The town of Oakdale, Louisiana was originally known as Dunnsville, named after William T. Dunn, who founded the town. It is known as the little city with a big heart and it is a great place to raise a family. However, raising a family can be a tough job and sometimes you may need some extra support with your family’s dynamics.
The Oakdale area has some of the best mental health providers in the state so when you need help with anything from family issues to employment problems to relationship counseling, you can find the help you need right here. No matter what you need, there are counselors available to provide support in and around Oakdale anytime you need them.
Joseph Wagner
I am a licensed professional counselor with 15 years’ experience treating a range of issues. I bring a warm and empathic style to my work, thus creating a space in which you, the client, can discuss the challenges you face while feeling heard, understood, and supported. I help people do more of what matters even in the presence of difficult inner experiences. In our work together, we’ll look at the strategies you have been using to address your challenges, and we’ll discuss ways in which you can strengthen or expand your skills in order to act more effectively and flexibly in response to difficult situations, thoughts, and feelings. The heart of my work involves helping you to learn new skills which allow you to break the grip of unwanted thoughts & feelings on your actions and your life. As you build these skills, you learn to handle difficult thoughts, feelings, and situations more flexibly, thus opening a space where you become freer to show up to your life in ways that enhance vitality, meaning, and purpose.
Dr. Keith Wilkerson
I earned a Masters of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University in 2015. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) #LPC 6526 and hold a license with the Louisiana LPC Board of Examiners located at 8631 Summa Avenue, Baton Rouge, La. 70809 (225-765-2515). In addition to being licensed as an LPC in Louisiana, I hold a national certification as a National Certified Counselor (NCC#630673). I believe that counseling encompasses a collaborative approach between the counselor and the client, and requires both working together to facilitate change in the client’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Counseling will require you to fully engage with me in the process, including inside and outside of the sessions. You may be asked to complete homework assignments, and this will partly determine whether we are accomplishing the stated counseling goals. I assist clients with addressing a variety of mental health concerns that significantly interferes with their ability to perform the primary aspects of daily living. I work with clients who experience family discord. I also assist clients who may be experiencing a crisis.
Dwayne Jacobs
I am a mental health professional with experience working in various settings; to include: residential addiction, correctional, community, and school based agencies. Those experiences have been rewarding in the opportunities they have provided for me to facilitate and witness client growth. My view of the therapeutic relationship is that of a process in which the client and the therapist build a therapeutic alliance to: explore and identify areas for improvement, develop goals, and work together realizing those goals and optimizing quality of life. You, the client, are a full partner in therapeutic relationship. Your honesty and effort is essential to success. If you have or develop questions, concerns, or suggestions about therapy, I expect you to share these with me so that we can make the necessary adjustments. I hold additional certification as a Telemental Health Certified Counselor (THCC). Teletherapy is a method of delivering mental health counseling and psychotherapy services using interactive technology-assisted media that enables a licensee and a client(s) separated by distance to interact via synchronous video and audio transmission.
Christopher Johnson
As a licensed therapist in Louisiana, I bring over a 14yrs of experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, stress, and life transitions. I specialize in addressing communication difficulties, social anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and tailored to each individual's unique journey. I work closely with clients to explore underlying emotional patterns, develop healthy coping strategies, and build resilience. Whether you're struggling with mood disorders, relationship issues, or seeking greater self-understanding, I'm committed to providing supportive, evidence-based guidance. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, including young adults, families, and individuals facing midlife transitions. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your challenges, rediscover your strengths, and move toward meaningful personal transformation.
Esau Kinchen
Hello, I’m Esau. I am a licensed professional counselor-supervisor in the state of Louisiana. I earned a Master of Arts Degree in mental health counseling from Southern University in Baton Rouge, LA. I am certified by the Louisiana State Board of Licensed Professional Counselors. I have over 10 yrs of experience providing counseling and psychotherapy services to adolescents and adults. I see the counseling relationship with you as a process of understanding and trust. We work together to develop your goals, to better manage your daily activities and routines. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety and stress, anger management, self-esteem and confidence issues, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, physical trauma, emotional abuse and family relationship problems. I approach counseling from several therapeutic perspectives which include short-term and long-term counseling plans for you. I will help you to realize that you have the ability to bring about the positive change(s) that you desire. I approach counseling from several therapeutic perspectives. They include cognitive behavior therapy, person-centered therapy, reality therapy, solution focused therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. If you choose to work with me, you will learn how to take corrective measures that will enable you to have better relationships, increased happiness, and have a sense of inner control of your life.
Darlene Kelly
I am a family and marriage therapist with over 20 years of experience. I have experience in working with singles, married couples, teens and the elderly. I am here to help you, knowing that reaching out for help is not always easy. I am an open-ended listener who gives you the opportunity to express yourself in a nonjudgmental environment. I have helped many get through their trials and tribulations. My idea of therapy is not to erase what you've been through but, to offer an environment where you can express any and all experiences and voice how you can move forward. My goal is to help you grow in all aspects of life, it's not always easy being vulnerable which is why I offer my support and aid in all experiences that you have and will go through. I hope to meet you soon!
Vanessa Rubin
As a licensed therapist in Louisiana, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on compassionate, culturally-responsive care that honors each person's unique journey. I have extensive experience helping clients work through challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. My therapeutic practice focuses on empowering individuals to develop deeper self-understanding, improve communication, and cultivate resilience. I'm particularly passionate about addressing issues related to self-esteem, depression, anxiety, workplace dynamics, and personal growth. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for healing. I understand that seeking therapy takes courage, and I'm committed to walking alongside you with respect, empathy, and genuine care. Together, we can work to transform challenges into opportunities for personal growth and emotional well-being.
Deborah Alexander
As a licensed therapist serving Louisiana and Texas, I specialize in supporting young adults through life's complex challenges. My professional approach centers on addressing depression, anxiety, stress management, and parenting issues with compassion and cultural sensitivity. Drawing from my background, I create a welcoming therapeutic space that honors each client's unique experiences and cultural identity. My goal is to provide affirming, strength-based support that empowers individuals to navigate personal growth, develop resilient coping strategies, and cultivate meaningful change. I am committed to understanding each person's distinct journey and walking alongside them with genuine empathy and professional expertise.
Dr. Wendy Devall
I am licensed in Louisiana with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and focus (ADHD). 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Dr. Melvin Burrell
I am licensed in Louisiana with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Amber Tassin
I am licensed in Louisiana with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Terrie Ducote
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Louisiana with over 20 years of experience—and I’ll be upfront from the start: I’m not a “just nod and ask how that makes you feel” kind of therapist. If you want real change—not just talking in circles—I may be a good fit for you. I work with adults who are ready to take an honest look at their lives and do something different. If you’re dealing with relationship issues, trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, or feeling stuck, I help you cut through the noise and focus on what actually works. My style is direct, practical, and supportive. I will challenge patterns that aren’t serving you, hold you accountable, and help you build the skills to move forward. At the same time, you’ll have a space where you can be real without judgment. Therapy with me isn’t about staying comfortable—it’s about growth, clarity, and results. If you’re ready for that, let’s get to work.
Angela Davis
I have a passion for working with adolescents and adults who feel stuck—trapped in a pattern of bad habits, caught in a cycle of ineffective coping skills, entangled in unhealthy or unsatisfying relationships, or simply unsure of where to go next in life. With years of experience in a small independent high school, I specialize in helping adolescents manage the impacts of ADHD, from symptom management to self-advocacy and obtaining academic accommodations. I maintain certifications as a Clinical Child & Adolescent Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP-CA) and an ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) to better serve my clients. Additionally, as a wife and mother to 3 kids, I understand the necessity of taking care of your mental health to maintain a healthy family system. I enjoy working with families and couples to improve communication, establish boundaries, and create healthy relationship dynamics overall. Using a strength-based, solution-focused approach, I strive to help you work through your challenges and stressors while improving your self-esteem and relationships. I want to guide clients in developing new coping skills to create balance in their lives, helping them move forward with confidence and peace to reach their goals.
Erika Aucoin
I am Licensed Professional Counselor whose professional and personal experiences have lead me down the path to helping clients of all ages with life's daily struggles. I provide individual and family counseling for children, teens, and adults for a wide range of mental health disorders such as, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, PTSD/Trauma, anger management, sexual abuse, self-harm, parenting Skills, grief, and ADHD. "It takes a village to raise a child... -African Proverb My goal is to give you the tools & support to guide your child through difficult struggles. As adults, we also need a village to cope with things life throws at us. My goal is to teach you the skills to overcome these obstacles. Throughout our lives, we may experience challenges that can make us feel overwhelmed and alone. I offer accommodating appointments, a supportive, non-judgmental, warm/comfortable environment. My personal philosophy We are all unique; therefore, each of us deserves an individualized approach to achieve your counseling goals.
Find a Therapist Near You in Oakdale , Louisiana
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Louisiana 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.
Louisiana 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 Louisiana, 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 Louisiana (LA). 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 Louisiana, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Louisiana 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 Louisiana
When searching for a therapist near me in Louisiana, 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 Louisiana, 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 Louisiana.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Louisiana 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 Louisiana
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Louisiana 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 Louisiana (LA)
- 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 Louisiana
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Louisiana, including residents in Oakdale.
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 Louisiana 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.