Therapists in Erie County, NY

Making the decision to come to therapy can be difficult, especially when searching for the right person to share the most vulnerable parts of ourselves with. Knowing this, I take a person-centered approach to ensure you experience safety while processing difficult thoughts, emotions, or experiences. My background includes working with people who want to heal from past difficult experiences, who are coping with excessive worry, undergoing major life transitions, and experiencing difficulty with relationships.
Making the decision to come to therapy can be difficult, especially when searching for the right person to share the most vulnerable parts of ourselves with. Knowing this, I take a person-centered approach to ensure you experience safety while processing difficult thoughts, emotions, or experiences. My background includes working with people who want to heal from past difficult experiences, who are coping with excessive worry, undergoing major life transitions, and experiencing difficulty with relationships.

I know it can seem like a challenge to find a good therapist, but it is absolutely worth it to push forward until you find the best fit for you! I prioritize helping my clients find the strength and resilience needed to get through what life brings to the table. I use multiple therapeutic approaches with each client and tailor therapy to your individual needs. As a trauma therapist specifically, I take great pride in building a strong therapeutic relationship with the clients I see, as I believe that is the foundation of effective therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York, Colorado, and South Carolina.
I know it can seem like a challenge to find a good therapist, but it is absolutely worth it to push forward until you find the best fit for you! I prioritize helping my clients find the strength and resilience needed to get through what life brings to the table. I use multiple therapeutic approaches with each client and tailor therapy to your individual needs. As a trauma therapist specifically, I take great pride in building a strong therapeutic relationship with the clients I see, as I believe that is the foundation of effective therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York, Colorado, and South Carolina.

I am someone who is fortunate enough to love my job! It is very rewarding to watch my clients grow as they work through anxious thoughts, depressed moods, traumatic memories, relationship challenges and complicated childhood experiences. If you think I might be the right fit for you and you are ready to take that next step, It would be my privilege to help you to figure out a plan in creating positive change in your life. We will work together to sort through your thoughts and behaviors, while learning positive coping strategies for symptom management.
I am someone who is fortunate enough to love my job! It is very rewarding to watch my clients grow as they work through anxious thoughts, depressed moods, traumatic memories, relationship challenges and complicated childhood experiences. If you think I might be the right fit for you and you are ready to take that next step, It would be my privilege to help you to figure out a plan in creating positive change in your life. We will work together to sort through your thoughts and behaviors, while learning positive coping strategies for symptom management.

Due to the unexpected closing of River Art Gallery, I will not be taking on new clients at this time.
Due to the unexpected closing of River Art Gallery, I will not be taking on new clients at this time.

I realize how difficult it is reaching out for counseling. I am easy to talk to and I care about your issues. I have more than 20 years experience working with mental health issues i.e. depression, anxiety, loss; relationship issues; estrangements; stress and self care. I identify patterns of behavior that are sometimes destructive and help to find ways to change these patterns. Women's issues with which I work include postpartum depression and identity issues such developing a career/motherhood balance. I also work frequently with individuals in the helping professions. I want to help you live the life you want for yourself.
I realize how difficult it is reaching out for counseling. I am easy to talk to and I care about your issues. I have more than 20 years experience working with mental health issues i.e. depression, anxiety, loss; relationship issues; estrangements; stress and self care. I identify patterns of behavior that are sometimes destructive and help to find ways to change these patterns. Women's issues with which I work include postpartum depression and identity issues such developing a career/motherhood balance. I also work frequently with individuals in the helping professions. I want to help you live the life you want for yourself.

As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), I am dedicated to helping clients learn new skills to become healthier versions of themselves. I have been working in the mental health field in the Buffalo area since 2016 providing services to children, adolescents and adults. I believe in using a trauma based approach to help individuals explore their past to help improve their present and future.
As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), I am dedicated to helping clients learn new skills to become healthier versions of themselves. I have been working in the mental health field in the Buffalo area since 2016 providing services to children, adolescents and adults. I believe in using a trauma based approach to help individuals explore their past to help improve their present and future.

Debra Riter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CASAC
Hamburg, NY 14075
Not accepting new clients
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor. With over 25 years experience in the mental health and addiction field, i have worked with a diverse group of clients. I am familiar with a wide variety of diagnostic categories and treatment intervention strategies. My approach to therapy is collaborative, person-centered and goal directed with a strong focus one evidence-based practices designed to meet your needs.
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor. With over 25 years experience in the mental health and addiction field, i have worked with a diverse group of clients. I am familiar with a wide variety of diagnostic categories and treatment intervention strategies. My approach to therapy is collaborative, person-centered and goal directed with a strong focus one evidence-based practices designed to meet your needs.

Hello, My name is Nicole Mcilwain, a compassionate Licensed Mental Health Therapist,
entrepreneur and CEO dedicated to providing quality mental health care to individuals in diverse communities who struggle with berries that trigger mental health illnesses.I have worked in the field of human services/ mental health for over 15 yrs. Being raised in the lower east side of Buffalo New York I have faced many obstacles, and trauma however I overcame many adversities. Which has given me the desire to ensure individuals who struggle with mental health receive the necessary care..
Hello, My name is Nicole Mcilwain, a compassionate Licensed Mental Health Therapist,
entrepreneur and CEO dedicated to providing quality mental health care to individuals in diverse communities who struggle with berries that trigger mental health illnesses.I have worked in the field of human services/ mental health for over 15 yrs. Being raised in the lower east side of Buffalo New York I have faced many obstacles, and trauma however I overcame many adversities. Which has given me the desire to ensure individuals who struggle with mental health receive the necessary care..

Welcome - I'm so glad you're here! I know finding a therapist can be daunting, but it is so worth it when you find someone you can trust. Whether you are navigating a new challenge life has thrown at you or are choosing to tackle a longstanding problem, I would be honored to be part of your team. Clients from all walks of life are welcome. I value clients' diversity and aim to treat each individual as holistically as possible. If you are looking to grow yourself and your relationships into the best that they can be, I would love to meet with you and accompany you on that journey.
Welcome - I'm so glad you're here! I know finding a therapist can be daunting, but it is so worth it when you find someone you can trust. Whether you are navigating a new challenge life has thrown at you or are choosing to tackle a longstanding problem, I would be honored to be part of your team. Clients from all walks of life are welcome. I value clients' diversity and aim to treat each individual as holistically as possible. If you are looking to grow yourself and your relationships into the best that they can be, I would love to meet with you and accompany you on that journey.

My mission is to support individuals and families during difficult times through guidance, encouragement, and empowerment. I approach treatment as a recovery process through cognitive, behavioral, and relational models using evidence-based interventions. I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents and families as well as conducting psychological, educational, and personality assessments.
My mission is to support individuals and families during difficult times through guidance, encouragement, and empowerment. I approach treatment as a recovery process through cognitive, behavioral, and relational models using evidence-based interventions. I specialize in the treatment of children, adolescents and families as well as conducting psychological, educational, and personality assessments.

As a provider, my goal is to create a safe space to allow children, teens and young adults, the opportunity to be open to the therapy process. Trusting that therapy is a learning experience and trust that you'll be guided during this journey. With understanding that this journey may not always be easy, parents will be given the space to express their concerns, and learn tools, to assist with their child.
As a provider, my goal is to create a safe space to allow children, teens and young adults, the opportunity to be open to the therapy process. Trusting that therapy is a learning experience and trust that you'll be guided during this journey. With understanding that this journey may not always be easy, parents will be given the space to express their concerns, and learn tools, to assist with their child.

How many of us are comfortable in our skin? Were you told growing up to be tough, suck it up, get it done, & don't talk about your feelings? Do you feel stress & even sad at times because of not achieving goals or not meeting the standards of others? We rarely take the time to step back to reflect how hard "it" all is for us. You deserve the opportunity to release the pain. Imagine you have a choice. Consider your burden could be lighter. I am passionate about being side by side with you peeling back the stinky onion layers to life at your pace. The life you save is your own!
How many of us are comfortable in our skin? Were you told growing up to be tough, suck it up, get it done, & don't talk about your feelings? Do you feel stress & even sad at times because of not achieving goals or not meeting the standards of others? We rarely take the time to step back to reflect how hard "it" all is for us. You deserve the opportunity to release the pain. Imagine you have a choice. Consider your burden could be lighter. I am passionate about being side by side with you peeling back the stinky onion layers to life at your pace. The life you save is your own!

I’m not your average therapist. I help people RAPIDLY reclaim their lives from suffering and develop a new, healthy way of living. I help my clients feel relief in just a few sessions. How you ask? Well, I could give you coping skills to help with your symptoms, and sometimes I will. But what I have found most beneficial is tracing the symptoms back to the root of your issues and repairing the mental injury. This can oftentimes be completed in one session. Therapy doesn’t have to be a long or distressing process. If you're ready to start feeling better and live a life in alignment with your potential, let's go!
I’m not your average therapist. I help people RAPIDLY reclaim their lives from suffering and develop a new, healthy way of living. I help my clients feel relief in just a few sessions. How you ask? Well, I could give you coping skills to help with your symptoms, and sometimes I will. But what I have found most beneficial is tracing the symptoms back to the root of your issues and repairing the mental injury. This can oftentimes be completed in one session. Therapy doesn’t have to be a long or distressing process. If you're ready to start feeling better and live a life in alignment with your potential, let's go!

Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or simply stuck? Maybe you're going through a tough time and want someone to talk to—someone who can truly listen and help you navigate through the challenges. Or perhaps you're ready to make meaningful changes in your life, or finally work through those personal patterns that keep resurfacing.
Whatever brings you here, I want you to know you’re not alone—and therapy can be a powerful first step. I may be the right therapist for you.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or simply stuck? Maybe you're going through a tough time and want someone to talk to—someone who can truly listen and help you navigate through the challenges. Or perhaps you're ready to make meaningful changes in your life, or finally work through those personal patterns that keep resurfacing.
Whatever brings you here, I want you to know you’re not alone—and therapy can be a powerful first step. I may be the right therapist for you.

Are you navigating anxiety, depression, perfectionism, stress, or unresolved trauma? I work best with individuals who are ready to face these challenges head-on—those who are committed to growth, eager to build on their strengths, and motivated to live more authentically.
Are you navigating anxiety, depression, perfectionism, stress, or unresolved trauma? I work best with individuals who are ready to face these challenges head-on—those who are committed to growth, eager to build on their strengths, and motivated to live more authentically.

Throughout our lives, we require healthy and safe relationships in order to grow and flourish. Therapy can be an opportunity to create this kind of trusting connection. I strive to create a safe, judgement-free space where we can take on the challenges that brought you to seek therapy. Perhaps you are struggling with overwhelm, relationship issues, or trauma. Perhaps you are facing challenges related to the stress of living in this uncertain and ever-changing world. I offer free 30 minute consultations where we can discuss your goals for therapy and determine if we will be a good fit for this healing journey.
Throughout our lives, we require healthy and safe relationships in order to grow and flourish. Therapy can be an opportunity to create this kind of trusting connection. I strive to create a safe, judgement-free space where we can take on the challenges that brought you to seek therapy. Perhaps you are struggling with overwhelm, relationship issues, or trauma. Perhaps you are facing challenges related to the stress of living in this uncertain and ever-changing world. I offer free 30 minute consultations where we can discuss your goals for therapy and determine if we will be a good fit for this healing journey.

Are you feeling sad, lonely or stuck?. Depression and anxiety can rob of us the joy of the present. We all need someone to listen to us - but effective counseling involves working with someone who can help you to achieve results. I have over 24 years of experience providing counseling to individuals, families and parents. I have helped many adults who have struggled with Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, and Relationship issues. Many that I work with are able with my help to resolve their problems and live more satisfying and full lives in the present.
Are you feeling sad, lonely or stuck?. Depression and anxiety can rob of us the joy of the present. We all need someone to listen to us - but effective counseling involves working with someone who can help you to achieve results. I have over 24 years of experience providing counseling to individuals, families and parents. I have helped many adults who have struggled with Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, and Relationship issues. Many that I work with are able with my help to resolve their problems and live more satisfying and full lives in the present.

Please Note: I am not accepting new clients at this time. I apologize for the inconvenience and wish you luck on your journey! Reaching out to find a therapist can be a scary first step. I feel strongly that finding the right fit is key in your success. I enjoy getting to know my clients and spend time building rapport with them. I do my best to make my clients feel comfortable and safe during a vulnerable time. Clients find me approachable and often feel at ease when having to share their emotions and personal struggles with me. I take a strengths-based approach and strive to find the positive in situations.
Please Note: I am not accepting new clients at this time. I apologize for the inconvenience and wish you luck on your journey! Reaching out to find a therapist can be a scary first step. I feel strongly that finding the right fit is key in your success. I enjoy getting to know my clients and spend time building rapport with them. I do my best to make my clients feel comfortable and safe during a vulnerable time. Clients find me approachable and often feel at ease when having to share their emotions and personal struggles with me. I take a strengths-based approach and strive to find the positive in situations.

My focus is on trauma and attachment issues, especially those related to adoption and foster care. I always begin with a thorough assessment that includes assessment the seven domains that may be affected by Complex Trauma. In addition I work extensively with families of teenagers on relationships, family conflicts, depression, drug and alcohol abuse, and school issues.
My focus is on trauma and attachment issues, especially those related to adoption and foster care. I always begin with a thorough assessment that includes assessment the seven domains that may be affected by Complex Trauma. In addition I work extensively with families of teenagers on relationships, family conflicts, depression, drug and alcohol abuse, and school issues.

Many of us undergo difficult, painful, and traumatic events in our lives – things that are not only painful while we experience them, but that have a way of sticking to us long after the fact. When the residual impact of these events follows us around, it can create a lot of fear and discomfort, making us lose touch with who we really are. This often manifests in feeling stuck in unwanted patterns of behavior, difficult feelings, and negative beliefs about ourselves. These things can be very hard to deal with when other people don’t understand. I specialize in understanding these issues and how they affect us.
Many of us undergo difficult, painful, and traumatic events in our lives – things that are not only painful while we experience them, but that have a way of sticking to us long after the fact. When the residual impact of these events follows us around, it can create a lot of fear and discomfort, making us lose touch with who we really are. This often manifests in feeling stuck in unwanted patterns of behavior, difficult feelings, and negative beliefs about ourselves. These things can be very hard to deal with when other people don’t understand. I specialize in understanding these issues and how they affect us.
See more therapy options for Erie County
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Erie County, NY
1,000+
Average cost per session
$135
Therapists in Erie County, NY who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
77% | Relationship Issues |
73% | Self Esteem |
73% | Stress |
71% | Coping Skills |
69% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
76% | Aetna |
59% | Cigna and Evernorth |
51% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Erie County, NY see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
18% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Erie County?
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.