Melissa Averett
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.
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.
Donna Smith
I have been a therapist for 35 years in most cases in medical and psychiatric settings. Fortunately, I have continued to express compassion and to be committed to helping others who struggle with various types of stress and psychological challenges to include: Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Other Specified traumas such as; stressful experiences resulting from childhood traumatic issues and stressful experiences and/or exposure to physical or emotional pain including abuse ,neglect or family conflict, and/or tragic events, Depression, Anxiety, occupational stress and stress secondary to medical problems.
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.
Darlene Kelly
I am a family and marriage therapist with over 20 years of experience. I have experience in working with singles, married couples, teens and the elderly. I am here to help you, knowing that reaching out for help is not always easy. I am an open-ended listener who gives you the opportunity to express yourself in a nonjudgmental environment. I have helped many get through their trials and tribulations. My idea of therapy is not to erase what you've been through but, to offer an environment where you can express any and all experiences and voice how you can move forward. My goal is to help you grow in all aspects of life, it's not always easy being vulnerable which is why I offer my support and aid in all experiences that you have and will go through. I hope to meet you soon!
Shannon Sumrall
I hold two Masters degrees, one in Medical Anthropology and another in Counseling. I have over 20 years of experience working in behavioral health and in the healthcare field as a therapist, coach, trainer, educator and in various leadership roles at healthcare facilities. I'm a Certified Master Practitioner, Coach and Trainer of Hypnosis, Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP), and Time Line Therapy with thousands of hours of experience using NLP in therapy, coaching and training. I see coaching as a process in which you, the client, and I, the coach, 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. As a coach I believe my professional approach to helping is ultimately to guide people to the powerful realization of the power of self-determination we each have within ourselves with which we can achieve an integrated and holistic state of wellness. I believe that people have all the resources that they need to find happiness and contentment in their lives. Discovering the self-awareness and self-acceptance of these resources can take time to achieve. Some people require only a few coaching sessions to achieve a holistic state of wellness, others need months or years of coaching. You, as a person, are in complete control of our relationship and may terminate it at any time and I will support your decision.
Juanita Carter
I am licensed in Louisiana with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Portia Morrison
I am licensed in Louisiana with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients in different age groups, including adolescents and teens, with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Julie Duncan
I am licensed in Louisiana with 18 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.
Candance Grayson
I am licensed in Louisiana with 29 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, & motivation, grief, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will customize 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.
Angela Meche
I am licensed in Louisiana with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Beth Hebert
As a licensed therapist in Louisiana, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My approach is compassionate and holistic, focusing on helping clients navigate challenges related to depression, anxiety, stress, relationships, and personal growth. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, including women, young adults, and individuals facing significant life transitions. My therapeutic practice addresses a wide range of concerns, from workplace stress and family dynamics to personal identity, self-esteem, and emotional healing. My work centers on creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop meaningful coping strategies, and cultivate self-understanding. I'm committed to helping individuals build resilience, find purpose, and develop healthier patterns of thinking and relating. Whether you're struggling with life changes, relationship challenges, or seeking personal growth, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional guidance.
William Knecht
I am licensed in Louisiana with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy related issues, including sex therapy and sexual addictions, & career difficulties. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Cassondra Gray
As a licensed therapist serving Louisiana, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on addressing depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and family dynamics through a compassionate, culturally responsive lens. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and person-centered approaches, enabling each individual to gain a deeper understanding of themselves, how their thoughts and emotions influence their behavior, and what strategies work best for them. Therapy is a collaborative process where your lived experience guides the work, and I tailor interventions to meet your unique needs and goals. I offer a supportive space for clients experiencing social anxiety, isolation, attachment challenges, and trauma-related concerns. My therapeutic approach honors each person’s individual journey, with particular sensitivity to women’s experiences and the effects of systemic prejudice and discrimination. I am committed to creating a healing environment that respects individual spiritual beliefs and cultural identities. Grounded in an understanding of the intersections between personal experiences, emotional wellness, and systemic challenges, my work is strength-based and collaborative. Together, we focus on building resilience, improving communication, and cultivating self-compassion to support meaningful and lasting growth.
Find a Therapist Near You in Iota , 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.
With a population of Louisiana_POPULATION, 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_COUNTIES, 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 Louisiana_COUNTIES.
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.