Therapists in Amherst, MA
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in therapy with children and adolescents. I believe we all develop "ways of being" in the world as a result of our innate temperament and early experiences. Psychotherapy and psychological testing offer the chance to look at these ways of being with a compassionate lens, honoring the value they have held in your life while determining whether they are still useful to you now. Through this process, new ways of being can emerge, leading to greater satisfaction in your life.
I am a licensed psychologist specializing in therapy with children and adolescents. I believe we all develop "ways of being" in the world as a result of our innate temperament and early experiences. Psychotherapy and psychological testing offer the chance to look at these ways of being with a compassionate lens, honoring the value they have held in your life while determining whether they are still useful to you now. Through this process, new ways of being can emerge, leading to greater satisfaction in your life.
Shylah Ridgway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01002 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You spend your time doing everything for everyone else, while neglecting yourself and never feeling like you have done enough. You’re constantly procrastinating and feel dread about even the little things because it’s all too much. You worry that the plates in the air will fall, and everyone will realize you are incapable and incompetent. You feel like you are failing at everything, when, in fact, you’re killing it. It feels like a hard life is your destiny because of the trauma in your past. You want to break the cycle of that generational trauma, but you don’t know where to start. Sound familiar?
You spend your time doing everything for everyone else, while neglecting yourself and never feeling like you have done enough. You’re constantly procrastinating and feel dread about even the little things because it’s all too much. You worry that the plates in the air will fall, and everyone will realize you are incapable and incompetent. You feel like you are failing at everything, when, in fact, you’re killing it. It feels like a hard life is your destiny because of the trauma in your past. You want to break the cycle of that generational trauma, but you don’t know where to start. Sound familiar?
I offer individual therapy and specialize in treating depression, anxiety and addiction. I work from the belief that meaningful change is possible, and offer a supportive judgement free environment where we can work together to achieve your goals. I believe that every client comes with a unique background and history, and by exploring it together we can identify goals and overcome obstacles that will lead towards meaningful change.
I offer individual therapy and specialize in treating depression, anxiety and addiction. I work from the belief that meaningful change is possible, and offer a supportive judgement free environment where we can work together to achieve your goals. I believe that every client comes with a unique background and history, and by exploring it together we can identify goals and overcome obstacles that will lead towards meaningful change.
I specialize in using empathic listening and mind-body approaches to support adults of diverse backgrounds with stress, life transitions, anxiety, trauma, stuck emotions, coping with partner/family substance abuse, family of origin issues, and cross cultural issues. I am an engaged listener with a focus on self-empowerment. I provide a nurturing and supportive environment to facilitate authentic self-expression. I believe in the innate ability of each individual to heal and realize unlimited potential. It is an honor for me to witness this journey.
I specialize in using empathic listening and mind-body approaches to support adults of diverse backgrounds with stress, life transitions, anxiety, trauma, stuck emotions, coping with partner/family substance abuse, family of origin issues, and cross cultural issues. I am an engaged listener with a focus on self-empowerment. I provide a nurturing and supportive environment to facilitate authentic self-expression. I believe in the innate ability of each individual to heal and realize unlimited potential. It is an honor for me to witness this journey.
Having a solid therapeutic relationship is essential to the success of your experience in therapy, and I am committed to creating a space in which you will feel safe, deeply heard and seen, and can be a collaborator in the therapeutic process. I believe in creating a mutual alliance built upon honesty, empathy, trust, and respect. Together, we will explore the challenges and obstacles you face, while identifying personal strengths and other resources that will help facilitate meaningful change and growth.
Having a solid therapeutic relationship is essential to the success of your experience in therapy, and I am committed to creating a space in which you will feel safe, deeply heard and seen, and can be a collaborator in the therapeutic process. I believe in creating a mutual alliance built upon honesty, empathy, trust, and respect. Together, we will explore the challenges and obstacles you face, while identifying personal strengths and other resources that will help facilitate meaningful change and growth.
Rebecca Shulman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe that we are all wired for growth and that self-discovery is a life-long process. A warm and compassionate therapeutic relationship can go a long way towards helping you foster self-acceptance, increase understanding and make important changes. We'll work together to focus on goals that make sense to you and on taking actions that contribute to a rich and meaningful life. I've worked in the mental health field for over ten years and have experience supporting people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, major life transitions, and in relationships.
I believe that we are all wired for growth and that self-discovery is a life-long process. A warm and compassionate therapeutic relationship can go a long way towards helping you foster self-acceptance, increase understanding and make important changes. We'll work together to focus on goals that make sense to you and on taking actions that contribute to a rich and meaningful life. I've worked in the mental health field for over ten years and have experience supporting people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, major life transitions, and in relationships.
Pam Weissman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01004 (Online Only)
My current practice focuses on working with clients who are looking to make changes related to life stressors including: anxiety, depression, parenting, separation/divorce and life transitions. I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities including mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Please reach out and see if we could be a good fit working together.
My current practice focuses on working with clients who are looking to make changes related to life stressors including: anxiety, depression, parenting, separation/divorce and life transitions. I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities including mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Please reach out and see if we could be a good fit working together.
At this time, I'm offering Parenting Consultations ONLY (sorry, I am not taking on new, individual clients). For 15 years, I've specialized in working with kids and their families, but I rarely have openings. I know how difficult it is to find therapists with openings, and with this in mind, I now offer a series of consultation sessions for parents to gain further insight into the roots of what their child is experiencing, and how parents can help. While my consultations are not a replacement for therapy, parents have said our meetings are extremely helpful. For additional parenting help, see my website, deepdiveparenting.com
At this time, I'm offering Parenting Consultations ONLY (sorry, I am not taking on new, individual clients). For 15 years, I've specialized in working with kids and their families, but I rarely have openings. I know how difficult it is to find therapists with openings, and with this in mind, I now offer a series of consultation sessions for parents to gain further insight into the roots of what their child is experiencing, and how parents can help. While my consultations are not a replacement for therapy, parents have said our meetings are extremely helpful. For additional parenting help, see my website, deepdiveparenting.com
Clients who seek out my help are motivated to explore some of life’s hard questions and experiences and to figure out how to make meaning out of whatever they are struggling with. I work with people who have experienced violent loss, people who have encountered vicarious trauma and losses in their work of helping others (for example, people in the fields of law, medicine, education, social service), people who are challenged by their creative work or aspirations, people who are facing identity questions or conflicts (discovering a family secret, feeling the impact of a difficult event in the past or present).
Clients who seek out my help are motivated to explore some of life’s hard questions and experiences and to figure out how to make meaning out of whatever they are struggling with. I work with people who have experienced violent loss, people who have encountered vicarious trauma and losses in their work of helping others (for example, people in the fields of law, medicine, education, social service), people who are challenged by their creative work or aspirations, people who are facing identity questions or conflicts (discovering a family secret, feeling the impact of a difficult event in the past or present).
Are you feeling stuck, unhappy, fearful, lonely, angry, unsatisfied? You may know what's wrong and what you need, or maybe you just know you want to feel better. Perhaps you're struggling to stay on course to reach a particular goal, or trying to gain traction and confidence to be who you want to be. We all have our own story and temperament that shapes our reactions, decisions, confidence and ability to persevere. My approach involves offering a steady, inquisitive and skilled hand in sorting out problems and managing priorities given one's unique past, present and future.
Are you feeling stuck, unhappy, fearful, lonely, angry, unsatisfied? You may know what's wrong and what you need, or maybe you just know you want to feel better. Perhaps you're struggling to stay on course to reach a particular goal, or trying to gain traction and confidence to be who you want to be. We all have our own story and temperament that shapes our reactions, decisions, confidence and ability to persevere. My approach involves offering a steady, inquisitive and skilled hand in sorting out problems and managing priorities given one's unique past, present and future.
Are you feeling stuck? What is getting in your way of having the life that you want? What is keeping you from being your best self? Using ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and other complementary therapies (Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Positive Psychology) I can help you learn practical strategies to unhook from problematic thought patterns, to get out of your head, and to move forward in your life.
Are you feeling stuck? What is getting in your way of having the life that you want? What is keeping you from being your best self? Using ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and other complementary therapies (Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Positive Psychology) I can help you learn practical strategies to unhook from problematic thought patterns, to get out of your head, and to move forward in your life.
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I am a clinical psychologist in practice in Amherst since 1989. I work with a wide range of people, from college aged through older adults, and with a wide range of problems and issues including: negative or vulnerable self-image, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, losses, and life transitions. I strive to provide a warm, safe, collaborative, open atmosphere in which to help people find relief from suffering and enhanced vital engagement in living. I believe that pathways to growth and healing often involve increasing awareness of underlying self-defeating patterns in the ways people experience and live their lives.
I am a clinical psychologist in practice in Amherst since 1989. I work with a wide range of people, from college aged through older adults, and with a wide range of problems and issues including: negative or vulnerable self-image, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, losses, and life transitions. I strive to provide a warm, safe, collaborative, open atmosphere in which to help people find relief from suffering and enhanced vital engagement in living. I believe that pathways to growth and healing often involve increasing awareness of underlying self-defeating patterns in the ways people experience and live their lives.
Emily Bloch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01004
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with people feeling challenged by relationships, work, parenting (from pregnancy through empty nest), and aging, as well as people struggling with trauma, grief, and loss. I start from the position that past experiences and attachments have profound effects on our everyday lives, and our abilities to move forward. I have an interest in working with those who navigate multiple cultures and communities (through, for example, racial identity, class background, immigration, religion, gender, and sexuality), as well as those who work in education, healthcare, nonprofit, and creative fields.
I specialize in working with people feeling challenged by relationships, work, parenting (from pregnancy through empty nest), and aging, as well as people struggling with trauma, grief, and loss. I start from the position that past experiences and attachments have profound effects on our everyday lives, and our abilities to move forward. I have an interest in working with those who navigate multiple cultures and communities (through, for example, racial identity, class background, immigration, religion, gender, and sexuality), as well as those who work in education, healthcare, nonprofit, and creative fields.
I ‘ve worked with people trying to reignite their creativity, those seeking relief from panic attacks, depression or the impact of past trauma on present experience. those working with challenges in relationships & families, dealing with racial trauma or identity or navigating institutions & workplaces. My ideal client is someone who wants to feel seen and heard, who is curious & wants to suffer less, more fully enjoy their life & relationships and be empowered to make their unique contribution to the world. I particularly welcome BIPOC clients, mixed race as I am, the neuro-diverse, & those who seek to do good for others.
I ‘ve worked with people trying to reignite their creativity, those seeking relief from panic attacks, depression or the impact of past trauma on present experience. those working with challenges in relationships & families, dealing with racial trauma or identity or navigating institutions & workplaces. My ideal client is someone who wants to feel seen and heard, who is curious & wants to suffer less, more fully enjoy their life & relationships and be empowered to make their unique contribution to the world. I particularly welcome BIPOC clients, mixed race as I am, the neuro-diverse, & those who seek to do good for others.
Things that happened to us in childhood create how we see ourselves and how we show up in relationships. Whether through neglect or abuse, we give up on our feelings, needs, vulnerability, and human connection. And as a result, as adults we feel alone, anxious, or hopeless. I can help you claim what was not afforded to you while you were growing up. And live a life with vitality, flow, a sense of belonging, depth in relationship, and authentic aliveness. I have master level training to help you find personal freedom from the past and live your best days now. You can make shifts that are life changing and long term!
Things that happened to us in childhood create how we see ourselves and how we show up in relationships. Whether through neglect or abuse, we give up on our feelings, needs, vulnerability, and human connection. And as a result, as adults we feel alone, anxious, or hopeless. I can help you claim what was not afforded to you while you were growing up. And live a life with vitality, flow, a sense of belonging, depth in relationship, and authentic aliveness. I have master level training to help you find personal freedom from the past and live your best days now. You can make shifts that are life changing and long term!
Bob Chabot is a seasoned clinician who brings over 35 years of experience to his practice. He believes that therapy is a conversation in which the therapist functions as listener, facilitator, collaborator, witness and guide. Bob has helped children better fit into their families, and parents shape their home environments to better meet the needs of their children. He has helped couples renegotiate, rework, and repair their relationships and has helped individuals grow and move forward on their respective paths.
Bob Chabot is a seasoned clinician who brings over 35 years of experience to his practice. He believes that therapy is a conversation in which the therapist functions as listener, facilitator, collaborator, witness and guide. Bob has helped children better fit into their families, and parents shape their home environments to better meet the needs of their children. He has helped couples renegotiate, rework, and repair their relationships and has helped individuals grow and move forward on their respective paths.
Elizabeth Weinman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
There are many reasons to seek therapy. Perhaps you would like tools for coping with anxiety, support for dealing with loss, or help with processing trauma. Or perhaps you simply want to take stock and lead a more examined life. Whatever the reason, I meet you where you are and work with you towards exploring, establishing, and meeting your goals for growth.
There are many reasons to seek therapy. Perhaps you would like tools for coping with anxiety, support for dealing with loss, or help with processing trauma. Or perhaps you simply want to take stock and lead a more examined life. Whatever the reason, I meet you where you are and work with you towards exploring, establishing, and meeting your goals for growth.
For many individuals a spiritual and holistic based approach can provide nurturance, wisdom, and depth as one navigates life's challenges. In my counseling and coaching practice I help you identify your essential self, and from that center to work through the questions and obstacles you face in manifesting the fullness of your life calling. With insight and kindness we work together to find greater clarity and empowerment in realizing your dreams.
For many individuals a spiritual and holistic based approach can provide nurturance, wisdom, and depth as one navigates life's challenges. In my counseling and coaching practice I help you identify your essential self, and from that center to work through the questions and obstacles you face in manifesting the fullness of your life calling. With insight and kindness we work together to find greater clarity and empowerment in realizing your dreams.
Are you acting in ways that no longer serve you but you can’t seem to make changes? Are you feeling anxious or depressed but can’t figure out the cause? At Handel Behavioral Health our therapists in Amherst are here to help you develop the tools and inner strengths to meet life’s challenges. Whether you’re looking for couples counseling, therapy for substance use disorder, therapy for trauma, therapy for anxiety, or many other mental health and life concerns, our trained psychologists and psychiatrists in Amherst are here for you. We offer online counseling in Massachusetts, and in-person therapy from our Prey street office.
Are you acting in ways that no longer serve you but you can’t seem to make changes? Are you feeling anxious or depressed but can’t figure out the cause? At Handel Behavioral Health our therapists in Amherst are here to help you develop the tools and inner strengths to meet life’s challenges. Whether you’re looking for couples counseling, therapy for substance use disorder, therapy for trauma, therapy for anxiety, or many other mental health and life concerns, our trained psychologists and psychiatrists in Amherst are here for you. We offer online counseling in Massachusetts, and in-person therapy from our Prey street office.
Jim Helling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMPC
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
The findings of modern neuroscience are coming together with the practices of ancient traditions in the service of people whose lives have been marked by experiences of extreme stress and loss. I identify my practice as part of this international effort to expand our understanding of the human mind, body, spirit and community. My work with clients is based on scientific evidence, guided by traditional wisdom, and dedicated to the art of moving together toward balance, realization and integration in the present moment.
The findings of modern neuroscience are coming together with the practices of ancient traditions in the service of people whose lives have been marked by experiences of extreme stress and loss. I identify my practice as part of this international effort to expand our understanding of the human mind, body, spirit and community. My work with clients is based on scientific evidence, guided by traditional wisdom, and dedicated to the art of moving together toward balance, realization and integration in the present moment.
See more therapy options for Amherst
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Amherst, MA
400+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Amherst, MA who prioritize treating:
88% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
77% | Relationship Issues |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Self Esteem |
64% | Grief |
64% | Stress |
Average years in practice
16 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
54% | Optum |
52% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Amherst, MA see their clients
58% | In Person and Online | |
42% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
22% | Male | |
3% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Amherst?
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.