Total Life

Jessica Matthews

Jessica Matthews

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Jessica MatthewsMSW, LCSW

MSW, University of New Hampshire, 2019

Licensed inNorth Carolina, New York
SessionsPhone or video

Call and we’ll let you know if Jessica is taking new clients.

Jessica can help with
AnxietyFamily conflictGrief and lossLife transitionsRelationshipsStressand more
Covered by Medicare
and most major plans
MedicareUnitedHealthcareHumanaBlue Cross Blue ShieldAetnaCignaMagellanSCAN

Meet Jessica

Jessica Matthews is a person-centered and thoughtful therapist who specializes in helping older adults navigate the complexities of later-life transitions. She is dedicated to supporting clients dealing with grief, chronic health conditions, cognitive changes, and evolving life roles, always with a deep respect for their autonomy, dignity, and unique life stories.

Jessica Matthews
I value working with older adults because I’m drawn to the depth of clinical work that comes with supporting individuals through later-life transitions.
Jessica, on working with older adults

Q&A with Jessica

Getting to know Jessica

What do you enjoy most about working with older adults?

I value working with older adults because I’m drawn to the depth of clinical work that comes with supporting individuals through later-life transitions.

This population often presents with complex, layered concerns—such as grief, chronic health conditions, cognitive changes, and shifts in identity and roles—which require a thoughtful, person-centered approach.

I especially enjoy helping clients process life transitions, strengthen emotional regulation, and adapt to change in ways that preserve their sense of autonomy, dignity, and meaning. Being a steady source of support during this time is deeply rewarding, and I find purpose in creating a space where older adults feel seen, heard, and valued.

Why does online therapy work well for older adults?

I believe online therapy is effective for older adults because it helps bridge critical gaps in care. Many older adults face barriers to accessing traditional in-person therapy—such as mobility limitations, lack of transportation, chronic health conditions, or geographic isolation.

Teletherapy allows them to receive consistent, high-quality mental health support from the comfort and safety of their own homes. I’ve found it especially impactful for clients who may have otherwise gone without care.

It creates a more equitable and accessible model, and I appreciate being part of a system that reduces obstacles and brings therapy to those who truly need it.

How do you approach therapy sessions?

I approach therapy sessions with a person-centered and collaborative mindset. I strive to create a space that is warm, nonjudgmental, and grounded in trust, where clients feel safe to explore their experiences. Clinically, I draw from evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing, while tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs and goals of each client.

I believe in balancing structure with flexibility—offering tools and strategies while also allowing space for reflection, storytelling, and emotion. Whether we're working on symptom reduction, increasing insight, or navigating life transitions, I view therapy as a partnership. My goal is to support clients in building on their strengths, deepening self-awareness, and making meaningful progress at their own pace.

I believe every individual has strengths and the capacity to grow. My approach is holistic, integrating clinical knowledge with an understanding of each client’s physical, emotional, social, and cultural context.

I emphasize collaboration and transparency, helping clients understand interventions and actively shape their goals. I use a flexible blend of evidence-based modalities, adapting to client needs and feedback to ensure effective, personalized care.

Ultimately, I aim to foster resilience, autonomy, and self-compassion by creating a safe space where clients can explore vulnerabilities and develop skills to navigate life’s challenges with confidence.

What inspired you to become a therapist?

My inspiration to become a therapist stems from a deep desire to help people navigate life’s challenges and find greater meaning and healing. I have always been drawn to understanding human experiences and supporting others through difficult times.

Witnessing the profound impact that compassionate listening and guidance can have on individuals motivated me to pursue this path. I am passionate about empowering clients to access their inner strengths, overcome obstacles, and build fulfilling lives, and I find great purpose in being a part of their journey toward growth and well-being.

What is your advice for someone starting therapy for the first time?

My advice for someone starting therapy for the first time is to approach the process with openness and patience. It’s natural to feel uncertain or even a little nervous at the beginning, but therapy is a collaborative space designed to support you at your own pace.

Be honest about your goals and feelings, and remember that building trust with your therapist takes time. Therapy isn’t about quick fixes—it’s about gradual growth, self-discovery, and developing tools that work for you. Most importantly, be gentle with yourself throughout the journey.

It’s a brave and important step toward healing and positive change.

What do you wish people knew about therapy?

I wish more people knew that therapy is not just for crisis or severe mental illness—it’s a valuable form of self-care for anyone looking to better understand themselves, improve their relationships, or navigate life’s challenges.

Therapy is a collaborative and personal process unique to each individual, and it doesn’t follow a one-size-fits-all approach. It’s also okay to try different therapists or approaches until you find the right fit.

Most importantly, therapy is a space of acceptance and growth, where vulnerability is met with respect and support, not judgment. Seeking therapy is a courageous act of self-care and strength, not weakness.

New to therapy?Jessica’s advice

My advice for someone starting therapy for the first time is to approach the process with openness and patience.

Outside the sessionA fun fact about Jessica

A fun fact about me is that I completed the Fulton Chain Hiking Challenge, which was an incredible experience that combined my passion for nature and adventure. It’s a reminder for me how important it is to connect with the outdoors and recharge, both physically and mentally.

Ready to talk with Jessica?

We’ll check your coverage and let you know if Jessica is taking new clients.

Not sure Jessica is the right fit? See all therapists or ask us to match you.

Common questions

Frequently asked questions

Choose a topic. Can’t find your answer? Call our care team at 1-800-567-LIFE.

About Total Life

Who is the service for?

Our service is tailored for seniors looking to navigate the challenges of aging and aiming to make their golden years, golden.

What is the core purpose of your teletherapy service?

Our core purpose is to help as many seniors as possible access the mental health care they need, irrespective of their insurance coverage. We believe everyone deserves quality mental health care.

How is your service tailored to seniors?

Our platform is easy to use, with straightforward steps to connect you with a therapist. Additionally, our care team is always ready to assist you from start to finish.

How can teletherapy help me feel like the best version of myself?

Teletherapy provides a supportive environment to explore and address concerns, helping you work through challenges and promoting mental well-being.

How is your service different from conventional therapy?

Unlike conventional therapy, we provide access to therapy through Original Medicare coverage. Our care team facilitates a smooth process from the initial call all the way through ongoing care.