Depression can be a debilitating disease that not only affects your mind but can also destroy your entire life if it is not treated. Isolating yourself, constant fatigue, feeling sad or lost, and sleeping more than usual are just some of the symptoms that can wreak havoc on your daily life. 

The town of Athens has been home to 18 famous sports stars such as Dick Coffman, Andy Nelson, and Pryor Williams so the community is fond of sports of any kind. When you have depression, you lost interest in things that you used to enjoy such as sports, but it is important to stay active to fight depression. Talk to a therapist in Athens about treatment today. 

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Terri Spain

Offering therapy in AL
License: LICSW,PIP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Alabama. I have worked with individuals with a wide range of concerns, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, alcohol and substance related concerns, relationship concerns, body image concerns, trauma, parenting concerns, and adjusting to change. I have experience working with people from very diverse backgrounds, experiences, and from different stages of their lifecycle. I am currently only seeing clients with the preference of messaging only. This may change in the future. My style is very laid back and informal. It is my goal to help clients feel as relaxed and comfortable as possible with sharing their experiences. I focus on empowering clients and helping them to develop healthy and individualized coping skills. I want my clients to understand that I view my interactions with them as a privilege because I know that you choose to share your experience with me. It is my goal to help you to shift your perspective and to find relief. I am here for you.

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Curtis Jones

Offering therapy in AL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepression
28 years of experience

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 28 years of experience working as therapist, social worker, counselor Public Health Administrator. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss, with a special focus on individuals over 55 years of age as well young adults and adolescents. I have helped many young people and elderly who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is compassionate and empathetic. I believe that the relationship between the client and the therapist determines the effectiveness of the therapeutic process. Treating everyone with dignity and respect is ingrained into my character and is reflected in my interaction with others. Cognitive behavioral therapy is my preferred treatment modality along with solution focused therapy. We will develop a plan of treatment based on your needs as a guide towards attainment of your desired goals You have taken the first step towards a better life. I will be here to assist throughout this journey going forward. I am excited about joining you on this journey! SPECIALTIES: • Stress, Anxiety • Trauma and abuse • Grief/loss • Depression Experienced in: Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Sleeping disorders ,Self- esteem , Bipolar disorder and Coping with life changes Clinical approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and Trauma-Focused Therapy Years of Experience: 28

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Whitney Faunce

Offering therapy in AL
License: MSW,LICSW,CDP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) and a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) who is licensed in Alabama. I have worked with clients with concerns ranging from depression, anxiety, career challenges, grief and coping with loss, family issues, as well as many other challenges. I also have helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional abuse in their lives. My counseling style is solution-focused and person-centered. I believe in treating clients with compassion while respecting autonomy, as well as providing a non-judgmental atmosphere. My typical approaches include: cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and motivational interviewing. I will adjust my approach and our treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek assistance in order to have a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step then I am here to support and empower you. I am looking forward to working with you!

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Ruthie Brooks

Offering therapy in AL
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
19 years of experience

Thank you for stopping by! My name is Ruthie Brooks. It takes courage to reach out to a complete stranger for help with your personal journey. We all have moments in life that we need guidance and support to get through life struggles. I have a Master’s Degree in Counseling and Psychology and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I work with clients seeking help with stress management, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, anger management, low self-esteem, OCD, and substance abuse. I have over 15 years of experience in the mental health profession. My therapeutic approach is grounded in client-centered, cognitive-behavioral, reality therapy, motivational interviewing, exposure-response prevention, and solution-focused and techniques and strategies. I will offer needed guidance and support without judgment. I will assist in empowering you with the skills, strategies, and resources to reach your goals and achieve an optimal level of functioning. The greatest form of courage and strength is making the first step and seeking assistance. Our work together will involve the use of strategies and techniques to alleviate identified symptoms. I look forward to building a positive, collaborative, and effective therapeutic relationship!

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Vanessa Martz

Offering therapy in AL
License: MS, LPC-S
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
28 years of experience

I'm an older female counselor. I have a motherly way about me, according to my clients. I have had a very diversified career in science, the military, and in higher education. I'm a veteran, the widowed spouse of a veteran, the mother of a disabled veteran, and the daughter of a WWII veteran who suffered with PTSD. I am a mother, both by birth and adoption, to five children. I have fostered 26 children over 33 yrs. I am a Christian and I am a licensed pastor and provide pastoral services. I have experienced violence and loss and have a deep empathy for those who have experienced these things. I have done a lot of grief work myself and with my clients. I have remarried and have dealt with blended family issues. My life experience has increased both my empathy and my understanding, and has allowed for my spiritual growth. I will challenge your spirituality at some point in our process. If you are not wanting to look at your spiritual beliefs, another therapist would be a better match for you. Humans are often helpless, but never hopeless. I have found that a combination of varied therapeutic methods works for me and my clients. I use a good deal of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy combined with Grief Resolution Therapy, but I do not limit myself to certain methods and I expand to meet my client's needs. The majority of my clients feel they have received help, or have acheived some growth in therapy. My therapeutic goal is not to force a change on my client, but to enable my client to feel at peace with the choices they make each moment they live on this earth. In addition I hope to help my clients embrace the joy of living. Van Martz, LPC

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Ashley Motes

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyCareer difficulties
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & career difficulties. 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!

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Claudia Mayes

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
15 years of experience

I am a licensed Therapist in the State of Alabama with over 15 years of professional work experience in the US and Europe. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am so proud of you for getting started!

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Felicia Underwood

Offering therapy in AL
Self esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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!

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Lauren Sirkis

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, & 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 takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Jared Hood

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
16 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and trauma specialist with over sixteen years of experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I also am trained in EMDR for trauma-focused therapy. I also have extensive experience as an endurance athlete and am currently completing an NASM Certified Personal Trainer and NASM Nutrition certification.

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How to find counseling in Athens

Finding the best therapist close by in Athens 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Athens. 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 Athens, 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. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Athens or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. 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 Athens area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find 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 Athens, elsewhere in Limestone, or in the greater state of Alabama.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 BetterHelp or clinicians 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).

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

Therapists in Athens, 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a 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, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Athens 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 Athens helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Athens 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:

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 Athens 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?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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.

A psychologist 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 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 Athens 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 lot of people in AL, providers 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 35611 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

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

Before seeing your 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. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist 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. A Athens 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 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 Athens, 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.

Athens 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?

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

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 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 Athens.

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

35611, 35612, 35613

Popular cities near Athens, AL

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