Therapists in Mississippi

I have enjoyed working for various mental health agencies and have extensive experience in several areas of counseling. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, in the states of Mississippi, Colorado, Georgia, North Carolina, Louisiana and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Nevada. I have worked with individuals, couples, families and groups. I have worked with children as young as 4 to adults up to age 101! I have assisted clients who struggle with symptoms of anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, relational and self-esteem issues. I am a mother of seven, including a son on the autism spectrum. My counseling style is person-centered. I believe in treating everyone with respect and unconditional positive regard. I will devise a plan of treatment created specifically for you. My personal life experiences, in addition to my education and work history, help me to empower individuals to overcome difficult emotional obstacles. I know that asking for help can be difficult. Congratulations on taking that first step. I am looking forward to hearing from you and guiding you through the therapeutic process.

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 Kristi D. Webber, I’m currently a licensed professional counselor in the Jackson Metropolitan Area for the state of Mississippi . I am a highly organized and open minded person with a one of a kind work ethic. I have been able to work in many arenas which has allowed me to evolve in the mental health profession. My background includes working in social services, mental health as well as the educational system. I enjoy enhancing the quality of life for individuals that I encounter on a daily bases. I have over ten years experience in the mental health setting. I've obtained my Bachelor Degree in Psychology from University of Southern Mississippi as well as a Master Degree in Counseling with emphasis in Mental Health Counseling from Mississippi College. I have 18 hours in Psychology at a Master's level, which enables me to work as an Adjunct Professor at a Community College or Assistant Professor at any University. My treatment approach is an Integrative Counseling Approach. Integrative therapy responds effectively to the person at the affective, behavioral, cognitive, and physiological levels of functioning, and address as well the spiritual aspect of life. I have experience in leading groups as well as individual therapy from Mississippi Depart of Human Services. I have experience in training individuals with how to manage mentally ill youth as well as how to help individuals manage drug addictions to enhance their quality of life from Pine Belt Healthcare Resources.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor- Supervisor with a national board certification in counseling and a Specialist Degree in counseling and psychology. I have over 20 years experience in counseling with diverse populations from many different backgrounds. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, women's issues, relationship issues, and career concerns. I have been successful in helping clients become emotionally healthier and make better decisions. My counseling style is eclectic and insight oriented. I combine rational-emotive, psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. I also use reality therapy techniques to assist clients in evaluating their present situation and setting goals for the future. If you are struggling with depression, feeling discouraged, isolated or anxious and fearful, I understand and I can help. I have the credentials necessary to bring hope and change to brighten your tomorrows. I enter the process with you and will assist you in reaching your goals for treatment. You no longer have to struggle alone but have someone ready to help meet your needs.

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've earned a Doctorate in Healthcare Administration with a 4.0 GPA. I have an Educational Specialist Degree as well as a Masters in Counseling and Educational Administration. I am a national board certified counselor with an extensive background working with clients who have experienced trauma. I am a Licensed Professional Counseling Supervisor. I have over twenty-nine years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a range of concerns. I have worked approximately ten years as a Psychologist/Qualified Mental Health Professional for a local state hospital where individuals receiving services received inpatient treatment from active delusions, paranoid ideations, schizophrenia, and a range of mood disorders. As a Program Director for an outpatient clinic for seven years, there were opportunities to work with adolescents and children with diagnoses such as disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, as well as working with adults facing problems with alcohol and drug usage, unmanaged anger, generalized anxiety, and clinical depression. Other years in my career allowed me to provide a service to children and their families both at a school level and local social service agencies.

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.

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!

As a licensed therapist serving Mississippi, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients through transformative healing, with a deep commitment to addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. My approach honors each person's unique journey, particularly focusing on young adults, women's experiences, and individuals working through family conflicts, social anxiety, and life transitions. I bring culturally responsive care that centers on self-love, communication, and personal empowerment. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I create a compassionate, affirming therapeutic space where clients can explore their deepest challenges. Whether you're confronting isolation, seeking purpose, or healing from difficult experiences, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with understanding and professional guidance. My work is grounded in evidence-based practices that respect your individual strengths and lived experiences. Together, we'll develop meaningful strategies to support your emotional wellness and personal transformation.

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 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 6 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 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 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, intimacy related issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.