Barbara Leigh
With over 30 years of experience as a therapist, I offer a seasoned combination of wisdom, current relevance and flexible interventions. I have seen trends come and go in the fields of psychology and counseling, so I like to identify your particular needs and tailor treatment modalities to your unique circumstances and expectations. I enjoy helping people discover their true needs/desires and pursuing their dreams, potential and meeting their life goals. I specialize in helping you overcome life's speed bumps - being stuck, restlessness, grief, depression, anxiety and trauma (I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional). I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, families and with partners/marriages. I have worked in multiple settings - inpatient, outpatient, day treatment, residential, in-home, private practice and, of course, virtual! My "pet topics" are neuropsychology, PTSD/ADHD and media psychology. My pioneering work with online counseling in the 90s (pre-Google!) was featured on Oprah's network and in Glamour Magazine, so I come to you with the highest of standards in the field. I typically use cognitive-behavioral therapy, skills-building from dialectical-behavioral therapy and neurotherapy (teaching about how your mind-body chemicals spur your feelings which lead to thoughts, behaviors and habits). I believe that people change when they're ready - my goal is to help you get ready to change and then to support you through change. You know you can't directly change others, but you CAN change yourself - and by doing so, you help change the world for the better, one step at a time. And it all starts with you! Let's create a treatment plan that is both realistic and challenging for you - one that involves a precise balance of safety and risk, comfort and courage. My clients say I'm easy and fun to work with because of the combination of my personality, professional and personal experience...and thus I use a balanced combination of compassion, reality and humor...and because I'm real. Change is hard enough - why not make it fun, meaningful and enjoy the journey? I look forward to working with you! Ready? Set....Grow!!
April Stevens
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I am blessed to have an adult child who is a happily married, a hard working & positive contributor to society, plus 3 wonderful step-children. I value all people. I love helping people grow, change, and learn new tools to be happier and live their best lives. I earned my bachelor's and master's degrees in Social Work, concentrating in Mental Health during my master's program. I completed internships at the Tuscaloosa Department of Human Resources in the Child Protective Services Unit and at the Tuscaloosa Veterans Affairs Medical Center working in their MAPS program, training in mental health/PTSD and substance abuse treatment. I have been licensed and practicing for over 16 years. I helped children beginning at age 3, adolescents, young adults from age 18 transitioning into adulthood, thru ages up to geriatric clients dealing with end of life stressors. Areas of experience include parenting/co-parenting, divorce, family of origin/ relationship issues, intimacy, substance use recovery and other addictions, life stage transitions, academic issues, trauma and a variety of other mental wellness concerns. I build rapport quickly and am able to relate to clients with ease. I utilize Rational Emotive Behavioral therapy most often, to improve emotional distress and create more positive behavioral outcomes. It is very beneficial in managing stress related to irrational thought patterns, negative emotional reactions and poor behavioral outcomes. Clients learn tools to use in every day life, including: disputing irrational/negative self-talk, reframing thoughts, leaning how to use positive self-talk/affirmations, reality checking, thought stopping, critical thinking, and behavioral modification. I incorporate use of CBT, psychoanalysis, study skills education, Motivational Interviewing, Gottman relationship skills, journal writing and discussion, diagnosis education, networking and consulting with outside agencies, and other therapeutic tools needed to best address clients' individual needs. Contact me when you are ready to make positive changes in your life or simply need someone to listen. I genuinely care, am well educated, and have the experience needed to provide you the better help you need. Take care of you too!
Rachel Palmore
I'm a licensed professional female therapist in Alabama. I have a vast experience working with various populations ranging from women , children to incarcerated individuals. I have nearly 20 years of experience and value innovatively working with my clients. My therapy styles are warm and objective. I strongly encourage reflecting feelings and self empowerment. I work with an array of therapeutic techniques that are safe, ethical and reliable. I also encourage clients to explore new adventures that will incorporate a more positive impact in their lives.
Anita Barnes
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has had a variety of experience in a several counseling settings. I offer individual, adolescent, and couples counseling. I have a holistic approach to counseling, which includes addressing your physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. My approach to therapy involves working in a client-centered manner to ensure that they are reaching their goals. I encourage self validity and self exploration in therapy. I have an eclectic approach to therapeutic techniques to include cognitive-behavioral, reality therapy, mindfulness, solution-focused therapy among others. I encourage growth through an accepting atmosphere enabling clients to feel heard, and strengthened. I specialize in adverse events of childhood, women's issues, grief, abuse, self-esteem, life changes and trauma.
Dr. Chad Ebesutani
I am licensed in Alabama with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Melissa Sutton
It can be difficult opening up to people and asking for help. I want to applaud you for taking this first big step towards accomplishing the goals that you have for your mental health. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I have worked in this field for 6 years. I received my Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from University of North Alabama. My approach to treatment is like we are taking a road trip. You are driving and decide where we're headed, how we get there, and where we stop along the way. I sit beside you and hold the road map and make suggestions. If the car breaks down, I don't fix it for you, but help you to figure out the tools you need to address the issue yourself. While I might not have all the answers I am willing to go on this journey with you to help you become the version of yourself that you want to be.
Joseph Follette, Jr
I am licensed in Alabama with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. 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.
Bryan Miller
I am licensed in Alabama with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & anger management. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I believe that my role is to provide support and guidance through empathy, genuineness and unconditional positive regard, while ensuring that you maintain agency over your life. As your therapist, I am tasked with guiding you to find the path of insight, resolution, reduction and maintenance . It is my hope that you will invite me into your world, that I may learn more about you and your challenges. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Sellers Terrell
I am very passionate about mental healthcare and counseling! I have a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology, with an emphasis on Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My undergraduate degree is a Bachelors in Social Work. I have also spent a lot of time between degrees and off record studying a variety of behavioral therapies with a professional mentor and researching a lot of other alternative, holistic, and integrative modalities for implementing healing, recovery, and rebuilding the Self. I believe therapy is a sacred place where you can show up as your authentic self and be safe from judgment and doubt. I am here to guide you through that process and provide you with accountability and support for healthy and positive change. I have 6 years of experience as a mental health counselor with my primary focus being clinical mental health in the outpatient setting. My clinical skills and interests include: comprehensive health & wellness, addiction & recovery, somatic healing/experiencing, the LGBTQIA+ community, and trauma work. I have an eclectic approach when it comes to counseling because every person deserves individualized care. You and I will work in collaboration to formulate and implement the best treatment plan for you and your needs. Amongst my approaches in the therapy setting - I most often use Dialectical Behavior Therapy [informed] and DBT skills for problems such as emotion dysregulation, interpersonal communication deficits, and distress tolerance; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with an emphasis on trauma processing and addressing the thoughts-feelings-behaviors cycle; solution-focused and strengths based counseling for problems requiring more immediate resolve; and motivational interviewing techniques. I have a sincere passion for working with individuals and families impacted by addiction, mood disorders, adjustments to major life changes or events, relationship issues, family of origin trauma, various other complex traumas, and lean heavily on mindfulness-based treatment modalities to empower my clients to heal from the stress and anxiety that gets trapped in the body. My ability to navigate hardships and adversity in my own life has well equipped me to guide others through struggles and find healing and compassion for themselves. I want to help you be the best you can be and find self-empowerment in your therapy journey - I will allow you to set the pace for your processing and provide you with the necessary tools/skills, resources, and outlets to find relief from emotional discomfort and life stressors. I am proud of you for seeking help and want you to know that you're very brave.
Charlar Barnes
I am licensed in Alabama and Georgia with 7 years of professional work experience. I am an Army veteran. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & intimacy related issues. 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!
How to find counseling in Bridgeport
Finding the best therapist close by in Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport. 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 Bridgeport, 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport, elsewhere in Jackson, 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 Bridgeport area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport, 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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
- Behavior therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Talk therapy
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Attachment therapy
- Relationships
- Children, adolescents, and teens
- Addiction (substance abuse)
- Divorce
- Trauma or PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychodynamic treatment
- Career counseling
- Alcohol use disorders
- OCD
- ADHD
- Mood disorders
- 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 35740 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport 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 Bridgeport, 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.
Bridgeport 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:
- 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 Bridgeport:
35740