Finding the right therapist can be challenging. If you’re looking for a Cambridge-based provider, consider an online therapy platform like BetterHelp. BetterHelp has been helping people gain flexible and convenient access to emotionally focused therapies for over a decade. The providers are educated in clinical psychology and use an integrative therapeutic style to help clients overcome a range of challenges.
A therapeutic relationship based on trust and understanding can benefit a wide range of people, from gay and bisexual men coming to terms with their sexuality to professionals feeling burned out at work to clients experiencing body image challenges. You can work with a therapist to strengthen personal and romantic relationships, work through the stress of getting your undergraduate degree, or learn to focus on the present moment.
Whether you have a therapeutic approach of particular interest to you, like commitment therapy or art therapy, or you’re unsure where to start, connect with a therapist in Cambridge, MA, below to learn more.
Kristi Ayer
My name is Kristi Ayer, and I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of Massachusetts. I have over 13 years experience in the mental health field and have worked with individuals who are suffering from substance use, depression, mood disorders, relationship issues, difficult life transitions, low self worth, spiritual distress, and trauma including military-related PTSD. My therapeutic style is eclectic and my experience has led me to approach mental and emotional health holistically. I believe in whole human, whole story, whole life experience. My approach is rooted in the belief that we must take accountability, set boundaries, and reclaim ourselves by stepping out of conditioning and into worthiness. I am known for: - Offering an alternative perspective rooted in psycho-spiritual concepts, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy. - Providing a safe space to help you better understand your emotions and behavioral patterns so that you can make powerful and healthier decisions for yourself. - A laid back approach that allows for vulnerability which fosters the awareness necessary for change and growth. - Encouraging alignment with your authentic self by restructuring negative subconscious beliefs. - Quickly building a strong therapeutic relationship where you will be seen as an individual not a label or diagnosis. Let me join you in the journey of self acceptance, understanding, and love as you work towards goals that will lead you to a more fulfilling and purposeful life!
Andrea Kelley
Hello, and welcome to BetterHelp! My name is Andrea and I am looking forward to working with you. Starting therapy can be a big step and I want you to feel comfortable taking that step with me. I have a Master in Social Work from Boston University, as well as a Master in Public Health. My undergraduate degree is in the Study of Women and Gender from Smith College. I have 8 years of experience since earning my master's and, while I was in graduate school, I was working with youth and families involved with the state's welfare and mental health program. As a public health social worker, I examine both the individual and societal picture - the things that shape us all as humans and who we are as distinct people. While I utilize a number of different therapeutic approaches, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a particular focus of mine. All that means is that we do some looking at how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected and some ways to intervene when those thoughts, feelings, or behaviors are working against you instead of for you. Regardless of style, one of the most important factors in counseling is the relationship between therapist and client - I always tell new people that if it does not feel like a good fit, we should talk about it and you should feel free to let me know if I am not the right counselor for you. That said, I hope that we will be able to be successful in taking on this journey.
Marsha Johnson
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Music Therapist with a Neurologic Music Therapy Specialization. I have worked since 1995 in hospitals, nursing homes, day programs for the developmentally delayed and severely mentally ill. I have offered services in schools settings, senior centers, and inpatient units for several mentally ill. Most recently I have practiced Hospice Music Therapy. My counseling style focusses on the client and the stresses and suffering they are experiencing. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic and motivational enhancement techniques in addition to expressive therapy. I work with each unique individual to develop a plan that works for them, focusing on their strengths. My specialties include Stress, anxiety, depression, self -esteem and relationships, coping with aging/ill parents, dementia, compassion fatigue, and ADHD in children. I bring a compassionate heart and ongoing clinical training to assist my clients in their life journey.
Natalie Jones
Hello, my name is Natalie Jones, I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I made a mid-life career change after working for many years in the business world. I earned my Master’s Degree in Social Work from Wheelock College in Boston. I started working in Human Services when I made the transition from working in the field of business. I’ve worked with children and families over the past 14 years, most recently with older adults. Much of my experience has been with clients faced with life’s challenges and the uncertainty of change. Many of my clients have carried the emotional pain of childhood trauma, addiction, emotional distress, depression and anxiety. Treatment Interventions can vary from Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Guided Imagery, Motivational Coaching and The Cycle of Change Model. As a therapist I value the type of honest relationship that can grow over time. I believe a therapist needs to provide a safe, nurturing space to express difficult emotions. I believe in the art of listening and caring to achieve optimum empathy and compassion for the client. I value open mindedness, being non-judgmental and I understand how difficult it can be to trust someone with your inner most thoughts. I strive for clients to feel comfortable expressing their thoughts freely including hopes and dreams. I believe in helping clients to set realistic goals and work as a team to achieve them.
Jamie Haidinger
Hi my name is Jamie and I'm not your traditional mental health therapist. I have 30 plus years experience providing supportive counseling, crisis intervention and life coaching/encouragement in the setting of acute medical hospitals, nursing homes, and community physical rehab centers. I have worked with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief/loss and life changes ( empty nest, divorce, retirement ). People experiencing physical /emotional abuse have also found my support helpful. I have a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Salem State University. My Master of Social Work degree is from Boston University. I have a Certificate of Clinical Gerontology from Boston College. I am licensed in MA ( LICSW ) NC ( LCSW ) NH ( LICSW ) ME ( LCSW ). My counseling style is warm, caring and supportive. I meet my people where they are in their discomfort and together we identify the source of pain and we work together to find a solution. My approach is YOU focused. It is gentle and kind. I am a nurturer. I will listen to your story and together we will develop a plan that will lead you to a better place in your life. I will never lead you to a place you are not ready to go . We live in a challenging world. Life is hard. I believe we all deserve to have peace of mind, feel motivated, and experience joy. This is not too much to ask for out of life. With my many years of experience I have helped people lessen their anxiety, improve their mood, move forward with difficult life decisions, improve the quality of their personal/work relationships and heal broken hearts. I would love the opportunity to offer my skills and compassion to help with your journey to a more peaceful, joy filled state of mind.
Molly Nevens
Molly is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker whose primary focus is working with you in a safe, supportive and non-judgmental partnership to help you feel better about yourself and your life. Molly will thoughtfully listen and explore your concerns and assist in problem solving, effective coping skills, stress management techniques, mood enhancement, personal growth and healing. Molly works with both adults and adolescents and will integrate different modalities of therapy which include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Client-Centered Therapy, and Psychotherapy. Molly will work with you to determine the appropriate course towards achieving your personal goals and will work hard to meet your therapeutic expectations. Molly believes that therapy can be a life changing process and wishes you success as you start your journey towards a happier you.
Frey Figueroa
I am licensed in Massachusetts with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Shannon Baumgarten
I am licensed in Connecticut and Massachusetts with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.
Marissa Gurello
I am a licensed mental health counselor, licensed in Massachusetts, with 4 years experience working with adults, adolescents, and children. Through my work I have supported clients in navigating life’s stressors, anxiety, depression, family conflict, self-esteem, motivation and beyond. I collaborate with my clients to create an open and honest space, where they can feel safe to share and grow. My style incorporates a collaborative strength-based approach with components of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and client-centered practice, while keeping in mind individual experience and specific goals. Taking the first step to seeking therapy can feel uncomfortable and is very brave! I am here to support you in that process and help to make this a positive and personable experience for you.
Casey Horne
I am licensed in Florida with 10 years of professional work experience, but I've been in the mental health world for over 20. Every therapist is going to tell you they provide a safe and confidential place to share what is on your mind. That is something that should come standard with therapy like brakes on a car. You want to know if I can actually help you with your problems, and if we are going to "click." Many people give up on therapy, because they try once with a therapist they didn't click with. They didn't feel comfortable, or the personalities simply clash. I can't promise that I'm the therapist that can help you solve the issues you are bringing to therapy. I also can't promise that our personalities will not clash. Here is what I will promise. I'm going to be real with you. I'm not going to blabber a bunch of psycho babble that isn't practical to you. I also have a tendency to be blunt if I feel that is what is needed. Working with couples is my favorite, but at least half of my clients are individuals dealing with a wide range of general mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, loneliness, and social skills. I also love working with clients dealing with grief and loss.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Cambridge
Finding the best therapist close by in Cambridge 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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge. 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 Cambridge, 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 Cambridge region and in the state of Massachusetts. 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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find Cambridge 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 Cambridge, elsewhere in Middlesex, or in the greater state of Massachusetts.
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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge may not take health insurance, some in the state of Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts 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 Cambridge online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Cambridge, Massachusetts 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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Cambridge 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.
Cambridge 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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge 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 MA, 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 02140 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 Cambridge counselor?
Before seeing your Cambridge 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 Cambridge.
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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge, Massachusetts 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.
Cambridge 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 Cambridge, Massachusetts
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 Cambridge:
02138, 02139, 02140, 02141, 02142, 02238