Therapists in Mississippi

I am a licensed professional counselor in Mississippi with years of practical experience in couple, marriage, family relationship, and individual psychotherapy that is complimented by my academic and professional credentials. My focus is striving diligently to make a difference. I have worked with clients with a vast range of presenting concerns including anger management, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, parenting problems, family conflict, emotional disturbance, grief, self-esteem, infidelity, divorce, career challenges, trauma, and OCD. My counseling approach is respectful and caring. I provide therapy services in a compassionate environment and tailor services design to my client's presenting concerns. As appropriate to client concerns I utilize components from the following therapeutic models: Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical (DBT), Mindfulness, Emotionally Focused, Family / Marital, Parent-Child Interaction (PCIT), Person-Centered, Rational Emotive Behavior (REBT). My ultimate goal is to help individuals, couples, and families realize their true potential and experience more satisfied lives worth celebrating. If you’re looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I am excited to work with you by providing services tailored to achieve your goals. I welcome the opportunity to work with you!

Growing up in small rural area of the Mississippi Delta is easy for most people, but for people with anxiety and depression, as an adolescent, life can become difficult. I came from a good Christian home where morals and values were taught from the beginning. Anxiety and depression were issues that were not talked about in the home. It was not until I was in my late twenties that I learned that it was okay to talk about uncomfortable feelings and emotions and it was certainly nothing to be ashamed of. As I began to seek counseling, I was able to learn to become self-aware of my own feelings and to learn from my counselor’s guidance, that I could make positive changes in my own life. Counselors were able to provide valuable assistance to my emotional needs and help assist me in learning to express myself in a healthy way and to learn coping skills to function to the best of my ability in everyday life situations. This is how my journey began as a counselor when my passion for helping others began. My inclination towards the profession develop when I developed a personal aspiration to advocate and to help others through my own personal experiences. I wanted to be a part of my future clients’ journeys to become the most fulfilling versions of themselves. My background includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorders, general mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, borderline personality disorders and attention deficit disorders.

I have 19 years of counseling work experience with populations ranging from ages 13-89, where I provided individual counseling, crisis counseling while on-call, family counseling, and group therapy while using an eclectic approach to treatment as well as Evidence Based Psychotherapies. I have experience delivering therapy for chemical abuse and dependence, depression, anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, mood disturbance, grief, adjustment, poor impulse control, and anger management. I believe the dynamics between the counselor and client are critical to the process of growth and recovery. I am intentional, proactive, and flexible. Active involvement as well as efforts to improve yourself are vital to the process . I will create an environment that promotes a joint effort in the process of counseling. I seek to provide a place of growth while reflecting on inner self, strengths, and abilities. My interventions are tailored to the client’s developmental, cognitive, and conceptual levels. I will be here to provide support and challenge you to reach new heights. If you are looking for someone to support you, be honest with you, and open, I welcome the opportunity to talk with you!

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION Ricardo Gillispie, PhD, LCSW I received my Bachelor’s Degree in 1973 in Social Science from Mississippi Valley State University. I was accepted in the first Masters of Social Work Program at the University of Southern Mississippi graduating in 1975. I was awarded the first Social Worker of the Year by the Mississippi Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers in 1992. I was accepted in the first Ph.D. Program in Social Work at Jackson State University graduating in 2000, with the primary focus in Psychotherapeutic Social Work. Prior to retiring from Private Practice, I was part owner and CEO of Family Counseling Services, PLLC in Meridian, MS. This was a Private Behavioral Health Care Group Practice consisting of Psychiatrists, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, PhD Clinical Psychologists, Licensed Professional Counselors and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. While in Private Practice, I specialized in Marriage and Family Therapy, Cognitive/Affective Disorders, to include patients experiencing Depression, Anxiety and Post Traumatic Disorder. After retirement, I accepted the offer to serve as a group therapist for Rush/Ochsner Intensive Outpatient Psychogeriatric Programs. These are IOP's throughout East Mississippi. In 2000, I accepted to be a consultant for Rush Psychogeriatric Intensive Outpatient Programs. In this role, I help develop the Behavioral Healthcare Program for geriatric patients with mental health, aging and emotional conditions. After developing these Programs, I provided training for social workers, psychiatrist and nurses. Afterward, I surveyed these Programs in accordance to CMS guidelines. In 1999 I accepted the consulting role with East Mississippi Correctional Facility, a private prison under the management of the GEO Group, Inc. in Boca Raton, Florida. In that consulting role, I designed the first exclusive mental health program in corrections in the United States. February 2006, I accepted the full-time position as Deputy Warden of Mental Health Programs with East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF), and maintained my private practice with Family Counseling Services, PLLC. From 1973 to 1985, I served as Assistant Director for Region Ten (Weems) Mental Health Center covering a catchment area of nine counties in East Central Mississippi. In that role, I wrote the Initial Operation Grant for Weems Mental Health Center and other grants. 1986, I served as Clinical Director and an investor of Laurel Wood Psychiatric Hospital in Meridian, MS. I served fifteen years on the Meridian School Board of Trustees, serving two terms as President. I was elected as Region Ten National Association of Social Work Representative for the Nomination and Leadership Committee, representing Mississippi, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Louisiana and Tennessee. 1994, I was appointed to the first Mississippi Social Workers Licensure Board serving one term as chairman. I served as an Auditor of Correctional Facilities in the United States for the American Correctional Association (ACA). Also, I was a Psychiatric Social Worker Surveyor consultant for the Center of Medicaid/Medicare Services (CMS), in which I surveyed public and private psychiatric hospitals for Medicare and Medicaid compliance in the United States. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Diplomat in Clinical Social Work, and Certified by the Academy of Certified Social Workers. 2006, I was inducted in the Hall of Fame at Meridian Community College. I have served as a part-time instructor for Mississippi State University School of Social Working – Meridian Branch, Meridian Community College and Adjunct Faculty for the University of Southern Mississippi School of Social Work. I have provided the following professional presentations: • 2015 Techniques in the Provision of Group Psychotherapy - Rush Hospital Senior Citizens Program • 2017 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – Rush Hospital Senior Citizens Program • Guest speaker for the 2010 American Correctional Association Annual Conference in New Orleans, LA. Topic: Efficacy of Mental Health Services in Corrections • Presenter at 2011 American Correctional Association Annual Conference in Chicago, Ill, Topic: Long Term Segregated Offender Mental Health Program. • Social Work Standards of Practice in Psychiatric Hospitals for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – Seattle, WA • Assessment Interviewing Training for the Mississippi Department of Health and Human Services- Jackson, MS • Stress Management Workshops for Industries, Hospitals and other professional organizations. • Interviewing Skills Training for the Department of Public Welfare; sponsored by the University of Southern Mississippi Continuing Education Department - Gulfport, MS • Assessment Interviewing/Assessment Training for the Bureau of Indian Affairs; Choctaw Reservation - Philadelphia, MS • Developing of Treatment Plans for the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – Baltimore, MD • Guest Speaker for the Institute of Rural Mental Health; Topic: Barriers for African Americans in Obtaining Mental Health Services In the Rural South • Operational Development of the Psychosocial Assessments – Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – Kansas City, MO I have authored the following publications: Book: How to Prevent the Collision of the Two Worlds we Live, Publisher - Mulberry Book, LLC, 2020. Hospitalized Africa American Men with Mental Illness: Some Antecedents to Service Satisfaction and Intent to Comply with Aftercare. Psychiatric Rehabilitation Skills, Volume 6, Number 3, winter 2002. Hospitalized African American Mental Health Consumers: Some Antecedents to Service Satisfaction and Intent to Comply with Aftercare. American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, Volume 75, Number 2, pp. 254-261, 2005. I have been married to Catherine Nelson Gillispie since 1973. We have a daughter Dr. Veronica Gillispie-Bell who is a physician of OBGY at Ochsner Hospital in New Orleans and son, Rashad Gillispie a graduate of MVSU with a degree in computer science. My wife and I attend North Park church in Meridian, MS a multiracial and cultural congregation. Licensed and Certifications: • Mississippi Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Marriage and Family Counselor - #COO82 • Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW) - #881216796 • Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (BCD) - #006164

As a licensed therapist with two decades of experience serving clients across Mississippi, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and personal challenges. My practice focuses on addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and men's mental health issues with compassionate, targeted support. I bring extensive expertise in helping clients navigate workplace stress, family conflicts, addiction recovery, and personal growth. My approach centers on empowering individuals to develop self-understanding, build resilience, and create meaningful life strategies. Whether you're dealing with relationship challenges, career transitions, or personal healing, I'm committed to providing thoughtful, personalized guidance that respects your unique journey. My therapeutic work draws from evidence-based practices designed to help you develop practical coping skills, enhance emotional well-being, and move toward your personal and professional goals. I understand that seeking support takes courage, and I'm dedicated to creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you can explore your experiences and strengths.

I am licensed in Mississippi with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

As a licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience, I provide compassionate, holistic support to individuals navigating complex life challenges. My practice centers on understanding each person's unique journey, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and life transitions. I am deeply committed to creating a supportive, affirming therapeutic environment that honors diverse experiences and identities. My approach is rooted in empathy, cultural responsiveness, and evidence-based practices that empower clients to explore personal growth, heal from past wounds, and develop meaningful coping strategies. My professional focus spans a wide range of concerns, including social anxiety, self-love, communication challenges, workplace stress, and multicultural experiences. I work collaboratively with clients to unpack complex emotions, build resilience, and cultivate authentic connections—both with themselves and others. Through a person-centered lens, I support individuals in understanding their inner landscape, confronting barriers, and moving toward more fulfilling, intentional lives. My goal is to walk alongside you with genuine care, respect, and professional guidance. For most people, seeking counseling is a giant step and it takes a lot of courage. If you are ready to work on having a more meaningful life, I am here to support and encourage you. I look forward to working with you!

I am licensed in Mississippi with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

I am licensed in Mississippi with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

I am licensed in Mississippi with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

I am licensed in Mississippi with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.

Every day can have a ray of sunshine in it if you choose to see it. I believe that perception is true in my own life and yours. I am licensed in Mississippi with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, and confidence, coping with life changes, & concentration, memory and focus (ADHD). I have worked with teenagers and adults over my career including some with special needs. 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. John Wayne said, "Courage is being scared to death, but saddling up anyway". I am here to support you in that process. I have had to rely on God and find courage many times in my life. I had a life changing event at the age of sixteen that resulted in being totally blind. God's strength and guidance allowed me to finish high school and complete a Bachelors and Masters degree to do what He called me to do. I have been through a divorce, remarriage, and have three children since all of the above. So I have experienced those dark days when you have to choose the sunshine or the clouds. I would enjoy getting to know you and help you navigate through the challenges of life.

As a licensed therapist serving Mississippi, I bring 15 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, stress, and grief, with a compassionate approach that honors each person's unique journey. I specialize in addressing women's issues, workplace dynamics, and young adult transitions, offering targeted support for those experiencing self-esteem challenges, communication difficulties, and life purpose exploration. My therapeutic approach is rooted in understanding, creating space for healing, and empowering clients to develop resilience and self-love. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I work collaboratively with individuals facing diverse challenges, including mood disorders, posttraumatic stress, caregiver burnout, and relationship dynamics. My goal is to provide a supportive, affirming environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop healthy coping strategies, and move toward meaningful personal growth.

Hi there! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi with 5 years of professional work experience. I have spent that time helping clients with a variety of presenting issues such as stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma, & abuse. I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and have worked within this specialty for the past three years. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My goal for you is to come to understand who you truly are, someone with inherent value, and become the one to nurture yourself. Through a variety of treatment modalities, I will assist you in unlearning the negative core beliefs you have internalized and the dysfunctional behaviors you have adopted while seeking a false sense of safety, connection or joy. No matter the roots of these beliefs and behaviors, whether it be historical trauma, maladaptive personality traits, poor coping skills or limited problem-solving abilities, there is hope for your life. With a person-centered, holistic, no BS approach, I will challenge you to dive deep into yourself and extinguish that which no longer serves you. There is time for you to return to the truest form of yourself, to nurture the self you desire to be and to experience a fulfilling life of meaningful connection and joy.