Baker is a small, quiet Lousiana city, with the biggest attraction being the Baker Buffalo Festival in September. But even in a small quiet city, problems can arise. The happiest individuals and families can harbor depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns.

If you are suffering from mental illness or emotional distress, you do not have to fight your battles alone. You can reach out to counselors in the Baker area to help you face your inner demons and get back to your happy, quiet life. Contact a therapist today for assistance.

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Dr. Tanya Harrell

Offering therapy in LA
License: PhD General Psychology,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
5 years of experience

As we transition through life and experience what this world has to offer, we start to realize that there is both good and bad, happiness and sadness, anxiety and joy. Moments in our lives may require insights from others and help may be necessary. That is my goal here...to help in the best way I can. Throughout my professional counseling career, I have had the unique experiences of work with individuals of diverse backgrounds and difficulties. I have worked with and provided counseling to individuals who have experienced domestic violence, rape, and other forms of trauma. My experiences include work with adults and children. I have also worked as a counselor for homeless families and children. My work has taken me to an understanding of the human experience that is accepting and knowledgeable. My approach to counseling is typically centered on an existential and humanistic approach which encourages my clients to work toward their purpose. I also use the tenets associated with cognitive behavior therapy. I believe that each person with whom I work is working toward their own profound and essential purpose in this life and I want to help them realize their potential and strengths. I employ a compassionate and empathetic approach because I understand that the relationships between counselor and client is essential to the success of my clients. I want to understand the problem from the perspective of the client and in doing so, I can help each client a unique way.

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Melissa Averett

Offering therapy in LA
License: M.Ed,LPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

My name is Melissa Averett. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor. I earned my Master Degree in Education Counseling at Southeastern Louisiana University in 2008. I’ve worked 4 years in a residential setting with woman recovering from addiction. I also worked 9 years providing outpatient counseling to adults for wide range of struggles and mental illness. I help Clients that have experienced the trauma of divorce begin the healing and forgiveness process. I use Person Centered Counseling to build rapport and help my clients identify their counseling need and set counseling goals. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Restructuring to help clients identify, dispute and restructure maladaptive thoughts into healthier thoughts and beliefs. I like to teach my clients about healthy boundaries, how to improve self esteem, choices and consequences, healthy coping skills and assertive communication skills to improve relationships. I will make a great effort to demonstrated warmth and empathy as we work on difficult issues toward your therapeutic goals.

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Drauzin Kern

Offering therapy in LA
License: MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
35 years of experience

My name is Drauzin Kern and I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker. Over the past thirty 35 years, I have been fortunate to have worked closely with clients over a broad range of challenges including depression, coping with grief and loss, LGBTQIA+ related concerns, relationship issues, compassion fatigue and managing life-changes. I completed my graduate studies at Columbia University School of Social Work in New York in 1988 and I practiced psychotherapy in New York, California and Louisiana. My husband Nick and I currently make our home in South Louisiana, USA, along with a wonderful cat named Willis. Being a therapist is my life’s work. My intention is to meet every client with respect, understanding, compassion and without judgement. My theoretical approach incorporates Humanistic and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, and I work collaboratively with every client to develop a treatment plan that will best address their needs. I have great admiration for every person that chooses the path of vulnerability when entering therapy. Vulnerability, according to Brene Brown, is STRENGTH. But it can take great courage to embrace our vulnerable humanity, but when we do, we are already on the path of transformation and joy. Vulnerability allows us to "speak our truth," and the TRUTH always sets us free. Best wishes!

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Mary "Cathy" Waguespack

Offering therapy in LA
License: MA,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

My name is Mary Waguespack, but I ask everyone to call me Cathy. I have a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health from the University of Holy Cross. I am a professional counselor with six (6) years of experience helping people find peace, strength, and answers within themselves. My philosophy is to treat everyone with respect, warmth, and caring. I have experience in helping those with anxiety, stress, lack of motivation, self-esteem issues, confidence, life changes, and relationship issues. I tailor my therapy style to meet your individual needs and personality. Through the use of client-centered, motivational interviewing, narrative, cognitive-behavioral, and reality therapy, a therapy or a variety of therapies can be blended to make your journey a success. One of my favorite sayings is: "Empathy is not saying I know how you feel. Empathy is saying I want to know how you feel." -Jay Shetty

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Bertrille Hookfin

Offering therapy in LA
License: LCSW-BACS
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
18 years of experience

I have 18 years of experience providing therapy for all ages from 5 years- old to adults. I have worked providing therapy for children and adults with special needs. I provide an eclectic approach to therapy. I believe in 'starting where the client is." The essential goal of therapy is similar to a Carl Rogers quote stating acceptance of who we are can lead to change. I look forward to traveling the journey of acceptance with you.

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Patricia Carr

Offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, trauma related challenges, relationship issues, and have worked extensively with Clients struggling with addictions. I enjoy assisting people with problem solving! I also have a deep respect for Clients' authorship of their own journeys and am ceaselessly amazed at the strengths people bring to their struggles . 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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Julie Duncan

Offering therapy in LA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, substance abuse issues, questions of faith and spirituality, military life related issues, intimacy related issues, and individuals in the LBGTQ community. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Reaching out for help and taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I am excited to support you along your journey of self-discovery, healing, self-empowerment, and positive change towards creating the life you most desire and deserve.

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Julee Breaux

Offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
19 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 19 years of experience. I graduated with a Masters of Social Work degree in 2004 from Southern University at New Orleans. I have worked in various settings providing individual, group, marriage and family therapy to individuals of all ages and populations facing a variety of challenges. While working with clients I focus on meeting them where they are. In addition to providing talk therapy I also like to use other modalities such as videos, worksheets, therapeutic games, and mindfulness activities. I have utilized different theoretical approaches such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Person - Centered Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. My focus is to allow you to feel accepted and heard by listening with empathy as you express your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. I will work to build a therapeutic rapport with you as we identify and work towards your personal goals.

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Dr. Jerrelda Sanders

Offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & career difficulties. 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.

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Quintell Price-Turner

Offering therapy in LA
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementADHD
11 years of experience

Hello, let's chat. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 11 years of professional work experience in behavior and mental health. I have spent many years working with adults and adolescents to decrease conflict in the home, school and community setting. I have experience helping families with a with a variety of issues such as family conflict, conflict resolution, communication skills, crisis management, behavior modification, trauma, stress, anxiety, depression & anger management. I also have experience helping clients increase their 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. 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 Baker

Finding the best therapist close by in Baker 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 Baker. 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 Baker, 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 Baker 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 Baker 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 Baker, elsewhere in East Baton Rouge, or in the greater state of Louisiana.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Baker 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 Baker 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 Baker may not take health insurance, some in the state of Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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 Baker, Louisiana 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 Baker 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 Baker 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 Baker 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 Baker 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 Baker 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 LA, 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 70704 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 Baker 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 Baker 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 Baker, Louisiana 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.

Baker 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 Baker.

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

70704, 70714

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