Therapists in Mississippi

Hi, my name is Ophelia Mayfield and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Mississippi. I have 12 years of counseling experience. My experience ranges from mental health to school counseling. I have worked at inpatient, outpatient, and school settings with adult and children populations. I have the most experience working with clients dealing with anger management, self-esteem, anxiety, and building relationships. I like to use cognitive therapy approach during sessions. I want to focus primarily on the client's current issues to help him/her come to a resolution. I love incorporating the use of journaling and meditation in sessions.

Hello! I am a licensed professional counselor and a certified mental health therapist in the state of Mississippi with 15 years of experience in the field of mental health with 12.5 of those years as a counselor/therapist. I have worked with every population of clients throughout my years of experience. I have diagnosed and treated various mental health issues, including depression, stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, anger management, ODD, and ADHD. Other areas of focus that I have addressed include adoption and foster care, attachment issues, Autism, personality issues, blended family issues, caregiver issues and stress, codependency, commitment issues, communication problems, intellectual disability, OCD, paranoia, DMDD, drug and alcohol addiction, and narcissism. In regards to my counseling style, I believe that the best way to form a therapeutic alliance is to build rapport with each of my client. Also, I am very open, sympathetic, empathetic, and non-judgmental. In my opinion, everyone needs someone to talk to because we all experience unexpected events that affect us negatively in life. The best way to overcome these unexpected events is to find positive coping mechanisms that help an individual to move forward without looking back continuously. Moreover, my clinical approaches include Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, and Narrative Therapy. I will utilize the most appropriate clinical approach with each of my clients based on his or her areas of need. Furthermore, being able to take the step to seek counseling is no small feat, and it shows that you are willing to change. I am here to support, direction, encourage, and motivate you to be a better you. Thank you for the opportunity to work with you!

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

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!

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!

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 19 years of professional work experience and 8 within the counseling field. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, & 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 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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 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 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, anger management, 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.

As a licensed therapist, I bring over two decades of compassionate counseling experience to supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate stress, trauma, parenting difficulties, and personal growth with a faith-informed, empathetic approach. I specialize in addressing women's issues, social anxiety, communication challenges, and healing from difficult life experiences. My therapeutic work focuses on supporting individuals through transitions like divorce, adoption, blended family dynamics, and personal transformation. My approach is rooted in understanding each person's unique journey, with particular sensitivity to attachment issues, self-esteem, and emotional healing. I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop healthier relationships, and rediscover their inner strength and purpose. Drawing from a Christian perspective, I offer guidance that respects individual spiritual beliefs while providing evidence-based, compassionate therapeutic support. My goal is to walk alongside you as you work toward personal growth, emotional resilience, and meaningful life change.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi with over 10 years of experience working in clinical practice. I support clients facing a wide variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship and family challenges, parenting stress, career difficulties, OCD, and ADHD. I also have extensive experience working with individuals who have lived through trauma and emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm, collaborative, and interactive. I believe in creating a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and respected. I approach each person with sensitivity and compassion, without judgment or labels. My therapeutic approach integrates cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and rational-emotive therapy. I adapt each session and treatment plan to fit your unique goals and needs. I believe it takes real courage to seek growth and healing. Taking this step is a powerful investment in yourself and your well-being. If you are ready to begin that journey, I am here to walk alongside you, offering guidance, support, and encouragement. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you!