The capital city of Louisiana, Baton Rouge is an area of vigorous economic and population growth. A number of technology and research centers are based there, as well as the campus of Louisiana State University. Historically a meeting point of many cultures, it is a vibrant and culturally diverse city that is also home to a thriving LGBTQ+ community. A wide variety of options in mental health services can be important in any community, but especially for one with the diverse population of Baton Rouge.
When seeking a therapist, Baton Rouge, LA offers more than many smaller cities and rural areas. However, finding the right therapist is often more complicated than simply reaching out to a nearby practice. The efficacy of the therapeutic process often relies on finding the right type of therapy to address your mental health needs. While there are a number of effective evidence-based therapeutic practices in psychology, some are better suited to certain challenges than others. The type of therapist you need may not necessarily be located nearby.
Online therapy with a platform like BetterHelp offers access to over 30,000 professionals in the mental health field, from licensed counselors in play therapy, to certified group psychotherapists that specialize in relationship difficulties. By filling out an online questionnaire, you will be matched with a therapist that meets your individual needs. And because rapport can be such a key factor in success, if for any reason you need to switch therapists, you can do so at no additional cost.
In addition, the effort of scheduling and driving to a therapist's office can impede the counseling process for many individuals. For busy professionals, parents, and students online therapy with BetterHelp makes it easy to schedule and attend sessions from the comfort of their own homes. Others with past trauma in their lives may find it easier to share aspects of their personal life with a counselor over the phone or video chat.
If you live in Baton Rouge and have been thinking about therapy for relationship challenges, managing the stress of working toward your master’s degree, treating depression or other mood disorders, or simply to work on personal growth, BetterHelp makes it simple to get started. Fill out their questionnaire to take that first step on your mental health and wellness journey.
Dr. Keith Wilkerson
I earned a Masters of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University in 2015. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) #LPC 6526 and hold a license with the Louisiana LPC Board of Examiners located at 8631 Summa Avenue, Baton Rouge, La. 70809 (225-765-2515). In addition to being licensed as an LPC in Louisiana, I hold a national certification as a National Certified Counselor (NCC#630673). I believe that counseling encompasses a collaborative approach between the counselor and the client, and requires both working together to facilitate change in the client’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Counseling will require you to fully engage with me in the process, including inside and outside of the sessions. You may be asked to complete homework assignments, and this will partly determine whether we are accomplishing the stated counseling goals. I assist clients with addressing a variety of mental health concerns that significantly interferes with their ability to perform the primary aspects of daily living. I work with clients who experience family discord. I also assist clients who may be experiencing a crisis.
Harriette Wade
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes even the strongest people among us need a little help to work through some of life ‘s most challenging problems. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. My focal point is providing a safe, supportive, nonjudgmental, and compassionate space for adults, couples, and families to share their experiences and to help navigate through some of the most difficult life changes [positive or negative]; to create more balance in your life. I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated to make changes to improve their lives, find purpose, and meaningful fulfillment. I would love the opportunity to help you create a personalized treatment plan that will be supported from evidence-based methodologies that will allow you to work with and through your current experiences. I received a master’s in professional counseling in 2012 from Grand Canyon University. I have more than nearly 20 years of experience in the helping professions. I have had the pleasure of working with a range of people experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, family conflict, and symptoms of severe, persistent mental illness (SPMI). Over the past 7 years I have worked in mental rehabilitation centers as well as intensive outpatient programs. I believe in fostering the skills needed for effective coping mechanisms for overall wellness. I have ongoing collaborative initiatives with psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, primary care, social service agencies. Deciding to engage in therapy can be overwhelming. Finding a therapist whose personality and style is a quintessential component in the therapeutic alliance. I view the member/client as the expert in their life experiences with unique values and needs. I look forward to helping those to effectively pursue their values and explore what keeps them from being the best version of themselves.
Erica Ashley
Hello my name is Erica Ashley and I have 16 years of counseling experience. I have had the opportunity to work with individuals who have had different concerns such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, family issues, anger management, co-occurring and addiction. My counseling style is based on unconditional positive regard, which means that I always come from a strength- based perspective, where I focus on and individual strengths and empowerment. My clients will be treated with respect and genuine care, compassion and concern. We will work together to create goals and find solutions. I also consider myself to be a holistic counselor, which means I try to focus on the whole person (mind, body and spirit.) I will create goals and interventions that are client centered. I do realize that in a therapeutic relationship that it takes time to develop trust and rapport and I strive to create and assure clients that "it is a judgement free zone" and everyone is free to be themselves. I applaud you for taking the first initial steps in order to pursue counseling and I hope you will allow me to assist you in your personal journey. I look forward to hearing from you!
Robert Ward
Oh, hey there! Thank you for stopping by. My name is Robb and I have over 20 years of helping people transform into their best selves. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. However, I do have a 10/3 rule: I give you 10 minutes after the session starts (unless you message me in advance that you will be late) and then I will have to consider this a missed session and after 3 missed appointments in a row, I will no longer be able to work with you. Thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation regarding this matter. My approach is informed by my faith in Jesus and that Christ is the healer. For more on my understanding of this, please refer to this video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/2u_1H9ZN3AE My main area of focus and interest is in identity (knowing and loving who you truly are). Although I was trained in Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (a form of CBT), I have found that our pain is a spiritual one and therefore requires a spiritual answer. I also help people in finding their true identity (who you are, not what you do). It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Martha Kuhn
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Arkansas and Louisiana with over 15 years of experience working as a counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, Borderline Personality Disorder, severe mental illness, family struggles, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am currently coauthoring a book that takes the more wholistic approach to the brain. With this, I’m working on a coaching certification. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Velda Wiltz
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker in Louisiana with 30 plus years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Curtis Spears
Thank you very much for checking here: I hope to be of service to you. My 17+ years of experience includes many years of counseling and listening, across various cultures, ages and personal client needs, with a few years as adjunct professor at Louisiana State University, Shreveport, LA: 3 years of work as a patient counselor in a hospital psychiatric unit, and 3 years of practice in a pediatric clinic. My current solo practice is empathetic, accepting and non-judgmental, having also practiced as an EAP (employee counselor) in a very large hospital and city system, in which I was required to see anyone for any situation or issue they may bring to counseling. This unique opportunity provided me with insights and understanding of people beyond my own personal scope of experience. I believe this has made me more sensitive to the needs, hurts and stress of the various clients I serve. I am generally available 6 days a week for appointments, because I really do enjoy my practice and my clients. I am licensed in Louisiana, Oregon and Florida and serve clients in those states, as well as in overseas countries. I am old enough to enjoy my 6 children, 14 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchild, together with my wife in a delightful sharing relationship. This creates a relaxed, accepting and strong relationship and family foundation for your counseling needs. My personal strengths hopefully convey to you a caring and positive mindset as we work together. My hobbies are sailing, backpacking, snow skiing and cooking (especially apple pies:) (p.s. In fairness to potential Oregon clients, I want to let you know that I am in the Eastern Time Zone, and regretfully, I can only be available to West Coast clients from 6:00/ am until 1:00 pm :( If this is not workable hours for you, you may wish to find another therapist who may have better hours for your schedule. I felt it was only fair to let you know this in advance.) Also..I can open more hours than what shows on the schedule, so if you need a day/time that is not shown, please message me. Hope to hear from you soon!
Matthew Johnson, III
My name is Matthew Johnson III, LCSW BACS. I have been a social worker for 24 years. I've been an LCSW for 20 year. My experiences are in addictions and bereavement, which help me to work with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Trauma, and family issues. My approach is a client centered approach, and I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with a process oriented clinical environment to allow you to feel comfortable expressing your feelings, having your thoughts and feelings validated and then getting constructive feedback, by working collaboratively with you to help you resolve your current struggles. Our sessions will also help you to grow emotionally by learning to process your negative feelings appropriately, learn better coping strategies to help you thrive and most importantly to help you in your the process of transformation. This is becoming the person that you want to be. I have experience working with individuals, couples and families. As you learn to change how you think, feel and act, you will change yourself and hence change your world for the better. I look forward to working with you to help accomplish your life goals.
Glenzetta Hall
I see counseling as a process in which you and I having come to understand and trust one another, work as a team to explore and define present problem situations, develop future goals for an improved life, and work in a systematic fashion toward realizing those goals. I approach counseling from a cognitive behavioral perspective in that patterns of thoughts and actions are explored in order to better understand the clients' problems and to develop solutions. I work with clients in a variety of formats, including individually, as couples and as families. I also conduct group therapy. I have counseled clients of varying ages and in both school and clinical settings working together toward a desired positive outcome. I have worked to improve the lives of people since 2002, first as a teacher, later as a counselor. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Louisiana and Texas. I graduated in 1979 from Louisiana State University in Shreveport, Louisiana. After twenty-four years in the corporate world , I received my alternative teacher certification from Grambling State University. I earned a master’s in counseling from Louisiana Tech University in 2012, and a Master of Education in 2016. I also have an Educational Leadership Certification, a Louisiana and Texas Licensed Professional Counselor’s certification, and a National Certified Counselor certification. I've also worked for the Louisiana Department of Education as a Science Teacher Leader Advisor Instructional Materials Reviewer. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Monique Carter
I am licensed in Louisiana with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, 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. 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.
Matthew Miller
As a licensed therapist in Louisiana, I bring a decade of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction with compassion and expertise. I specialize in addressing deeply personal struggles such as social isolation, communication difficulties, and issues of self-esteem. My approach focuses on guiding clients toward self-love, understanding life purpose, and healing from guilt and shame. I create a supportive environment where individuals can explore their experiences, develop healthier coping strategies, and rediscover their inner strength. My therapeutic work is grounded in evidence-based practices that honor each person's unique journey. I believe in empowering clients to build meaningful connections, overcome barriers, and cultivate a more fulfilling life. Together, we'll work collaboratively to transform challenges into opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
Dominique Johnson
My approach stems from a systems perspective believing that many issues we encounter as individuals develop through our relational history with our families. My belief is that individuals are taught how to interact or disconnect with others by the connection or lack of connection they experienced through their family. For this reason, my approach leans heavily towards the fact that individuals come from stories and backgrounds that shape who they are and how they interact with the world around them.Through counseling I teach couples, individuals and families how to unify their interactions through the act of understanding and love. Active and verbal love transcends through hearts and creates healthy individuals who become healthy workers, bosses, preachers, fathers, sons, daughters, friends, etc. I have been in the mental health field for over7 years and have worked in a variety of sectors such as private practice, community mental health, and disability support. Therefore , I believe I have a variety of skills working with various types of individuals.In addition, I have experience in supervising teams and aspiring new therapists. I have implemented documentation and diagnosis protocols that have been effective for ensuring consistent compliance and quality care for clients.Currently, I have the opportunity to work with various individuals , couples and families who have problematic behaviors both relationally and mentally. My belief is that we all have problems but having someone to walk alongside you to process these problems can be liberating, in the best kind of way. I am truly a lover of people and relationships and I have made it my life’s mission to restore the heart beat back into both of these things.
Shauntee Slack
With over 21 years of experience working with adults, children, and families in the mental health field, I am deeply committed to helping individuals and families heal, grow, and reconnect with their strengths. My work is grounded in trauma-centered therapy, recognizing that many emotional and behavioral challenges are rooted in experiences that deserve compassion, understanding, and skilled support. Throughout my career, I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, and families, helping them navigate life transitions, relationship challenges, and the impact of trauma. I believe therapy should be a safe space where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to move forward with confidence. My clinical approach integrates several evidence-based modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). By combining these approaches, I tailor treatment to meet each client’s unique needs, helping them build practical skills for emotional regulation, resilience, and lasting change. For me, mental health work is more than a profession—it is a calling and a purpose. I genuinely enjoy walking alongside people in their healing journey and believe that with the right support, every person has the capacity for growth and transformation.
Shaven Smith
Hello, and welcome. I'm Dr. Shaven Abney Smith, a licensed clinical social worker with a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) degree and experience supporting individuals through a variety of life's challenges. I specialize in helping individuals navigate depression, trauma, anxiety, and life transitions using proven, evidence-based approaches tailored to each person's unique needs and experiences. My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in evidence-based practices. I believe therapy is a partnership where we work together to identify your goals, build on your strengths, and develop practical tools to support meaningful and lasting change. I communicate in a clear and direct manner because I value transparency and believe in helping you get to the heart of what's going on, always with compassion, warmth, and sensitivity. I strive to create a space where you feel safe, seen, and never judged. Whether you are seeking healing from past experiences, support through current challenges, or personal growth, I am committed to meeting you where you are and walking alongside you on your journey toward greater well-being.
Find a Therapist Near You in Baton Rouge , Louisiana
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Louisiana can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
Louisiana is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Louisiana, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Louisiana (LA). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Louisiana, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Louisiana with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Louisiana
When searching for a therapist near me in Louisiana, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Louisiana, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Louisiana.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Louisiana want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Louisiana
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Louisiana without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Louisiana (LA)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in Louisiana
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Louisiana, including residents in Baton Rouge.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Louisiana do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.