Dallas McGlinn
As a licensed therapist in Louisiana and Tennessee, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex challenges. My approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each client's unique journey, with particular expertise in stress management, grief counseling, boundaries, family and addiction issues, and helping people through significant life transitions. I focus on empowering clients to develop stronger self-love, improve communication, and find meaningful purpose. My therapeutic work addresses a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, workplace challenges, caregiver stress, and personal growth. I'm especially committed to supporting women through various life stages and helping individuals heal from trauma, shame, and relationship difficulties. I provide faith-based counseling if desired; wherever you are in your spiritual life, I will offer a supportive and understanding environment where clients can explore their emotional experiences and develop effective coping strategies. My goal is to walk alongside you, providing guidance and support as you work towards healing, personal growth, and greater emotional well-being. I will meet you where you are.
Winzetta "Wendy" Jenkins
Hello, let me take a moment to congratulate you on taking your first step towards healing and this is a journey that I am willing to take with you. My name is Winzetta Jenkins but I prefer to be called Wendy, and I am a LCSW. I have 20 plus years working in the Social Work profession. I have experience working with a diverse population. I have knowledge and experience with geriatrics, homelessness, survivors of human trafficking and intimate partner violence. My therapeutic style is fused with compassion and empathy. I will provide you with a safe non-judgmental space in-order for you to process and heal. I will meet you where are mentally and emotionally. I use CBT, Solution Focus, and Motivational Interviewing as my therapeutic modalities. I am a Certified Life Coach (CLC) and Certified Financial Social Worker (CFSW). I look forward to working with you.
Dr. Heide Schlack
Hello! I wish you well on your counseling journey. I am a licensed psychologist in the Middle Tennessee area and have been in the field of mental health for over 30 years. I see counseling as a partnership where I am a consultant. Everyone gets stuck at times. It can be very helpful to tell our stories to trusted others to work through our concerns. Family and friends can be helpful, and sometimes a trained counselor can offer unbiased, positive support. I often feel like an interviewer asking specific questions in a curious and non-accusing manner. You are the focus of my hour, and I want to learn as much about your story as I can. I also want to know where you want to take your story. Humor, curiosity, self-kindness, creativity and increased self-awareness (mindfulness) help in the process. Clients who do well are willing to entertain different perspectives of themselves and of their situations. New behaviors can be learned with practice. Sometimes what we mainly need to do is accept things we cannot change and let go of constricting beliefs and "rules" for ourselves. Sometimes our daily patterns are disconnected from our feelings and values. I try to help people gain more awareness of their feelings, life dreams and what is truly important to them. I offer systematic ways of exploring these issues and making plans to sort of knit together more coherently one's thoughts and feelings, past and present, and habits and values. We have self-healing capacities within ourselves that I try to facilitate and not get in the way of! I use strategies from cognitive-behavioral-mindfulness therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, narrative therapy and trauma-informed therapy. Exploring our past interpersonal patterns can help us redirect our social behaviors to more satisfying relationships. Sometimes I might act more like a coach to help you spring forward from the present. I love working with ADD/ADHD clients. Dealing with my own ADD, I know intimately the challenges, struggles and even the upsides of ADD! Finding creative, ADD-informed ways to manage our space and time is something I often do with clients. Other frequent issues are depression, anxiety, social anxiety , lack of motivation, self-doubt, communication and relationship issues, sleep and weight, work issues, trauma and loss. I am also comfortable working with the LGBQ+ populations, transgender dysphoria and clients in polyamorous relationships. I look forward to meeting new clients and do not take personally decisions not to return. There are a number of reasons for client choices. Like most relationships, including work colleagues, we look for compatibility. And sometimes we glean things from one-time meetings.
Dr. Richard Highland
I am licensed in Georgia with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & anger management. I also have experience working with 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.
Deborah Richardson
I'm pleased to introduce myself to you. I'm Deborah Richardson, LCSW, but most people call me "Deb". All of my life I've had people tell me things in confidence. When you're a minor, that can be a little scary at times; but that's the beginning of a therapist. Now I know it's scarier for the person who has a secret that needs to be told. I didn't set out to be a therapist. I thought I'd be an administrator in a social services agency until I realized I can't balance a Profit and Loss Statement because I have numbers dyslexia. You see, my mind isn't perfect. Like everyone, there are many things I can't do well. Then I found myself covering for a full-time therapist and suddenly I found my joy, and I've continued to find it everyday for forty-plus years. Along the way I picked up two husbands, two daughters, a dozen pets, and thousands of clients. I divorced one husband, buried another, watched two little girls fly away, and now I wait for grandchildren. I also completed a teaching degree followed by a master's degree in social work from The University of Tennessee. Then there's my fur-baby, the ten pound Shih Tzu Amanda-Grace, who was the office pet therapist when I saw clients face-to-face. She became very depressed when we stopped having clients in the office: laying around, not eating or playing. She came to life again when she discovered YouTube videos of cats, dogs, and talking birds. She's happiest, though, when hearing your voices on my speakers. Don't worry, she's the most ethical therapist there is. Everything is totally confidential with Gracie. Over the course of four decades I've worked with all ages from many walks of life. I've worked in-patient, out-patient, a nursing home, a group-home, and a prison. I did forensic psychiatry for fifteen years and private practice for twenty-four. I've used whatever therapeutic techniques worked for an individual. We've walked in the sunshine, listened to music, painted emotions, and written about heartache. We've read "The Giving Tree", watched "Attack on Titan", and sang "It's Not Easy Being Green". Through my professional work experience, I've learned that using a lot of professional jargon isn't as important as remembering someone's birthday, and keeping it real is synonymous with empathy. I found that "normal" is very broad and "average" is very small. Acceptance of one's self is harder to do than acceptance of others, but judgments comes quickly and punishments even swifter. I find that many people believe life is a yellow brick road with a pot of gold at the end, or perhaps Elton John playing piano. Either way, it's a journey they hope for but never think they can take. I believe life can be a yellow brick road, if that's what you want, but all roads have pot holes no matter where they lead or what color they are. My job is to teach each client how to fill their pot holes, or build a bridge, or knock-down a wall, or mend a broken heart for themselves. What I do isn't as important as who you are at the end of this journey together. I hope you will join me at Better Help to travel your road, where ever it goes, safely and in peace.
John Trainer
As a licensed therapist in Tennessee with over four decades of professional experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice focuses on addressing depression, addiction, self-esteem issues, and helping clients navigate significant life changes. I offer compassionate counseling for individuals struggling with communication problems, isolation, life purpose questions, and emotional healing from experiences like divorce, trauma, and family dynamics. My approach is particularly attuned to supporting older adults, first responders, and those facing challenging life circumstances such as illness, aging, and family transitions. If you choose to draw from a Christian perspective, I provide a supportive environment where clients can explore personal growth, work through guilt and shame, and develop meaningful coping strategies. My goal is to help you find hope, restore emotional balance, and rediscover your inner strength during difficult times.
Kimberly Rickels
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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!
Dr. Shunda McCoy
As a licensed therapist in Tennessee, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex personal challenges. My practice centers on helping clients explore relationship dynamics, intimacy concerns, parenting struggles, and personal growth. With a compassionate and culturally responsive approach, I work collaboratively to help clients develop deeper self-understanding, manage emotional patterns, and cultivate meaningful life strategies. My therapeutic approach honors each person's unique journey, with particular expertise in supporting individuals seeking greater self-love and life purpose. I create a welcoming, affirming space where clients can explore their experiences and develop personalized strategies for emotional wellness. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I am committed to walking alongside my clients with empathy, respect, and genuine care. Whether you're seeking support in personal relationships, professional development, or inner growth, I'm dedicated to supporting your path toward healing and empowerment.
Tracy Tippett
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for 25+ years. I am licensed in SC, TN, and Florida. I have worked in community mental health, group practice, and private practice, and federal consulting. My areas of focus are: anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationship issues, and gender identity related topics. I enjoy working with individuals and couples, of all colors, sizes, identities, and orientations. I work with Neurotypical folks and those who identify as Neurodivergent. I strive to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I have semi-casual/direct style which I believe sets the tone for trust. Therapy takes courage and I am here to support you with the process.
Anna Owens
Greetings! I am a trauma-informed, evidence-based, multi-modal, culturally aware, licensed professional psychotherapist and mental health service provider across the lifespan for over 14 years. I'm also a psychiatric nurse practitioner(be), family nurse practitioner(c) and mental health coaching for Tennessee and beyond. Prior to going back to graduate school, I had a 10 year career as a professional musician. These varied experiences have contributed to creating individualized approaches for each client. Recently, I decided I wanted a bit more of a work/life balance, which led me to Betterhelp. My approach is a bit different, I'm not just an active listener or reflector, I am willing to get in the trenches with you and dialogue. I'm also not afraid to self-disclose pieces of my experiences if I think it will contribute to your healing process. I'm a specialist in narcissistic victim syndrome, addiction, and conduct expert assessments for the judicial system. As a generalist, I work with mood, anxiety, and personality difficulties. I also work with individuals, couples, and families. Therapy is a purpose work for me and I'm invested in every client. You are the expert of your story and throughout therapy, we'll partner to tackle the most acute difficulties first. You'll gain inner strength, learn new coping mechanisms and develop tools to navigate your life. Most growth begins in the dark, and you'll have to do some serious soul-searching, considering, sitting with uncomfortable feelings, and facing difficult situations, thoughts and emotions. Therapy isn't for the faint of heart. A safe, non-judgmental environment is imperative. Once this process begins, you'll most likely find therapy exciting as we work together to curate your life. Curating uses the garden analogy. It can solely apply to your inner-world, but it's usually a reflection of your life as a whole. We continue pulling up and out the emotions, thoughts, situations, people, places, or things that no longer serve you. It's about gaining inner self worth, setting boundaries, pouring into yourself, and evolving. The exceptional thing about curating is that together, we will open up new space in your life for yourself or for new experiences to grow. The most important thing during the beginning is having the empathy, guidance, and support you need to overcome. As your therapist, the goal is never just to resolve, but to use the resolution phase to go beyond and curate the life experience you've truly wanted. Since I am just getting started with better help, I have plenty of spots and will try my best to provide flexible hours to compliment your schedule! In my opinion, there are no coincidences. If you landed on my page, and you're still here, there's a reason! I realize how difficult this first step is but you did it, and that speaks volumes. I would love to partner with you to help navigate through life's difficulties no matter what it is at the time, and together, you will heal and create the life you've truly wanted!
Rebekah Davis
As a licensed therapist in Tennessee, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, mental health challenges, and personal growth. My professional approach centers on compassionate, evidence-based care for those experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and stress-related concerns. I have developed expertise in supporting women through significant life changes, including divorce, caregiver stress, and personal identity exploration. My practice offers a supportive environment for individuals dealing with challenging interpersonal dynamics, traumatic experiences, and neurodevelopmental differences like ADHD. My therapeutic style is collaborative and client-centered, focusing on helping you discover meaningful strategies for healing and personal empowerment. I am committed to creating a non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences, develop resilience, and work towards your unique life goals. Drawing from comprehensive clinical training, I aim to support you in understanding yourself more deeply and developing practical tools for emotional well-being. Together, we can explore your strengths and navigate challenges with compassion and intentionality.
Dr. Saja Mboge
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Delaware and in Tennessee, I bring over 15 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on understanding and addressing challenges like depression, trauma, grief, and interpersonal dynamics. I specialize in working with diverse populations, including young adults, military veterans, and individuals navigating social anxiety, mood disorders, and family-related concerns. My therapeutic practice is rooted in compassionate, evidence-based strategies that honor each client's unique journey. I create a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. Whether you're struggling with self-esteem, communication challenges, or processing past experiences, I'm committed to walking alongside you with respect and professional guidance. My background encompasses a comprehensive understanding of mental health nuances, with a particular focus on helping individuals transform challenging life experiences into opportunities for healing and self-discovery. I approach each therapeutic relationship with cultural sensitivity, deep empathy, and a genuine commitment to your well-being.
Brandi Lightsey
As a therapist licensed in TX, TN and VA, I bring over 15 years of experience working in mental health across crisis intervention and inpatient psychiatric hospital settings. Throughout my career, I have provided therapy to individuals navigating acute distress, complex diagnoses, and life-altering transitions. My work has placed me on the front lines of the mental health system, where I’ve seen firsthand both its potential to help and the ways it can overwhelm and fail the people it’s meant to serve. I am a strong advocate for my clients. I believe therapy should be collaborative, transparent, and grounded in respect for each person’s lived experience. Many of my clients come to me feeling confused, unheard, or worn down by the psychiatric system. I help them make sense of that chaos — whether that means understanding diagnoses, navigating treatment options, or reclaiming a sense of agency in their care. Many individuals living with grief find comfort in working with a therapist who brings both professional training and personal understanding to the therapeutic space. I experienced the sudden loss of my brother as a young adult and later supported a close friend throughout a multi-year cancer journey. These experiences shaped my deep respect for the complexity of grief, resilience, and the emotional impact of life-altering transitions. While each person’s path is unique, I strive to offer a grounded, compassionate presence where clients feel supported, understood, and never alone in their healing process.
Michael "Paul" Highfill
As a licensed therapist in Tennessee, I bring over a decade of experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and trauma with compassion and depth. I specialize in addressing men's mental health, communication barriers, and life transitions. My approach is particularly attuned to supporting older adults and individuals seeking faith-aligned counseling. I understand the profound impact of isolation, shame, and life purpose struggles, and I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where healing and personal growth can flourish. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients process difficult experiences, rebuild connections, and develop resilience. Whether you're dealing with mood disorders, relationship conflicts, or seeking guidance through significant life changes, I offer a thoughtful, understanding approach that honors your unique journey.
Find a Therapist Near You in Watauga , Tennessee
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Tennessee 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.
Tennessee 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 Tennessee, 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 Tennessee (TN). 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 Tennessee, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Tennessee 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 Tennessee
When searching for a therapist near me in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee, 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 Tennessee.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Tennessee 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 Tennessee
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Tennessee 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 Tennessee (TN)
- 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 Tennessee
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Tennessee, including residents in Watauga.
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 Tennessee 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.