Birmingham, AL, is nicknamed Magic City, which came about in the early 20th century after the city expanded rapidly. Birmingham experienced exceptional population and land growth, absorbing several nearby towns. If you need help finding the things you need to make something big happen in your life, talk to a therapist in Birmingham, AL, for support.
You can find compassionate counselors in a few places. If you’re trying to find the right therapist, you can use a practice conveniently located in the Birmingham area, or you can address your mental health concerns in an online therapy platform like BetterHelp. You can get good therapy either way, but online treatment may be a more flexible option for busy professionals, college students, or parents.
Therapy can help you learn to manage the symptoms of a range of mental health disorders, and it can be beneficial if you struggle to deal with life's challenges or difficult emotions and feelings. With so much going on in the world, a Birmingham-based therapist can help you learn to cut through the noise and focus on how to lead a more fulfilling life.
Dr. Magna Porterfield
I am a psychologist who is licensed in both the states of Alabama and Georgia and I have had the opportunity to work in the field of psychology for several years. I have worked in the both university settings (as a teacher and counselor) as well as in private practice. I have also had the opportunity to travel and share my knowledge through lectures and workshops. I have the most experience in helping people who struggle with unipolar (but NOT bipolar) depression and anxiety. I also have a considerable amount of experience in working with individuals who have problems with managing stress and managing their emotions. I do not work with issues such as eating disorders, addictions, relationship problems or sexuality concerns. My counseling style is warm, but also straightforward and honest. I consider myself to be a kind person. and I truly desire to help those who are hurting. In my work with people, I do not spend much time processing the past (i.e., childhood experiences, past trauma, etc.). I believe that true healing comes when individuals take active steps in the therapy process and focus on what they can do in their "present" situation to address their challenges. In my work with clients, I focus on helping them understand how their thoughts impact their emotions and their behavior - principles from the field of cognitive behavior therapy. I also look at the impact of lifestyle habits - diet, rest, exercise, etc. - on mental/emotional health. In addition, I sometimes utilize concepts and strategies from the area of positive psychology, which helps people identify and enhance their strengths (as opposed to merely focusing on people's weaknesses "abnormalities," so to speak). Do you need a helping hand? I would love to be that "hand" and help you make those changes. Working with me will take commitment and will require you to not be just a "passive participant," so to speak, in your healing and recovery. If you are willing to do your part, I am here for you and would love to work with you. All it takes is that first step and you can make that step today!
William Thornett
I am a professional licensed counselor in Alabama , Florida, and Hawaii with over 16 years experience. I have experience working with many clients on wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, addictions , career challenges and personal development. I have also worked with people who have experienced physical trauma and emotional abuse. My counseling style is to work together as a team with my clients and figure out what works best for them . I believe in treating all individuals from different walks of life with respect and compassion. My basic approach combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, reality therapy, brief solution focused therapy, career/vocational counseling and mindfulness techniques. I will personalize our sessions and therapeutic treatment plan to meet your unique needs and goals. It takes courage and strength to seek counseling for a happy and more fulfilling life , if you are ready I am here to help , guide , support and empower you . I look forward to working with you !
Laurie Gaddy
I am a licensed counselor in both Texas and Alabama with over 11 years of professional work experience. Though I have experience working with a wide range of clients in a variety of professional settings, my specialties primarily include stress-related disorders, anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, family conflict, domestic violence, abuse and trauma. My counseling approach is primarily Cognitive Behavioral (CBT); however, I also utilize an eclectic approach at times, including aspects of Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Adlerian Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, as well as Motivational Interviewing techniques. I tailor my approach and treatment plan to meet the specific needs and challenges of each individual client, and I look forward to finding which treatment modality works best for you. It takes courage to reach out and ask for help- to take those first steps toward change- or to break unhealthy habits and relationships. I believe we all possess attributes and strengths within that can ultimately assist us in healing from hard experiences and overcoming the challenges we face. I strive, as your therapist, to create an environment in which you feel safe to share your experiences, free of any bias or judgment, and I truly look forward to walking alongside of you as you take those hard, first steps. I am here to listen, support & empower you throughout your own personal journey toward health, healing, and change. I do my best to get your first appointment scheduled within one week. My schedule is somewhat flexible, so if the hours listed on my calendar do not work for you, just ask! I look forward to working with you!
Kiara Patrick
Deciding to start therapy and finding the perfect therapist for you can be very difficult. I believe that everyone has the capacity to heal and grow, and my role as a therapist is to provide a safe and nurturing space for that transformation to unfold. My goal is to empower you to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life, one that aligns with your values and aspirations. I have experience with a wide range of concerns and specialize in depression, stress/anxiety, perinatal wellness, women's issues, relationship issues, caregiver fatigue, and life changes. I utilize several different techniques and modalities to give my clients the best client-centered therapy specific to their needs and concerns. I believe in creating an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgement. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I look forward to working with you!
Qyonna Grady
I am licensed in Alabama with 2 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, intimacy related issues, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Sara Darling
Hi, my name is Sara and I'm a licensed therapist living in Louisiana with my husband and two rescue dogs; Pip and Pierre. I'm licensed to practice in Louisiana and Alabama. I attended graduate school at the University of Alabama in my 40's after careers in hotel and retail management. I, like so many of my clients, was searching for purpose and meaning in my life, a search that never ends. In today's society it often seems that we focus on our differences but I have found that most of us long for the same thing; to be loved, to belong, to feel satisfied and to be happy. Rather than focus on one type of treatment, I have found that it is best to be flexible in my approach because everyone is different. Some people really relate to cognitive behavior therapy, some people prefer a psychodynamic approach that allows an exploration into one's deepest self. Mindfulness, parts work, motivational interviewing all have a place. Empathy, honesty and warmth are the hallmarks of building the rapport necessary to the therapist/client relationship. I invite you to reach out to me so that we can begin building that relationship. It is my promise to you that I will never judge you and will always meet you with compassion and warmth.
LaToyia Walker
I am licensed in Alabama with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Shari Nehemiah
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.
Nicole Potter
I am licensed in Alabama, Illinois, Indiana and Virginia with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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.
Amanda Dulaney
I am licensed in Alabama with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss of a loved one, life changes, as well as motivation and self esteem. 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.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Birmingham
Finding the best therapist close by in Birmingham 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 with therapists in Birmingham 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 Birmingham. 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 with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Birmingham, 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 for therapists. 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 therapists able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Birmingham 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Birmingham area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find Birmingham 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 Birmingham, elsewhere in Jefferson, or in the greater state of Alabama. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.
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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Birmingham due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Birmingham may not take health insurance, some therapists 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 therapists 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 Birmingham online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Birmingham, 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Birmingham 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 and therapists 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 Birmingham 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 while working with BetterHelp therapists. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Birmingham 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. Get matched with one of BetterHelp's therapists today.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified Birmingham 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.
Our therapists 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 Birmingham therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Birmingham?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Birmingham 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions in Birmingham therapy sessions.
Birmingham 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham 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 or therapists 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 35266 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. 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 Birmingham counselor?
Before seeing your Birmingham 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. Birmingham therapists here 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 Birmingham.
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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham, 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.
Birmingham 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 Birmingham, Alabama
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 Birmingham 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Birmingham:
35061, 35068, 35142, 35201, 35202, 35203, 35204, 35205, 35206, 35207, 35208, 35209, 35210, 35211, 35212, 35213, 35214, 35215, 35217, 35218, 35219, 35220, 35221, 35222, 35224, 35228, 35231, 35232, 35233, 35234, 35235, 35236, 35237, 35238, 35242, 35243, 35246, 35249, 35253, 35254, 35255, 35259, 35260, 35261, 35266, 35270, 35282, 35283, 35285, 35287, 35288, 35290, 35291, 35292, 35293, 35294, 35295, 35296, 35297, 35298