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Kate Nelson-Dooley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW,PIP
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionADHD
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello. Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. Most importantly, you are taking the right steps toward a happier and healthier you. Finding a therapist can lead to feelings of uncertainty which is perfectly okay. I want you to find the therapist that is right for you. My hope is that the following paragraphs will describe my education, experience, and therapeutic style sufficiently enough to aide you in your decision. Education I obtained my master’s in social work from the University of South Florida in 2008. I then relocated to Hammond, Louisiana where I proceeded to obtain a License in Clinical Social Work (LCSW). An LCSW shows that I have the education and experience to provide individual, family, and group psychotherapy to the community. After that, I relocated to Alabama where I obtained a Private Independent Practice License (PIP), which allows me to provide psychotherapy services through my private practice. Finally, I recently obtained an E-therapy Certificate to show that I am competent to provide psychotherapy via video, chat, and telephone. Experience I have over 12 years’ experience providing clinical social work services to the community. I provided psychotherapy to individuals in a variety of settings including in the home, in an office, in partial hospitalization, and in the hospital. Further, I have experience treating adults from 18 years old to 108 years old. My experience includes helping people who feel devastatingly lonely, sadness, grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, bullying, anger, difficulty coping with life transitions, and challenges socially. Additionally, I specialize in working with adults who experience medical illnesses which have impacted their emotional wellbeing. Therapeutic Style I believe that each person and situation is unique and special, so I strive to understand the client and all the types of stresses that are involved. I pull from modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Psychotherapy which are somewhat structured. However, I have had much success using those techniques with clientele. I work from a creative and open-minded style that is comfortable for my clients. Your journey is precious, and I hope the best for you. Please feel free to call upon me if I may be of assistance.P

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Laura Porter-Morris

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, my name is Laura and I am so glad you have decided to reach out and learn more about the counseling process! I am an Air Force "brat" - now Air Force wife- and though I have moved around a lot over the years, I will always call Alabama my home. I have about 7 years total of counseling experience in substance abuse which means I have worked with many co-occurring mental health disorders from depression to bipolar disorder (see list below); however, I also have a lot of experience working with everyday challenges we all face such as stress, relationship issues, loneliness, just to name a few. There is never a problem too big or too small, and never a wrong time to work toward the life you want. I believe in working as a team with my clients in the counseling process. I can promise an empathetic, sincere, and warm environment providing genuineness, comfort and, yes, even humor. I practice a humanistic approach to therapy which just means I believe that people are inherently good and I encourage self-awareness and mindfulness. To achieve this I generally use CBT counseling and techniques to help identify unhealthy thought patterns and teach you how to handle them in healthier ways. I may also draw from existentialism, Choice Theory, or Gestalt Therapy. As every person is different, every approach to therapy will be tailored to your unique personality. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me. I look forward to working with you soon!

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Dr. Heather Bryant

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Counselor License Type(s): PhD,LPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigue
16 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Alabama. My primary background is working with families and helping guide individuals as they find themselves and their place in this world. After working as a therapist for 15+ years, I moved to Los Angeles and I studied further into psychological research and earned a PhD in psychology. My focus of study was on relationships and connecting with others via online venues. This has broadened my expertise and reignited my passion for counseling with others. Since returning to Alabama, I continue to participate in research and I am also doing what I love - counseling. I have extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and client-centered therapy. The approach I prefer to use is an eclectic style, drawing from multiple therapies as needed and tweaking them to be a best fit for the client in their particular situation. I enjoy working with others and supporting them in their journey as they go through life. I also enjoy exploring insight into core feelings and motivations to better understand behaviors and make lasting changes. I have a faith-based perspective, which I can incorporate into our sessions or not based on your preference. I enjoy researching how people use online spaces, such as games and apps, to meet and develop relationships and support systems. Developing grounded theories and discovering processes is my passion. I am a mom, wife, daughter, mental health advocate, researcher, crafter, gamer, and I love learning about things different from myself and what I know. I am an Enneagram Type 9, INFJ. I enjoy anything new, such as experiences, foods, restaurants, ideas, games, cultures, languages, or activities. My personal style of interacting is non-judgmental, honest, and genuine. I look forward to hearing about the current adventures and challenges that you are in and helping you to develop a plan to live out your most authentic self and get the results you want out of life.

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Crystal Redd

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Illinois with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

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Kimberly Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Professional Counselor licensed in Alabama with a wide range of professional work experience that has expanded over the last 14 years. My professional journey has given me many unique opportunities to serve in various capacities to include rehabilitation counseling, mental health and substance abuse. I have experience in helping clients with borderline intellectual functioning, substance abuse, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, bipolar, depression and co-occurring disorders. I also have experience in providing insight to stress management techniques, effective coping strategies to manage anxiety, addiction, trauma, parenting issues and complicated grief. Although, my career has lead me on many different paths, my focus has remained the same. Assisting clients I serve in “Moving Forward”. “Moving forward to hope”. “Moving forward to dream”. “Moving forward to live a life you may not have thought was possible otherwise”. At this moment, you may feel stuck or powerless in the circumstances that lead you to seek out counseling services. However, if given the opportunity it would be an honor to assist you in clearing the path ahead! My approaches to do so include but are not limited to: person centered, cognitive behavioral and solution-focused counseling. I believe our life experiences shape our emotional lives and how we perceive our realities. As a result, 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 look forward to assisting you in Moving Forward!

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Michael Schwan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed clinical social worker with a background in community mental healthcare. I have over 7 years of experience providing clinical services to children, youth, and adults with a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and trauma-related issues, as well as to individuals with chronic mental illnesses and substance use disorders. My clinical approach is comprised primarily of CBT and TF-CBT, but I also incorporate various aspects of other clinical modalities into my therapy sessions and attempt to tailor one's treatment as specifically to their individual needs as possible. I enjoy working with individuals of diverse cultures and backgrounds. I strive to provide a relaxed and supportive environment where individuals feel safe to discuss their feelings and concerns without fear of judgement regardless of their race/ethnicity, cultural background, religious/spiritual beliefs, sexual orientation, or gender identity. https://flhealthsource.gov/telehealth/

This is Ebone Newton's avatar and link to their profile

Ebone Newton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Alabama with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & depression. 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.

This is Lekesha Wyse's avatar and link to their profile

Lekesha Wyse

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteem
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Alabama with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with 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 look forward to working with you!

This is Dr. Allen Stata's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Allen Stata

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
40 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Alabama with 40 years of professional , clinical Social Work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder. 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.

This is Shari Nehemiah's avatar and link to their profile

Shari Nehemiah

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Alabama with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Akron

Finding the best therapist close by in Akron can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services in Akron that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Akron. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Akron, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Akron region and in the state of Alabama. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Akron or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Akron area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Akron therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Akron, elsewhere in Hale, or in the greater state of Alabama.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Akron area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Akron therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Akron due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Akron may not take health insurance, some in the state of Alabama may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Alabama you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this Akron online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Akron, Alabama working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Akron psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Akron above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Akron helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Akron therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Akron therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Akron?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Akron therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Akron therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Akron therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Akron therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in AL, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 35441 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Akron counselor?

Before seeing your Akron therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Akron.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice from a therapist. A Akron licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy with a Akron counselor can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Akron, Alabama can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Akron has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Akron, Alabama

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Akron.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Akron:

35441

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