Are your memories as nostalgic and warmth filled as those old Hollywood films shown on antique single-screen theaters? Or are they filled with scenes of trauma and sadness you'd rather forget? If you're suffering from past trauma or other mental wellness issues, don't hesitate to reach out to a Toccoa-area mental health professional today.

Whether you're struggling with tough relationships, dealing with past trauma, coping with loss, or suffering from mental illness, a qualified therapist or counselor can give you the support you need to get on track to dealing with your mental health and feeling like your life is one with a happy ending on the horizon.

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Kristen Barrett

Offering therapy in GA
License: MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
5 years of experience

Welcome, and thank you for considering working with me! My name is Kristen and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Georgia. I have had over 5 years experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings including in-home, hospital, private office and running an outpatient day program for severe mental illness. I have had experience working with a broad range and severity of clinical issues. I have the most experience working with anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), low-self esteem, depression, anger management, family conflict, relationship conflicts, and self-esteem. I also have experience working with intellectual/developmental disabilities and mild autism. I pride myself on creating an environment for my clients that is upbeat, positive and supportive. I love helping clients boost their self-esteem, and increase their quality of life. My dedication to the field of mental health stems from my lifelong passion for helping others. I have always been the friend that people turned to for a listening ear or advice, so I took my natural gifts of emotional support and I went to school to sharpen my skills, learn proven techniques, and become a counselor. I understand that having mental health concerns can be difficult. There is still so much stigma around having mental health issues, which prevents many people from seeking help, so I work to show people that seeking assistance is healthy and should be the norm. The process for getting help can sometimes be overwhelming, and it can feel frustrating and lonely. However, I also know from experience how much life can change for the better when you find support and take steps towards taking care of yourself! I feel that building rapport is the most important factor to successful counseling. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to share their stories, process their journey and gain the peace and achievements they seek. I use a person-centered, holistic, multicultural, and eclectic approach in treatment, meaning I begin where you are and tailor treatment approaches to your needs while being sensitive to how your own personal cultural identities and lifestyle choices impact your experience. I primarily use evidence based techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused counseling. However, I do incorporate more "classical" approaches to counseling as well. I would describe my style as warm and supportive, but I am ready to help you tackle your struggle head-on. Together we can work on establishing goals and steps for you to help overcome your current problems. I look forward to speaking with you!

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Trevor Knight

Offering therapy in GA
License: MA,LPC,CPCS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

Welcome to the BetterHelp Counseling Platform. I do appreciate the trust and confidence you have demonstrated in coming to me for help. Having over twenty-five years in the counseling/helping field leaves me with no doubt that at this point in my career, I am more poised to be of help to anyone who wants to recapture a good sense of self, purpose, and fulfillment in their lives including their marriage and other human relatedness. I graduated from the College of New Rochelle with a bachelor's in Psychology and from Richmont Graduate University with a Masters in Professional Counseling. My approach in counseling takes into account the mental, social, emotional, physical, and spiritual components of the individual with an emphasis on “healing,” transformation, and restoration. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families using some of the most proven treatment orientations such as CBT, REBT, Solution-focused Therapy, Person-centered Therapy, and Structural Family Therapy. Additionally, working at various agencies and hospitals serving individuals with various mood disorders and psychological problems provided me with a broad range of experience in the helping field. As you can see, my passion is rooted in helping families and individuals recapture a sense of true purpose within a caring and professional atmosphere. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and someone with years of experience, I would like to have the opportunity to serve you and help you with the necessary skills to overcome the difficulties for which you are now seeking professional help.

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Dr. Elena Felipe-Valera

Offering therapy in GA
License: PhD,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
23 years of experience

Looking for solutions to transition into your best life? Are conflict, trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, relationships, and/or grief getting in your way of a balanced life? Are you a healthcare worker or first responder struggling with compassion fatigue and post-traumatic stress? If so, invest in you! Find your voice and your power and live your best life! Elena Felipe is a psychotherapist and coach who utilizes a holistic approach, using EMDR, Brainspotting, solution-focused therapy, and life coaching to positively impact the lives of her clients. She has accrued a range of experiences that give her a unique perspective of what it takes to help people achieve real growth and healing.

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Teresa Rutledge

Offering therapy in GA
License: MS, LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
8 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) who chose this profession later in life because I have always had the desire to help others in ways that will really make a difference in their lives. I am empathetic and a good listener. I provide emotional support to my clients without judgment. Many of my clients have suffered from trauma, isolation, and rejection from family and friends. Some of my clients have experienced episodes of self harm, suicidal ideations, and suicide attempts. I primarily use a client centered approach, as I believe that clients are capable of making the right decisions for their lives with the right support. In addition, I use other therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, mindfulness, positive psychology, anger management, motivational interviewing, and coping skills for anxiety and depression. I prefer to work with adults, but will work with older adolescents as well. Mental health is as important as physical health, and when one suffers, the other suffers as well. So many people do not seek the help they need because of fear of being labeled or stigmatized. As human beings, we are creatures of memory, and sometimes our pasts keep us from becoming the person we want to be. I want to be the one to help you become your best self.

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Sydney Royes

Offering therapy in GA
License: LSCW
GriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Greetings! Emotional well-being is just as important to me as breathing, so let’s start your journey to self-discovery and wellness together! My name is Sydney Royes and I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). I have a Master’s Degree from Howard University and I believe that if you are seeking answers and understanding, you should be afforded the opportunity for reflection and growth. Together, we can make that journey towards wellness. My fifteen years of experience has afforded me the opportunity to work with clients from all walks of life. I understand the day to day struggles of balancing work and homelife, the pressures of parenting, or the stress and anxiety of caring for an aging family member. If you seek guidance navigating any of these issues, or need help managing a more acute diagnosis, I am here to help you. As a licensed therapist, I use a strength-based approach and look through a systemic and social justice lens to help my client navigate a holistic journey towards self-discovery and wellness. My areas of expertise include trauma, anxiety, family issues, and interpersonal issues. In my practice, I aim to be your loudest cheerleader, your devoted coach and staunch advocate as you work towards your desired goals. Therapy is an ever-evolving process and I use an eclectic therapeutic style. I commonly use cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing to assist my clients on their journey to wellness. Please contact me for more details. I look forward to speaking with you!

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Jessica Stewart

Offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyGriefCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, career difficulties, & depression. You are not alone, and even better news you don’t have to face your stressors alone. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping you navigate your stressors. I aim to provide a safe space where you can come and express the fullness of who you are while exploring your goals to achieve holistic wellness.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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Kristin lee

Offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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Joe Chapman

Offering therapy in GA
Anger managementDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with anger management & depression. 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.

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Robert Glick

Offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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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Mary Ashley Langston

Offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 16 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 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 Toccoa

Finding the best therapist close by in Toccoa 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 Toccoa. 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 Toccoa, 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 Toccoa 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 Toccoa 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 Toccoa, elsewhere in Stephens, 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 Toccoa area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Toccoa 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 Toccoa 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 Toccoa 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 Toccoa, 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 Toccoa 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 Toccoa 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 Toccoa 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 Toccoa 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 Toccoa 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 30598 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 Toccoa 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 Toccoa 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 Toccoa, 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.

Toccoa 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 Toccoa.

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

30577, 30598

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