This is Jessica Slash's avatar and link to their profile

Jessica Slash

Offering therapy in GA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

My name is Jessica Slash, and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have spent most of my adult life working in human services, resulting in over 20 years of experience working with people from all walks of life, each with unique stories and experiences. My therapeutic approach prioritizes safety and acceptance, so we can cultivate a non-judgmental space for you to think about how to live your best life—walking alongside you as you develop the insights and skills that help you uncover and move through any internal challenges that might become barriers to you achieving the life and relationships you desire. My work as a therapist is deeply rooted in evidence-based science around trauma, attachment, and adaptive and affective neurology. Using this science as a foundation, together, we will tailor your treatment to your goals and individual needs. The work we do will be deeply rooted in the neurobiological realities of what it means to be human and the impact our life experiences have on our emotional, psychological, biological, and neurological well-being. Our work together may include processing and learning how to heal from past traumas, coping with and understanding anxiety or depression, working through adult attachment challenges, or simply supporting you as you move through life's challenges. No matter your goal, I sincerely believe in your ability to overcome challenges and move forward to live the life you desire and deserve. Should you choose this path with me, I look forward to working with you and hope to be of service to you soon.

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Tonya Klemmer

Offering therapy in GA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience

My name is Tonya Klemmer, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Georgia. I earned my Master of Social Work degree, from Marywood University in 2003. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, trauma/abuse, adolescent sexual behavior problems, relationships/parenting and more. Over the past 16 years as a clinician, my experience has taught me that the most important aspect of counseling by far is the relationship and comfort you feel with the person you choose to share your struggles with. I believe we can all grow through challenging experiences by increasing our self-awareness and recognizing our potential. It would be my privilege to work with you and help you see your true worth. We all want to be able to share our personal truths and be accepted and understood. I believe it's very important to be open-minded and non-judgmental when someone shares their personal story or experiences with me. You are welcome to message me anytime through Better Help. The frequency with which you can have access to a counselor to work through day to day emotions and problem solving is extremely beneficial for most and a nice change from traditional outpatient counseling. I usually check messages twice each day, six days per week. I offer messaging, video and phone sessions with availability after 5pm Monday- Friday and anytime on Saturdays. Please note that what you see in my calendar may not reflect my only availability so you always want to check that out with me through messaging first. I look forward to working with you! Specialties •Stress, Anxiety •Anger •Adolescents •Depression I also have experience in Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Parenting issues, Anger management, Self-esteem, adolescent sexually acting out behaviors, high functioning autism, and Bipolar disorder Years of Experience: 23 in the field of social work and 16 as a clinical therapist

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Erin Laffrey

Offering therapy in GA
License: LCSW,LISW-S
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionADHD
20 years of experience

Wherever you are in this moment, is OKAY. The fast pace of today's society can leave us feeling overwhelmed and depleted. Let's work together to identify your stressors and develop positive, mindful coping strategies to make life just a little more bearable. My focus is working with adults who are struggling with anxiety and depression. I will work with you to help identify your triggers and explore strategies to manage your symptoms of depression and anxiety. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in connection with mindfulness and holistic concepts to assist you in learning strategies to manage your thoughts, feelings and actions. I personally find that nature is a grounding source for me. I integrate holistic aspects into our work to help you find your source of strength and calm.

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Kimberly "Kim" Ivester

Offering therapy in GA
License: EdS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionADHD
22 years of experience

Hello! I am a professional counselor in Georgia with 22 years of experience working as a therapist in the community and school settings. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationship issues, parenting problems, as well as college and career counseling. I've also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse process these feelings and feel more like themselves to live a happy and fulfilling life. My counseling style is warm and engaging. I believe in treating anyone with respect and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic and interpersonal counseling. We will work together to develop an understanding of how beliefs, thoughts, behavior, and emotions are interconnected. I will tailor our treatment plan to meet your unique goals and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support you during this journey! I look forward to working with you!

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Cassey Simmons

Offering therapy in GA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteem
7 years of experience

Hi my name is Cassey. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Georgia. While my dreams and aspirations may seem bigger than life itself; people who know me would say: “She would like to save the world”, and I would have to agree. I have over 7 years’ experience with several therapeutic modalities ranging from; client centered, solution focused, motivational interviewing and a strengths-based approach which draws heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Theory. Most of my career I have worked with a wide range of individuals from adolescence to geriatrics in vulnerable and at-risk populations in human service agencies, hospitals and community outreach settings focused on trauma and crisis intervention, poverty discrimination, racism, sexism, and other forms of injustice. I am culturally competent and have an open-minded approach in all aspects of my work. I am admired for my communication style and critical thinking skills in tough life situations. I am a major advocate for self-love and emotional well-being. Additionally, it is very important to me to offer a safe and comfortable space for all my clients. Should you feel in need of urgent help or that you are in crisis at any time during our work together; please call 1-800-273-TALK; 1-800-SUICIDE; Georgia Crisis and Access Line (GCAL) at 1-800-715-4225 24 hours a day; or 911. I look forward to working with you!

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Jernica McNeil

Offering therapy in GA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

Together we got this! My name is Jernica McNeil, LPC. Through a collaborative approach, I thrive in assisting people address their areas of concern. You are the expert in your life and I am here to help you. I am a licensed mental health therapist (LPC) in the state of Georgia. I hold a Bachelor of Psychology from East Carolina University and a Masters of Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. I provide services for individuals and couples. I use evidence-based treatment models including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. Each therapeutic model helps address mental health issues & life changes including, depression, stress, trauma, grief and loss, parenting challenges, anger, and anxiety.

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Frank Busbey

Offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefBipolar disorderDepression
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia and Alabama with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & bipolar disorder. 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 you in that process.

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Kasey Coleman

Offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBT-related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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. I primarily utilize a cognitive-behavioral approach in my counseling, but also client-centered, systemic, and creative approaches as well. I believe in meeting my clients where they are and tailoring therapy to their individual needs. We will work collaboratively to improve daily functioning and achieve a higher quality of life. My hope is that you will feel empowered and happier in the changes that you may make. If you are in need of assessment for gender-affirming services, I have experience in providing the necessary documentation to satisfy those requirements as well.

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Laura Lasseter

Offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 4+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Jeanette Gurr

Offering therapy in GA
AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.

How to find counseling in Damascus

Finding the best therapist close by in Damascus 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 Damascus. 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 Damascus, 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 Damascus 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 Damascus 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 Damascus, elsewhere in Early, or in the greater state of Georgia.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Damascus 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 Damascus 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 Damascus may not take health insurance, some in the state of Georgia 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 Georgia 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 Damascus, Georgia 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 Damascus 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 Damascus 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 Damascus 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 Damascus 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 Damascus 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 GA, 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 39841 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 Damascus 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 Damascus 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 Damascus, Georgia 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.

Damascus 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 Damascus.

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

39841

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