Patrice Harris
Twenty years ago, my life was turned upside down when my husband walked out the door, leaving me to raise our two year old daughter and dreams I thought we had built together since our second year in college. I couldn't imagine how I could go on. I couldn't imagine how anyone who'd been though this sort of pain had gone on. But, to my surprise, I did go on, grow, developed new and stronger emotional muscles. And formed a new dream: I wanted everyone to believe they could get there (peace/happiness) from here (pain/anxiety/confusion). So, I went back to school and, with a lot of family help, got this degree that allowed me to begin helping others help themselves. For over 20 years now, I've worked with women growing through divorce, adults facing stage of life changes, people of all ages seeking to believe in - or even identify - their strengths, accept and work on their weaknesses. We start by learning to trust each other; we start by trusting the client's self empowerment (even if the client doesn't really believe - at first). Then we form a two-person team and reframe negative beliefs, pinpoint resources, figure out distorted thoughts that are holding the client back and need to be abandoned. We do in-session exercises, refer to research and books, and connect dots in belief sets until...we get there from here. And, almost all the time, we do. We will - you and I. Almost no problem is too big such that two people working hand in hand with a sound knowledge base, can't overcome it. In time, the problem that seems so big today will be a learning experience and a memory. We'll get you there. Let's start now.
Angela Whitlock
I am a licensed independent clinical social worker in Alabama with over 10 years of experience working with young adults, military families and the LGBTQ+ community. I earned a Master of Social Work degree from Alabama A&M University. I work with individuals experiencing a wide range of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship issues. I genuinely want to know and understand you. I will listen to your story with respect and empathy. While validating your feelings and experiences, I am committed to providing a warm, comfortable, and non-judgmental atmosphere. My counseling style is warm, interactive, holistic, and supportive. The client controls the pace and focus of our work. My approach combines person-centered, cognitive behavioral therapies, and motivational interviewing modalities. Realizing that no two people are alike, I tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet the client's unique and specific needs. We all experience challenging moments in our lives. It takes great courage to ask for help during these times. This is where counseling begins. I honor your bravery and your decision to find your joy and live your truth. I am available and dedicated to helping you live your best life. I look forward to working with you!
Dr. Carol R Crowson
I am a therapist with over 30 years of experience helping others achieve improved mental health. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric clients in a variety of settings. I obtained a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice, as well a a Master's of Education degree in Counseling and Guidance from the University of Montevallo, in Montevallo, Alabama. l later completed my Doctor of Education degree at Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. I believe in not giving up on clients, and equally important, not allowing clients to give up on themselves. I utilize motivational interviewing to identity and enhance the strength of my client while exploring ways in which those strengths can move my client toward improved health and happiness. I am very excited about the prospect of working with you and hope to hear from you soon~
Lawrence Baker
My name is Lawrence Baker, Jr., and I have worked in social services since 1994, and have been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2005. During that time I have worked with a variety of populations including veterans and their families, individuals with depression and anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse issues, psychotic disorders, and adjustment disorders. The bulk of my experience has been individual, family, and group therapy sessions. I am committed to helping people to overcome experiences and learn how to live a fulfilling and meaning life. I am a kind and compassionate listener and enjoy working with people from all backgrounds. My therapy approach is conversational and interactive. Everyone has the right to be heard and treated with dignity, kindness, and respect.
Melanie Walton
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama with over 20 years of experience. I've always had a desire to help people even as a little girl. My motto in life is "How can I help?" I have worked with individuals with a wide range of concerns including substance abuse, anger issues, parenting/co-parenting problems, relationship issues, intimate partner violence, anxiety, depression, and physical/psychological trauma. My therapy style is direct and interactive. I believe in building rapport in order to establish the therapeutic alliance within the first few weeks of therapy. I believe in treating everyone with respect, compassion, and genuineness. I prefer a variety of approaches to treatment such as cognitive-behavior therapy, solution focused therapy, and person-centered treatment just to mention a few. However, the approach selected will meet the individual exactly where they are. Treatment plans' goals and objectives are formulated based on the individual’s strengths, needs, abilities, and preferences. It takes strength and courage to invest in a more fulfilling and happier life. Thinking for a change will assist in gaining a new perspective and outlook. So if you are ready to take that step, then I ask, "How can I help?"
Antonia Hill
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 7 years of experience providing counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. My passion for serving others is driven by my love for God and the belief that the combination of faith and works can lead to greater quality of life. My experience providing therapeutic services has helped individuals to address and overcome issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, severe mental illness, and everyday life stressors. I have extensive training in the treatment modality of Cognitive Behavior Therapy and this, along with Person-Centered Therapy informs my practice. As a mental health professional, I choose to view the individual as the expert of their life and experiences in order to develop an individualized path toward optimal and holistic wellness. I am invested in the mental wellness of others, and I desire to uplift my community and beyond by breaking the stigma of seeking mental health services by providing quality and authentic care, access, education, and visibility. On a personal note, I love music, am active in my local church, and I love coffee!
Kimberly Smith
I am a Professional Counselor licensed in Alabama with a wide range of professional work experience that has expanded over the last 14 years. My professional journey has given me many unique opportunities to serve in various capacities to include rehabilitation counseling, mental health and substance abuse. I have experience in helping clients with borderline intellectual functioning, substance abuse, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, bipolar, depression and co-occurring disorders. I also have experience in providing insight to stress management techniques, effective coping strategies to manage anxiety, addiction, trauma, parenting issues and complicated grief. Although, my career has lead me on many different paths, my focus has remained the same. Assisting clients I serve in “Moving Forward”. “Moving forward to hope”. “Moving forward to dream”. “Moving forward to live a life you may not have thought was possible otherwise”. At this moment, you may feel stuck or powerless in the circumstances that lead you to seek out counseling services. However, if given the opportunity it would be an honor to assist you in clearing the path ahead! My approaches to do so include but are not limited to: person centered, cognitive behavioral and solution-focused counseling. I believe our life experiences shape our emotional lives and how we perceive our realities. As a result, 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. I look forward to assisting you in Moving Forward!
Sara Darling
Hi, my name is Sara and I'm a licensed therapist living in Louisiana with my husband and two rescue dogs; Pip and Pierre. I'm licensed to practice in Louisiana and Alabama. I attended graduate school at the University of Alabama in my 40's after careers in hotel and retail management. I, like so many of my clients, was searching for purpose and meaning in my life, a search that never ends. In today's society it often seems that we focus on our differences but I have found that most of us long for the same thing; to be loved, to belong, to feel satisfied and to be happy. Rather than focus on one type of treatment, I have found that it is best to be flexible in my approach because everyone is different. Some people really relate to cognitive behavior therapy, some people prefer a psychodynamic approach that allows an exploration into one's deepest self. Mindfulness, parts work, motivational interviewing all have a place. Empathy, honesty and warmth are the hallmarks of building the rapport necessary to the therapist/client relationship. I invite you to reach out to me so that we can begin building that relationship. It is my promise to you that I will never judge you and will always meet you with compassion and warmth.
Dr. Warnie Robertson
I am licensed in Alabama with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & coping with grief and loss. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Andrea Paige
I am licensed in Alabama with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & 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.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Lester
Finding the best therapist close by in Lester can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services with therapists in Lester 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 Lester. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Lester, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.
It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses for therapists. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained therapists able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Lester 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 Lester 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 Lester therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.
There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Lester area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find Lester 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 Lester, elsewhere in Limestone, or in the greater state of Alabama. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Lester 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 Lester therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Lester due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:
- Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
- Counseling with therapists: $100-300
- Therapy with a psychologist: $100
While many psychologists in Lester may not take health insurance, some therapists in the state of Alabama may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Alabama you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.
How is a licensed therapist on this Lester online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Lester, Alabama working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. Therapists have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, therapists here all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy.
Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Lester psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?
BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Lester above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.
Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets while working with BetterHelp therapists. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Lester helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched with one of BetterHelp's therapists today.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified Lester therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.
Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
- EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
- Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
- Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
- Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
- Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
- Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
- Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
- Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
- Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
- Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
- Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
- OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
- ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
- Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Lester therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Lester?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Lester therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions in Lester therapy sessions.
Lester 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 Lester 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 Lester therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.
With a lot of people in AL, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 35647 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Lester counselor?
Before seeing your Lester therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. Lester therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Lester.
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 Lester 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 Lester 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 Lester, 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.
Lester 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 Lester, Alabama
To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.
Take some time today to learn more about the team of Lester therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.
If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Lester:
35647