The town of Oakdale, Louisiana was originally known as Dunnsville, named after William T. Dunn, who founded the town. It is known as the little city with a big heart and it is a great place to raise a family. However, raising a family can be a tough job and sometimes you may need some extra support with your family’s dynamics.

The Oakdale area has some of the best mental health providers in the state so when you need help with anything from family issues to employment problems to relationship counseling, you can find the help you need right here. No matter what you need, there are counselors available to provide support in and around Oakdale anytime you need them.

This is Dr. Shawanda Woods-Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Shawanda Woods-Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA
Counselor License Type(s): PsyD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepression
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, thanks for taking the first step towards achieving an improved emotional balance. I am Dr. Shawanda M. Woods-Smith, a licensed Psychologist in the state of Louisiana with over 10 years of experience working with a wide range of people and concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, self-improvement, and grief/loss. I am proficient in providing therapy for individuals, groups, couples, and families. I find that the Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational-Emotive Behavioral Therapy and Person Centered Therapy approaches provide a foundation for facilitating change. My counseling style is supportive and collaborative resulting in the development of a uniquely specific treatment plan. Additionally, I have passion for providing psychoeducation to couples, parents, and individuals about the issues they may be having and how these issues are related to development, biological or social/cultural causes. It takes strength and courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life. It appears that you a ready to take that step and I look forward to the opportunity to support and empower you.

Get started View profile
This is Ann Bevan's avatar and link to their profile

Ann Bevan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello and welcome! My name is Ann Bevan and I am a licensed clinical social worker here in Louisiana. I completed my graduate training at Tulane where I earned a Master's Degree in Social Work. I have worked for more than 20 years in the field in several different capacities. Over that period of time, I have met with and supported people facing medical challenges, loss, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties. I have been described as being a good listener, one who is compassionate, understanding, patient, and respectful. My goal is to provide a safe space where individuals can talk about any topic that is weighing on their hearts or minds. I strive to help individuals move through their challenging times or issues in order to gain a better feeling about themselves, others, and the world. I draw upon various psychologies and therapeutic philosophies. I have used cognitive behavioral therapy, insight, Jungian psychology, the Enneagram, and Mindfulness. Congratulations for reaching out. Should you decide to make an appointment, it will be a privilege to accompany you on your journey.

Get started View profile
This is Marcell Gary 's avatar and link to their profile

Marcell Gary

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA
Counselor License Type(s): MA ,LPC-S
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hey! My name is Marcell and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) in the state of Louisiana. I have been in the mental health field for over 15 years. I have been the clinical director at several mental health agencies. I have worked in many different aspects of mental health from psychiatric inpatient to traditional outpatient mental health therapy. I specialize in individuals with Major Depression, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder and Anxiety. I have experience working with individuals, groups, couples, and families within a therapeutic framework, using cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy and many other modalities that have aided toward the success of my client's goals. I look forward to working with you and watching you grow on this journey! Lets do this!

Get started View profile
This is Ryan Sheehan's avatar and link to their profile

Ryan Sheehan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I’m a therapist committed to helping people live more meaningful and satisfying lives. Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety should not get in the way of living the life you want to live. My approach is person-centered, putting you in the driver's seat. We will explore the issues you wish to work on, as you are the expert on your life. Using techniques from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), we can rework your relationship to your thoughts and feelings. A psychodynamic perspective will help us understand the deeper, unconscious issues that may be contributing to negative patterns in your life. At the end of the day, regardless of where therapy takes us, I am here for you.

Get started View profile
This is Miriam Werquin's avatar and link to their profile

Miriam Werquin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Louisiana with 4 years of master’s level professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem and confidence, depression and trauma. I also have experience working with clients who are coping with life stage transitions. My goal in therapy is to create a safe and open 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.

Get started View profile
This is Charles "Brandon" Ramsey's avatar and link to their profile

Charles "Brandon" Ramsey

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoaching
18 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Louisiana with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients of all ages with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and a wide variety of individual issues. 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.

Get started View profile
This is Chabre Jones's avatar and link to their profile

Chabre Jones

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,Chabre Johnson
Parenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi! I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker born and raised in Louisiana. I've been licensed for 9 years with 3 of those yrs. being clinical, however I have over 18 yrs. of experience doing community-based work with children, youth, and families. I enjoy working with teens and young adults, but I have years of experience in helping clients with increasing motivation, self-esteem and confidence building, burnout, career difficulties, coping with life changes, parent and youth relationships, LGBTQ+ support, and professional coaching. And for the last 10 years I've worked directly with justice involved youth and behavioral health. My therapy style is conversational and interactive. I incorporate Humanistic Therapy approach which seeks to provide an atmosphere of support, empathy, and trust in which an individual can share their feelings without fear of judgment. I believe in using a variety of tools and approaches such as mindfulness, journaling, and goal setting to help support the therapeutic process. 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. I applaud you for courageously taking the first step towards your healing. and I'm here to support you in that process.

Get started View profile
This is Taylor Wentzel's avatar and link to their profile

Taylor Wentzel

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi! I'm Taylor. I am licensed counselor in northwest Louisiana. I have been counseling for 5 years. I specialize in substance use and have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with life changes, and motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion while empowering you to make the healthy changes you want. I will do my best to customize our sessions and treatment plan to meet your unique needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, and I hope I can help you along the way.

Get started View profile
This is Kristen Blazio's avatar and link to their profile

Kristen Blazio

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

I am board certified by the state of Louisiana as a licensed professional counselor (LPC). I have a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Holy Cross, a certification in School Counseling as well as an active license to practice Counseling in the state of Louisiana. I am also currently working full time as an Elementary School Special Education Teacher with experience in teaching grades 2-5. I have certifications in Elementary Education grades 1-5, Early Childhood Education, Teacher Mentor, School Counselor, and Special Education grades 1-12. I have worked in the public school setting going on 13 years which has provided me with a variety of hands on experience in working with children of all different ages, abilities, and academic as well as social development. I also have 3 years experience working with adolescents and adults in a clinical setting. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. 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 and determination. I am here to support you in that process.

Get started View profile
This is Eliska Brooks Davis's avatar and link to their profile

Eliska Brooks Davis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Louisiana with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.

Get started View profile

How to find a therapist for counseling in Oakdale

Finding the best therapist close by in Oakdale 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 Oakdale 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 Oakdale. 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 Oakdale, 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 Oakdale 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 Oakdale 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 Oakdale area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Oakdale 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 Oakdale, elsewhere in Allen, 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 Oakdale 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 Oakdale 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 Oakdale 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 Oakdale 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 Oakdale online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Oakdale, 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 Oakdale 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 Oakdale 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 Oakdale 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 Oakdale 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 Oakdale 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 Oakdale?

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

Oakdale 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 Oakdale 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 Oakdale 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 71463 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 Oakdale counselor?

Before seeing your Oakdale 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 Oakdale.

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 Oakdale 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 Oakdale 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 Oakdale, 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.

Oakdale 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 Oakdale, Louisiana

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 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 Oakdale.

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

71463

Popular cities near Oakdale, LA

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist