Valarie Collins
You are not alone and you have taken a huge step by reaching out for help! Hello and welcome! Thank you for your interest in working with me as your therapist. My name is Valarie C. Collins. You are welcome to call me Valarie or Val for short. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Kentucky. I obtained my Bachelor's degree in Psychology before obtaining my Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling and have approximately 15 years of experience in the counseling field. I have experience working with people of all ages with a wide variety of concerns (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, addictions, stress, anger management, relationship issues, trauma including various types of abuse, and adjustment to change, as well as others). I have worked in various settings such as outpatient mental health clinics, private practice outpatient offices, rehabilitation facilities, detox units, intensive outpatient programs, and psychiatric hospital units. I have experience working with individuals, groups, and couples. I feel that my therapy approach differs depending on the concerns that are being addressed. We will work together to find the approach, strategies, and goals that are the best fit for you. I use motivational interviewing techniques and cognitive behavioral therapy the most, but typically there will be a combination of various types of therapy utilized in our counseling relationship. As a therapist, I will be doing many things to assist you in finding solutions, processing thoughts and feelings, and gaining relief from your symptoms. As we go through this process, I will ask questions, make suggestions, and provide some education and educational materials related to your specific issues. We will also identify goals that you would like to accomplish and will discuss progress on those goals. I offer various types of therapy services through BetterHelp (messaging, live chat, phone sessions, and video sessions). I have a set schedule of appointment days and times to choose from for live services (chat, phone, video). However, after we start meeting, we can discuss additional days/times that I may not have posted openings for. So, if there are certain days/times that are best for you, I am certainly open to discussing this. For messaging, I will be checking my messages several times a day. I will be responding ASAP, but this will primarily be on weekdays, with some responses on weekends. You are a priority to me and I want you to feel that way. I want our work together to be collaborative so that you feel empowered, supported, and confident in the accomplishments that I know you can achieve!
Erin Smith
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the states of Kentucky.. I have experience working with adults, adolescents, and children both in individual and group settings. I also have experience working with couples and families. Some clinical issues I have the most experience in include addiction, anger management, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, stress management, and trauma. A main focus in my treatment is establishing a therapeutic relationship with the person first and foremost as I believe having a good connection helps facilitate effective counseling and provides the best outcomes. In therapy, I am supportive, compassionate, and am present with individuals both in times of struggle as well as times of achievement and progress. I make sure to meet each individual where they are at and actively listen to and respect where they would like to see themselves in the future with the help of therapy. Working collaboratively with individuals on their treatment goals is a priority throughout treatment and I encourage open communication regarding what therapeutic techniques and approaches work best for the person so as to ensure the best therapeutic experience. My counseling style combines strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused approaches to help individuals achieve their therapeutic goals. Identifying one's strengths and coping skills that can be used to help work through various issues is an important part of my therapy approach. I truly value each individual therapeutic relationship and fully empathize with the different emotions a client may experience throughout treatment. I believe that each individual has the ability to overcome struggles but that sometimes having additional support in the form of therapy can help one to better identify and recognize the coping skills and strengths they already possess. You have taken the first step in creating a healthier, happier you and I would be honored to help you in that journey!
Tynese Vinson
I am a clinical therapist, sex therapist and licensed practical nurse. Licensed in Michigan and Kentucky with over 16 years experience working as a clinical therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression anxiety and relationship issues. My therapy style is warm and interactive treating our clients with compassion dignity and respect. My approach combines cognitive behavior, humanistic and psychodynamic. I can also provide hypnotherapy if that is an approach the client would like to explore. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your specific needs. It takes courage to change and to do what is necessary for that change to occur. I look forward to working with you
Ian Aiuto
Developing a meaningful connection with a personal therapist can lead to long-lasting benefits. While this may prove difficult for some, therapist Ian Aiuto helps clients identify ways to overcome the factors that often prevent them from leading the life they ultimately desire. If you don't have a good relationship with your counselor, you won't make progress you are hoping to achieve. I want to provide you with some information about me to help you decide if my experience and style is the right match for you Barriers may include: Anxiety Depression Grief or loss Relationship and boundary issues Substance Use Disorder Sex Addiction "Most people will encounter anxiety and depression at some point in their life, but many will not seek help," Ian says. "It takes great strength to seek help. I want clients to recognize that there is assistance available to them." Therapy can help conquer feelings of: Shame Embarrassment Helplessness Hopelessness Ian will assist you: Discover solutions to your difficulties Engage in beneficial behaviors and thought patterns Remain neutral Help with accountability Ian's work as an adult medical social worker has given him useful insight and experience in helping people overcome grief, manage mental health issues, and find helpful resources in your area. When you're confronted with a personal crisis, talking to a trained therapist can help you conquer those things that hold you back. I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Ian T Aiuto MSW, LCSW
Irene Davis
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), licensed in the state of Kentucky, with 20 years of experience. I have worked in diverse settings , helping clients with a wide array of struggles, such as depression , grief, anxiety, impulse control, trauma, OCD, relationship problems, anger issues, mood dysregulation and others. I approach each client offering unconditional positive regard, and strive to create an atmosphere of humility, compassion, and grace for each individual, as they come seeking help and hope for positive changes in their lives. It 's a difficult challenge to come to a therapy session, and talk to a stranger about things that matter most in your life., so it is a truly an honor and privilege to be trusted to provide the care and help that you are hoping for. My approach is eclectic and wholistic, using Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Solution Focused, Person Centered, trauma informed, Choice/Reality, Strengths Based, and others. I believe we as human beings are too diverse to provide cookie cutter treatment, so I try to meet each client where they are, and use an approach that will work for them specifically. I believe clients are the experts on themselves, so You will always be in the drivers seat, as you m ove through the process of finding hope and healing,, and I will partner with you to provide support and help on your journey to change. If you are ready to start your journey, It would be an honor to work with you!
Marsha Nan Poland Cooper
Hi Everyone! My name is Marsha Nan Poland Cooper, but please call me Nan. I have been a therapist for several years. I started in a clinic setting and through the clinic, I was a therapist for clients in the school system. I started my private practice five years ago and love working for myself. My BA and MAE degrees are from Western Kentucky University. I believe that clients should have an active role in their sessions. I use CBT quite a bit in therapy, and I like to give homework to clients on occasion.
Sharon Clark
Hello! My name is Sharon Clark and I have 20+ years as a therapist. Therapy is a second career for me, so I have the benefit of offering some helpful information about navigating the "real world," and hopefully, you'll learn my experience is not straight out of the textbooks! Over the past years, I have worked with a very diverse population that struggle with unique perspectives on therapy and how it works. I have also worked as a substance abuse counselor if that is area you want to get help with. I can interact with you in whatever manner you choose, but video conferencing is my personal preference as it gives you the opportunity to get to know me and vice versa. I can be flexible to help accommodate your work schedule, school, doctor's appointments etc.
John Rigney
With over four decades of clinical experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients address challenges including stress, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and interpersonal dynamics. I offer a compassionate, depth-oriented approach that honors each person's unique journey toward healing and self-understanding. My therapeutic work centers on supporting individuals through profound emotional experiences such as grief, relationship transitions, personal growth, and healing from past wounds. I bring extensive expertise in addressing mood disorders, social anxiety, attachment challenges, and personal transformation. I am committed to creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their inner experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal insights. My approach integrates evidence-based techniques with a deep respect for individual experiences and potential for growth.
Michael Shacklette
Maybe you are aware of what issues you need help to resolve and are needing help with the next step, maybe you have an “itch” that something is not quite right but you are not sure what direction to take, or maybe you are feeling lost or confused in this adventure we call life. I welcome all to participate in the therapy process regardless of where a person is in that journey. I am honored to meet every person in their current space, whether it means starting with building the beginning steps of insight or continuing work on a long-discovered issue. I have worked with individuals from a variety of backgrounds in various types of settings, ranging from inpatient, the court system, community mental health, and private practice, and have had the pleasure of helping clients with a multitude of issues, including: trauma, EMDR, substance use, depression, anxiety, grief, and marital conflict, etc. I understand that being on the journey of self-discovery can be one of the most challenging journeys that we go on as humans, but I hope that you will recruit me as an ally to walk beside you. I look forward to the privilege of connecting with you and sharing the roads of life as you navigate challenges and obstacles in your soul-searching.
Megan Calderon
I am licensed in Kentucky with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, & depression. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Lorena Ginn
As a licensed therapist in Kentucky, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients address challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction with compassionate, evidence-based strategies. I'm deeply committed to supporting my clients through transformative healing journeys, focusing on building self-esteem, overcoming social anxiety, and discovering personal purpose. My therapeutic work emphasizes understanding patterns of isolation, shame, and emotional regulation while providing practical tools for sustainable mental wellness. My practice integrates trauma-informed techniques to help clients develop resilience, self-compassion, and meaningful life strategies. Whether you're struggling with mood disorders, panic attacks, or seeking support through significant life transitions, I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space for growth and healing.
Julie Smith
Hello, I'm a licensed counselor in Kentucky with nine years of counseling experience. I completed my undergraduate degree with the University of the Cumberlands in 2017, having majored in psychology with a clinical concentration. I obtained my graduate degree in clinical mental health counseling from the University of the Cumberlands in 2020. I generally work from a person-centered approach, incorporating both cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. Since working with clients during the COVID pandemic, I have been able to adapt my counseling approach to telehealth services, as well. Nearly all of my counseling career, eight years, has been spent with adults coping with trauma related issues, specifically domestic violence, sexual abuse and assault, human trafficking, and stalking. as well as substance use. However, I have found that trauma and substance use are something that anyone can experience, thus I have worked with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, anger, obsessive compulsive disorder, and more.
Anthony Labraney
I am licensed in Kentucky with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Anthony Mikulskis
As a licensed therapist in Kentucky, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach is compassionate and holistic, focusing on helping clients address challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and self-esteem issues. I'm particularly passionate about working with Veterans, first responders, young adults, men, and individuals experiencing life transitions. My therapeutic practice centers on creating a supportive environment where clients can explore personal growth, improve communication, and develop meaningful strategies for overcoming isolation and emotional barriers. I draw from evidence-based techniques to help clients build resilience, understand their inner experiences, and move toward healing and self-discovery. I welcome diverse client experiences and strive to provide affirming, personalized care that respects each individual's unique journey. Whether you're struggling with workplace stress, relationship challenges, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Find a Therapist Near You in Sturgis , Kentucky
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Kentucky can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
Kentucky is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Kentucky, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Kentucky (KY). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Kentucky, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Kentucky with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Kentucky
When searching for a therapist near me in Kentucky, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Kentucky, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Kentucky.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Kentucky want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Kentucky
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Kentucky without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Kentucky (KY)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in Kentucky
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Kentucky, including residents in Sturgis.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Kentucky do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.