Cities with good schools for young children allow for their minds to be enriched at a young age. But, sometimes mental health isn’t focused on, but there are counselors in Vestavia Hills ready to help a child while they’re at one of these best schools in the area.

Vestavia Hills has many different open spaces that you can check out, including sports clubs, and many different elements that you can really enjoy. There is also Wald Park, which is one of the biggest parks for people to enjoy. There are many different activities to enjoy, and a counselor in the area can help you stay on the right path to success. 

This is Dr. Magna Porterfield's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Magna Porterfield

Offering therapy in AL
License: Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am a psychologist who is licensed in both the states of Alabama and Georgia and I have had the opportunity to work in the field of psychology for several years. I have worked in the both university settings (as a teacher and counselor) as well as in private practice. I have also had the opportunity to travel and share my knowledge through lectures and workshops. I have the most experience in helping people who struggle with unipolar (but NOT bipolar) depression and anxiety. I also have a considerable amount of experience in working with individuals who have problems with managing stress and managing their emotions. I do not work with issues such as eating disorders, addictions, relationship problems or sexuality concerns. My counseling style is warm, but also straightforward and honest. I consider myself to be a kind person. and I truly desire to help those who are hurting. In my work with people, I do not spend much time processing the past (i.e., childhood experiences, past trauma, etc.). I believe that true healing comes when individuals take active steps in the therapy process and focus on what they can do in their "present" situation to address their challenges. In my work with clients, I focus on helping them understand how their thoughts impact their emotions and their behavior - principles from the field of cognitive behavior therapy. I also look at the impact of lifestyle habits - diet, rest, exercise, etc. - on mental/emotional health. In addition, I sometimes utilize concepts and strategies from the area of positive psychology, which helps people identify and enhance their strengths (as opposed to merely focusing on people's weaknesses "abnormalities," so to speak). Do you need a helping hand? I would love to be that "hand" and help you make those changes. Working with me will take commitment and will require you to not be just a "passive participant," so to speak, in your healing and recovery. If you are willing to do your part, I am here for you and would love to work with you. All it takes is that first step and you can make that step today!

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This is John Kelly's avatar and link to their profile

John Kelly

Offering therapy in AL
License: LPC, ADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience and specializing in crisis counseling, substance abuse, mental health. I provide both client-centered individual and family therapy, group sessions and counseling in a supportive, reassuring, platform. I use the following approaches to provide the best client-centered therapy to my clients: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused Based Therapy.

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This is Melanie Walton's avatar and link to their profile

Melanie Walton

Offering therapy in AL
License: MS, LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
20 years of experience

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?"

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This is Dr. Amber Sutton's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Amber Sutton

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuse
4 years of experience

"Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare." -Audre Lorde- Hello and Welcome! My name is Dr. Amber Sutton and I have over 10 years of professional experience as a social worker. I obtained my BSW from the University of Montevallo, my MSW from Washington University in St. Louis, and my Ph.D. in Social Work from the University of Alabama. As a therapist, mother, feminist, and advocate, I bring authenticity, vulnerability, and compassion to my practice. I am incredibly passionate about offering support to individuals as they work toward their desired goals and build healthier relationships with themselves and others. I firmly believe in self-determination and autonomy meaning that while I can help you to process and navigate experiences, you get to decide the next steps. I enjoy incorporating creative and artistic therapeutic approaches into my individual and group work such as writing, drawing, music, and movement. Therapy requires change that at times can be discomforting but I truly believe that transformation happens when we allow ourselves to lean into the process and do the work it takes to reclaim our stories, our boundaries, and ultimately our peace. My overall goal is to create a braver space where we can engage in a powerful and meaningful therapeutic process. I craft conversations that spark courage and clarity. I empower you to regain control by prioritizing your health and aligning with your authentic self. Are you ready? Stay curious, -Dr. S

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This is megan wetherbee's avatar and link to their profile

megan wetherbee

Offering therapy in AL
GriefDepression
20 years of experience

Hello there! I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Alabama with 20 years of professional experience. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I believe that therapy can provide a safe, objective space to share your innermost feelings. I believe in the power of giving your unexplainable emotions a name & I can help you do that. I specialize in working with those who have experienced a loss of a loved one or a recent medical diagnosis. As a cancer survivor, I have lived experience with the grief process involved with receiving an unexpected diagnosis. My other areas of focus include depression, anxiety and narcissistic abuse. 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!

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This is Ashley Johnson's avatar and link to their profile

Ashley Johnson

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

Thank you for taking a moment to stop by. Let’s be real, we all encounter challenges in life and sometimes trying to figure out things on your own can be tough. If you are looking for a safe space to express and explore, you have come to the right place. The universe has been gracious enough to allow me to serve as a therapist for the past 6 years and my personal and professional life experiences have equipped me to be able to work as a “guide" with an array of clients from various backgrounds. I specialize in working with clients on the following topics: anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, addictions, and daily life stressors. I use a variety of techniques and methods derived from different theories, my main approach is centered around holistic wellness using client-centered and solution focused therapy. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I strive to assist every client on their journey to becoming the best version of themselves. It is my mission to help you understand and manage emotions, incorporate positive coping skills, and set healthy life goals to live a more meaningful life. If you have any questions, please feel free to send me a message. I look forward to hearing from you soon!

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This is Michael Schwan's avatar and link to their profile

Michael Schwan

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with a background in community mental healthcare. I have over 7 years of experience providing clinical services to children, youth, and adults with a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and trauma-related issues, as well as to individuals with chronic mental illnesses and substance use disorders. My clinical approach is comprised primarily of CBT and TF-CBT, but I also incorporate various aspects of other clinical modalities into my therapy sessions and attempt to tailor one's treatment as specifically to their individual needs as possible. I enjoy working with individuals of diverse cultures and backgrounds. I strive to provide a relaxed and supportive environment where individuals feel safe to discuss their feelings and concerns without fear of judgement regardless of their race/ethnicity, cultural background, religious/spiritual beliefs, sexual orientation, or gender identity. https://flhealthsource.gov/telehealth/

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This is Annah Courson's avatar and link to their profile

Annah Courson

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

I am licensed in Alabama with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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

Savannah O'Berry

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
5 years of experience

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.

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This is Lori Bateman's avatar and link to their profile

Lori Bateman

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesADHD
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with more than 17 years of professional experience working with individuals and families in crisis. I have experience in helping individuals with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self -esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, and compassion. I will work with you to develop a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific goals. It takes courage to ask for help and I am here to support you through the process.

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How to find counseling in Vestavia Hills

Finding the best therapist close by in Vestavia Hills can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Vestavia Hills. 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 Vestavia Hills, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Vestavia Hills or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Vestavia Hills area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Vestavia Hills, elsewhere in Jefferson, or in the greater state of Alabama.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Vestavia Hills area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Vestavia Hills 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 Vestavia Hills 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 Vestavia Hills may not take health insurance, some in the state of Alabama may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Alabama you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Vestavia Hills, Alabama working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Vestavia Hills 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 Vestavia Hills helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Vestavia Hills therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Vestavia Hills therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Vestavia Hills therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in AL, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 35243 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Vestavia Hills counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Vestavia Hills licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Vestavia Hills, 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.

Vestavia Hills has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on 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 therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Vestavia Hills.

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

35216, 35242, 35243

Popular cities near Vestavia Hills, AL

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