This is Dr. Clarence Merckerson's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Clarence Merckerson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Counselor License Type(s): PhD,LPC,CRC
AddictionsFamily conflictsAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a counselor licensed in Louisiana with over 10 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, and rational-emotive counseling. We will work together to identify what your goals are for therapy, and your strengths and resources for achieving them. Together we can identify the impacts of stressors in your life, address the symptoms, and plan to avoid or cope with upcoming potentially stressful events. We will identify your needs and capabilities, affirm your resilience and strengths, and promote your self-expression and personal growth. I try to build relationships with my clients which foster collaboration, trust, and transparency. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you.

This is Jessica "Jessie" Meyer's avatar and link to their profile

Jessica "Jessie" Meyer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,AADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed professional counselor and drug and alcohol counselor in Alabama with over 10 years of experience working as a mental health therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship issues, and addiction. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution focused, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Thandi Wells

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Counselor License Type(s): EdS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Thandi Kenyetta Wells was born in Montevallo, AL. Thandi is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She provides counseling and coaching services for children, adolescents, couples, and family.Thandi began her professional journey as a case manager in substance abuse and matriculated from primary therapist to a program director. Thandi enjoys supporting others as they grow and develop the skills needed to live a life full of peace and freedom. She believes in empathetic confrontation alongside client education. She frequently uses cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy, and reality based therapy.

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Richard Krebs

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Mr. Richard Krebs is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over two years of experience serving the needs of individuals, couples, families, and children. Richard Krebs is also a National Certified Counselor. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families throughout my career. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions, suicidal ideation, panic disorder, substance abuse, and trauma. A majority of my work has been done in a private practice setting but also have experience working at a drug rehab for several months helping individuals work through their mental and emotional troubles as they pursue sobriety.

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Ernest Garrett, III

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Counselor License Type(s): 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 as a mental health therapist

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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Theresa Steele Mitchell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Alabama and Florida with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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.

This is Fani Chifchieva's avatar and link to their profile

Fani Chifchieva

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Counselor License Type(s): LPC, NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteem
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

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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Lisa Moore

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am Lisa Moore, MSW/LCSW. I am a licensed certified/clinical social worker in the state of Mississippi and Alabama. I have over 30 years of experience serving the needs of individuals, families, and communities. I am a well-rounded person who is open to innovative ideas and strategies that consist of evidence-based practices. I am understanding, compassionate, and empathetic. I believe everyone has strengths and we as a team can find those strengths and build from there. I work with clients who are having challenges with depression, anxiety, anger, grief and loss, negative thinking, problem-solving, decision-making, parenting concerns/issues, just to name a few. My therapeutic approach is eclectic, primarily using Client Centered Therapy/Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Strength Perspective Approach. I meet clients where they are and stand as a change agent for the better. My goal is to empower clients to be the best version they can be while providing a supportive and safe space. Nobody can share a client's story better than the client. I am here to actively listen, engage, and provide therapy to assist in your healing process. I believe proactive steps in mental health are just as important as physical steps. You can do it! Take the first step towards a better tomorrow. I want you to not just survive but thrive for a better quality of life. Moving Forward: Relax, Refresh and Reset...

This is Victoria Williams's avatar and link to their profile

Victoria Williams

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Alabama with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & depression. 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.

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

Linda Walker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Alabama with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & parenting 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Hokes Bluff

Finding the best therapist close by in Hokes 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 in Hokes Bluff 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 Hokes 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 Hokes 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 in the Hokes Bluff 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 Hokes Bluff 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 therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Hokes 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 Hokes Bluff 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 Hokes Bluff, elsewhere in Etowah, or in the greater state of Alabama.

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 Hokes Bluff 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 Hokes 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 Hokes 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 Hokes 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 a BetterHelp therapist 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). 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 Hokes Bluff online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Hokes 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 Hokes Bluff 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 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 Hokes 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 Hokes Bluff 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. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Hokes 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:

  • 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 Hokes 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 in Hokes Bluff?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Hokes Bluff 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.

Hokes Bluff 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 Hokes Bluff 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 Hokes 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in AL, therapists 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 35903 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. 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 Hokes Bluff counselor?

Before seeing your Hokes Bluff 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 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 Hokes Bluff.

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 Hokes 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 with a Hokes Bluff 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 Hokes 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.

Hokes 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 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 Hokes Bluff, Alabama

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 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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Hokes Bluff.

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

35903, 35905

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