This is Dr. Marie Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Marie Smith

Offering therapy in LA
License: Ph.D.,NCC,LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience

Dr. Marie Smith I have received a Ph.D. and possess board licensure and certification at the state and national l level, as a licensed professional counselor, counselor supervisor, school counselor: k-12, educator and administrator. I have over 25 years of counseling experience. My clinical experiences have been across the age-span. I have provided treatment in schools, hospitals, clinics, and correctional facilities for adults and juveniles. My scope of professional practice crosses the age span, focusing on societal established transitional milestones and the expectations in which we measure and develop personal self-acceptance through family, peer groups, school, career, and intimate relationships, as we cross various developmental stages. As a veteran educator and administrator, I am able to integrate past and present experiences, with reflective thoughts of how we arrive to our current place, from childhood to adulthood. My educational training also includes the ability to work with individuals previously diagnosed in childhood, young adulthood, or adult acquired disabilities, such as developmental disabilities, ADD/ADHD, impairments in learning: Specific Learning Disability, behavior, including sensory impairments such as autism, and cognitive/intellectual disabilities. Family and couples' therapy is highly advocated, in my practice, when the evidence presents the need beyond individual or online therapy to achieve the articulated counseling goals. Referrals will be recommended, as identified. In the therapy session, the presenting concerns may include, but is not limited to: Coping Skills Anger Management Anxiety Depression Interpersonal Relationships-Teen through Adulthood Adjustment and Adaptive Behavior Concerns Trauma and Resiliency: Adverse Childhood Experiences Divorce, Custody, and Mediation College and Career Readiness Workplace Dynamics Problem Solving Skills

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Lamara Johnson

Offering therapy in LA
License: LCSW-BACS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I have experience in working with individuals who are experiencing difficulties with: anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, PTSD, anger management, relationship issues, couples/marriage/family concerns, life transitions, legal issues, substance abuse, and parenting. The different modalities of treatment that I subscribe to includes: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family/marital therapy, person centered therapy, family system theory, structural family therapy, strengths based therapy, and solution focused brief therapy (SFBT). I believe in taking a strengths focused holistic approach to treatment. In taking that approach we focus on the bigger picture, while focusing on your positive attributes and strengths. We all go through difficulties in life; we can work through those difficulties together. You are welcome here. We will get through this together.

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Marsha Watkins

Offering therapy in LA
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
6 years of experience

I see counseling as a collaborative process in which my clients and I work together to promote feelings of hope, healing, and empowerment. This process is done by creating a safe and trusting environment in which the client and I work together to identify goals; improve communication and coping skills; strengthen self-esteem; and create a sense of autonomy. I have experience helping clients of all ages in areas such as trauma, anxiety, depression, emotion regulation, family stress, and behavioral concerns. I believe in approaching the counseling relationship in the way that best fits the needs of each individual client. I have received extra training in EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Compassion Fatigue, and childhood and adult trauma processing. I received a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Louisiana Tech University, and a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Louisiana Tech University. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Louisiana.

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Dr. Renee Woods

Offering therapy in LA
License: MA,NCC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
3 years of experience

I am a Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Harvey, Louisiana, which is located only minutes outside of New Orleans. I have 10 plus years of experience as psychotherapist and life and wellness coach. I bring to the therapeutic relationship a broad range of behavioral, and mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship issues with self and others, women's issues, child and adolescent issues, grief and loss, life transitions and PTSD. I also specialize in working with women and girls who are survivors of sexual trauma and physical and emotional abuse. My counseling approach employs empathy, active listening skills, compassion and unconditional warmth and positive regard throughout the therapeutic relationship. My treatment approach includes person-centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Trauma Informed Therapy, The first step in your journey of finding healing, empowerment, peace, and a joyful life is having the courage to reach out to someone! I look forward to talking with you and being your guide to a healthier and happier you! Remember your trauma is not your fault and you are not what happened to you!!

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Joyce Jeane-Latiolais

Offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 20+ years of professional work experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have experience in helping clients with depression and anxiety, with grief and loss, and in assisting clients in increasing 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.

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Jira Williams

Offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Duane Williams

Offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
19 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia, Louisiana, and Texas with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting issues, & anger management. 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!

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Denise Smith Baril

Offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyGriefCoping with life changesADHD
4 years of experience

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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Wysonda Smith

Offering therapy in LA
Trauma and abuse
7 years of experience

***I AM ONLY ACCEPTING CLIENTS WHO ARE OPEN TO AND READY FOR EMDR THERAPY AT THIS TIME. THANK YOU FOR YOUR UNDERSTANDING.*** Hi! I’m Wysonda Smith, but everyone calls me Torri. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas, Oregon, Louisiana, and D.C. I’m so glad that you found your way here. You may feel overwhelmed right now and unable to imagine your life in a better place, but you have already taken the courageous first step of asking for help. I will be by your side as we navigate life’s challenges together and explore the brighter path ahead. I will create a supportive and non-judgmental space where you are safe and free to share your emotions, thoughts, and fears. I will be with you to encourage your growth and celebrate your successes along the way. You can expect an eclectic, integrative, and transpersonal approach to therapy. The combination of therapeutic modalities that I use with each client is individualized and tailored specifically for YOU. We will dive into thought patterns and behaviors that no longer serve you as well as mindfulness and dreamwork. I am especially passionate about trauma and our innate resilience. By looking into counseling, you are already demonstrating that beautiful resilience within. I aim to gain a holistic picture of who you are to better offer guidance and support. Let’s collaborate and create the happiness and inner peace that you’ve been searching for!

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This is Lilian Gathanga's avatar and link to their profile

Lilian Gathanga

Offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with substance use, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. 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.

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How to find counseling in Natchez

Finding the best therapist close by in Natchez 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 Natchez. 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 Natchez, 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 Natchez 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 Natchez 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 Natchez, elsewhere in Natchitoches, 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 Natchez area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Natchez 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 Natchez 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 Natchez 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 Natchez, 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 Natchez 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 Natchez 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 Natchez 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 Natchez 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 Natchez 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 71456 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 Natchez 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 Natchez 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 Natchez, 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.

Natchez 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 Natchez.

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

71456, 71457

Popular cities near Natchez, LA

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