Venita Gowdy
I am a child and adolescent counselor licensed in Alabama with 13 years of experience working as a mental health therapist. I am also a registered play therapist and a national certified counselor. I have worked with clients from different populations and socioeconomic groups with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, academic challenges, ODD, and ADHD. I also helped individuals who have experienced various traumas. My counseling style is inviting, but directive, and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach includes cognitive-behavioral, person centered, solution focused counseling. I do incorporate play therapy and various assignments as interventions. I will tailor our interaction and treatment plan based on your unique and specific needs. I would like to thank you for taking the time and courage in seeking a more fulfilling and happier life and taking the first steps towards a change. My goal is to provide you support and empowerment as you take your journey. I look forward to working with you!
Kimberly Davis
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Alabama, and I have over 15 years of experience working with people dealing with mental and behavioral health issues. I have worked with diverse populations in various treatment settings, to include: crisis stabilization, inpatient psychiatric and detox, residential, re-entry correctional facilities, out patient and independent contract settings. My approach is always non-judgmental, compassionate, direct, solution-focused, and client centered. You are the expert in your life and the writer of your own story. I am here to share my knowledge and skills that i have learned over the years that can help you with living the life that you desire. By using combinations of various techniques from a vast array of theories and methodologies, both traditional and holistic, in nature, we can discover what works best for you. We will work to identify specific skills, practices, strengths, and resources that will: provide symptom relief, improve daily coping, and help to create a strong foundation that will allow you to safely work on any areas of desired change. I emphatically believe that, we as humans beings do the very best that we can do at any given time, by using the skills and resources that we have available to us at that time. On this life journey, we often encounter situations that do not respond well to our current skill sets, or ways of coping. We must learn new skills, new behaviors, and new ways of coping, so that we can continue our journey and live the quality of life that we desire. I commend you for reaching out and asking for help, as I know it's not always easy to do so. Thank you for entrusting me with the details of your personal story, and for giving me the opportunity to work with you at this point on your journey. I am committed to empower others with the self determination needed to create the positive changes desired!
Dr. Tarama Fleming
Thank you for considering me as your counselor. Life can be challenging, and it’s often even more difficult to face those challenges alone. But you don’t have to navigate it by yourself! I truly believe that everyone can benefit from therapy, and I’m here to create a safe space where you can speak openly about your concerns. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with over 29 years of experience working in mental health. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of supporting a diverse range of clients—whether they’re managing clinical issues or simply needing guidance through life’s transitions or difficulties. As a Christian, my faith in Christ is central to who I am, and I bring that foundation into my counseling approach. You can trust that my guidance is rooted in biblical principles, supported by the latest research, and focused on helping you develop healthy thoughts and behaviors that lead to a more fulfilling life. I will always respect your beliefs, and I am dedicated to working alongside you to help you grow and thrive. Through both my professional journey and personal experiences, I’ve found my true passion in helping others live their most authentic, peaceful, joyful, and meaningful lives. I believe in you, and I want to help you believe in yourself too. It’s time to prioritize your well-being. You don’t have to do this alone. Let’s start the conversation today.
Allison Crotwell
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience working as a therapist in various inpatient and outpatient settings. I have worked with clients on multiple concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief, parenting problems, career, and life transition challenges. In addition, I have extensive experience in working with clients who struggle with behaviors and symptoms related to obsessive-compulsive disorders, attention deficit, and hyperactivity disorders such as ADD and ADHD. My therapeutic approach varies but is always client-centered. Through a strengths-based and solutions-focused lens, I draw on multiple treatment modalities to guide clients in identifying strengths and developing treatment plans that accomplish their goals. For example, through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I assist clients in exploring relationships among thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to aid in discovering dysfunctional thought patterns leading to self-destructive behaviors and beliefs. Using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I support clients through developing skills: mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and emotion regulation to move clients towards a life involving the capacity for experiencing joy and freedom. It takes courage and effort to seek a more fulfilling and happier life, and if you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you.
Krystal Kemp
As a licensed therapist in Kansas, I bring 17 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients to cultivate self-love, navigate interpersonal challenges, and develop resilient coping strategies. I specialize in addressing a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, life transitions, workplace stress, and multicultural experiences. My approach honors each person's unique journey, with particular sensitivity to women's issues, young adult challenges, and the nuanced experiences of marginalized communities. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a compassionate, affirming therapeutic space where clients can explore their deepest struggles and strengths. Whether you're managing social anxiety, processing grief, or seeking greater self-understanding, I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine empathy and professional expertise. My background reflects a deep understanding of diverse human experiences, and I'm passionate about supporting individuals as they rediscover their inherent worth and potential for growth.
Amber Jones
Hello, I am Amber Jones, LPC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Alabama. I have worked in mental health for over 16 years. I have been a counselor for 6 years. During this time, I worked primarily with children, adolescents, college students, and adults. I provided Telehealth services to adults and adolescents. Prior to receiving my counseling degree, I worked as substance abuse prevention specialist for over 10 years. I am currently working on my PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision. My therapeutic approach is primarily person centered with cognitive behavioral approaches. With the person centered approach, you are the expert in your life and I assist you in processing your experiences and emotions in life.
Janie Amanda Herndon
I am licensed in Alabama with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, parenting issues, anger management, motivation, self esteem and confidence. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Jenay Williams
As a licensed therapist serving Alabama, I bring ten years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on empowering clients to navigate stress, anxiety, family dynamics, and personal growth. I specialize in addressing self-esteem, communication challenges, and multicultural concerns with a compassionate, culturally responsive approach. My therapeutic work spans diverse areas including young adult issues, workplace challenges, chronic health conditions, and veterans' mental health. I am committed to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate self-love. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help individuals understand their unique strengths and develop meaningful strategies for personal transformation. My approach honors each client's individual journey, focusing on building authentic connections and supporting holistic emotional wellness.
Sonya Wilson
I am licensed in Alabama with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes in life, relationships and work experiences. 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.
Brandy Cobbs
I am licensed in Alabama and have been since 1996 as an LGSW and since 1999 as an LiCSW (28 years of professional work experience as an LiCSW). In November, 2021, I retired from 25 years with the State of Alabama doing work with foster children, parents at risk of losing their children, and with child abuse and neglect intake and crisis work. Since retiring, I added ADHD Coach training and certification as well. I have experience in helping clients with coping with life changes, ADHD coaching, & compassion fatigue and have some personal experience in Alanon and with being a family member of someone exhibiting Narcissistic behaviors. I also was diagnosed with ADHD at age 26 and have experienced roughly half my life on both sides of the diagnosis. I understand the experience of looking back and seeing how things could have been different if diagnosed sooner, while also learning (yes, still learning) acceptance and techniques to achieve things I didn't believe possible as a younger person. I have two young adult sons and did go through infertility issues, and prematurity/NICU stay with the youngest, giving me some insight in both infertility, multiple miscarriages, and parenting. I also am an avid art/crafter, a musician, and poet and love learning new languages (to keep the brain healthier). I strongly believe that any creative, intellectual interest or hobby and/or recreational outlet is very important to our mental health. I believe that rekindling some such outlet or interest can build self-esteem which spills into other areas of our lives as well. I am open to clients who seek a therapist who is aware of spirituality and mindfulness practices as important facets of life for some individuals. However, as an Episcopalian, I am not comfortable with engaging in the practice of "Christian-based" counseling in any restricting or conservative manner. I am open to discussion of how a client's religion helps them or has caused trauma as either of these viewpoints can impact a person's mental health. I am not an athiest or agnostic, but rather a mildly involved and often questioning Episcopalian who enjoys learning about other religions and cultures for the sake of broadening my own mind. I am also open and affirming of all humans, however they are made, however they present themselves, and to whom they are attracted. I do not have specialized LGBTQIA+ therapeutic experience, but I welcome anyone who needs ADHD related counseling or any other areas with which I do have experience, regardless of how they identify. I have recent experience in the past three years working as a professional ADHD Coach with both college students with ADHD and women over 50 who also have ADHD, some in the workforce and some recently retired. I have also worked with parents of children with ADHD. While outside of Better Help, I do ADHD related Coaching, being an online therapist at Better Help is more in line with therapy instead of coaching. However, I still may incorporate some techniques used in both Coaching and Therapy, if that is relevant and agreed upon by myself and the client. There are other reasons for executive functioning difficulties such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, stroke, traumatic brain injuries, aging, and "brain fog" from Fibromyalgia and other auto-immune disorders. All are welcome and I will do my best to assist with smoothing out your days and helping someone improve or create work-arounds for those executive functions that most impact them. The primary goal or purpose for each individual client entering therapy varies, but for some, it is to identify areas they wish to improve and then start making some small changes. This involves creating steps toward achieving their goals. For others, the purpose of therapy is to have someone to brainstorm with, vent to, and gain insight into some issues that have kept them from opportunities or just have kept them in a stress filled environment. I believe in a client-centered approach which means that I come to the table with resources but without a pre-arranged agenda. You come to the table with experiences, beliefs, and interests, and some problems you want to address. We work together to find solutions for what can be changed, and sometimes acceptance in what cannot be changed (and yes, to fine-tune the wisdom to know the difference). I look forward to seeing clients embrace new ways of seeing themselves and their world. Ultimately, I seek 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.
Jennifer White
I am licensed in Alabama with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Dr. Valerie Zeiger
I am licensed in Alabama with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with compassion fatigue and burnout, stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. As an empathetic therapist, who integrates forward-facing therapy (FFT), my goal is to help you uncover your true potential & lead a life that is meaningful. While we can't change difficult situations, or past, we can work together to understand & resolve challenges in your life with an integrative approach. Together, we unearth patterns or perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling, meaningful life. I look forward to helping you heal in an approach tailored for you. I teach clients how to use simple self-regulation to interrupt the body's response & return to comfort.
Joseph Myers
I am licensed in Alabama with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Catrece Hoult
Welcome to Spill the Beans Counseling Studio, LLC Spill the Beans Counseling Studio, LLC is a compassionate counseling space created specifically for women experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, and loss. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, or navigating a season of deep change, you deserve a place where you can speak openly and feel supported. Here, you don’t have to minimize your pain or have everything figured out. We move at your pace, honoring your story and your strength—especially on the days it feels hard to find. This is a safe place for women to spill the beans and begin healing. Spill the Beans Counseling Studio, LLC supports women who are struggling with: • Persistent sadness, emotional numbness, or depression • Anxiety, overthinking, worry, or feeling constantly on edge • Grief and loss—whether recent or long ago • Life transitions that feel heavier than expected • Feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or disconnected from yourself You may be the one everyone else leans on. You may be holding it together on the outside while quietly hurting inside. Here, you don’t have to minimize your pain or explain it away. This space is for women who need gentleness, understanding, and permission to be honest about how hard things feel.
Find a Therapist Near You in Ashford , Alabama
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Alabama 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.
Alabama 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 Alabama, 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 Alabama (AL). 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 Alabama, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Alabama 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 Alabama
When searching for a therapist near me in Alabama, 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 Alabama, 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 Alabama.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Alabama 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 Alabama
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Alabama 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 Alabama (AL)
- 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 Alabama
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Alabama, including residents in Ashford.
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 Alabama 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.