Therapists in Mississippi

Welcome! Are you ready to take the first step toward a more fulfilling, balanced, and empowered life? I’m JD, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 21 years of experience in helping individuals, families, and communities overcome mental, emotional, and behavioral challenges. With a Master's in Guidance and Counseling and a Bachelor's in Educational Psychology from Alcorn State University, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for supporting those who seek personal growth and healing. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals facing a variety of struggles, from anxiety and depression to career discord, relationship challenges, and more. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and respect. I recognize that each person is unique, and I tailor my techniques to meet your individual needs—whether that’s through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, or Client-Centered Therapy, among others. I believe in working alongside you as a partner in your journey to mental and emotional well-being. Whether we’re tackling personal challenges, family dynamics, or deeper issues, my goal is to help you reach your fullest potential. I strive to create a safe, confidential, and supportive environment where you can feel empowered to make meaningful changes. I’m genuinely excited about the possibility of working together and helping you move toward your goals with confidence and clarity. Let’s begin this transformative journey together. I look forward to being here for you every step of the way. Warmly, JD

Hello! I want to commend you for reaching out for support; you have taken a major step toward finding satisfaction in your life. My name is Ashley and I am pleased to join you on this journey of growth and wellness. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia and Mississippi. I have 10 years of experience providing therapy services in many different settings including schools, clinics, and community agencies. I am a wife and mother of three awesome children. From personal experience, I understand how complex trauma and systemic disadvantage can affect families, generation after generation. I am happy to finally be in a position to help heal others and promote wellness in communities. I have dedicated my life to helping others overcome obstacles to find peace, joy, wellness, and fulfillment in life. My therapeutic approach is based in Adlerian/Individual Psychology, Behavioral Counseling, and Strategic Brief Counseling. What this means is that I will work with you to develop a healthy, holistic lifestyle by analyzing your current circumstances and developing more gratifying behavior patterns. I have worked with clients struggling through mood disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, attention deficit, and career/educational advancement. I would love the opportunity to assist with breaking down the barriers that are in your way!

Hello, my name is Lowell Wallace and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my Master's degree in Social Work in 2013 and went on to earn my LCSW in 2017. I have expertise in working with individuals and families with co-occurring substance abuse and other counseling issues. I also have expertise in providing counseling to individuals with mood and anxiety disorders, relationship issues, family conflict, trauma, ADHD, and much more. I utilize a client-centered approach and realize clients are the experts on their own lives. I work collaboratively with my clients in setting and reaching their goals that will ultimately benefit their lives. Some of my most used clinical approaches are cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. I enjoy these approaches because it allows me to help my clients gain insight into their core beliefs and how these translate into their thoughts and ultimately their behavior. I believe everyone has inherent strengths and abilities to face and overcome adversity and become more empowered and all they need is some assistance to realize their solution lies within themselves. I truly enjoy working with others and assisting them in becoming better version of themselves.

Hi, my name is Ophelia Mayfield and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience in the counseling field. I have worked across a wide range of settings including inpatient, outpatient, and school based environments, serving both adult and children populations. My professional background spans across mental health and school counseling supporting clients with anger management, self-esteem, anxiety, and relationship-building skills. I utilize a cognitive-based therapeutic approach focusing on identifying and addressing current challenges to help clients develop practical strategies and meaningful resolutions. I believe in a collaborative, client-centered process and often incorporate journaling and mindfulness practices to promote self-reflection, emotional regulation, and personal growth. My goal is to provide a supportive and structured environment where clients feel empowered to make positive and lasting changes.

Hi my name is Debbie and thank you for looking at my profile. I am a warm and supportive therapist. I believe that therapy helps people find their "true" self - the person they really are and were before negative things made them think they were something else. I work together with clients to make goals for therapy and believe that the client is the expert on themselves and that is why they need to be listened to. It is an honor and privilege for a client to trust me . I am good listener and might even throw in some humor, as appropriate. I believe that everyone is entitled to be treated with dignity and respect and the relationship the client and therapist have is of utmost importance. I hold a Master of Science degree from the University of Texas at Arlington. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas and in Mississippi. I have experience with anxiety, depression, abuse, neglect, trauma, as well as adoption, foster care, parenting, and blended families.

As a licensed therapist with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients to navigate challenges related to depression, anxiety, trauma, and interpersonal dynamics. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach that honors each person's unique journey and lived experiences. My therapeutic work focuses on addressing a wide range of concerns, including social anxiety, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and personal growth. I am particularly committed to supporting women, young adults, and individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds who are seeking meaningful healing and self-discovery. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a warm, affirming therapeutic environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate deeper self-understanding. My approach is rooted in respect, empathy, and a genuine belief in each individual's capacity for positive change.

I am a licensed therapist with over 30 years of professional work experience. My training includes cognitive therapy, stress management , depression and anxiety, addiction, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I have extensive experience working with individuals, couples and families. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.

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

Sabrina Vance, LCSW I always say that we all have had to deal with a mental health difficulty at one time or another, especially since the advent of the Covid-19 pandemic. Some of us need a little more help than others and I am a provider that can assist you in being the "best you that you want to be". I believe in-person-centered practices. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology and a Master of Social Work Degree from Jackson State University. I have over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and their families.

Hello, I am Melissa Upton. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi. I am also a National Certified Counselor with NBCC. I received my Master's and Specialist's Degree from Mississippi State University in School Counseling. I have 14 years of experience in school counseling and 25 years of experience in the public school system in Mississippi. I have worked with adolescents for 25 years. I am looking to broaden my horizon and begin a new phase in my life with more one-on-one counseling. I have observed in the past 25 years, the need for counselors in everyone’s life. I have worked with students in anger management, depression, coping skills, anxiety, relationship issues and ADHD, as well as academic and career planning in the school setting. I am looking forward to working with different age groups to provide counseling services in these areas and possibly more. My therapy style is client-centered and cognitive behavioral. I use the RIASEC model, John Holland's career inventory model when providing academic/career counseling. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I believe counseling should provide a place to be yourself and work through conflicts that come with everyday life. We all need to practice “self-help” more than we do. Talking to a counselor is one approach towards helping yourself live a happy and balanced life. If you are ready to begin the “self-help” process and begin to have a more fulfilling and balanced life, I am here to support you and help to begin that journey. I look forward to working with you!

I am licensed in Mississippi as a Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue and geriatric and end-of-life issues. 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. “Nothing ever goes away until it has taught us what we need to know.” Chödrön

I am a licensed therapist in Mississippi with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. This is first steps towards change. I am here to support & empower you during the journey.

I am licensed in Mississippi with 21 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 together with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Using a collaborative approach, clients identify their life goals, take the steps to move toward those goals and enjoy the benefits of long-term success. This approach uses Rational Living Therapy (RLT), a cognitive–behavioral therapy. Using this approach, many people have learned and continue to practice new ways of living so they can feel the way they want to feel more often and do the things they want to do most with their lives. People have learned to counsel themselves to make their lives meaningful and more fulfilling. In my work, I focus on helping people attend specifically to what really matters in life: desires, dreams, and goals. I help people identify the mental mistakes that are at the root of unwanted feelings and behaviors. I teach them self-counseling skills to achieve their dreams and goals and to enjoy a more healthy and satisfying life.” The first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and you are demonstrating that courage getting started here!

As a licensed therapist in Mississippi, I bring nearly two decades of compassionate counseling experience to supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on understanding each person's unique journey, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and anger management. This also has allowed me to work with those individuals with substance abuse issues and help them to understand triggers in their lives and how to develop and live a sober life. I am deeply committed to helping clients navigate challenging emotional terrain, focusing on areas like self-love, communication challenges, social anxiety, life purpose, and healing from past experiences. My practice honors individual experiences while providing supportive, thoughtful guidance through personal transformation. My therapeutic style integrates evidence-based practices with genuine empathy, creating a safe space where clients can explore their inner world, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. Whether you're struggling with isolation, relationship dynamics, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with professional care and respect.