Therapists in Syracuse, NE
Most clients come to me when life has hit them hard and they feel stuck. Something within them is screaming that they want more, but they don’t know how to get there and where to turn. To me therapy is a beautiful dance. One in which the client leads me to the inner-most crevices of their heart, and the light is suddenly turned on, bringing clarity, healing, and victory to the darkness. It is in this place that they are filled up to overflow, where they can thrive, love the life they are living, and pour into the lives around them.
Most clients come to me when life has hit them hard and they feel stuck. Something within them is screaming that they want more, but they don’t know how to get there and where to turn. To me therapy is a beautiful dance. One in which the client leads me to the inner-most crevices of their heart, and the light is suddenly turned on, bringing clarity, healing, and victory to the darkness. It is in this place that they are filled up to overflow, where they can thrive, love the life they are living, and pour into the lives around them.
Currently not accepting new clients due to upcoming time out of office.
Have you found yourself so stressed out you don't know where to turn? Are you dealing with a loss or issues associated with trauma? Are you maybe dealing with these stressors in ways that are not so healthy such as overeating or substance use? Are you afraid that you'll be seen as weak by "asking for help?" You are not alone! It is okay to ask for help and is now more encouraged than ever before. People often come to counseling seeking support: I'm here to provide a judgement free support system and additional ways to cope with this stress.
Currently not accepting new clients due to upcoming time out of office.
Have you found yourself so stressed out you don't know where to turn? Are you dealing with a loss or issues associated with trauma? Are you maybe dealing with these stressors in ways that are not so healthy such as overeating or substance use? Are you afraid that you'll be seen as weak by "asking for help?" You are not alone! It is okay to ask for help and is now more encouraged than ever before. People often come to counseling seeking support: I'm here to provide a judgement free support system and additional ways to cope with this stress.
Who you are tomorrow, begins with what you do today-a blurb from Google. Let's face it, if you're looking for change, Google is most often our first step. Congratulations, you've come to the right place at Alternative Avenues. With over 20 years of experience working with individuals struggling with mental health, addictions, gaming, gambling, and internet concerns, I know taking the first step towards change is the hardest. I also know sharing your goal to grow includes the support of loved ones which is why I also provide couples and relationship counseling at my practice. Together, we can discover the avenue that is right for you
Who you are tomorrow, begins with what you do today-a blurb from Google. Let's face it, if you're looking for change, Google is most often our first step. Congratulations, you've come to the right place at Alternative Avenues. With over 20 years of experience working with individuals struggling with mental health, addictions, gaming, gambling, and internet concerns, I know taking the first step towards change is the hardest. I also know sharing your goal to grow includes the support of loved ones which is why I also provide couples and relationship counseling at my practice. Together, we can discover the avenue that is right for you
My passion for mental health care is rooted in a deep commitment to supporting individuals as they navigate life’s challenges and build emotional resilience. I believe therapy offers a transformative space—one where clients can confront difficulties, gain new perspectives, and experience meaningful personal growth. This belief, shaped by years of clinical experience and academic training, guides my therapeutic work.
I have had the privilege of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, postpartum transitions, and relational concerns.
My passion for mental health care is rooted in a deep commitment to supporting individuals as they navigate life’s challenges and build emotional resilience. I believe therapy offers a transformative space—one where clients can confront difficulties, gain new perspectives, and experience meaningful personal growth. This belief, shaped by years of clinical experience and academic training, guides my therapeutic work.
I have had the privilege of working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, postpartum transitions, and relational concerns.
I admire you for being brave, even if you don't feel that you are. Life can be so overwhelming, scary, emotional, and confusing. I'm here to walk you through changes, transitions, and help you to gain insight and perspectives. I'm here to help you build confidence to be the catalyst for change in your own life and to feel like the expert and leader of your world. I'm happy to work with you on your goals and help you find your way through life so that you can be your full, authentic, and successful self. I enjoy helping clients to feel empowered, learn about themselves, and to step into their power.
I admire you for being brave, even if you don't feel that you are. Life can be so overwhelming, scary, emotional, and confusing. I'm here to walk you through changes, transitions, and help you to gain insight and perspectives. I'm here to help you build confidence to be the catalyst for change in your own life and to feel like the expert and leader of your world. I'm happy to work with you on your goals and help you find your way through life so that you can be your full, authentic, and successful self. I enjoy helping clients to feel empowered, learn about themselves, and to step into their power.
More Therapists Nearby
I believe therapy should be a place where you feel comfortable being yourself while also knowing you’re working with someone who will listen without judgment. My approach is warm, straightforward, and collaborative, with extensive experience working with trauma, sexual and domestic violence, relationship concerns, and adolescents. I bring both clinical expertise and a genuine, down-to-earth approach, helping teens and adults feel heard, supported, and empowered to work toward meaningful change.
I believe therapy should be a place where you feel comfortable being yourself while also knowing you’re working with someone who will listen without judgment. My approach is warm, straightforward, and collaborative, with extensive experience working with trauma, sexual and domestic violence, relationship concerns, and adolescents. I bring both clinical expertise and a genuine, down-to-earth approach, helping teens and adults feel heard, supported, and empowered to work toward meaningful change.
Everyone said having a baby would be the most magical time in your life, but you're finding that juggling the demands of parenthood and partnership leave you feeling more unappreciated, unseen in your marriage, and overwhelmed than you've ever been before. Feelings of loneliness and anxiety visit more than you could have imagined, and worry sets in that maybe you'll never cut it as a mom. Know it doesn't have to be this way. You can trust your abilities as a parent, enjoy the here-and-now with your partner and your baby, and approach both the chaos and beauty of parenthood with compassion, confidence, and humor.
Everyone said having a baby would be the most magical time in your life, but you're finding that juggling the demands of parenthood and partnership leave you feeling more unappreciated, unseen in your marriage, and overwhelmed than you've ever been before. Feelings of loneliness and anxiety visit more than you could have imagined, and worry sets in that maybe you'll never cut it as a mom. Know it doesn't have to be this way. You can trust your abilities as a parent, enjoy the here-and-now with your partner and your baby, and approach both the chaos and beauty of parenthood with compassion, confidence, and humor.
We are made for relationships. When those relationships become strained, distant, or broken, the rest of life begins to feel overwhelming. Life is already difficult. It's unbearable to do it alone.
Good therapy helps people relate to others in healthier ways: clear boundaries, emotional awareness, and honesty.
Your past shapes your present, but it doesn't have to define your future. Together, we will look closely at the patterns, wounds, and conflicts that keep you stuck. Whether it's something from three days ago or three decades ago, you can move forward with clarity and heal the relationships that matter the most.
We are made for relationships. When those relationships become strained, distant, or broken, the rest of life begins to feel overwhelming. Life is already difficult. It's unbearable to do it alone.
Good therapy helps people relate to others in healthier ways: clear boundaries, emotional awareness, and honesty.
Your past shapes your present, but it doesn't have to define your future. Together, we will look closely at the patterns, wounds, and conflicts that keep you stuck. Whether it's something from three days ago or three decades ago, you can move forward with clarity and heal the relationships that matter the most.
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Jennifer L Hilkemann
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LIMHP, LPC, ICP
5 Endorsed
Lincoln, NE 68506
My practice is dedicated to lasting transformation, integrating the mind, body, and spirit. I partner with you to meet your personal goals, make lasting change and support you in your journey for personal growth and healing.
Enhance Your Wellbeing: As a trained provider of IASIS Micro Current Neurofeedback, I offer a non-pharmaceutical option for enhancing mental wellness by optimizing brain function. IASIS is offered as a specialized adjunct to our psychotherapy work for a separate fee.
My practice is dedicated to lasting transformation, integrating the mind, body, and spirit. I partner with you to meet your personal goals, make lasting change and support you in your journey for personal growth and healing.
Enhance Your Wellbeing: As a trained provider of IASIS Micro Current Neurofeedback, I offer a non-pharmaceutical option for enhancing mental wellness by optimizing brain function. IASIS is offered as a specialized adjunct to our psychotherapy work for a separate fee.
Barbara Peeks Dunn, M.S., Licensed Mental Health Practitioner, Certified Professional Counselor: I counsel individuals, couples, adolescents, children and families. My home office is comfortable, private, and centrally located in Lincoln. You will never wait for your appointment to begin and will generally be able to make an appointment within a few days. Counseling sessions are focused on helping clients develop problem-solving strategies for life's difficulties by using their personal strengths and natural family network. I coordinate services with other professionals, including teachers, physicians, and social service agencies and accept most health insurance including Tricare, BlueCrossBlueShield and United Healthcare.
Barbara Peeks Dunn, M.S., Licensed Mental Health Practitioner, Certified Professional Counselor: I counsel individuals, couples, adolescents, children and families. My home office is comfortable, private, and centrally located in Lincoln. You will never wait for your appointment to begin and will generally be able to make an appointment within a few days. Counseling sessions are focused on helping clients develop problem-solving strategies for life's difficulties by using their personal strengths and natural family network. I coordinate services with other professionals, including teachers, physicians, and social service agencies and accept most health insurance including Tricare, BlueCrossBlueShield and United Healthcare.
As a child of immigrants I understand the experiences of living in two worlds. I bring a compassionate, culturally nuanced approach to mental health care. I approach every client with genuine curiosity and deep respect for their unique narrative. I do this by honoring each client's unique background, and considering how their lived experiences, cultural identity, and relationships shape their current reality. Through our work together, I help clients reframe their personal narratives to recognize the inherent value in every aspect of themselves. I deeply believe that within each person lies the capacity for their own healing.
As a child of immigrants I understand the experiences of living in two worlds. I bring a compassionate, culturally nuanced approach to mental health care. I approach every client with genuine curiosity and deep respect for their unique narrative. I do this by honoring each client's unique background, and considering how their lived experiences, cultural identity, and relationships shape their current reality. Through our work together, I help clients reframe their personal narratives to recognize the inherent value in every aspect of themselves. I deeply believe that within each person lies the capacity for their own healing.
My approach to therapy is relational, individualized, and grounded in authenticity. I believe therapy can be a meaningful conversation that feels natural, engaging, and even fun—without pressure or awkwardness. I work to truly know each person as an individual, not just as a client, and I strive to create a space where honesty, care, and trust allow for real growth. I believe in gently challenging clients in ways that promote positive change while also providing education to help make sense of why they are seeking therapy, gain new perspectives, and better understand themselves and their experiences.
My approach to therapy is relational, individualized, and grounded in authenticity. I believe therapy can be a meaningful conversation that feels natural, engaging, and even fun—without pressure or awkwardness. I work to truly know each person as an individual, not just as a client, and I strive to create a space where honesty, care, and trust allow for real growth. I believe in gently challenging clients in ways that promote positive change while also providing education to help make sense of why they are seeking therapy, gain new perspectives, and better understand themselves and their experiences.
You’ve probably spent a lot of time trying to “figure out what’s wrong”—or feeling like you have to work twice as hard just to keep up. Whether you’re a child who’s overwhelmed, a teen trying to fit in, or an adult just beginning to understand yourself, you’re not broken. I specialize in working with autistic children, teens, and adults, including those newly discovering they may be autistic. Together, we focus on understanding how your brain works, building emotional regulation skills, and finding accommodations that actually help.
You’ve probably spent a lot of time trying to “figure out what’s wrong”—or feeling like you have to work twice as hard just to keep up. Whether you’re a child who’s overwhelmed, a teen trying to fit in, or an adult just beginning to understand yourself, you’re not broken. I specialize in working with autistic children, teens, and adults, including those newly discovering they may be autistic. Together, we focus on understanding how your brain works, building emotional regulation skills, and finding accommodations that actually help.
Please visit my website to learn more about me and New Endings Counseling.
Please visit my website to learn more about me and New Endings Counseling.
Heather Vorderstrasse
Provisional Mental Health Practitioner, MS, PLMHP
1 Endorsed
Lincoln, NE 68510
Over the last two decades I have worked with children of all ages as well as their families in navigating life stressors, behavioral, educational concerns and many forms of trauma. I enjoy helping families to better communicate and understand one another as well as to be accepting of individualism and new boundary setting. I specialize in helping adolescents, and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, tough barriers/challenges to life and in trying to help them navigate through it all.
Over the last two decades I have worked with children of all ages as well as their families in navigating life stressors, behavioral, educational concerns and many forms of trauma. I enjoy helping families to better communicate and understand one another as well as to be accepting of individualism and new boundary setting. I specialize in helping adolescents, and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, tough barriers/challenges to life and in trying to help them navigate through it all.
As a child of immigrants. I’ve learned the importance of co-existing in two different cultures and how that can impact one’s mental health. I deeply understand the learned narratives surrounding privacy even at the cost of your mental health. Because of this I sought out additional education and certifications in numerous trauma modalities including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
As a child of immigrants. I’ve learned the importance of co-existing in two different cultures and how that can impact one’s mental health. I deeply understand the learned narratives surrounding privacy even at the cost of your mental health. Because of this I sought out additional education and certifications in numerous trauma modalities including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
In my many years as a psychologist, I have worked with clients across the spectrum of emotional struggles. The one thing that they all have in common is that they are in pain and want to change through understanding what keeps them "stuck" and then identifying and drawing upon their inner strengths. For some, this will mean learning better ways to accomplishing specific goals, while for others, a deeper understanding of the painful experiences that have shaped their emotional development is necessary for positive change. In the end, the emotional pain that brings most people to therapy is about relationships that aren't working.
In my many years as a psychologist, I have worked with clients across the spectrum of emotional struggles. The one thing that they all have in common is that they are in pain and want to change through understanding what keeps them "stuck" and then identifying and drawing upon their inner strengths. For some, this will mean learning better ways to accomplishing specific goals, while for others, a deeper understanding of the painful experiences that have shaped their emotional development is necessary for positive change. In the end, the emotional pain that brings most people to therapy is about relationships that aren't working.
Many people find themselves caught in cycles of overwhelming emotions, feeling misunderstood, and reacting in ways they don't fully understand. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults, offering a safe and compassionate space to provide validation and navigate life's difficulties. My approach is grounded in the beliefs that behaviors that look "problematic" on the surface always have meaning beneath them, thoughts are sometimes just thoughts, and feelings are always valid. I strive to understand the reasons behind behaviors, meeting every client with respect, empathy, and genuine support.
Many people find themselves caught in cycles of overwhelming emotions, feeling misunderstood, and reacting in ways they don't fully understand. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults, offering a safe and compassionate space to provide validation and navigate life's difficulties. My approach is grounded in the beliefs that behaviors that look "problematic" on the surface always have meaning beneath them, thoughts are sometimes just thoughts, and feelings are always valid. I strive to understand the reasons behind behaviors, meeting every client with respect, empathy, and genuine support.
In our work together, my first and most important question will be "What hurts?" Your answer will help us uncover what is blocking you from living your best life. From there we will make sense of not only what is visible in your daily life but also the underlying thoughts, beliefs, and patterns keeping you from healing.
Therapy takes tremendous courage, especially if trauma is a part of your past. You must be honest, open, and willing to grow. Real change is hard, but staying stuck where you are is hard too. I will help you choose which "hard" you want to live.
In our work together, my first and most important question will be "What hurts?" Your answer will help us uncover what is blocking you from living your best life. From there we will make sense of not only what is visible in your daily life but also the underlying thoughts, beliefs, and patterns keeping you from healing.
Therapy takes tremendous courage, especially if trauma is a part of your past. You must be honest, open, and willing to grow. Real change is hard, but staying stuck where you are is hard too. I will help you choose which "hard" you want to live.
See more therapy options for Syracuse
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Syracuse, NE
< 10
Therapists in Syracuse, NE who prioritize treating:
| 100% | Depression |
| 100% | Grief |
| 100% | Self Esteem |
| 100% | Stress |
| 80% | Relationship Issues |
| 80% | Anxiety |
| 80% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
21 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 100% | Aetna |
| 100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
| 100% | Medica |
How Therapists in Syracuse, NE see their clients
| 100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
| 100% | Female |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Syracuse?
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.
