing Your Body's Energies for Optimal Health, Joy, and Vitality." Then contact me for questions and guidance on how to integrate these techniques into your life. I do believe that each of us can live with optimal health, joy, and vitality.

Get started View profile
This is Daniel Karlow's avatar and link to their profile

Daniel Karlow

Offering therapy in PA
Family conflictsGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
22 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. I also specialize in vicarious trauma. I work with staff who work with abused/traumatized children who have a hard time separating their work and personal life. 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.

Get started View profile
This is Vanessa Walker's avatar and link to their profile

Vanessa Walker

Offering therapy in PA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. 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.

Get started View profile
This is Brian Davis's avatar and link to their profile

Brian Davis

Offering therapy in PA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefBipolar disorderDepression
12 years of experience

Hello and thank you for taking this first step . I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience as a therapist and nearly 20 years of experience as a social worker. I have spent time working with a variety of populations throughout my career. I have provided mental health treatment to a vast array of clients from all different walks of life. I love this aspect of being a therapist because it has allowed me to gain perspective and understanding of so many different cultures and lifestyles. I am calm and empathetic, I believe in therapy and the power it has to help a client actualize their best self possible. Therapy is a journey that will help you explore the feelings you are having and maybe even figure out where they came from. Our feelings can be so hard to understand that we often just "deal with it". While that may provide some temporary relief, it does not give you any sense of direction. It's important to understand that your feelings are important, meaningful, and valid. They are your feelings and you are entitled to them without judgement from others. You can even feel them without feeling bad about feeling bad! Believe it or not, its ok to not be ok. I think it is helpful to think of therapy in terms of the old cliché about leading a horse to water but being unable to make the horse drink. This therapeutic relationship is ours to build. I can get you to the water, but when you get there, if you don't want to drink, you won't drink. Let's work together to see if “taking a drink” of some new ideas and perspectives could help you feel more equipped to function in a place of strength and confidence. It seems overwhelming, but you’re not alone with your thoughts anymore. We can do this!

Get started View profile
This is Melody Dascanio's avatar and link to their profile

Melody Dascanio

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

It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. Licensed in Pennsylvania, with over 11 years of professional work experience, some of my specialty areas include treating survivors domestic violence and narcissistic abuse, adult children of emotionally immature parents, severe trauma, trichotillomania, BFRB disorders, mood disorders, and anxiety. I am a level 2 Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Certified Compassion Fatigue Specialist. I offer many treatment modalities, including EMDR. I have experience in helping clients with LGBTQ+ -related issues, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I believe that you are the expert of your story! You have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming challenges in your life. The role of therapy is to help you realize your own power and support you through your personal journey. I'm humbled by each and every person that allows me to be a part of their journey and look forward to working with you! In my free time, I enjoy taking care of my cats, dogs, parrots, and horses. In addition to a degree in psychology/counseling, I also have a degree in music and enjoy playing piano, clarinet, and violin. I am proud to be a bass clarinetist in the North Pittsburgh Symphonic Band and a Bb Clarinetist in the Musician's Concert Band. I also enjoy bluegrass music and have been a singer in my family's bluegrass band "Keep Off the Grass" for many years. My friends describe me as unique, humorous and quirky; all qualities that I am proud to incorporate into the way I provide therapy. I do not always post all available times throughout the week onto the calendar, as my schedule can be flexible when needed. If you need a day or time that is not offered, don't worry, just send me a message- I pride myself in working hard to find days and times that work for each individual person!

Get started View profile
This is Dr. Courtney Alio's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Courtney Alio

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and focus (adhd), and comorbid medical conditions such as chronic pain. 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!

Get started View profile
This is Damaris Vanderhall's avatar and link to their profile

Damaris Vanderhall

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
15 years of experience

What sets me apart from other counselors is my ability to meet the client “where they are”…Whether that is a client with a severe and persistent mental health disorder or a client that I only meet with for a few brief sessions to help them work through a “tough period” in their lives. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working in the behavioral health field since 2005. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Cedar Crest College in 1998 and my Master’s In Social Work from Kutztown University in 2010. I have worked as a therapist on a multidisciplinary treatment team in inpatient facilities and outpatient clinic settings. I am certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy which has been proven effective in changing thought process and/or behavior to get more out of life. Simply stated – life isn’t black OR white and we often miss the importance of approaching things from a “gray point of view”. Thinking dialectically has changed how I communicate and handle stress and I embrace every opportunity to teach those skills to those who need them. Depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and communication issues, addiction (your own or a loved one’s) are just a few of the things I have focused on with clients throughout my career. I feel grateful every time I have an opportunity to work with someone who trusts me enough to be vulnerable and willing to allow me to help them reach their goals.

Get started View profile
This is Jeffrey Morales's avatar and link to their profile

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.

Get started View profile
This is Lauren Sebring's avatar and link to their profile

Lauren Sebring

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with over 5 years of experience. I have experience in helping a diverse population of clients with varying issues. Areas of expertise include: addiction, trauma, anxiety, stress, and working with uniformed professionals (first responders, corrections, military, etc.) Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Get started View profile
This is Katie Lee's avatar and link to their profile

Katie Lee

Offering therapy in PA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I also have experience working with trauma and abuse. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Get started View profile

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 19140 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 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 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

Popular cities near Philadelphia, PA

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