This is Samantha Whelan's avatar and link to their profile

Samantha Whelan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteem
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! My name is Samantha Whelan and I am an LPC currently licensed in Oklahoma, Alabama, and New Hampshire with 12 years of professional experience. I decided to take a sabbatical to raise my two children while continuing to keep up with professional development thru continuing education. During these years the ups and downs of everyday life with family, kids, and friends gave me more insight into personal life struggles than I could have acquired by only reading a textbook or sitting in my office. I consider it one of the greatest honors of my life to be able to help people who may be experiencing a personal, family, or relational challenge by providing support, practical feedback, skills-sets and tools that I have acquired in my many years of conducting group and individual psychotherapy sessions. The majority of my professional counseling career was spent prior to the birth of my children. This period of intense focus on my development as a counselor provided me with the chance to develop the capacity to exhibit sympathy and accurate empathy when working with some of society's most challenging circumstances. During this critical time of professional growth, I had the distinct honor to work with people struggling with the grip of addiction and mental health challenges. Because of the bio-psycho-social nature of the disease of addiction, I was challenged to become competent in addressing a myriad of my clients social, emotional, spiritual, physical, legal, familial, and financial issues caused by the trauma of unhealthy habits and poor decision making. It was during these early years that I developed my own personal style of counseling and psychotherapy. This style of therapy is deeply rooted in the discipline of cognitive behavioral therapy, behavioral theory, motivational interviewing, and client centered therapy . These styles allow both you and I to work together during our therapy sessions. I would also like to mention that I myself have been where you are. I have sought out counseling as well and as a counselor myself I had very high standards. I feel like this experience also gave me such great insight into what it felt like to be "on the other side of the desk" and I truly knew how it felt to be heard and validated and I hope that I can make my clients feel the same way. It is my belief that most individuals fall somewhere along a continuum of change. Many times a person’s lack of awareness of where they might be placed on this continuum is a starting point for our counseling sessions. Change doesn't happen overnight. But, my hope for you is that we can find out what you would like to improve and find out what types of behavior change need to happen in order for you to accomplish your personal growth goals in a safe, confidential setting. Always remember your agenda is my agenda. I look forward to working with you!

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Michella Rahming

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Counselor License Type(s): LPC, NBCC, AADC
Addictions
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed professional counselor in the states of Alabama, Virginia, and Georgia. I have over five years of experience working with adult women who struggle with challenges in life. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and career challenges. I also helped many people who have experienced spiritual growth and challenges. For clients who have substance abuse issues, I work with clients via telemental health who are presently in recovery and are sober. One of my core values is unconditional positive regard. "Nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care." Teddy Roosevelt My counseling approach is integrative: I use Client-centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic, and Stages of Change as therapeutic interventions. These approaches will help clients to navigate through their challenges. I received my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Florida A & M University and my Master's Degree in Counseling from Argosy University in Atlanta, GA.

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Victoria Conner-Hearn

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Counselor License Type(s): LPC License 4303,American Counseling Association Member
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Are you scared, stressed out and trying to figure out how to cope with day to day challenges? Are you just trying to process all that’s happening in the world and need help? Have you experienced trauma in the past that you need help dealing with? Do you need someone to listen, truly listen and not judge? I can help you learn skills to help you cope with day to day life while working on healing from the past. I am compassion focused, non-judgment, and open minded, LGBTQ affirming. Specializing in Anxiety, PTSD, trauma, sexual assault/abuse, adult children of narcissistic parents, and LGBTQ issues. I have experience working with sexual assault survivors and survivors of trauma from working as a rape response advocate in the past.

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Matthew Russell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed professional counselor who has been working for the past 5 years in addictions and mental health. I have worked with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, relationship issues and more. I take my approach to counseling from the client's perspective. My approach is client centered, meaning I believe everyone has the ability to help themselves and will do so if given the opportunity. I also use cognitive behavior therapy when clients identify a barrier to their goals. I believe counseling is best begun in the present day-to-day life of the client and assist in helping them be who they want to be. It is my favorite thing in the world to watch people learn and grow. I believe that everyone is capable of great change and that anyone can live a fulfilling life. I am happy to be a part of the process.

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Sharmen Rutherford

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LPC, ICAADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseEating disordersDepression
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Life isn't always easy. At times, things just don't seem right or the way that we would like for them to be. Life can be frustrating, overwhelming, complicated and down-right messy. It is during these difficult seasons that I would like to come alongside you and offer strength, hope and encouragement and to equip you with the tools you need to make a better future for yourself. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Alabama, an Internationally Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and am currently pursuing an Eating Disorders Specialist certification. I have 15 years of experience helping clients with addictions, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, PTSD, self-harm, school pressures and grief. I am a member of the Alabama Alcohol & Drug Abuse Association, International Consortium of Alcohol & Drug Counselors, International Association of Trauma Professionals, and the International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals. I look forward to getting to know you and building a therapeutic relationship that will help lead you to your best life!

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Elizabeth Cook

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi, my name is Elizabeth Cook and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker licensed in the state of Alabama. I received my Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from Belmont University in Nashville, TN and my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Alabama. I have spent the majority of my experience working with individuals (ages 21+) and families struggling with grief and loss through both outpatient and inpatient hospice care settings. Through my work I have helped individuals navigate caregiver issues in addition to the stress that accompanies aging and life transitions. Prior to this work I served in homes as a child behavioral counselor. My approach to therapy is client focused and strengths based. I believe that providing active/reflective listening can normalize feelings and help individuals see their own potential, empowering them to make lasting change. By using solution focused therapy in addition to cognitive behavioral techniques, it is my hope that my clients leave therapy feeling confident in their ability to recognize and advocate for their needs. I look forward to getting to know you as we work together!

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Kimberly Tubbs

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,Kimberly Tubbs
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

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.

This is Kathryn Ard's avatar and link to their profile

Kathryn Ard

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Alabama with over 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Savannah O'Berry's avatar and link to their profile

Savannah O'Berry

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi! I am licensed in Alabama with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with crisis situations and helping take steps toward a healthy life after a crisis happens. Unconditional positive regard, listening without judgement, and providing support for any challenges life brings are a big part of my counseling philosophy. I believe in the importance of honest, open, respectful communication in the therapeutic relationship. Along with this openness, I believe you are the expert in your life, and I am here to walk with you in your journey to wellness. Every person is unique and the dialogue between us along with the treatment plan we collaborate on will reflect your individual needs and goals. A good treatment plan is not something impossible or unrealistic, but one with small and attainable goals that fit into your life. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Connie Oden's avatar and link to their profile

Connie Oden

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
24 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Alabama with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflict, trauma and abuse. Treatment helps you find motivation and improves self esteem. Healing begins with a gentle path away from worry and depressive symptoms. Taking the first step in seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Sweet Water

Finding the best therapist close by in Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water. 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 Sweet Water, 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 Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water, elsewhere in Marengo, 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 Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Sweet Water, 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 Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Sweet Water 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.

Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water 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 36782 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 Sweet Water counselor?

Before seeing your Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water.

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 Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water, 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.

Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water, 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 Sweet Water.

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

36782

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