Ponchatoula is home to a Strawberry Festival, which is the largest festival in the state aside from Mardi Gras. The strawberry is often thought to be a representation of courage, steadfastness and love. These are all virtuous qualities to be sure, but sometimes in life your courage might fail you. When that happens, you should reach out for help.
Counselors in the Ponchatoula area are available to offer this assistance. These confidential therapists will help you find the courage to continue on regardless of what is going on in your life or mind. Contact a counselor today.
Precious Wilkerson-Carr
I am an individual and family therapist licensed as a LCSW in the state of Louisiana. I have over 17 years of experience working as a psychotherapist and supervisor. I work with a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, relationship problems, parenting issues, coping skills, and abuse and trauma. I create a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment to connect with clients in a respectful and energetic way. I practice primarily from a cognitive behavioral approach but ultimately work with you to implement a plan and approach that works best for each individual client. My goal is to listen, offer encouragement, and educate you in areas that will promote your well being and a brighter emotional and mental future. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.
Christopher Johnson
As a licensed therapist in Louisiana, I bring over a 14yrs of experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, stress, and life transitions. I specialize in addressing communication difficulties, social anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and tailored to each individual's unique journey. I work closely with clients to explore underlying emotional patterns, develop healthy coping strategies, and build resilience. Whether you're struggling with mood disorders, relationship issues, or seeking greater self-understanding, I'm committed to providing supportive, evidence-based guidance. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, including young adults, families, and individuals facing midlife transitions. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your challenges, rediscover your strengths, and move toward meaningful personal transformation.
Wanda Bush
My name is Wanda W. Bush. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My primary therapeutic interventions are Brief Solution Focused Therapy , Client Centered Therapy and Motivational Interviewing . I hold a Master ‘s Degree in Counseling. I am an active member of the American Counseling Association. Additionally, I am an experienced healthcare administrator. Wellness of mind, body and spirit is very important to me. My practice philosophy is that we are partners in this journey. I am not here to "fix" you. Because you are not broken. We all need someone to talk to along this journey called life.
Angelle Escousse
I received my Master’s degree in Social Work in 1994. Since that time, I have had opportunities to work with adults, children, and families in a variety of settings. Though I have experience with many mental health issues, I would consider my specialties as mood disorders, trauma, relational issues and parenting. My experience has taught me the importance of flexibility when working with a client and their unique circumstances. Treatment techniques and strategies will vary depending on the needs presented. Through the years, my basic core philosophy towards therapy has been strengthened through successes I have witnessed. This philosophy is based on my strong belief that we, as humans, do the best that we can with the circumstances we are given, and that we have the ability to grow and make positive changes. As a therapist, I strive to provide a safe and caring environment, filled with acceptance and empathy, providing guidance and honest feedback to assist in the change process.
Esau Kinchen
Hello, I’m Esau. I am a licensed professional counselor-supervisor in the state of Louisiana. I earned a Master of Arts Degree in mental health counseling from Southern University in Baton Rouge, LA. I am certified by the Louisiana State Board of Licensed Professional Counselors. I have over 10 yrs of experience providing counseling and psychotherapy services to adolescents and adults. I see the counseling relationship with you as a process of understanding and trust. We work together to develop your goals, to better manage your daily activities and routines. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety and stress, anger management, self-esteem and confidence issues, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, physical trauma, emotional abuse and family relationship problems. I approach counseling from several therapeutic perspectives which include short-term and long-term counseling plans for you. I will help you to realize that you have the ability to bring about the positive change(s) that you desire. I approach counseling from several therapeutic perspectives. They include cognitive behavior therapy, person-centered therapy, reality therapy, solution focused therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. If you choose to work with me, you will learn how to take corrective measures that will enable you to have better relationships, increased happiness, and have a sense of inner control of your life.
Matthew Johnson, III
My name is Matthew Johnson III, LCSW BACS. I have been a social worker for 24 years. I've been an LCSW for 20 year. My experiences are in addictions and bereavement, which help me to work with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Trauma, and family issues. My approach is a client centered approach, and I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with a process oriented clinical environment to allow you to feel comfortable expressing your feelings, having your thoughts and feelings validated and then getting constructive feedback, by working collaboratively with you to help you resolve your current struggles. Our sessions will also help you to grow emotionally by learning to process your negative feelings appropriately, learn better coping strategies to help you thrive and most importantly to help you in your the process of transformation. This is becoming the person that you want to be. I have experience working with individuals, couples and families. As you learn to change how you think, feel and act, you will change yourself and hence change your world for the better. I look forward to working with you to help accomplish your life goals.
Susan Alaina Muscarella
I am licensed in Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Jaolanda Lawson
I am licensed in Louisiana with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, Mental health related challenges , coping with grief and loss, & intimacy related issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Shawn Smith
As a licensed therapist in Louisiana with three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and healing journeys. My practice centers on addressing family dynamics, trauma recovery, and personal empowerment. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach to working with women, young adults, military veterans, and survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients develop stronger communication skills, rebuild self-esteem, and navigate challenging interpersonal relationships. I understand the intricate ways personal experiences shape our emotional landscapes and am committed to creating a supportive, affirming therapeutic environment where individuals can explore their strengths and develop resilient coping strategies. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I offer a warm, understanding approach that honors each person's unique story and cultural background. My goal is to walk alongside you as you cultivate healing, personal growth, and emotional well-being.
Marilla Chapman
As a licensed therapist in Louisiana, I specialize in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and those navigating complex personal experiences. My practice centers on creating a compassionate, affirming space for clients exploring identity, relationships, and emotional wellness. I have expertise in addressing stress, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and trauma, with a deep commitment to understanding the unique challenges faced by diverse communities. My approach is rooted in empathy, cultural responsiveness, and a genuine desire to support individuals as they explore their authentic selves. I offer a supportive environment for clients working through issues of isolation, shame, sexuality, gender identity, and relationship structures. My therapeutic style emphasizes client-centered care, honoring each person's individual journey and lived experiences with respect and understanding.
Dr. Melvin Burrell
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, 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Tamiko Brown
I am licensed in Louisiana with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Kechia Breedlove
As a licensed therapist serving Louisiana, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients develop resilience, self-compassion, and healing strategies, particularly for those experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, and challenges with self-esteem. My therapeutic work is deeply rooted in understanding individual experiences and creating compassionate, strength-based pathways toward personal growth. I am committed to providing culturally responsive care that honors each client's unique journey, with a particular focus on self-love, forgiveness, and processing posttraumatic stress. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their emotional challenges, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and cultivate inner strength. My approach is warm, direct, and tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual seeking therapeutic support. My goal is to walk alongside you as you rediscover your inherent worth, transform challenging experiences, and build a more empowered, balanced life.
Kevin Planchet
I am licensed in Louisiana with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression, concentration, & memory. I also have experience working with focus. 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.
Find a Therapist Near You in Ponchatoula , 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.
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, 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 Ponchatoula.
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.