This is Christie Phillips's avatar and link to their profile

Christie Phillips

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Counselor with 13 years experience working with clients in a behavioral and psychological, therapeutic environment and 13 years experience working with clients in a professional, business, human-development environment. All of my experience has provided me with opportunities to assist and guide others in their life development. I have worked with clients/individuals/families/couples from age 3 to 90's and am always excited to engage and assist my clients at any point in their life to adjust, cope and improve. I appreciate the uniqueness of others and have genuine interest and value in diversity. My goal as a therapist is to connect with my client, understand their needs and utilize an approach and tools that allow them to get to the place they desire to go. I have provided services in a variety of environments including personal, business, legal, medical, academic and community. I feel that I am effective in any therapeutic situation because of my experience and approach, but I have specialized in trauma situations, extreme behavior/emotional issues, couples/relationship improvement and autism spectrum behaviors. Though these are specialty areas, they are not a limit of interests or experience; I gained the opportunity to become specialized primarily due to referrals for service and sponsored training. Though this a brief introduction, my hope is that it provides you with an appropriate amount of insight about me and assists in your process of finding a therapist to work with. I feel that comfort level in therapy and connection with the therapist is important for success in the therapeutic process and I strive to create both for my clients. I wish you the best in your search for answers and solutions and I'm glad you are here.

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Maria Slaughter

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
Counselor License Type(s): LISW,LMSW,MSSA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, my name is Maria and, I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Ohio (LISW) and a Licensed Master Social Worker in Georgia (LMSW). I am a dedicated and intuitive counseling professional with over seven years of experience in helping people overcome life challenges and stressors. My areas of expertise consist of working with the LGBT community, people living with HIV/AIDS, and hospice. I can also assist you with navigating life transitions such as anxiety, depression, career-related challenges, building your self-esteem, navigating your sexuality, processing intimate and non-intimate relationships, college-related transitions, and processing grief & death. I have spent my entire career using my personal and career-related experiences to help individuals process life challenges. Using a client center and strengths-based approach, I promise to provide you with a warm, accepting, safe space where we can identify goals & alleviate stress. In terms of my education, I have received my Master's Degree at Case Western University in Social Administration. I also hold a Bachelor's Degree from Cleveland State University and an Associates's in Liberal Arts Degree from Cuyahoga Community College. My professional background consists of working at the Cleveland LGBT Community Center as an intern, at Recovery Resources as an HIV Linkage Specialist & Program Coordinator, and at Care Alliance as a Behavioral Health Counselor with the homeless population (or) people without proper housing. I currently work full time as a Hospice Social Worker providing emotional support to families in the Atlanta area. Finally, I would like to thank you for taking the time to read my profile & I commend you for taking the first step in ensuring your mental & overall well-being. I look forward to supporting you along your journey!

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Dr. Martin McQuilkin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
Counselor License Type(s): LPC, PhD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I have 10 years of experience in mental health, worked in a hospital setting and in the community. I love using Psychodynamic and Self Psychology but do so in a CBT framework. Getting to know the self and understanding self is probably the best way to feel better about yourself and to "be the change you want to see." I can work with individuals of all ages and also with couples to address conflict resolutions, grief, anxiety, depression and other abnormal behaviors. Holding a PhD in Health Psychology gives me the knowledge and experience to treat clients on a biopsychosocial basis using the mind, body, and spirit or what I refer to as subtle energy integrators to make you well and stay well with alternative therapy approaches that can be done online with new technologies such as biofeedback.

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Rebecca Clark

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Georgia with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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.

This is Kyeda King's avatar and link to their profile

Kyeda King

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepression
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Kyeda is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has over 20 years of experience, specializing in working with individuals who have experienced depression, anxiety, chronic illness, domestic violence, and an overall inability to thrive. Kyeda is passionate about helping people realize their full potential and to assist them in taking the steps necessary to reach purposed living. She uses an eclectic approach to achieve a space of wellness. Kyeda earned her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Social Work degrees from Clark Atlanta University.

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Dr. Sally Goh

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a counselor educator and a licensed professional counselor; I am licensed in Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia with 8 years of professional work experience. As a relationship-driven and person-centered therapist, I have extensive experience using cognitive behavior, EMDR, Gestalt, and neuroscience-based approaches in working with a diverse population on adverse childhood experience (ACE), anxiety, cross-cultural and generational issues (belongingness), depression, grief and loss, stress management, substance use/abuse, and trauma. Prior to private practice, I worked as a community-based and addiction counselor. I am also meaningfully involved in mentoring and training mental health counselors. I believe counseling within the context of a trusting and collaborative relationship is one you feel heard. If you currently feel stuck, paralyzed, and overwhelmed with emotional pain, we will work step-by-step to heal, restore, and reclaim your life. You will learn to use your intrinsic strengths and skills to process your trauma, be assertive, set boundaries, and refuse to carry the guilt and shame of others, to move forward with self-confidence and purpose. In attaining personal growth, you will ground your healing in authentic hope that creates real change to live a healthy and abundant life.

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

Trenese Johnson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesCareer difficulties
28 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Georgia with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. 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.

This is Amanda Davis's avatar and link to their profile

Amanda Davis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! My name is Amanda. I am a licensed mental health therapist with over 8 years of experience providing effective counseling services to individuals, couples and families struggling with a wide range of mental health issues. I specialize in working with adult & Teen clients and have a proven track record of helping them overcome their challenges and achieve their personal goals. I received my Master's degree in Counseling from Valdosta State University and have since completed advanced training in several evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Narrative therapy. I also have extensive experience working with family members or caregivers of clients with severe and persistent mental illnesses, through training in Cognitive Beck Restructuring Therapy (CBRT). I believe that every individual and couple has unique strengths and challenges , and I work collaboratively with my clients to develop personalized treatment plans that address their specific needs and goals. I also try my best in each session to create a warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental therapeutic environment where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. My approach is solution-focused, meaning that I work with clients to identify and build on their existing strengths and resources, rather than solely focusing on their problems and deficits. I empower my clients to make positive changes in their lives and provide them with the tools and skills they need to manage their mental health symptoms effectively. Some of my past clients have described me as empathetic, insightful, and skilled at helping them identify and overcome the barriers that have been holding them back. I take a holistic approach to mental health, recognizing the influence of diet, physical health, social supports, and other environmental factors on my clients' well-being. If you're a couple, adult, or young adult struggling with mental health challenges and are looking for a therapist who can help you achieve your goals and live a fulfilling life, I may be the right fit for you.

This is Ariel Russell Chance's avatar and link to their profile

Ariel Russell Chance

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

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, & trauma and abuse. 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 here to help you on your journey.

This is Shelida Stuart Johnson's avatar and link to their profile

Shelida Stuart Johnson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Georgia with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, coping with grief and loss, 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 want to commend you in taking this major step towards mental wellness.

How to find a therapist for counseling in DeSoto

Finding the best therapist close by in DeSoto 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 DeSoto 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 DeSoto. 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 DeSoto, 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 DeSoto region and in the state of Georgia. 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 DeSoto 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 DeSoto area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find DeSoto 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 DeSoto, elsewhere in Sumter, or in the greater state of Georgia.

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 DeSoto 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 DeSoto 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 DeSoto 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 DeSoto 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 a BetterHelp therapist 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). 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 DeSoto online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in DeSoto, 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 DeSoto 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 DeSoto 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 DeSoto 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 DeSoto 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 DeSoto 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 DeSoto?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a DeSoto 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.

DeSoto 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 DeSoto 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 DeSoto 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 GA, 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 31743 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 DeSoto counselor?

Before seeing your DeSoto 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 DeSoto.

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 DeSoto 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 DeSoto 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 DeSoto, 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.

DeSoto 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 DeSoto, Georgia

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 DeSoto.

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

31743

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