Rita Varano, LCSW

Experienced mental health professional

Provides online counseling through BetterHelp

At a glance

Rita is an experienced, licensed Mental Health Professional who specializes in affordable online therapy offered through our partner, BetterHelp.

FSA/HSA accepted
Offers Telehealth visits
Licensed in New Jersey and Pennsylvania

More about Rita

20 years' experience
Female
LCSW

I'm a therapist with extensive experience supporting individuals through life's most challenging transitions and emotional struggles. I work with clients across the lifespan with expertise in helping individuals survive trauma; increase activity and motivation; and navigate the complexities of aging, grief, and life changes. I have specialized training in both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Therapy.

My approach is grounded in compassion and practical support. I specialize in helping people work through depression, anxiety, stress, and the emotional weight that comes with major life shifts. I'm experienced in addressing communication difficulties, isolation, relationship concerns, and the deeper questions around life purpose and meaning.

I've supported clients facing a wide range of concerns—including trauma, attachment challenges, caregiver stress, financial worries, chronic illness, and the unique pressures faced by first responders. I also work with individuals exploring forgiveness, shame, guilt, and the process of reclaiming self-esteem and personal agency.

Whether you're navigating loss, relationship struggles, identity questions, or the weight of life's responsibilities, I'm here to listen without judgment and help you move toward greater clarity and peace. I believe in meeting you where you are and working collaboratively toward meaningful change at your own pace.

Specialties

Stress Anxiety Grief Self-esteem Depression Coping with life changes Aging and geriatric issues Attachment issues Avoidant personality Caregiver issues and stress Chronic pain, illness, and disability Communication problems Control issues Coping with natural or human-caused disaster Emptiness Fatherhood issues First responder issues Forgiveness Guilt and shame Impulsivity Isolation / loneliness Life purpose Money and financial issues Mood disorders Phobias Postpartum depression Post-traumatic stress Social anxiety and phobia Young adult issues

Insurance Accepted

Cigna

Licenses

Rita Varano's National Provider Identifier (NPI) is 1013377985.

LCSW · New Jersey · 44SC05401800 · Renews August 2028
LCSW · Pennsylvania · CW016138 · Renews February 2027

About online counseling

Affordable.: Pay a low flat fee.
Convenient.: Do it at your own time and at your own pace. Communicate whenever you feel it's needed.
Available now.: There is no waiting list and no calls to make. Simply fill out a short questionnaire and send your first message.

Online counseling, also known as teletherapy, is a method of delivering mental health services through digital means such as video conferencing, phone calls, or messaging platforms. It can be an ideal option for individuals who have difficulty accessing traditional therapy due to geographical distance, time constraints, or personal preferences like privacy and comfort. Many people find it easier to open up from the familiarity of their own space.

Teletherapy has been found to be highly effective, with studies showing that it can produce similar outcomes to in-person therapy, particularly for issues like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The flexibility and accessibility it offers make it a valuable alternative to conventional therapy settings.

Reviews for Rita Varano

Be the first to rate Rita. How was your experience?

Frequently asked questions

Does Rita Varano offer telehealth visits?

Yes. Rita Varano works with clients by exchanging messages, chatting live, speaking over the phone, or video conferencing based on what works for the client at that particular time.

What language(s) does Rita Varano speak?

Rita Varano speaks English.

How many years of experience does Rita Varano have?

Rita Varano has 20 years of experience.

Where is Rita Varano licensed to practice?

Rita Varano is licensed to practice in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Does Rita Varano accept FSA/HSA?

Yes, Rita Varano accepts FSA/HSA meaning you can pay for sessions with your pre-tax healthcare dollars. Every year hundreds of thousands of people use their FSA/HSA to pay for therapy.

Does Rita Varano accept insurance?

Yes, Rita Varano accepts Cigna.

Does Rita Varano accept clients outside of the United States?

No, Rita Varano does not accept clients outside of the United States.

Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?

Numerous studies support the effectiveness of online platforms in facilitating life changes. For instance, research published by JMIR Publications, conducted by teams from the University of Berkeley, UCSF, and SF General Hospital, found that "users of BetterHelp experienced significantly reduced depression symptom severity after engaging with the platform."

How can I communicate with Rita Varano?

Rita Varano can be engaged in any one of four ways: (1) Exchanging messages, (2) chatting live, (3) speaking over the phone, or (4) video conferencing. You can use different ways at different times as you wish, based on your needs, availability, and convenience.

How do I get started with Rita Varano?

Just tap the BOOK NOW button or tap here: A new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation.

Mental health conditions are real, common, and treatable.

And recovery is possible.

When you tap BOOK NOW a new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation.

FSA/HSA eligible