Therapists in Essex, CT

Currently not accepting ongoing therapy clients but do have limited availability for EMDR intensives if appropriate- Life is filled with moments of great joy, profound sorrow, and everything in between; at times navigating the ups and downs can be challenging. Often people get stuck in familiar patterns that aren't productive. One of the benefits of therapy is having an objective, non-judgmental ally to assist you through the change process. Therapy is interactive and collaborative. As a therapist, my goal is to help my clients recognize and utilize the strengths they already possess to create the change they seek in their lives.
Currently not accepting ongoing therapy clients but do have limited availability for EMDR intensives if appropriate- Life is filled with moments of great joy, profound sorrow, and everything in between; at times navigating the ups and downs can be challenging. Often people get stuck in familiar patterns that aren't productive. One of the benefits of therapy is having an objective, non-judgmental ally to assist you through the change process. Therapy is interactive and collaborative. As a therapist, my goal is to help my clients recognize and utilize the strengths they already possess to create the change they seek in their lives.

I believe in treating your whole being - mind, body, and spirit. As both a guide and a witness to your healing, I want to give you the tools to help you see yourself, your experiences, and your emotions through a lens of self-compassion and curiosity. We will go gently and at your pace. My approach is integrative, rooted in evidence-based techniques, with mindfulness and somatic awareness weaved in.
I believe in treating your whole being - mind, body, and spirit. As both a guide and a witness to your healing, I want to give you the tools to help you see yourself, your experiences, and your emotions through a lens of self-compassion and curiosity. We will go gently and at your pace. My approach is integrative, rooted in evidence-based techniques, with mindfulness and somatic awareness weaved in.

Toss out what you think about couples and individual therapy. Instead come in for easy-going and enjoyable sessions that will give you results. You will learn concrete strategies based on research, neuroscience, personality type, and my 25+ years of experience as a therapist. Get from where you are to where you want to be.
Toss out what you think about couples and individual therapy. Instead come in for easy-going and enjoyable sessions that will give you results. You will learn concrete strategies based on research, neuroscience, personality type, and my 25+ years of experience as a therapist. Get from where you are to where you want to be.

Pathways Center For Learning & Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Essex, CT 06426
At Pathways we believe that everyone has within themselves the potential for personal growth. Through forming a partnership with our patients, we strive to guide and empower them to work through obstacles they face. Our mission truly lies in our name, as we help each individual create their own pathway for change. We are committed to maintaining your privacy and realize that Trust, Respect and Confidentiality form the foundation of this partnership.
At Pathways we believe that everyone has within themselves the potential for personal growth. Through forming a partnership with our patients, we strive to guide and empower them to work through obstacles they face. Our mission truly lies in our name, as we help each individual create their own pathway for change. We are committed to maintaining your privacy and realize that Trust, Respect and Confidentiality form the foundation of this partnership.

Jaqui is a Licensed MSW with extensive experience supporting diverse communities, families, and individuals in a variety of settings. She has guided children, families, and adults through challenges such as trauma, anxiety, postpartum and perinatal mood disorders, family transitions, eating disorders, divorce, and grief. Committed to creating an open, affirming, and supportive environment, Jaqui is passionate about working with members of the LGBTQ+ community and those exploring issues related to sexuality. As a trained EMDR practitioner, she offers specialized trauma-focused interventions to promote healing and resilience.
Jaqui is a Licensed MSW with extensive experience supporting diverse communities, families, and individuals in a variety of settings. She has guided children, families, and adults through challenges such as trauma, anxiety, postpartum and perinatal mood disorders, family transitions, eating disorders, divorce, and grief. Committed to creating an open, affirming, and supportive environment, Jaqui is passionate about working with members of the LGBTQ+ community and those exploring issues related to sexuality. As a trained EMDR practitioner, she offers specialized trauma-focused interventions to promote healing and resilience.

Living one's life with courage, insight and vitality is not always easy. Relationships can be difficult, disappointing or elusive. Families and careers can be demanding and exhausting. Transitions arrive and losses mount up. Anxiety, depression, self-doubt and low motivation may arise amidst the stress.
Living one's life with courage, insight and vitality is not always easy. Relationships can be difficult, disappointing or elusive. Families and careers can be demanding and exhausting. Transitions arrive and losses mount up. Anxiety, depression, self-doubt and low motivation may arise amidst the stress.

Are you stuck in cycles of worry, discouragement, or unhealthy habits - eating, drinking, or scrolling without control, feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Have life challenges left you feeling drained with low self-esteem? Perhaps your relationships are suffering - you find it hard to express yourself, and when you do, it feels like others don't understand. You want to break free from destructive emotional and behavioral patterns and start living a life filled with purpose and fulfillment, but you're unsure where to begin. Please don't worry; your strength is within you and waiting to be reclaimed.
Are you stuck in cycles of worry, discouragement, or unhealthy habits - eating, drinking, or scrolling without control, feeling stuck and unable to move forward? Have life challenges left you feeling drained with low self-esteem? Perhaps your relationships are suffering - you find it hard to express yourself, and when you do, it feels like others don't understand. You want to break free from destructive emotional and behavioral patterns and start living a life filled with purpose and fulfillment, but you're unsure where to begin. Please don't worry; your strength is within you and waiting to be reclaimed.

Art Therapy & Creative Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAAT, ATR, NCC, LPC
Essex, CT 06426
At Art Therapy & Creative Counseling, we specialize in a holistic approach to therapy using Art Therapy as a primary modality for self-expression. We assist our clients to facilitate the power of the creative process to foster therapeutic and introspective change since 2014.
At Art Therapy & Creative Counseling, we specialize in a holistic approach to therapy using Art Therapy as a primary modality for self-expression. We assist our clients to facilitate the power of the creative process to foster therapeutic and introspective change since 2014.

Thank you for stopping by my page. I work to create hope and connection for all ages. I understand that coming to therapy or asking for help can be a difficult and overwhelming decision for anyone to make. I am here to help make this decision a beneficial and rewarding experience for you and your family. When you step into my office, you will receive unconditional acceptance and advocacy on your journey towards health and wholeness.
Thank you for stopping by my page. I work to create hope and connection for all ages. I understand that coming to therapy or asking for help can be a difficult and overwhelming decision for anyone to make. I am here to help make this decision a beneficial and rewarding experience for you and your family. When you step into my office, you will receive unconditional acceptance and advocacy on your journey towards health and wholeness.

During difficult times, we can feel overwhelmed and stuck, unable to break ineffective or even destructive cycles. Getting “unstuck” involves incorporating new skills and concepts, such as psychological flexibility, self-awareness, assertive communication skills, mindfulness, effective coping strategies, insight, decision making skills, and values clarity.
During difficult times, we can feel overwhelmed and stuck, unable to break ineffective or even destructive cycles. Getting “unstuck” involves incorporating new skills and concepts, such as psychological flexibility, self-awareness, assertive communication skills, mindfulness, effective coping strategies, insight, decision making skills, and values clarity.

With over 25 years of experience, I offer a motivational, holistic approach to therapy, drawing from my extensive work in private practice, schools, and as a director of counseling services. My focus is on helping adults and teens navigate life’s challenges with a strengths-based, motivational approach. By creating a safe, nonjudgmental space, I work to build rapport with clients and empower them to understand and embrace their core values and beliefs.
I specialize in addressing self-worth, motivation, and the internal dialogue that can hold individuals back. Through a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness
With over 25 years of experience, I offer a motivational, holistic approach to therapy, drawing from my extensive work in private practice, schools, and as a director of counseling services. My focus is on helping adults and teens navigate life’s challenges with a strengths-based, motivational approach. By creating a safe, nonjudgmental space, I work to build rapport with clients and empower them to understand and embrace their core values and beliefs.
I specialize in addressing self-worth, motivation, and the internal dialogue that can hold individuals back. Through a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness

My journey as a Clinical Social Worker has encompassed 30+ years of practice. I have had the privilege to work with children and families as well as with adults in a variety of different settings. I have a strong background in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and expertise working with trauma survivors and with those who have experienced vicarious traumatization. My approach can best be described as integrative and holistic. This means that I rely upon various psycho-therapeutic methods and evidence-based models that are combined to create a personalized approach to our work together.
My journey as a Clinical Social Worker has encompassed 30+ years of practice. I have had the privilege to work with children and families as well as with adults in a variety of different settings. I have a strong background in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and expertise working with trauma survivors and with those who have experienced vicarious traumatization. My approach can best be described as integrative and holistic. This means that I rely upon various psycho-therapeutic methods and evidence-based models that are combined to create a personalized approach to our work together.

Every journey towards knowing, valuing, and loving oneself is worth taking. Are you interested in learning ways to cope with and heal from stress, anxiety, or depression? I am a mindful listener and sincere responder. My intention is to offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space in which to rediscover your inner wisdom and joy.
Every journey towards knowing, valuing, and loving oneself is worth taking. Are you interested in learning ways to cope with and heal from stress, anxiety, or depression? I am a mindful listener and sincere responder. My intention is to offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space in which to rediscover your inner wisdom and joy.

Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Looking for solace away from all the noise? Many people feel they have to carry the weight of their struggles all on their own. Big or small, nothing should be handled alone, and you don't have to! In art therapy, you can explore and express yourself in a judgment-free space, along with the opportunity to incorporate the creative process into your healing process. I believe a therapeutic relationship is built on authenticity, compassion, and openness. With a holistic person-centered approach, I incorporate mind-body connections via art therapy to create meaning after trauma.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Looking for solace away from all the noise? Many people feel they have to carry the weight of their struggles all on their own. Big or small, nothing should be handled alone, and you don't have to! In art therapy, you can explore and express yourself in a judgment-free space, along with the opportunity to incorporate the creative process into your healing process. I believe a therapeutic relationship is built on authenticity, compassion, and openness. With a holistic person-centered approach, I incorporate mind-body connections via art therapy to create meaning after trauma.

Accepting NEW Clients. The New England Wellness (NEW) Center specializes in child, adolescent and young adult psychiatry as well as parenting support. We provide psychotherapy, medication management, psychiatric evaluations & consults (which provide diagnostic clarification for treatment or referral purposes), neuropsychological testing, psycho-education, collaboration with schools and physicians, and group therapy. We specifically enjoy treating children, adolescents, and young adults aged 5-28 years, however we also work with parents to develop new parenting techniques.
Accepting NEW Clients. The New England Wellness (NEW) Center specializes in child, adolescent and young adult psychiatry as well as parenting support. We provide psychotherapy, medication management, psychiatric evaluations & consults (which provide diagnostic clarification for treatment or referral purposes), neuropsychological testing, psycho-education, collaboration with schools and physicians, and group therapy. We specifically enjoy treating children, adolescents, and young adults aged 5-28 years, however we also work with parents to develop new parenting techniques.

If your relationship is in trouble, I am here to help. You may be experiencing difficulty with communication, intimacy, fidelity, substance abuse, depression and anxiety. I enjoy helping couples get back on track and regain lost feelings of connection and trust. If you are an individual at a crossroads in life, I can help with therapeutic sessions that examine your present difficulties and explore solutions for improvement in satisfaction and well-being. AM
If your relationship is in trouble, I am here to help. You may be experiencing difficulty with communication, intimacy, fidelity, substance abuse, depression and anxiety. I enjoy helping couples get back on track and regain lost feelings of connection and trust. If you are an individual at a crossroads in life, I can help with therapeutic sessions that examine your present difficulties and explore solutions for improvement in satisfaction and well-being. AM

I am a clinical social worker who has been in private practice for over 30 years. I offer psychotherapy services for individuals, couples and families. My clients range from teenagers to retirees. I believe the strength of my work revolves around my ability to establish a safe, genuine therapeutic relationship that allows people to address whatever challenges they may be facing. Respect, kindness, a touch of humor, privacy and connection are the foundations of healing and change. I tailor my approach to address your individual needs.
I am a clinical social worker who has been in private practice for over 30 years. I offer psychotherapy services for individuals, couples and families. My clients range from teenagers to retirees. I believe the strength of my work revolves around my ability to establish a safe, genuine therapeutic relationship that allows people to address whatever challenges they may be facing. Respect, kindness, a touch of humor, privacy and connection are the foundations of healing and change. I tailor my approach to address your individual needs.

I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a diverse training background and set of clinical skills. I have worked in various clinical settings, including schools, community mental health clinics, hospitals, and medical research facilities. I have also worked with both children and adults, however I specialize in children, adolescents, and young adults who experience mental health issues. I provide various therapy and assessment services, and value the opportunity to collaborate with other systems to provide comprehensive, holistic care.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a diverse training background and set of clinical skills. I have worked in various clinical settings, including schools, community mental health clinics, hospitals, and medical research facilities. I have also worked with both children and adults, however I specialize in children, adolescents, and young adults who experience mental health issues. I provide various therapy and assessment services, and value the opportunity to collaborate with other systems to provide comprehensive, holistic care.

Nancy Diane Varga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Essex, CT 06426
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical social worker. I specialize in helping clients who are dealing with issues related to an oncology diagnosis, palliative care caregivers and or/chronic illness and grief and loss. I also have expertise in chemical dependence treatment and am a licensed alcohol and drug counselor.
I am a licensed clinical social worker. I specialize in helping clients who are dealing with issues related to an oncology diagnosis, palliative care caregivers and or/chronic illness and grief and loss. I also have expertise in chemical dependence treatment and am a licensed alcohol and drug counselor.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I offer a therapeutic place for people interested in exploring how the challenges or “symptoms” you are experiencing are preventing you from being your best self. My foundational training as a Clinical Social Worker has been enhanced with advanced trauma training including EMDR, relational / attachment work as a Circle of Security Parent Facilitator, Buddhist psychology and mindfulness. Several modalities inform my practice including somatic healing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and a relational approach leading to a greater sense of feeling grounded and whole.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I offer a therapeutic place for people interested in exploring how the challenges or “symptoms” you are experiencing are preventing you from being your best self. My foundational training as a Clinical Social Worker has been enhanced with advanced trauma training including EMDR, relational / attachment work as a Circle of Security Parent Facilitator, Buddhist psychology and mindfulness. Several modalities inform my practice including somatic healing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and a relational approach leading to a greater sense of feeling grounded and whole.
See more therapy options for Essex
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Essex, CT
40+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Essex, CT who prioritize treating:
90% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
80% | Self Esteem |
73% | Relationship Issues |
71% | Coping Skills |
66% | Grief |
66% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
23 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
74% | HUSKY Health |
58% | Aetna |
52% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Essex, CT see their clients
90% | In Person and Online | |
10% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
88% | Female | |
12% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Essex?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.