This is Valarie Collins's avatar and link to their profile

Valarie Collins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in KY
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

You are not alone and you have taken a huge step by reaching out for help! Hello and welcome! Thank you for your interest in working with me as your therapist. My name is Valarie C. Collins. You are welcome to call me Valarie or Val for short. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Kentucky. I obtained my Bachelor's degree in Psychology before obtaining my Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling and have approximately 15 years of experience in the counseling field. I have experience working with people of all ages with a wide variety of concerns (anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, addictions, stress, anger management, relationship issues, trauma including various types of abuse, and adjustment to change, as well as others). I have worked in various settings such as outpatient mental health clinics, private practice outpatient offices, rehabilitation facilities, detox units, intensive outpatient programs, and psychiatric hospital units. I have experience working with individuals, groups, and couples. I feel that my therapy approach differs depending on the concerns that are being addressed. We will work together to find the approach, strategies, and goals that are the best fit for you. I use motivational interviewing techniques and cognitive behavioral therapy the most, but typically there will be a combination of various types of therapy utilized in our counseling relationship. As a therapist, I will be doing many things to assist you in finding solutions, processing thoughts and feelings, and gaining relief from your symptoms. As we go through this process, I will ask questions, make suggestions, and provide some education and educational materials related to your specific issues. We will also identify goals that you would like to accomplish and will discuss progress on those goals. I offer various types of therapy services through BetterHelp (messaging, live chat, phone sessions, and video sessions). I have a set schedule of appointment days and times to choose from for live services (chat, phone, video). However, after we start meeting, we can discuss additional days/times that I may not have posted openings for. So, if there are certain days/times that are best for you, I am certainly open to discussing this. For messaging, I will be checking my messages several times a day. I will be responding ASAP, but this will primarily be on weekdays, with some responses on weekends. You are a priority to me and I want you to feel that way. I want our work together to be collaborative so that you feel empowered, supported, and confident in the accomplishments that I know you can achieve!

This is Niyabinghi Thomas's avatar and link to their profile

Niyabinghi Thomas

Clinical therapist offering therapy in KY
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a mental health therapist licensed in Kentucky and have been working with individuals and families for over 5 years as a psychotherapist and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including trauma and abuse (childhood or current), depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, career challenges, low self-esteem, relationship challenges, anger, attachment and ADHD. My therapy approach is warm and interactive. I believe in creating space for open and honest dialogue without judgement at the pace of the client. I respect that everyone is not yet ready for change and it is not my job to push change. I am committed to providing a respectful, open, and compassionate place of self exploration. I utilize a combination of Cognitive behavioral, Dialectical behavioral, solution- focused, strengths based, and motivational interviewing therapy techniques. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards self- exploration and creating change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

This is Courtney  Weaver's avatar and link to their profile

Courtney Weaver

Clinical therapist offering therapy in KY
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Kentucky with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & anger management. 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!

This is Heather  Tolle's avatar and link to their profile

Heather Tolle

Clinical therapist offering therapy in KY
Counselor License Type(s): LISW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker in the state of Ohio with a Master of Social Work Degree from the University of Louisville and four-years post graduate professional experience. After graduating with my master's, I began working in community mental health as a level three treatment specialist and coordinating care between physicians and clients of various ages, genders, sexuality, ethnicities, issues, and level of functioning. For the past two and a half years, I have been working in a private practice setting where I gain more experience in providing psychotherapy to individuals on issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships issues, family issues, grief, adjustment and phase of life issues, and issues of faith and spirituality. I have over 30 hours of training in providing teletherapy and am a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider with experience using video and text therapy. My therapeutic style is person-centered and often solution focused while incorporating a cognitive behavioral approach. Past clients have described delivery of therapy as warm, empathic, and down-to-earth, which I believe nurtures a safe and relaxing environment for individuals to identify their thoughts and feelings, as well as gain insight into their issues and solutions to help them resolve issues. It is my belief that even though it is hard to do at times, I believe one of the best methods of healing is to talk and let it all out – all of the hurt, all of the sadness, all of the things that get buried within – and therapy is one of the safest places to do that. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for adults and couples to reveal, feel, and heal their thoughts and emotions and gain insight and support during difficult times.

This is Miranda Hatfield's avatar and link to their profile

Miranda Hatfield

Clinical therapist offering therapy in KY
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello and welcome! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in Kentucky with 4 years of professional work experience in mental health practice. My experiences include helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, motivation, self- esteem, and health issues, among other concerns. I have worked with a variety of age groups, from young adults to older adult populations. I believe that you are the expert of your own life and journey and that you have many strengths in overcoming issues that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process and help to work through the challenges you may face.

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

Jessica Mujica

Clinical therapist offering therapy in KY
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseCoping with life changesADHD
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Kentucky with 3 years of professional work experience. I have my Bachelors in Social and Behavioral Science with a minor in Sexuality studies and Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with focus on Addictions. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbt-related issues, teens, & 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. 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.

This is Rod Dunlap's avatar and link to their profile

Rod Dunlap

Clinical therapist offering therapy in KY
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am independently licensed in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana, 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 proud of you for getting started!

This is Dr. Christopher Dewhurst's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Christopher Dewhurst

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

I am licensed in Kentucky and Ohio with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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 Courtney McKinney's avatar and link to their profile

Courtney McKinney

Clinical therapist offering therapy in KY
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionADHD
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Kentucky with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and focus (adhd). 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.

This is Angela Young's avatar and link to their profile

Angela Young

Clinical therapist offering therapy in KY
Stress, AnxietyGriefSleeping disordersSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Kentucky with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, sleeping disorders, & 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 a therapist for counseling in Smithfield

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

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Smithfield 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 Smithfield, elsewhere in Henry, or in the greater state of Kentucky.

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 Smithfield 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 Smithfield 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 Smithfield 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 Smithfield may not take health insurance, some in the state of Kentucky 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 Kentucky 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 Smithfield online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Smithfield, Kentucky 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 Smithfield 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 Smithfield 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 Smithfield 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 Smithfield 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 Smithfield 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 Smithfield?

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

Smithfield 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 Smithfield 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 Smithfield 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 KY, 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 40068 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 Smithfield counselor?

Before seeing your Smithfield 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 Smithfield.

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 Smithfield 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 Smithfield 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 Smithfield, Kentucky 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.

Smithfield 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 Smithfield, Kentucky

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 Smithfield.

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

40068

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