Are you feeling off-balance or just like everything is a little bit off track? Some days it may seem like you are in a different world than everyone else and that they just do not get what you are saying. Do you have trouble talking to others? The counselors in Central, Louisiana are experienced with this type of issue. 

Central is a small city in Louisiana that, strangely enough, is not in the center of the state as you would think from the name. Sometimes things are just not as simple as they seem and you may just need to take a step back to see what you are missing. Talking to a counselor based in Central may be a big help in getting you centered again. 

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Melissa Averett

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA
Counselor License Type(s): M.Ed,LPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

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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Kimberly Williams

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW,LMHP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionADHD
9 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my master’s degree specializing in Children, Youth and Families, from Louisiana State University (Geaux Tigers)! I understand that reaching out for support can be frightening, especially to a stranger, but I assure you that I am a very open-minded, non-judgmental, and down-to-earth therapist with over eight years of experience and expertise to offer you. I have extensive experience providing quality services in a wide range of areas including depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral issues, relationships, interpersonal dynamics, communication, self-esteem, school/career issues, anger management, stress management, psychoeducation, and life skills. My clinical modality is that of a client-centered approach focused on a strength perspective and cognitive behavioral therapy. I am very positive, honest, and comical, at times, but I also like to "keep it real" to help you get the help that you are seeking and achieve your treatment goals. A lot of my clients have referred to me as having an "old soul" because of my level of maturity and experience and my ability to relate to others on a diverse scale. I lead my practice with dignity, respect, confidentiality, and trust for every individual that entrusts me with their most personal and vulnerable circumstances. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. *A little about me: I am a mother of 3 - a young adult male, a teenage girl, and a toddler boss! I love retail therapy, listening to inspirational messages, and reading self-development books. If you think that we would be a good fit, please do not hesitate to reach out to me! It would be my pleasure to assist you!

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Shona Dyche

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,NCC,NCSC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and a National Certified School Counselor. I have experience working as a psychotherapist and a school guidance counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including but not limited to depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and academic and career counseling. I see counseling as a process in which the you, the client and I, the counselor having come to understand and trust one another work as a team. We will work to explore and define present problem situations and develop future goals for an improved life. We will work in systematic fashion toward realizing those goals. I will tailor your treatment plan to meet your individual needs. It takes courage to seek change and a happier life. If you are ready to take the that step, I am here to help you. I look forward to working with you.

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Rosalin Landrews

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
19 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi! I am a clinical social worker licensed in Mississippi and Louisiana. If you have been feeling down, hurt, anxious, lost, confused, embarrassed, misunderstood, stuck, overwhelmed, lonely, or dysfunctional, I look forward to working with you. I offer respect, eclecticism, warmth, innovation, humor, depth, teamwork and patience. I have over 17 years experience helping others manage the high demands, frequent transitions and complexities of life. Sometimes you just can't find the energy, courage nor hope to open up even though family/friends have been asking "what's wrong". You find your sense of wellness diminishing and past efforts to cope have created more problems resulting in a heavier load. Things can get tough at times, but you don't have to live hard. Be encouraged! Life strengths often get overlooked during unplanned challenges. I provide counseling services to help others navigate difficult personal situations and determine their best selves. The process of determination is so elevating! I find joy in facilitating a compassionate motivating space for individuals to define how they feel and what they want. My enormous personal and professional experience allows me to connect and engage in meaningful work with great people as we all try to figure things out and be okay in our lives. I have successfully collaborated with a wide variation of individuals as my therapeutic approach is flexible and integrative. There is no one size fits all when addressing life issues. I strongly value individualism, privacy and integrity. Are you ready to begin the amazing journey toward more confident, healthy and complete living? Maybe I am a good fit for you. Let's find out.

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Victoria Williams

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA
Counselor License Type(s): LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I have been a LPC for the last 10 years and have worked with a very diverse group of clients. They range in age from 6 to 60. I specialize in adolescents and trauma. I have also worked with depression, anxiety, personal relationships, parenting problems, addictions, emotional abuse, and physical trauma. I utilize the person centered approach and make the client's best interest the center of all therapy. I promote a mutually respectful therapeutic environment in regards to sexuality and religion. I have worked with LBGQT populations along with adoption and foster parent populations. My approach combines cognitive behavioral therapy, reality therapy, and motivational interviewing. I focus on what the client feels is the problem and help them understand how to work through and deal with others while working on themselves. I ensure the treatment plan and sessions are mutually agreed upon throughout the entire duration of therapy. I have a flexible schedule and can see clients late evenings and weekends.

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Christian Specks

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW-BACS,QSSWS
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionADHD
11 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), a Board-Approved Clinical Social Work Supervisor (BACS), a lifelong Qualified School Social Work Specialist (QSSWS), a Licensed Clergy, and an Assistant Professor of Social Work. I am now pursuing a doctorate in education, focusing on P-20 special education. For over 17 years, I have worked in social work, focusing on marginalized populations and assisting individuals/families with special education needs and disabilities and their consequences on schools, individuals, and family relations. I offer a unique perspective to my students and clients based on my personal, academic, and clinical experiences and my competence as a school and faith-based social worker. My prior expertise, experience, and perspective assist in supporting people and families as they navigate the complexity of the special education evaluation process and school-based and faith-based interventions to provide diversity, inclusive, and equitable support while in the field.

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Nikolya Sparks

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigueADHD
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am Nikolya T. Sparks. I have earned a B.A. in Psychology from THE Grambling State University & an M.A. in Counseling & Guidance from Louisiana Tech University. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and Certified Grief Informed Professional (CGP) with 30+ years of clinical experience in both direct care & administrative roles. I began my career as a direct care provider years ago working with teens and young adults in a group home setting. I am experienced in managing the following concerns: relationship conflict, infidelity, low self-esteem, interpersonal relationship skills, anxiety, ADHD, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anger management, behavior management, anxiety & panic attacks, parent skills training, sexual abuse/trauma, unresolved grief, executive/professional coaching, independent living skills, crisis management, suicide prevention/aftercare and individuals with serious mental illness (SMI). I am here to support, encourage, empower & inspire you (and your families) to be the best versions of yourselves, which also helps to strengthen the family unit with education. This can only be achieved with active participation, desire to learn, willingness to change and/or grow. The fact that you showed up here and for yourself speaks to your commitment to growth! I am a native New Orleanian & proud member of the #WHODAT Nation. I encourage a healthy work-life balance & indulgence in self-care. Some of my self-care activities include prayer, journaling, spending time with my family, festivals, spoiling my two fur babies Bernie & Lady Lola, reading, planning (I’m a proud Planner Babe), traveling & serving my community. I am a Life Member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. I am also mother to one son, Brian Christopher. I'm also fortunate enough to have several "bonus" kids.

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Pamela Gray

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
19 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Texas with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Denise Smith Baril

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyGriefCoping with life changesADHD
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida and Louisiana with 3 years of professional work experience with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, & 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. 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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Paisley Balthazar

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Louisiana with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Central

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

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Central 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 Central, elsewhere in East Baton Rouge, or in the greater state of Louisiana.

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

Therapists in Central, 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 Central 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 Central 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 Central 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 Central 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 Central 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 Central?

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

Central 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 Central 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 Central 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 LA, 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 70739 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 Central counselor?

Before seeing your Central 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 Central.

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 Central 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 Central 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 Central, 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.

Central 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 Central, Louisiana

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 Central.

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

70714, 70739, 70770, 70791, 70818, 70819

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