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Francis Jones III

Offering therapy in AR
License: MA,LPC,NBCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience

I am a psychotherapist, also known as a professional counselor, licensed in Arkansas, the state where I live. For over 22 years, I have used my skills, education, knowledge, and experience to help children, adolescents (many of whom were at-risk and/or emotionally troubled youth) from the ages of 7 to 18 years old and adults from 19 years of age and older, individually and/or with their families. Many of them were in psychiatric hospitals and residential facilities, and I saw others in their homes or in my office. I enjoy helping each of my clients work through their issues to resolve even the most difficult problems and conflicts. The last three years of my 22 plus years of experience I have gotten by helping clients through BetterHelp. I took a brief three month leave in 2023 from June through September. I am eager to help more clients from BetterHelp. In approach to psychotherapy, I use cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), reality therapy, and psychoanalysis that I have modified to fit the individual needs of every child, adolescent, adult, and family I see. I use the first three to five sessions with each client to build the positive rapport between us that is needed for us to have a mutual relationship of trust and confidentiality. I show my respect for each of my clients by using a respectful tone of voice, keeping my interactions positive and maintaining a nonjudgmental attitude. I have found that doing so makes it much easier for each client to disclose very personal and often uncomfortable issues, emotions, and behaviors. I also use my empathic and sympathetic skills to understand each client's problem(s) from his/her individual point of view, and I make sure each of my clients understands the pros and cons of every choice he/she makes. Using that approach has enabled me to help many children, adolescents, and adults to resolve their family conflicts, anger control problems, overcome depression, cope with anxiety, raise their self-esteem, work through unresolved abuse (whether it physical, emotional, or sexual), grief over losing a loved one whether by death or some other way, oppositional problems, ADHD, and social issues (IE, social anxiety, or poor social skills) to name a few. I have done so in a wide range of settings including an outpatient office, the client's home, or school. on inpatient acute care psychiatric units and in long-term residential care programs. I respect anyone who makes the tough decision to face and overcome these types of problems. I understand these are often exceedingly difficult problems that usually involve disclosing extremely difficult, unpleasant, and uncomfortable things to share with anyone. By doing so, you have taken the important first step to obtaining the happy and successful life you want, need, and deserve. I understand that sometimes a person needs to be listened to and understood. You can express your feelings without worrying about whether or not I will judge you. I won't. Instead, I will listen to what you have to say, the feelings you need to express and ask you for clarification if needed. I will help you figure out if you only need one to three sessions to get your feelings off your chest or if you need help working through and resolving the problem(s) that led you to online counseling through BetterHelp. I am looking forward to having the opportunity to help you take on and overcome the challenging but equally rewarding changes that lie ahead! Sincerely, Dunn Jones, III, MA, LPC, NBCC

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Carla Brown

Offering therapy in AR
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepression
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Arkansas with over 10 years of experience providing therapy to adults. I began my career working in a community mental health center and currently I have my own practice. I spend most of my time working with client's who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues. I most enjoy working with couples. I take a straight forward, practical approach in order to do the most work in the least amount of time so you can get back to enjoying your life as soon as possible. I use a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I meet you where you are and help you to get where you want to be. I know beginning therapy can be anxiety provoking and I strive to make the therapeutic process as comfortable as possible. So try to relax and let's get started! I look forward to talking to you.

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Michelle Lewis Chapman

Offering therapy in AR
License: M.Ed. ,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseEating disordersParenting issuesDepression
7 years of experience

My name is Michelle and I am a therapist in the state of Arkansas. I started my career out as an elementary teacher while I was in graduate school. For the last several years I have been a therapist in a variety of settings(clinic, hospital, Private Practice, Community Mental Health). During this time I have worked in every level of care (outpatient, inpatient, Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient) with all age groups. I have worked with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, eating disorders/disordered eating, body image concerns, Bipolar disorder, impulse control issues, relationship issues, parenting problems (behavior, children with disabilities), career challenges, OCD, personality disorders and am very familiar with the ins and outs of military life. I love the Golden Girls, crafting, hiking, camping, spending time with family and softball. I have two dogs and a cat who sometimes make an appearance on screen. My husband and I have been together for several years and are foster parents. We have one son who we will hopefully be adopting (and his siblings) soon. I have personally struggled with my own mental health for the majority of my life and I utilize the skills that I teach my clients regularly. I have the experience of dealing with things professionally and personally for many situations. I do therapy differently than many therapists. I am of the philosophy that therapy should be customized to each individuals needs so I do not prescribe to any particular method. This is your time and space to use as you need. If you need it please let me know and I will do my best make reasonable accommodations. I like to take a practical approach to things and focus on addressing the issues that are causing the most distress first. How we do therapy is going to be based on what you need. If you prefer live chat, video or phone sessions (one 30 or 45 minute session a week) is included in your plan. You are able to book sessions on your end through the scheduling tab but I am more than happy to help book a session if you would like. In addition you are able to send an unlimited number of messages. You can message me anytime and I will check my messages throughout the day as I am able. Please keep in mind that this is an asynchronous messaging service. I typically work Monday-Friday during normal business hours. I try to respond to messages as many times a day as I am able but will respond at least once a day. If at any point you feel this platform is not right for you or you are unable to afford it please let me know. It might be possible for me to see you outpatient or help refer you to someone who can for continued support. My goal is to come to you, where you are, without judgement. I offer unconditional love and support while actively challenging behaviors. With support you decide what to address and how we do it. This might be for a short time to learn coping skills or a partnership that lasts many years. We capitalize on your strengths to help you grow and live the best life possible. Let me meet you where you are. Life is hard and we all struggle but you do not have to do it alone. I am prepared to get down in the trenches with you to fight for the life that you deserve. Healing is possible and I can help.

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Bobbi Moon

Offering therapy in AR
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

I am a Clinical Social Worker/Therapist with over 3 years of experience working as a therapist. I earned my Masters Degree in Social Work from Park University in 2018. After graduation, I began working with children and families seeking therapy for a diverse range of needs including but not limited to: trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, ADHD, life stress, self-esteem/body image, life transitions, relationship challenges, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I focus on prioritizing the holistic promotion of health and well-being while utilizing a mindfulness, strengths-based, persons-centered approach. I combine various treatment styles including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), humanistic, values-based, and solutions-focused interventions. I believe every person embodies the power and resilience to write, or rewrite, the story you want your life to tell. After all, you are the expert of your life! Therapy with Bobbi focuses on using humor, curiosity, vulnerability, and metaphors to explore how your values can lead to creating space for healthy change, intentional actions, present moment awareness, and creating the life you desire. I look forward to meeting you and would be honored to walk through the journeys of life with you.

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Dr. Aneita Cooper

Offering therapy in AR
Stress, AnxietyIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am faith-based Professional Counselor licensed in the states of Arkansas and Missouri with 15 years of professional work experience. I have had the honor in supporting individuals through issues in life such as stress and anxiety, intimacy related issues, identity growth, parenting issues and more. I have experience working with clients to maneuver through the changes life brings and the impacts to day to day functioning. 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 while moving toward the purpose you were created to experience. While I am a Christian-based therapist I am open to clients of every faith or non-faith background. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts, feelings, and topics of faith can be shared without fear of judgment. No matter what your struggle is, you will find help through effective, individualized, psychological care. I believe in a bio-psycho-social model of counseling that includes the body, mind, and spirit achieving balance for wellness and healing.

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LaRanda Jason

Offering therapy in AR
GriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana, Arkansas, and Texas with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Cheryl Comfort

Offering therapy in AR
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I obtained my Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2018 from John Brown University. I am licensed in the State of Arkansas with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, anger management, 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support and empower you in that process.

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Stacy Braiuca

Offering therapy in AR
License: MSW, MPH,LCSW,LSCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
25 years of experience

My name is Stacy Braiuca. As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) for over 20 years, public health educator of 10+ years, and technology-focused early adopter of 40+ years. I received my Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Missouri-Columbia, and my Master’s Degree in Public Health from the University of Kansas Medical Center. Combined they help me help people bridging the gaps between holistic health and wellness and mental health concerns. As a therapist, I have had the honor to help many different people: starting with children, teens, and their families, to working with elders in nursing homes, and those facing crises in the emergency room. Clients I have worked with struggled with anxiety, depression, life changes and stress, marital issues, trauma, and parenting issues. I love bringing knowledge of current cutting edge technology tools and wellness perspectives together as a powerhouse toolbox which can help you on your journey to your better self. Through this process you can learn how to: identify and analyze issues in your own life, to step back and interrupt negative patterns in your life, use new tools and skills to find relief from the burdens that you are constantly carrying around, and get unstuck individually or in your relationships. My main goal as a therapist is to start where you are in your journey, help you define and those goals and dreams for your life, and finally be your navigator in putting tools, skills, and resources in place for you to deal with past concerns. Therapy is still so stigmatized, so it is a truly wonderful thing that you have reached out to take care of your overall health! I would love to walk beside you as you embark on that journey. I look forward to working with you! Stacy

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Whitley Richardson

Offering therapy in AR
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas with 6 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Justin Laffoon's avatar and link to their profile

Justin Laffoon

Offering therapy in AR
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGrief
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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 counseling in Friendship

Finding the best therapist close by in Friendship 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 Friendship. 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 Friendship, 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 Friendship 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 Friendship 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 Friendship, elsewhere in Hot Spring, or in the greater state of Arkansas.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Friendship 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 Friendship 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 Friendship may not take health insurance, some in the state of Arkansas 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 Arkansas 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 Friendship, Arkansas 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 Friendship 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 Friendship 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 Friendship 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 Friendship 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 Friendship 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 AR, 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 71942 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 Friendship 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 Friendship 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 Friendship, Arkansas 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.

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

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

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

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

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

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

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

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

71923, 71941, 71942

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