Virginia Beach is known for, well, its beach. It has the longest beach in the world. Life can be like a walk in the beach. Sometimes, it’s relaxing, and other times, you feel alone and feel like the water will take you any second. 

A counselor can be someone who helps you on your beach journey, allowing you to make it to the end of your mental beach without struggle. Speak to a counselor based in Virginia Beach today and see what they can do for you.

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Orly Katz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCareer difficulties
16 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Thank you for taking the first step to make a difference. My name is Orly Katz. I am a professional counselor in MD, VA, DC and in NV. I am also a maternal child nurse. My passion for relationships and individual counseling stems from my life’s experience, on the job exposure and advanced continuing education. My professional background started in the late 1970s as a nurse-midwife in Israel. In 1985, I immigrated to the USA and continued working as a maternal child nurse. Although nursing was rewarding, I felt that my work was missing a vital mental health component, that I believed was integral to a holistic approach that I wished to provide for my clients. I later obtained an education in counseling, where I focused on relationships and couples. I facilitated support groups for new mothers, new parents, and worked with children and incarcerated women. My work with a diverse population and in different cultures taught me to accept people without judgment. My pursuit for the most current, research based approaches motivates me to continuously take advanced classes and training, and to read and participate in forums and discussions. This ongoing learning process keeps me updated, while refining and expanding my therapeutic approach. In my practice, I strive to provide you with the most empathetic, yet objective environment where you feel heard, respected and validated. Together, we will collaborate to customize a plan and provide you with the most tested, up to date tools and techniques to get to your desired wish. Your input and feedback are crucial to our work together. What sets me apart from other therapists? Style: My roles as a wife and mother, life experience as an immigrant and professional background all work together by deepening my value and respect for people. I view my clients with great perspective, which allows me to balance an empathetic technique with understanding. With this approach, I am better able to provide clients with direct and straight forward therapy. Clients tend to value this way of “not sugar coating”, or “not hiding behind the bush”. Clients’ Comments: “This is exactly what I need.” Specialty: Focusing on relationships and couple counseling, I am known for getting to the root of the issue faster and assisting my clients in customizing the best therapy for them, through educating them on worthwhile, tested approaches. Clients value this method of “nailing it”, or “getting it”. Clients’ comments: “Coming here is like going to an ivy league school”. Client Led Discussion: Together with my clients we continue to evaluate the therapeutic process. I guide my clients to set their pace and progress with confidence and trust. They feel empowered. Clients’ comments: “It feels good, I am hopeful,” and “We have a road map--we are not going to be in therapy forever”. I look forward to working with you.

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This is Stephanie Calvert Schuler's avatar and link to their profile

Stephanie Calvert Schuler

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,RPT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I'm a licensed clinical social worker in the Fredericksburg area of Virginia where I've worked with adults and families for 12 years in correctional, hospital, in-home, and outpatient settings. I bring an attachment based and family systems approach to treatment though am above all else, person-centered in manner and adaptive in approach, for the needs of each person.

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Elaine McFerron

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
43 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Greetings: I have been practicing for 40 years in a number of different settings. My Licenses are in the name "Elaine Walters McFerron." During the pandemic I moved my practice online. I have come to love this way of working. My experience runs deep. Many clients return at different stages of their lives when they feel the need for assistance, support and encouragement. How to get unstuck? I meet people where they are in the moment. I believe that change is possible. I am constantly thinking about what creates change. Often it is important to seek a different perspective. I think systemically. That means that I consider you as an individual or couple and all the people you are connected with. I value empathy and compassion. What makes us human beings? Everyone wants to be seen and heard. I believe in the power of presence and deep listening. Finding one's voice. I am direct and straight forward. I help individuals and families make important shifts in their lives, develop self-care plans, process grief, develop lasting relationships, establish spiritual practices. Because I am a writer with an MFA in Writing and Literature, I understand the creative process and help artists who feel challenged to make their art. I often prescribe books and other resources. I am a Certified iRest Yoga Nidra Meditation teacher and know the value of renewal, rest and restoration. It take a great deal of courage to begin any personal growth. I honor this courage.

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Dr. Esonija Fulgham

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW-C,LCSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefAnger managementDepression
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Dr. Esonija’ Fulgham is a licensed Clinical Social Worker, who specializes in trauma and is certified to treat trauma related issues. Her primary treatment modality is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. However, she is able to implement treatment to best meet patients’ needs. Dr. Fulgham has worked in the field of Social Work for more than 12 years and practices in DC, MD and VA.

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Dominique Watkins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in the state of Virginia and Michigan with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, & family conflict. 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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Jasmine Woods

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesADHD
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Virginia with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & 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. 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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Jennifer Kem

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Grief
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I have lived in Nevada since 1996. I am aware of community resources. I am a licensed clinical social worker, licensed in the State of Nevada. I have a bachelor's and masters in social work. I then completed my clinical internship working with children diagnosed with (SED) Severe Emotional Disturbance and their families and supportive team. I have counseled children ages 4-18 and their families, attending interdisciplinary and team care coordination meetings. Issues included but were not limited to depression, anxiety, grief and loss, foster care/adoption. I have worked with clients facing imminent immigration and deportation issues. My undergraduate internship was in hospice and a local community resource center. I have worked with the senior and disabled population, providing active listening and resources and connections to supportive services in their communities. I look forward to working with you!

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This is Delondria Hines's avatar and link to their profile

Delondria Hines

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in North Carolina with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I provide 30 minute sessions that will change your life!

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This is Quovadis Washington-Brown's avatar and link to their profile

Quovadis Washington-Brown

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Self esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
24 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Virginia with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, depression, & 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.

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Pamela Smith-Graham

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,Approved Supervisor of Counselor ,Certified Pre-admission screener
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Virginia with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open, supportive, 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. “My approach to therapy is to create a supportive environment using cognitive behavioral and solution-focused techniques to assist in achieving the personal wellness goals.”

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Virginia Beach

Finding the best therapist close by in Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach. 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 Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach, elsewhere in Virginia Beach (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 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Virginia Beach 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.

Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach 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 23471 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 Virginia Beach counselor?

Before seeing your Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach.

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 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach, 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.

Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach, 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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Virginia Beach.

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

23450, 23451, 23452, 23453, 23454, 23455, 23456, 23457, 23458, 23459, 23460, 23461, 23462, 23463, 23464, 23465, 23466, 23467, 23471, 23479

Popular cities near Virginia Beach, VA

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