Like anywhere with a large population, a number of people in Indianapolis may be experiencing life challenges such as domestic violence, family conflict, or trauma from unresolved issues. 

For those seeking support from a therapist, Indianapolis, Indiana may seem like a sure thing for finding a perfect match. But even in a big city, there’s difficulty knowing what mental health professional is going to be best to meet your needs. Finding a therapist with an extensive background in the area you need, whether it be anxiety disorders, eating disorders, or self-discovery isn’t always easy. 

That’s where online therapy from a platform like BetterHelp can help. BetterHelp offers over 30,000 mental health professionals with specialties in any number of specialties like cognitive behavior therapy, EMDR, or a holistic approach to mental health. By filling out an online questionnaire, you can be matched with a therapist that meets your own goals and needs. Many people also find it far more convenient to meet with a therapist online. Appointments can fit into any busy schedule, and sessions can be attended from the comfort of your own home or office through video chat, phone, or text messaging. 

The road to self-knowledge and self-discovery can sometimes use a helpful guide. The therapists at BetterHelp can offer coping skills, stress management techniques, and relaxation exercises that can lead to improved mental health and feelings of well-being. If you’re a professional or student living in the Columbus area and feel that it’s time to make a positive change in your life, therapy with one of BetterHelp’s many licensed counselors can be beneficial in helping you reach that goal.

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Loretta Smith

Offering therapy in IN
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
5 years of experience

Welcome! I truly am happy you are reaching out. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if our life challenges would communicate with a Global Pandemic and find a middle ground instead of yelling louder than the others to be heard?! Well, as we are still figuring that one out, I look forward to being here for you and helping you with concepts such as communicating effectively or changing your mindset since we cannot change the mindset of COVID-19! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Indiana and have been working full time through telehealth platforms since Summer 2019. I have been providing counseling and social work services since 2006 in a variety of settings including residential, school-based, foster care, outpatient, and home-based. I have an extensive history working with individuals, families, couples, relationship, adults, and children. I am a skilled, empathetic listener who can help you clarify concerns and problem-solve the issues that are keeping you from feeling whole. As a therapist I have been able to work with most mental health diagnoses, age ranges, addictions, abuse, medical complications within individual and family centered treatment models. Below you will see the areas I have the most experience in and if I ever feel as though your needs would be suited better with another professional, I will let you know. I strongly believe that the things you are challenged with are not only about you! Family, no matter who you call your family, has a significant impact on how you can cope with changes to your mental health. Building rapport with you is my biggest priority. Most individuals I serve have told me they appreciate my level of self-disclosure and connection to what they are going through. I work extremely hard to meet each person where they are, and if my story is not important to your healing, then I let that go. My treatment approach changes based on what each individual needs. I use a variety of techniques from Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mind-fullness and Solution-Focused therapy. To put my style plainly, I use “techniques” (deep breathing, radical acceptance, challenging thoughts) and help you recognize how to adapt them to your daily life so you can feel empowered and in control when life seems out of control. I would be honored to walk this path beside you when you are ready. As COVID and isolation restrictions are still changing throughout the world, I know access to mental health services are almost more important than ever. I work extremely hard to offer you a schedule that works for you. I will be working T-W-R-Sa. My start times and end times vary between 9am-10pm EDT/EST, and my typical response times to unscheduled messages are between 24-72 hours. If you ever need a specific schedule due to your time zone or work needs, please know that I will make every effort to meet those for you. About Loretta: Loretta Graduated from Ball State University in 2008 with a bachelor’s in Family and Child Development and a minor in social work. Loretta went on to teach and develop parenting curriculum's as well as lesson plans for toddlers and preschoolers at the university child center. Loretta continued her family and child work into foster care settings. Loretta went on to receive her Master’s in Social Work from IUPUI in 2015 and began providing services to teens, children, and families in schools. Loretta's most recent role outside the home was as a therapist and team leader for adults, children, addictions, and Serious Mentally Ill (SMI) populations. Loretta is married with 2 children and a dog. Her family enjoys traveling, water sports like sailing and surfing, and in general being in the sun.

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Ashley Pendelbury

Offering therapy in IN
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and have been licensed in Indiana for over five years. I have worked with clients from many different backgrounds and with varying concerns including anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, ADHD, and concerns regarding sexual orientation and sexual identity. I have been trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. My style of counseling is warm, compassionate, and client centered. I believe that you are the expert on yourself and I will work with you to make the changes you want to make. I believe that counseling needs to be individualized as every individual is different and has different needs. I want to help you use your knowledge and strengths as you seek to meet your goals. It takes a lot of strength and courage to take the first steps to seeking out help. Together, we work to help you achieve your goals!

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Jennifer Malott

Offering therapy in IN
License: MSW ,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

With 20 years in a helping profession, 12 of which performing clinical/therapeutic services I have had opportunities to work with many unique populations and many amazing clients, all with different strengths and challenges. Some of my strongest work has been with folks struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar and psychotic disorders. My experience as a Vocational Counselor gave me specialized skills to work with those dealing with employment issues and I am passionate about helping others as they struggle with the stress of work, family and other responsibilities. My therapeutic approach is fairly laid back aimed at creating a comfortable situation for individuals to open up. Despite a laid back approach I am still very goal focused and client centered. We will work together to figure out solutions and steps to take so you can live your best life. I am looking forward to working with you and helping on your journey.

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Russell Silver

Offering therapy in IN
License: MS,LCPC,CRC
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I strive to take the stigma, fear, and jargon out of addressing your mental health needs. Helping others is my passion and I am grateful you have the courage to reach out for help. My goal is to empower you to process your emotions, view your thoughts and actions in a more productive manner, and have fulfilling relationships. Let's focus on your strengths not your problems/concerns. Finding a therapist you trust and “click with” is critical, not all therapists are right for you. Take your time and ask questions. Therapy must be tailored to you! I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and certified rehabilitation counselor with 12 years of experience as a hospital-based outpatient counselor (rehabilitation, mental health, substance use). I have a broader perspective on chronic disability and related systems/processes and emphasize a strong therapist-client strengths-based relationship. I have helped individuals adapt to new disability (i.e. serious mental health, multiple sclerosis), adjust to many life struggles and circumstances (i.e. anxiety, divorce), cope with serious mental illness (i.e. schizophrenia), maintain substance use recovery, and generally work toward optimal life functioning (i.e. improved relationships and school/work accomplishment). I use client-centered and top-down Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solutions-Focused Brief Therapy with motivational enhancement and positive psychology/mindfulness techniques. I'm trained in Gottman Method for marriage relationship counseling. I am training to become more experienced in bottom-up techniques to better support clients with trauma (such as somatic experiencing) I am married with a blended family with 4 children, one child on the autism spectrum. I am a 24 year Veteran of the U.S. Army and well versed in military/veterans culture and VA healthcare.

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LaDortha Mitchell-Young

Offering therapy in IN
Trauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Hearing the words, “you can’t”, “you will never amount to anything”, or believing that your circumstances define your future can be daunting and make you feel worthless. I am here to tell you that none of that is true. Change is attainable! I can help! Let me assist you with navigating through those difficult emotions by learning healthy coping skills designed to create a positive image built on self-love, self-worth which will aid in fulfilling and meaningful relationships. Once the layer of trauma has been peeled back, you will develop insight into patterns that no longer serve you and begin the journey of rediscovering You! I have over a decade of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I utilize various treatment modalities (i.e., cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, etc.) ) to assist within and beyond services. Also, I am certified in working with victims of sexual abuse and youth with sexually maladaptive behaviors. You have unique circumstances, so you deserve an approach that is client-centered. I look forward to hearing from you.

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Jennifer Brown

Offering therapy in IN
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I'm a licensed therapist in Missouri , Indiana, New Hampshire and Washington with over 20 years of mental health experience. I have experience working with individuals who have struggled with trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, motivation, parenting issues, stress and more. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I work to create a safe and open environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I assist clients in gaining an understanding of their experiences, and move from surviving to thriving. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage. I'm so glad you've taken that first step!

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Danielle Whiteside

Offering therapy in IN
License: LMFT
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Do you need a place to heal, an environment to explore making changes in life, relationships, or a career? Look no further, I am here to assist you on your journey. Let’s face it… We all go through hardships in life, and most seasons have their ups and downs. We were created perfect, but sometimes things go wrong, and our life experiences change us. Let me help you bring about lasting change in your life. Sometimes we need others to help evaluate ourselves and relationships, Together we can work through issues to establish stability, and set realistic achievable goals for change. I specialize in relational therapy ranging from premarital counseling, marital conflict, strained relationships, trauma, abandonment, foster care/adoption placement, and the enneagram, bringing awareness of our unconscious behaviors to understand our triggers and reactions. Be free to show up as “yourself”, let your guard down and take the journey to HEAL!

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Wylisa Love

Offering therapy in IN
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the state of Indiana with over 8 years’ experience in the field, with 3 of those years being as a practicing therapist. I specialize primarily in trauma work and I am an EMDR trained clinician. However, I also have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, parenting issues, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I am a strong believer in the fact that building a therapeutic relationship and establishing trust is an integral part of the process. I am here to serve as an empathetic and non-judgmental listening ear, and to assist you in establishing and monitoring your own goals towards mental wellness. Education and Training: UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON Graduation Date: May 17, 2015 Psychology Major with Criminal Justice Certificate UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MILWAUKEE Graduation Date: May 19, 2019 Master of Social Work (MSW) INDIANA PROFESSIONAL LICENSING AGENCY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES BOARD Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Expiration Date: 04/01/2024 TRAINING AND CERTIFICATIONS Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)– Trained Therapist Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood (DC: 0-5) Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) – Trained Administrator

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Patricia Pardy

Offering therapy in IN
License: LMHC,BC-TMH
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

I am a Mental Health Counselor, licensed in New York State, with over 16 years experience in the counseling field. I have had experience assisting clients with a wide range of concerns, such as, parenting issues, family/personal relationships, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, and anger management. It is my belief therapy should be tailored to the individual client's needs, therefore I often use a combination of therapeutic techniques and approaches when providing treatment. My main goal as a therapist is to ensure a safe and supportive environment in which my client can feel comfortable exploring their individual issues. The clients I have worked with would say I am a caring and empathetic therapist who strives to develop a relationship with her clients that will allow for honesty and maximize client growth. I look forward to working with you! Patricia Pardy, LMHC, BC-TMH

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Dr. Hannah Armbrust

Offering therapy in IN
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Indiana and have 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, lack of motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert on your story and 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.

How to find counseling in Indianapolis

Finding the best therapist close by in Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis. 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 Indianapolis, 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 Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis, elsewhere in Marion, or in the greater state of Indiana.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis may not take health insurance, some in the state of Indiana 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 Indiana 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 Indianapolis, Indiana 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 Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis 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 IN, 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 46210 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 Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis, Indiana 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.

Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis.

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

46113, 46183, 46201, 46202, 46203, 46204, 46205, 46206, 46207, 46208, 46209, 46210, 46211, 46214, 46217, 46218, 46219, 46220, 46221, 46222, 46224, 46225, 46226, 46227, 46228, 46229, 46230, 46231, 46234, 46235, 46236, 46237, 46239, 46240, 46241, 46242, 46244, 46247, 46249, 46250, 46251, 46253, 46254, 46255, 46256, 46259, 46260, 46262, 46268, 46274, 46275, 46277, 46278, 46282, 46283, 46285, 46291, 46296, 46298

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