PhD Psychologist Pleasant Grove: Dr. Jeanna Cunningham Earns Doctorate

Dr. Jeanna Cunningham’s Continued Excellence

Dr. Cunningham has been an integral part of Willow Therapy Services, and her PhD achievement further solidifies her role as a leading mental health professional in Utah County. She continues to provide comprehensive therapy services including:

Services Provided

• Individual therapy for adults and adolescents
• Couples counseling and relationship support
• Family therapy for all family configurations
• Child and adolescent therapy

Areas of Clinical Focus

• Anxiety and stress management
• Depression and mood disorders
• Trauma and PTSD
• Relationship and communication issues
• Life transitions and adjustment challenges
• Identity and self-esteem concerns

Location & Access

Dr. Cunningham provides therapy at our Pleasant Grove office and via virtual therapy throughout Utah.

LMFT Orem: Meet Hannah – Trauma & EMDR Specialist

Trauma, Eating Disorders, and Evidence-Based Care

As an LMFT in Orem, Hannah’s primary specializations include:

Trauma & PTSD

• PTSD and complex trauma
• Childhood and attachment trauma
• Sexual trauma recovery
• EMDR therapy for trauma processing
• Internal Family Systems (IFS) work

Eating Disorders & Body Image

• Eating disorders (all types)
• Disordered eating patterns
• Body image concerns
• Binge eating and emotional eating
• Chronic dieting recovery

Additional Areas of Support

• Anxiety and depression
• Couples therapy and relationship issues
• Sexual intimacy and identity
• Self-worth, shame, and boundaries
• Postpartum adjustment and fertility stress
• Life transitions and identity questions
• Burnout and compassion fatigue

CSW Therapist Utah County: Meet Morgan Lyons – Anxiety Specialist

Evidence-Based Anxiety Treatment from an Experienced Social Worker

Specializing in Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma

As a CSW therapist in Utah County, Morgan’s primary focus areas are anxiety, depression, and trauma—conditions she has extensive experience treating across multiple clinical settings. Her work spans:

Anxiety Treatment

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
• Panic attacks and panic disorder
• Social anxiety
• Chronic stress and burnout
• Health anxiety
• Performance and test anxiety

Additional Areas of Support

• Depression and mood disorders
• Trauma and PTSD
• First responder and compassion fatigue support
• Life transitions and identity questions
• Infertility counseling
• Faith transitions
• Grief and loss

Therapy Near Me Utah County: How to Find the Right Therapist

Your Complete Guide to Finding Quality Mental Health Support Close to Home

“Therapists Near Me”: How to Narrow Down Your Options in Utah County

Searching for “therapists near me” is often the first step people take when they realize they need support. But once you see dozens of results, directories, and profiles, the next question becomes: How do I actually choose the right therapist?

If you’re looking for therapy in Utah County, this guide will help you narrow your options and find a therapist who fits your needs, values, schedule, and insurance coverage.

At Willow Therapy Utah, we help clients every day who feel overwhelmed by the search process. You don’t have to figure this out alone.

Why “Therapists Near Me” Is a Good Starting Point

Typing “therapists near me” into Google helps you quickly find providers who are:

• Located close to home or work

• Licensed in your state

• Available for in-person or virtual sessions

But proximity alone isn’t enough. The right therapist is someone you feel comfortable with, who understands your concerns, and who offers an approach that works for you.

Step 1: Decide Between In-Person or Online Therapy

One of the first ways to narrow your search is deciding how you want to attend therapy.

In-Person Therapy in Utah County

In-person therapy may be a good fit if you:

• Prefer face-to-face connection

• Feel more comfortable in a dedicated therapy space

• Want a consistent routine outside your home

Willow Therapy Utah offers in-person sessions in several Utah County locations, including:

• Therapy in Orem

• Therapy in Pleasant Grove

• Therapy in American Fork

• Therapy in Lindon

Online Therapy

Online therapy is a flexible option if you:

• Have a busy schedule

• Prefer therapy from home

• Live farther away or travel often

Learn more here:
Telehealth Therapy in Utah
Virtual Therapy vs. In-Person

Step 2: Look for Experience With Your Specific Concerns

Not all therapists specialize in the same areas. Narrowing your options becomes easier when you search for therapists who regularly work with what you’re experiencing.

Common reasons people seek therapy include:

• Anxiety Therapy

• Depression Counseling

• Stress and Burnout

• Trauma and PTSD

• Family Therapy

• Couples Counseling

• Therapy for Teens

Choosing a therapist with experience in your concerns often leads to faster progress and a stronger sense of trust.

Step 3: Understand Therapy Approaches

Another helpful way to narrow your options is by therapy style. Different therapists use different approaches depending on training and client needs.

At Willow Therapy Utah, our clinicians use evidence-based approaches such as:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

• EMDR Therapy

• Trauma-Focused Therapy

If you’re unsure which approach is right for you, that’s okay. A good therapist will help guide you.

Step 4: Check Insurance and Payment Options

Cost is one of the most common concerns when searching for “therapists near me.” Many people are surprised to learn that therapy is often covered by insurance.

Willow Therapy Utah accepts many major plans, including:

• Select Health

• Blue Cross Blue Shield

• UnitedHealthcare

• Aetna

• PEHP

• EMI Health

• TriCare / TriWest

• MotivHealth

Helpful resources:

• Insurance Information

• Therapy Cost With Insurance

• Benefits of Using Insurance for Therapy

Our team can also verify your coverage before your first appointment.

Step 5: Read Therapist Bios and Trust Your Instincts

Once you’ve narrowed your list, take time to read therapist bios. Look for:

• Areas of specialization

• Therapy style and approach

• Experience with your age group or concerns

• Language that feels relatable and supportive

You can explore our full team here:
Our Therapists

It’s okay if you don’t find the “perfect” fit immediately. Therapy is a relationship, and finding the right match sometimes takes a little time.

Step 6: Schedule a Consultation or First Session

The best way to know if a therapist is right for you is to meet them. Your first session is a chance to:

• Ask questions

• Share what you’re hoping to work on

• See how comfortable you feel

If you’re ready to take the next step, you can get started here:
Schedule an Appointment

Finding the Right Therapist in Utah County

Searching for “therapists near me” doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By focusing on location, specialization, therapy style, and insurance coverage, you can narrow your options and find support that truly fits your needs.

Willow Therapy Utah Is Expanding: Now Open in Orem

We’re excited to share some great news with our community — Willow Therapy Services is officially open in Orem! This new location allows us to better serve individuals, couples, and families throughout Utah County with accessible, high-quality mental health care.

As our practice continues to grow, opening a location in Orem reflects our commitment to meeting clients where they are and making therapy easier to access for those living and working in the area.

Why We Chose to Open a Location in Orem

Orem is a central hub in Utah County and home to students, families, professionals, and individuals at every stage of life. By opening a location here, we can better support clients who prefer in-person therapy while continuing to offer telehealth services across Utah.

Our Orem location makes it easier for clients in surrounding areas — including Provo, Vineyard, Lindon, and American Fork — to access care without long commutes.

Learn more about the communities we serve here:
Areas We Serve
Therapy in Orem

Therapy Services Available at Our Orem Location

Our Orem office offers the same comprehensive therapy services Willow Therapy Utah is known for, including:

Individual Therapy

Support for anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, trauma, and more.
Individual Therapy in Utah

Couples & Family Counseling

Strengthen communication, rebuild trust, and navigate relationship challenges together.
Couples Counseling
Family Therapy

Anxiety, Depression, and Stress Management

Evidence-based therapy to help you feel grounded, supported, and confident again.
Anxiety Therapy in Utah
Counseling for Depression

Trauma-Informed Therapy

Compassionate care for individuals healing from past experiences.
Trauma-Focused Therapy
EMDR Therapy

Meet Our Experienced Therapy Team

Clients visiting our Orem location will work with the same trusted team of licensed therapists you know from Willow Therapy Utah. Our clinicians bring diverse experience, therapeutic approaches, and specialties — allowing us to match you with someone who fits your needs and goals.

You can explore our full team here:
Our Therapists

If you’re unsure where to start, we’re happy to help you find the right fit.

Insurance Accepted at Our Orem Location

We strive to make therapy accessible and affordable. Our Orem location accepts many major insurance plans, including:

• Select Health

• Blue Cross Blue Shield

• UnitedHealthcare

• Aetna

• PEHP

• EMI Health

• TriCare / TriWest

• MotivHealth

• Health Choice

Learn more about coverage here:
Insurance Information
Therapy Cost with Insurance

In-Person and Telehealth Options

While our new Orem office offers in-person therapy, we continue to provide secure online therapy for clients throughout Utah. This flexibility allows you to choose the format that works best for your schedule, comfort, and needs.

Learn more about virtual care here:
Telehealth Therapy in Utah

Now Scheduling Appointments in Orem

We’re now accepting new clients at our Orem location and would love to support you in your mental health journey. Whether you’re starting therapy for the first time or returning to care, our team is here to help.

To get started:
👉 Schedule an Appointment
👉 Or reach out through our Contact Page

We look forward to welcoming you to our new Willow Therapy Utah location in Orem.

Maximizing Your Select Health Benefits for Mental Wellness

Mental health care is an essential part of overall wellness, and if you have Select Health insurance, you may have more access to therapy than you realize. Understanding how your benefits work—and how to use them effectively—can make therapy more affordable, consistent, and impactful.

At Willow Therapy Utah, we work closely with Select Health members to help them get the most out of their mental health coverage. Whether you’re starting therapy for the first time or returning after a break, this guide will help you maximize your Select Health benefits for mental wellness.

Understanding Select Health Mental Health Coverage

Select Health plans typically include coverage for behavioral and mental health services, such as counseling and psychotherapy. These benefits are designed to support individuals, couples, and families in managing emotional, psychological, and life challenges.

Most Select Health plans cover:

• Individual therapy sessions

• Family and couples counseling

• Treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress

• Telehealth (online therapy) services

You can learn more about Select Health coverage at Willow here:
Select Health Therapy in Utah

Step 1: Know Your Select Health Plan Details

Not all Select Health plans are the same. Some plans may require referrals, while others allow you to self-schedule therapy without one. Before starting, it helps to know:

• Your copay or coinsurance for therapy sessions

• Whether you have a deductible to meet

• If your plan requires prior authorization

• Whether telehealth therapy is included

If this feels confusing, don’t worry—we can help verify your benefits before your first appointment. Visit our Insurance Page for guidance.

Step 2: Choose an In-Network Select Health Therapist

One of the easiest ways to reduce out-of-pocket costs is to work with an in-network therapist. Willow Therapy Utah is in-network with Select Health and several of its networks, which means lower session costs and simplified billing.

Working with an in-network provider allows you to:

• Pay a predictable copay

• Avoid surprise bills

• Use therapy consistently without financial strain

Meet our team of licensed professionals here:
Our Therapists

Step 3: Use Therapy Consistently for Better Results

Many Select Health plans allow for ongoing therapy sessions, not just short-term care. Mental wellness improves most when therapy is consistent and proactive rather than reactive.

Select Health benefits can be especially helpful for:

• Anxiety Therapy

• Counseling for Depression

• Stress Management Therapy

• Trauma-Focused Therapy

• Family Therapy

Using your benefits regularly can help prevent burnout, reduce symptoms, and build long-term coping skills.

Step 4: Take Advantage of Telehealth Options

Select Health often covers online therapy, making it easier to attend sessions from home, work, or while traveling. Telehealth therapy can be just as effective as in-person sessions for many mental health concerns.

Online therapy may be a great option if you:

• Have a busy schedule

• Live outside your therapist’s immediate area

• Prefer the comfort and privacy of home

Learn more here:
Telehealth Therapy in Utah
Online Therapy for Anxiety and Depression

Step 5: Combine Insurance with Other Payment Options

Even with insurance, some clients choose to supplement coverage with:

• HSA or FSA accounts

• Private pay for additional sessions

• Out-of-network options, if needed

If you’re curious about all available options, visit:
Payment Options for Therapy
Using HSA or FSA for Therapy

Step 6: Ask for Help Navigating Your Benefits

Insurance can be confusing—but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Our administrative team helps Select Health members:

• Verify coverage

• Understand copays and deductibles

• Confirm in-network eligibility

• Answer billing questions

You can also review:
Therapy Cost with Insurance

Start Using Your Select Health Benefits Today

Mental wellness is not something to put off. If you have Select Health insurance, your plan may already be giving you access to the support you need—you just have to use it.

To get started:

• Review your benefits

• Choose a therapist who fits your needs

• Schedule an Appointment

At Willow Therapy Utah, we’re here to help you make the most of your Select Health benefits and support your mental wellness every step of the way.

Differences between a Counselor and a Therapist?

If you’re looking for mental health support, you’ve probably come across several professional titles—counselor, therapist, psychologist, and social worker, among others. These terms can be confusing, especially if you’re trying to find the right person to help you.

So, what’s the difference between a counselor and a therapist? And which one is right for you?
At Willow Therapy Utah, we’re here to make the process simple and transparent so you can focus on what matters most—your healing and growth.

Understanding the Terms: Counselor vs. Therapist

While “counselor” and “therapist” are often used interchangeably, there are some subtle differences in training, focus, and licensure that can help you decide which professional best fits your needs.

What Is a Counselor?

A counselor typically focuses on helping clients navigate specific issues or challenges, often in the short to medium term.
They work collaboratively with clients to develop practical coping strategies, improve relationships, and promote personal well-being.

Counselors often specialize in areas such as:

• Marriage and Family Counseling

• School or Adolescent Counseling

• Career or Life Transitions

• Grief and Loss Counseling

• Stress Management

Counselors in Utah may hold titles like Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC) or Associate Clinical Mental Health Counselor (ACMHC).

What Is a Therapist?

A therapist generally takes a broader and often deeper approach to emotional and psychological issues. Therapists may explore long-term patterns, past experiences, and trauma that influence how you think, feel, and behave.

They use structured, evidence-based techniques like:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

• EMDR Therapy

• Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)

• Person-Centered Therapy

Therapists may hold licenses such as Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), or Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC).

Key Differences Between a Counselor and a Therapist

At Willow Therapy Utah, our team includes both counselors and therapists, each with their own expertise and specialty areas. That means you can find someone who matches your goals—whether you need focused guidance or deep emotional work.

When to See a Counselor

You may benefit from seeing a counselor if you’re experiencing:

• Stress, anxiety, or burnout

• Difficulty managing work-life balance

• Relationship or parenting struggles

• Adjusting to a new phase in life (college, marriage, new job, etc.)

• Grief or loss

Counselors can help you develop concrete strategies to handle challenges and improve your overall well-being.
Learn more about Individual Therapy and Family Therapy options available near you.

When to See a Therapist

You may want to see a therapist if you’re working through:

• Past trauma or abuse

• Ongoing depression or anxiety

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• Self-esteem or identity challenges

• Patterns that keep repeating in your relationships

Therapists often provide long-term support using approaches such as Trauma-Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness Therapy.

The Overlap Between Counseling and Therapy

While there are distinctions, both counselors and therapists share the same goal: helping you feel better and live more fully. Both listen without judgment, offer tools for change, and provide a safe, supportive environment for healing.

Many of our team members—like Jeanna Cunningham, CMHC, Ashlee Allan, CSW, and Dr. Samuel Major, PhD, LMFT—combine elements of both counseling and therapy to tailor each session to the individual.

You can read about how our approach works here: The Different Types of Therapy.

Finding the Right Fit for You

At the end of the day, the best provider is the one you feel comfortable and connected with.
If you’re not sure where to start, we can help you choose a therapist or counselor who aligns with your goals, background, and preferences.

• Learn about our Therapy and Counseling Services

• Browse Our Therapists

• See our Locations Across Utah County

• Or Schedule an Appointment to get matched today

Is Online Therapy Right for You? The Pros and Cons

Online therapy (also called telehealth or virtual counseling) makes care more accessible than ever. With a secure video session, you can meet with a licensed therapist from home, work, or even your car between errands. But how do you know if it’s the right fit for you?

At Willow Therapy Utah, we offer both in-person sessions in Utah County and online therapy across Utah so you can choose the format that best supports your goals.

What Online Therapy Looks Like

Virtual sessions mirror in-person counseling: you and your therapist meet at a scheduled time via a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform, set goals, and practice skills you can use between sessions. New to telehealth? Start with our step-by-step overview: How Counseling Works and the detailed walkthrough in How to Open Up in Therapy.

If you’re weighing formats, this guide may help: Virtual Therapy vs. In-Person: Which Is Right for You?

The Pros of Online Therapy

1) Easier Access, Fewer Barriers

No commute, no parking, and fewer missed appointments. This is especially helpful for busy parents, students, and professionals. Learn about our statewide option: Telehealth Therapy in Utah. Prefer a local focus? Explore Individual Therapy in Pleasant Grove.

2) Comfort and Privacy at Home

Many clients open up more easily in familiar surroundings. If starting feels intimidating, these tips can help: How to Open Up in Therapy.

3) Effective for Anxiety and Depression

Skills-based approaches such as CBT, DBT skills, mindfulness, and ACT translate well to video. See formats tailored to symptoms:
• Online Therapy for Anxiety & Depression
• Counseling for Depression
• Anxiety Therapy in Utah

4) Consistency During Busy or Hard Seasons

Sick kids, weather, finals week, postpartum changes—telehealth keeps your progress on track. For transitions support, see: Navigating Life Transitions.

5) Insurance Often Covers Telehealth

Most plans with mental health benefits cover video sessions. Learn how to check your benefits:
• Insurance Overview
• Benefits of Using Insurance for Therapy
• Therapy Cost with Insurance
Using HSA/FSA? See: HSA for Therapy.

The Cons of Online Therapy (and How to Solve Them)

1) Tech or Connection Issues

A wired connection or sitting near your router helps. If needed, we can briefly switch to phone to keep momentum.

2) Privacy in a Shared Home

Use headphones, a white-noise app, or meet from your parked car. Schedule during quieter windows if possible.

3) Not Ideal for Crisis Support

If you’re in immediate danger or a medical/psychiatric emergency, call 911 or 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). We’ll support ongoing care after urgent needs are addressed.

4) Some Modalities Are Smoother In Person

Play therapy for young kids, certain exposure or somatic exercises, and some evaluations may work better in the office. Compare formats here: Virtual vs. In-Person.

5) Licensing & Location Rules

Therapists must be licensed where you are located during the session. Traveling out of state? Let us know so we can advise options.

Who Tends to Thrive with Online Therapy?

• Busy professionals and students who want flexible scheduling

• Parents and caregivers who need zero-commute sessions

• Clients in rural or underserved areas of Utah County and beyond

• Anyone who prefers their own space to reduce anxiety and increase comfort

Working on trauma online is possible and common. Explore approaches we use virtually and in person:
• Trauma-Focused Therapy
• Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
• EMDR Therapy
• Prolonged Exposure Therapy

When In-Person Sessions May Be Better

• You want the dedicated energy of a therapy room with fewer home distractions

• You’re beginning work that benefits from in-room observation or materials (play therapy, some exposures, somatic work)

• Privacy at home is limited or unpredictable

Prefer in-person? Visit our Utah County location: Willow Therapy – Pleasant Grove. Looking for a therapist match first? Explore Our Therapists or meet a few providers:
• Brennan Bellon, ACMHC
• Alexis Acosta, ACMHC
• Samuel Major, PhD, LMFT
• Jeanna Cunningham, CMHC

Telehealth for Specific Concerns

• Teens & Youth: Flexible sessions between classes or activities: Online Counseling for Youth.

• Postpartum & Motherhood: Discreet, home-based care: Therapy and Motherhood and Postpartum Depression Therapy.

• PTSD & Trauma: Learn how virtual care supports recovery: PTSD Treatment Online and PTSD Therapy Near Me.

• Anxiety/Depression Skills: See our guide: Online Therapy for Anxiety & Depression.

• Relationship Support: Hybrid options for busy couples: Couples Counseling and Family Therapy.

Insurance & Payment Options for Online Therapy

We accept many plans used in Utah County and across the state, including Select Health, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, EMI Health, TRICARE, and more.
Compare options: Insurance Overview and Therapy Sessions Under Insurance.
Using HSA/FSA or clergy assistance? See: HSA/FSA for Therapy and Bishop/Clergy Pay.

How to Choose: A Quick Framework

Clarify Your Goals

Are you seeking tools for anxiety, help with depression, trauma work, or relationship support? Review options by concern:
• Therapy for ADHD
• Stress Management Therapy
• Grief & Loss Counseling
• Therapy for Women

Consider Logistics

If commute or childcare regularly disrupts sessions, telehealth may boost consistency. If home privacy is tough, the office may reduce friction. Nearby? Explore locations:
• Therapy in American Fork
• Therapy in Orem
• Therapy in Lindon
• Therapy near Vineyard
• Therapy in Utah County

Try One, Reassess, or Blend

Start virtual or in person and reassess after 3–4 sessions. Many clients use a hybrid model. If you’d like guidance on fit, browse our team: Our Therapists or meet Brennan Bellon, ACMHC.

Ready to Decide?

If you value flexibility and convenience, online therapy may be right for you. If you prefer the focus and feel of a dedicated office, in-person could be the better fit. Either way, you deserve care that matches your life and goals.

• Learn more: Telehealth Mental Health Counseling

• Have insurance questions? Start here: Insurance Options

• Ready to begin? Schedule an Appointment or Contact Us