This is Dr. Carmela Drake's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Carmela Drake

Offering therapy in AL
License: PhD, LPC-S,NCC
AddictionsParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am a Certified Adolescent Alcohol and Drug Professional (CAADP), and a Certified Compulsive Gambling Counselor, level III (ACGC-III) in the state of Alabama. I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Alabama. I have worked in the field of addictions and mental health for over 20 years. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect and compassion. I provide a nonjudgmental zone and exercise the use of “person-first” language. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral and client-centered therapeutic approaches. I make use of motivational interviewing in most of my session, but am also well versed in other therapeutic styles of facilitating counseling sessions. My specialty area is co-occurring disorders with adolescents and young adults. I have since broadened my scope to focus on the mental health needs of student-athletes with emphasis on transitioning from high school competition to intercollegiate sports as well as the impact of transitioning to life after competition. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am glad that you have taken the first step and look forward as you continue to move forward in your recovery/healing process.

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Benita Madison

Offering therapy in AL
License: LMFT,MA
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepression
12 years of experience

My name is Benita Madison (Mrs. Madison). I am licensed in Oklahoma, Alabama, and Texas as a marriage and family therapist. I have counseled and advised adults individually and in small groups pertaining to relationship development and life goals. I have worked as a therapist in a community college, a counseling psychologist as a civilian in the military, a counselor/therapist at a Historically Black College/University, a sub contractor in Texas, and at a community counseling center. Specialties include: anxiety, depression, conduct, oppositional defiant, attention deficit/hyperactivity, and psychosis Clinical approach: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Experience in: trauma and abuse, grief, parenting, self-esteem, caregiver issues and stress, coping with natural disaster, LGBT, and family conflicts

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Donda Goodson

Offering therapy in AL
License: MA,LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

My name is Donda Goodson and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama. I obtained my undergraduate degree from Auburn University in Vocational Rehabilitation and my Master's degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in Rehabilitation Counseling. I received my counseling license in 1992 from the Alabama Board of Examiners in Counseling. The majority of my clinical experience is from mental health agencies and private practice. I have worked with clients ages 4 to 74 with various issues to include anger management, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, obsessive compulsive disorders, trauma and stress related disorders, individuals struggling to maintain sobriety, those with ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorders and parents doing their best to parent but find themselves struggling and feeling frustrated. Through the utilization of client-centered and cognitive behavioral therapy, I work to help you work through obstacles and reach your personal goals.

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Kimberly Tubbs

Offering therapy in AL
License: LPC,Kimberly Tubbs
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
3 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor with more than 10 years of experience. I graduated from the University of Alabama in 2010 with a focus on marriage and family therapy. I currently work in a substance abuse setting which provides me the opportunity to assist clients with a range of issues. I have a background in juvenile justice, domestic violence, family therapy, anger management and mood disorders. I like to approach therapy with the idea that the client is an expert in their own lives and has the ultimate capacity for change. Each individual is unique in relation to their life experiences, and I as a counselor serve as a facilitator and motivator. I look forward to the opportunity to help you make changes to your life to be your most productive and actualized self.

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Jenny Bell

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefParenting issues
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

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Dr. Melissa Chovan

Offering therapy in AL
License: LPC Alabama,LPC Georgia
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
13 years of experience

I am an individual and family therapist with 19 years of experience in this field and 13 years as a therapist. I have experience in many areas of mental health and family and social issues including, but not limited to: generalized anxiety disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, Oppositional Defiance Disorder, PTSD, parenting problems, domestic violence, sexual assault, and trauma. I have some experience working with gender dysphoria. I have worked in the areas of domestic violence, sexual assault, at risk youth (alternative education and a residential program), therapy for child protective services cases, community mental health, state prison, private practice, and teaching (online and in person). I am working towards specializing in trauma. I have learned three different types of trauma therapies this past year (Brainspotting, CPT, and Accelerated Response Therapy) and am working on getting certified in all three. Each of these therapies has it's place in an individual's abiity to overcome trauma. However, I deal with more than just trauma and I have more tools (i.e., CBT, motivational interviewing, reality therapy, family systems therapy, and DBT - to name a few). My therapy style is warm, respectful and interactive. I believe therapy is individualized (every person is different with different needs) and the therapy styles. Hope, empowerment, a good relationship and education are things I feel are integral to a successful therapeutic experience. If you want to be heard, learn, and work towards bettering yourself, I am here to support and assist you in this endeavor. I look forward to meeting you.

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Mark Miele

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, & bipolar disorder. 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.

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Meghan Carroll

Offering therapy in AL
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
6 years of experience

I am a Clinical Social Worker, licensed in California, Texas, and Alabama and I have been practicing Social Work for seven years. I currently live in Alabama so I am in Central Time for scheduling purposes. I have worked in various settings, including residential psychiatric treatment facilities, in-home therapy, as well as providing therapy in an office setting and through telehealth services. I have worked with adolescents, adults, couples, families, and the older adult population. I have a large amount of experience working with anxiety, depression (including intense training on post-partum mood disorders), trauma, family conflicts, grief/loss, and parenting issues. My approach to therapy is to first and foremost build a strong and positive therapeutic relationship with my clients. As a therapist, I focus on each person's specific individual needs, meeting the client where they are at in the present moment, and adjusting my style to meet their needs. I am a solution focused, strengths based therapist but I also utilize components of cognitive therapy and trauma-informed therapy as needed. My ultimate purpose as a therapist is to provide positive support and a safe space for someone to open up and process any thoughts, feelings, and emotions that they find would be helpful for them. I look forward to working with you!

This is LaToyia Walker's avatar and link to their profile

LaToyia Walker

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

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!

This is Alexandra Faust's avatar and link to their profile

Alexandra Faust

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Alabama with 4+ years of experience providing therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience helping clients cope with stress, anxiety, depression, and low motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I also have experience with helping clients process and navigate family conflicts. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment so thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My therapy style is warm and interactive, and I enjoy utilizing music, memes, social media, books, and apps in therapy when appropriate for my clients. My therapeutic approach is a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy. All of which means that I can help you determine how your thoughts, emotions, and behavior are connected, as well as help with short and long term motivation to change. I'll collaborate with you on your treatment goals and will tailor sessions to assist you with meeting your goals. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you're ready to take that step, I'm here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

How to find counseling in Elba

Finding the best therapist close by in Elba 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 Elba. 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 Elba, 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 Elba 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 Elba 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 Elba, elsewhere in Coffee, 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 Elba area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Elba 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 Elba 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 Elba 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 Elba, 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 Elba 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 Elba 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 Elba 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 Elba 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 Elba 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 36323 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 Elba 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 Elba 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 Elba, 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.

Elba 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 Elba.

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

36323

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