Welcome to Better Help! You’ve taken a huge step, and I’m sure you’re wondering how this works and whether it’s the right fit for you. I know I felt the same way when I first came to Better Help too. My name is Jeannette Abelson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Virginia. I earned my Master of Social Work degree, specializing in Interpersonal Practice, from the University of Michigan in 1998. I’ve worked in many different settings with individuals and families who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, trauma/abuse, addictions of all kinds, relationships/parenting and more. Over the past 20 years as a clinician, my experience has taught me that the most important aspect of counseling by far is the connection and comfort you feel with the person you choose to share your personal struggles. I believe we can all grow through challenging experiences by increasing our self-awareness. Sometimes another person, one who isn’t in our immediate circle, can offer a perspective or additional support, that give us movement on a difficult situation when we feel stuck. It would be my privilege to be that person for you. We all want to be able to share our personal truths and be accepted and understood. I believe it’s very important to be open-minded and non-judgmental when someone shares their personal story or experiences with me. Our relationship with our self and others has worth and is useful to explore in counseling. You are welcome to message me anytime through Better Help. The frequency with which you can have access to a counselor to work through day to day emotions and problem solving is extremely beneficial for most and a nice change from traditional outpatient counseling. I usually check messages twice each day, seven days per week. I currently offer messaging and ONLY live chat sessions at this time to new clients. Please note that what you see in my calendar may not reflect my only availability so you always want to check that out with me through messaging first. I look forward to working with you!