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.
Dr. Tanya Harrell
As we transition through life and experience what this world has to offer, we start to realize that there is both good and bad, happiness and sadness, anxiety and joy. Moments in our lives may require insights from others and help may be necessary. That is my goal here...to help in the best way I can. Throughout my professional counseling career, I have had the unique experiences of work with individuals of diverse backgrounds and difficulties. I have worked with and provided counseling to individuals who have experienced domestic violence, rape, and other forms of trauma. My experiences include work with adults and children. I have also worked as a counselor for homeless families and children. My work has taken me to an understanding of the human experience that is accepting and knowledgeable. My approach to counseling is typically centered on an existential and humanistic approach which encourages my clients to work toward their purpose. I also use the tenets associated with cognitive behavior therapy. I believe that each person with whom I work is working toward their own profound and essential purpose in this life and I want to help them realize their potential and strengths. I employ a compassionate and empathetic approach because I understand that the relationships between counselor and client is essential to the success of my clients. I want to understand the problem from the perspective of the client and in doing so, I can help each client a unique way.
Dr. Keith Wilkerson
I earned a Masters of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University in 2015. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) #LPC 6526 and hold a license with the Louisiana LPC Board of Examiners located at 8631 Summa Avenue, Baton Rouge, La. 70809 (225-765-2515). In addition to being licensed as an LPC in Louisiana, I hold a national certification as a National Certified Counselor (NCC#630673). I believe that counseling encompasses a collaborative approach between the counselor and the client, and requires both working together to facilitate change in the client’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Counseling will require you to fully engage with me in the process, including inside and outside of the sessions. You may be asked to complete homework assignments, and this will partly determine whether we are accomplishing the stated counseling goals. I assist clients with addressing a variety of mental health concerns that significantly interferes with their ability to perform the primary aspects of daily living. I work with clients who experience family discord. I also assist clients who may be experiencing a crisis.
Bridget Crochet
Welcome to BetterHelp! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Board Approved Clinical Supervisor for the State of Louisiana with 18 years of social work experience. I moved to London, England in 2008 for approximately 5 years where I worked as an agency social worker in various London Borough agencies such as Leaving Care, Referral and Assessment, Foster Care and Juvenile Services. Upon returning home to Louisiana, I accepted a position with a behavioral health company where I’ve worked for approximately 11 years in various levels of care including inpatient, partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient hospitalization. During five years of my employment with Compass Health I was the Program Director of two large PHP/IOP outpatient programs. I also have 4 years experience working with Assertive Community Treatment that provides community based mental health services to high-risk populations. My counseling style is warm, empathetic and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, goal oriented and client centered treatment. CBT- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy provides individuals intervention that aim to improve mental health. CBT focuses on challenging and changing unhelpful negative thought patterns, behaviors, improving emotional stability and focus, and assist in the development of personal coping strategies that target current situational stressors. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you! Be the change you wish to see in the world. - Mahatma Gandhi
Toni Byers
As a licensed therapist in Louisiana, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients address stress, anxiety, family dynamics, and personal growth challenges. I have extensive experience working with young adults, women, and individuals struggling with social anxiety, self-esteem, and life transitions. My therapeutic practice focuses on creating a compassionate, empowering environment where clients can explore their inner experiences. I am particularly passionate about supporting women through significant life stages, including pregnancy, postpartum experiences, and fertility challenges. My work emphasizes self-love, healing from guilt and shame, and developing healthy coping strategies. I approach each client's journey with deep respect, understanding that personal growth is a unique and courageous process. My goal is to provide thoughtful, tailored support that helps individuals build resilience, improve relationships, and cultivate a more compassionate relationship with themselves.
Patricia Green-Metz
As a licensed therapist in Louisiana, I bring three decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on creating affirming, culturally responsive spaces for diverse communities, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, relationship dynamics, family conflicts, and trauma recovery. I am deeply committed to understanding the intersectional experiences of marginalized communities, with a focused approach to exploring multicultural concerns, navigating experiences of prejudice and discrimination, and supporting individuals managing challenging mental health experiences. My therapeutic style emphasizes empowerment, respect, and collaborative healing. My professional approach integrates evidence-based practices with a profound understanding of individual lived experiences. I strive to provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their challenges, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. Whether you're confronting complex emotional patterns, processing difficult experiences, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with genuine compassion and professional expertise.
Kelli Smith
Welcome. My name is Kelli. I am a licensed professional counselor in Louisiana and Texas. I have worked with over 500 families on various mental health related and socio-economic issues over a 12 year span. I have been providing direct counseling to children, adolescents, & adults for over 7 years. I am trained and pursuing certification in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have additional experience working with clients of a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, parenting skills training, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, communication errors, boundary issues, life cycle changes, relationship conflicts, and grief/loss. I have authored over 8 books that focus on a variety of issues, including anxiety, organizational skills, communication, faith, setting boundaries, and more. My counseling style is warm and supportive. I develop professional relationships with all of my clients and create a safe space for you to express your concerns. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, integrative, and rational-emotive counseling. I begin where you are and tailor my treatment approach to your needs, while being sensitive to how your individual cultural identities and lifestyle choices impact your experience. I primarily use evidence based techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and solution-focused counseling. Collaboration is important. Together we can work on establishing concrete goals and steps for you to help overcome your current problems. I am able to provide brief therapy (8 weeks or less) or long-term therapy (3 months or more), based on your presenting concerns. Thank you again for taking time in learning more about me. I look forward to working with you!
Diane Cooper
I am licensed in Louisiana with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, parenting issues, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Heather Friend
Hello, I am Heather Friend, a licensed clinical therapist, and I am glad you have come in for support. Reaching out takes courage, and a big part of my job is working to promote a safe and accepting space for you. My approach to therapy is warm, supportive, and open-minded, with a strong focus on helping you recognize your strengths and build a sense of confidence and emotional clarity. I strive to create a space where you feel respected, and free to be yourself, without judgment or pressure. Therapy with me is collaborative, thoughtful, and paced to meet your needs, because this is your healing space. I believe therapy works best when you feel understood and empowered. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, or simply needing a place to process what you are carrying, we will work together to help you feel more grounded and capable in your day-to-day life. If you feel nervous about starting therapy, that is completely normal. We can take things step by step, at a pace that feels right for you, and focus on building comfort and trust along the way. I offer daily and evening sessions. I also offer sessions on the weekend. In addition to sessions, you are welcome to message me anytime for additional support. I typically respond within 24 hours. Live sessions are 45 minutes and can be scheduled easily through my calendar at times that work best for you. My goal is to make therapy feel accessible, supportive, and flexible. Please let me know if you have questions and looking forward to working with you!
Darlene Kelly
I am a family and marriage therapist with over 20 years of experience. I have experience in working with singles, married couples, teens and the elderly. I am here to help you, knowing that reaching out for help is not always easy. I am an open-ended listener who gives you the opportunity to express yourself in a nonjudgmental environment. I have helped many get through their trials and tribulations. My idea of therapy is not to erase what you've been through but, to offer an environment where you can express any and all experiences and voice how you can move forward. My goal is to help you grow in all aspects of life, it's not always easy being vulnerable which is why I offer my support and aid in all experiences that you have and will go through. I hope to meet you soon!
Keesha Turner
I am licensed in Louisiana with 10+ years of professional work experience. Therapy is a space where the client and therapist build a trusting mutual relationship. As a therapist, I am committed to listen and work with you in creating a toolbox that is unique for you. My focus is Trauma, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, Realationship Issues and Stressors. I service Adults, Couples, and Familes (inclduing their children). My counseling styleis eclectic: cognitive behavioral therapy; reality therapy; family systems; person nentered; diabetical behavior therapy, soultion focused behavorial. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, 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.
LaRanda Jason
I am licensed in Louisiana, Arkansas, and Texas with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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.
Dr. Norma Charles
I am licensed in Florida and Louisiana with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, & intimacy related issues. 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 provide support & encouragement and empower you in your journey to a better quality of life.
Beth Hebert
As a licensed therapist in Louisiana, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My approach is compassionate and holistic, focusing on helping clients navigate challenges related to depression, anxiety, stress, relationships, and personal growth. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, including women, young adults, and individuals facing significant life transitions. My therapeutic practice addresses a wide range of concerns, from workplace stress and family dynamics to personal identity, self-esteem, and emotional healing. My work centers on creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop meaningful coping strategies, and cultivate self-understanding. I'm committed to helping individuals build resilience, find purpose, and develop healthier patterns of thinking and relating. Whether you're struggling with life changes, relationship challenges, or seeking personal growth, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional guidance.
Angela Parrelli
Compassionate, Holistic Support for Your Healing Journey Welcome—I’m so glad you’re here. Taking the first step toward therapy is a courageous act of self-care. Whether you are navigating a complex emotional landscape, struggling with past trauma, or simply feeling "stuck," please know that you do not have to walk this path alone. My Approach & Style My therapy style is warm, interactive, and deeply collaborative. I believe in treating everyone with the utmost respect, sensitivity, and compassion. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Louisiana with over six years of mental health experience, I am committed to creating a space where you feel truly seen and heard. I take a holistic, person-centered approach to healing. This means I view you as a whole person, not a set of symptoms. I do not believe in stigmatizing labels; instead, I focus on helping you develop resilience, self-understanding, and meaningful life strategies. To help you find balance, I integrate evidence-based practices tailored to your unique needs: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): To help shift patterns of thinking that no longer serve you. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills: To provide tangible tools for emotional regulation and distress tolerance. Somatic Therapy: To help process how trauma and stress are held within the body. Areas of Specialization I have extensive experience walking alongside clients through a variety of challenges, including: Anxiety & OCD: Including social anxiety and chronic worry. Depression & Mood Regulation: Finding hope and strategies for daily life. Trauma & PTSD: Specialized support for physical/emotional abuse, assault, and complex trauma. Neurodiversity: Supporting individuals and families navigating ADHD. Life Transitions & Work Stress: Managing behavioral issues at school/home or professional burnout. Relationship & Parenting Dynamics: Improving communication and healing family stressors. A Space for Growth My goal is to provide a non-judgmental, supportive environment where you can safely explore your experiences. Whether we are working through significant life changes or healing from the past, I am committed to walking alongside you with genuine care and professional expertise. You are capable of healing and growth. Whenever you’re ready, I am here to start that process with you.
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.