In the Zydeco dance capital of the world of Opelousas, the music is raucous, and the dancing is spirited. But if you’re one of the Opelousas residents struggling with mental health issues, you may not be able to truly hear the music or feel the spirit of the dance.

Luckily Opelousas-area counselors and therapists are here to help. If you find yourself in need of mental health support, please reach out to a professional today. They can provide a myriad of services to include relationship counseling, family counseling, one-on-one counseling, intensive therapy, group therapy, crisis intervention, and much more.

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Marguerite Wilcox

Offering therapy in LA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
33 years of experience

During the past 30 years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have practiced psychotherapy for more than 20 years and am licensed in both Louisiana and Florida. I have helped and guided individuals, couples and families as they navigate life and family issues in their communities as well as the hospital setting. One's behavior often affects those around us. We all respond to the issues of the people closest to us. They have experienced depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, addiction, grief and just issues managing what life throws at them! I work from a cognitive behavior model. This means I deal with both thought and behavior as I apply therapeutic services inside the understanding that mindfulness and awareness are especially important. I have utilized other modalities should the client need or prefer them. I am very empathetic towards my clients and work towards instilling a positivity in their lives that may be missing. I get excited as I watch clients begin to meet the goals, they have set for themselves. I often give “homework” to clients between sessions. This is helpful in providing insight to both of us. Remember, this is a journey of learning and awareness. Homework allows us to document growth experiences and skills training. I believe picking a therapist is one of your most important priorities. Your therapy should be driven by you. It should meet your needs. I want you to feel comfortable working with me. I am always open to suggestions for your therapy, as you know what works best for you, and you will work better if you are engaged in the process. As humans, we do not like change, but if you are willing to begin those baby steps, I am willing to travel though the rain and the sunshine.

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Pamela Thompson

Offering therapy in LA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

Thanks for visiting me on BetterHelp.com and giving me the opportunity to help you on your journey to improve your daily life. My name is Pamela Thompson and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in the state of Louisiana. I obtained my Master's degree in Counseling and Guidance from Louisiana Tech University. I have over 13 years of counseling experience in a variety of settings. I have experience working with adolescents/teenagers in the juvenile detention group home setting, where I counseled juveniles identified with dual issues of substance abuse and mental health individually and in group settings; I provided counseling services for teenagers enrolled in the Youth Challenge Program for several years, helping them gain the skills to overcome challenges in their daily lives and achieve their goals to improve their futures. I have worked in the Mental Health Rehabilitation area of counseling for several years providing substance abuse counseling and education as well as traditional mental health counseling. I have provided services in Intensive Outpatient programs that services clients 18 years and older, conducting individual and group counseling to individuals with chronic severe mental health issues and dual-diagnosis clients with mental health and substance abuse issues. I incorporate various treatment modalities during therapy based on the client's specific needs; the methods I use regularly include cognitive/behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, reality therapy, solution-based therapy, brief therapy, and mindfulness therapy. I do not believe in labeling someone based on a diagnosis, instead preferring to help identify their current issues and needs and providing them the tools and support to effectively manage issues that occur in their daily lives. I have counseled clients from age 9 to 99 and I have truly enjoyed working with every client no matter their age. I enter every counseling relationship with an open mind, a belief that all people deserve respect, and a desire to help you achieve the skills needed to make a positive change in your life.

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Heather Simmons

Offering therapy in LA
License: LPC
DepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a mental health counselor licensed in Louisiana with over 5 years of experience working as a LPC. I worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, behavior issues and ADHD. I would have to describe my counseling style as being warm and passionate. I love to provide great counseling skills which includes being patience, a good listener, being knowledgeable, and having/showing empathy . I believe in treating anyone with respect, providing unconditional positive regards and demonstrating high fidelity services. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, interpersonal, group and cognitive therapy, I feel as a counselor my duty is to ensure and use counseling methods to help people manage and overcome mental and emotional issues.

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Wendy Durant

Offering therapy in LA
License: LPC-S,RPT-S
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issues
16 years of experience

Hello there, I am a licensed professional counselor licensed in Louisiana and Texas with over 17 years’ experience working as a therapist and art therapy certified life coach. I have also recently completed advanced studies in naturopathic medicine (natural medicine), with a specialization in behavioral health disorders. I have supported clients with multiple concerns, including behavioral modification support, impulsivity, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting support, sexual dysfunction, intimacy challenges, sexually addictive behaviors, career challenges, and trauma. My counseling style is warm, encouraging, and supportive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach to supporting clients combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, client-centered, solution-focused counseling, and holistic (natural) interventions to support your therapeutic goals . This space is designed to support you with addressing your expressed goals, and I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life. Please know, you are not alone, I am here as part of your team to support, empower, and share valuable strategies you as you begin this quest to being your best! I look forward to connecting soon! ~Dr. Wendy Q. Durant, ND, LPC-S, RPT-S, CST Areas of Expertise • ADHD • Anger management • Anxiety, Panic Disorder, & Stress Management • Behavior Modification • Communication Challenges, • Codependency • Coping Skills • Career coaching • Depression/Postpartum Depression • Divorce • Family conflicts • Intimacy Challenges • Parenting Issues • Pre-Marital Supports • Relationship Challenges • Self-esteem • Trauma • Work-Life-Balance Clinical approaches: • Art Certified Life Coach • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) • Client-Centered Therapy • Mindfulness Practices • Holistic Therapeutic Interventions • Solution-Focused Therapy

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Amy Schold

Offering therapy in LA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefBipolar disorderDepression
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the great state of Louisiana. I have over 20 years of experience with a wide variety of individuals experiencing a diverse set of challenges. Most recently I have been focusing on those struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues and trying to navigate life in general. I come from a client centered approach where I use my skills in DBT, motivational interviewing, solution focused therapy and CBT to empower the individual and assist in fostering skills and strategies not only to deal with the current struggle but future hurdles as well. I believe in creating an environment that fosters a sense of safety, self worth and dignity. The first step has already been taken by visiting this site. I hope you will allow me to accompany you on your continued journey.

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Velda Wiltz

Offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
35 years of experience

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.

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Angela Brooks

Offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia as well as Louisiana with 15 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 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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Christina Stein

Offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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. 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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Caitlin Riddle

Offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyGriefBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
3 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, adjusting to life changes, anger management, social skills building, ADHD, bipolar disorder, & depression. I have experience working with a wide array of ages, from young children to older adults. As someone with a Masters in Public Health and experience in public defense, I put great value on using a systems perspective in my work. I utilize CBT, Solutions-Focused Therapy, TF-CBT, and mindfulness modalities. I work in partnership with my clients- building a safe, authentic space where they can be their truest selves. The decision to start therapy is a brave one. Congratulations on taking this step. While vulnerability may feel intimidating, your dedication to self exploration is a powerful force. You have all the tools you need to reach your fullest self. It's about time we unearth them!

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Laine Thornburg

Offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana with 20 years of professional work experience. I'm currently a counselor in higher education and also have a part-time counseling practice. On this platform I only work with women. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 am a person-centered therapist and practice solution-focused brief therapy. My goal is to help you realize your own value as a person and help you navigate life in such a way that you can be content being who you are. I practice on this platform like a traditional counseling practice, meaning we would typically meet via a weekly video session, and I respond to messages as needed during regular business hours and by the next business day if not sooner. Again, I only work with women. If you desire a different relationship you may wish to search for another counselor. However, I'm hopeful you may find this works for you. Please feel free to check my calendar for availability and schedule your first session to discuss expectations. I look forward to meeting you! Laine

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How to find counseling in Opelousas

Finding the best therapist close by in Opelousas 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 Opelousas. 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 Opelousas, 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 Opelousas 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 Opelousas 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 Opelousas, elsewhere in St. Landry, 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 Opelousas area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Opelousas 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 Opelousas 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 Opelousas 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 Opelousas, 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 Opelousas 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 Opelousas 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 Opelousas 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 Opelousas 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 Opelousas 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 70570 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 Opelousas 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 Opelousas 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 Opelousas, 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.

Opelousas 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 Opelousas.

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

70570, 70571

Popular cities near Opelousas, LA

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