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Carol Costner

Offering therapy in AL
License: MS,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience

Imagine waking up every morning feeling like you can take on the world. How great does that feel? Pretty great and an attainable goal, but the reality is that at times life takes twists and turns which can leave us with worries, frustrations and conflicts. These can pile up and prevent us from accessing our built-in ability to live a purposeful, joyful life. That's where I come in. I'm Carol Costner, a licensed professional counselor with over 14 years of experience working with people who have shared with me a broad range of problems. I always knew I wanted to work in the helping profession and pursued that out of high school by attending the University of Alabama in Birmingham, graduating with a Bachelor's degree in nursing. My work began in helping alleviate the physical suffering of those I was honored to serve in hospital settings. After a while, I returned to school and graduated with a Master's degree in Community Counseling from Jacksonville State University, earning my counseling license and my national certification as a counselor. I began working in a variety of settings with clients who suffered emotionally and relationally with both diagnosed and undiagnosed mental health issues. My counseling style is client-centered, which simply means that you are the best expert on yourself. I will depend on you to share with me your own self assessment as a place to begin. I use a combination of solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral and narrative therapy techniques. I employ a whole-person integrated approach to wellness, using empathy while also being direct. This approach helps my clients avoid being too hard on themselves while also owning responsibility for change. Everyone will not fit into one method of therapy so I tailor my efforts toward what fits you best. I believe that we all have within us an internal compass--the ability to find our way. I would love the opportunity to assist you in accessing that compass and finding your way through whatever you are currently facing. I promise that I will give you my utmost best as we travel the journey to wellness and wholeness together. If you're looking for change and relief from distressing emotions, I would be delighted to join with you in a journey toward a more abundant life.

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Bernette Harris

Offering therapy in AL
License: MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
43 years of experience

Hello from the other side. My name is Bernette. The good news is there is always hope. As we experience the daily human condition, everyone will recognize and address concerns independently/as a couple during their lifetime. However, there are times when it is necessary to seek assistance from others when life issues become overwhelming. Congratulations on choosing BetterHelp in your quest to find support to overcome the struggle(s) you are now facing. It will be my pleasure to help you acquire the crucial tools that will allow you to navigate through the current challenge(s) in life. Finding the resolution to a problem is rewarding and, at times, freeing. I became a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#235) in 2001 and have 44 years of psychotherapy experience. My undergraduate and graduate studies were completed at Jacksonville State University. My career has focused on Psychotherapy/Counseling, Substance Abuse, and Marriage and Family Therapy, which included providing services to individuals, groups, families, couples, at-risk adolescents, and senior adults in various settings, including community-based, private, and public agencies. The areas I have experience in are Self-Esteem, Coping with Life Changes, Aging and Geriatric Issues, Caregiver Issues and Stress, Codependency, Drug and Substance Abuse, Family Problems, Guilt and Shame, and Women's Issues. When meeting with a consumer(s), I will utilize the following techniques: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Therapy. These techniques will help guide individuals toward a healthier outlook on life. Therapy sessions are conducted on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (review the schedule for session times), and messages are checked during the week. I always consider it a privilege to work with each individual who entrusts me as their therapist.

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Ernest Garrett, III

Offering therapy in AL
License: Ph.D., M.Phil.,,M.S.W., M.S.,,C-ASWCM, ACSW, C-SSWS, C-ACYFSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

My name is Ernest E. Garrett III, and I have 18 years of post-graduate MSW-level social work experience, within special education settings and the private practice setting. I am currently practicing full-time as a Deaf LCSW therapist/clinician in private practice, which is a dream come true, post-pandemic! I take pride in being able to communicate effectively with diverse clients from all walks of life. I received my M.S.W. degree from Gallaudet University, and I am licensed at the clinical level in Missouri, Wisconsin, the District of Columbia, Louisiana (Inactive Status), and Alabama, as well as pending applications for licensure status in a host of other states. I regard myself a specialist in the provision of culturally sensitive and competent clinical social work services; I offer such services in a culturally affirmative and linguistically accessible environment; I render services with and on behalf of vulnerable and oppressed populations in general and disability populations in particular.

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Stephanie Dates

Offering therapy in AL
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hi, My name is Stephanie Dates. I am a licensed social worker with eighteen years of experience working in a clinical setting. My patients come from very diverse and eclectic backgrounds. This has allowed me the privilege to provide counsel specifically focused on changing the negative thoughts that can contribute emotional difficulties, depression, and anxiety. I enjoy helping others identify areas of change and develop options that may enhance their quality of life. Allow me the privilege to work with you to develop positive changes and approaches to the stressors of life. I am looking forward to interacting with you!

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Fani Chifchieva

Offering therapy in AL
License: LPC, NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteem
8 years of experience

My name is Fani Chifchieva. I hold LPC license in Alabama and NCC credentials. I have over 7 years of therapeutic experience, working in different settings and with different age groups, which has made me quick to adapt to each client and situation and to provide the best care and options. I use variety of therapeutic approaches that will best fit each client and develop specific coping skills for that person. My therapeutic approach is CBT( Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and Solution- Focused Therapy. I also use Grief Therapy, Art Therapy and Person- Centered Therapy. My goal is to provide safe environment where clients will feel comfortable on working through their personal difficulties and helping them achieve their goals. I am looking forward on connecting with clients and being able to provide the best care!

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Brandy Cobbs

Offering therapy in AL
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoachingADHD
27 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama and have been since 1996 as an LGSW and since 1999 as an LCSW (24 years of professional work experience as an LCSW). I recently 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 just over two years ago, I added ADHD Coach training 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 (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 two 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 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.

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Jessie Jacobs

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, and attachment related difficulties. I am uniquely specialized in working within the context of Christian faith but have worked with clients from various religious and spiritual backgrounds. 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 proud of you for taking the first step. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Twarner Witherspoon's avatar and link to their profile

Twarner Witherspoon

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Bryan Tweed's avatar and link to their profile

Bryan Tweed

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

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, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Alicia Long's avatar and link to their profile

Alicia Long

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 6 years of professional work experience and have a holistic approach to therapy. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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 counseling in Cedar Bluff

Finding the best therapist close by in Cedar Bluff 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 Cedar Bluff. 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 Cedar Bluff, 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 Cedar Bluff 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 Cedar Bluff 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 Cedar Bluff, elsewhere in Cherokee, 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 Cedar Bluff area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Cedar Bluff 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 Cedar Bluff 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 Cedar Bluff 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 Cedar Bluff, 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 Cedar Bluff 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 Cedar Bluff 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 Cedar Bluff 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 Cedar Bluff 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 Cedar Bluff 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 35959 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 Cedar Bluff 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 Cedar Bluff 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 Cedar Bluff, 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.

Cedar Bluff 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out 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 Cedar Bluff.

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

35959

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