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Jessica Gerson

Offering therapy in LA
License: LCSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Reaching out for support is an act of courage, and I honor you for taking the first step toward lasting change! You're here because you're going through something, and whatever that is, I'm here to help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Louisiana and Massachusetts (in MA my license is "LICSW") with ten years of experience working as a psychotherapist for children, adolescents, and adults. I have helped clients and families through issues including anxiety and depression, parenting challenging children, career difficulties, issues related to sexuality and gender identity, ADHD, life stress, work-life balance, relationship issues, and more. As someone who has struggled with both anxiety and depression at various points in my life, I come at the therapeutic process with both personal and professional knowledge, and always keep in mind those things that were most helpful to me when I was the one seeking a therapist. My style as a therapist reflects my belief that the relationship you and I forge is the foundation from which change becomes possible. Working through the things which hold us back can mean facing difficult feelings and memories, and it's important to have the right partner on that journey. I aim to be a supportive and encouraging partner in change, as well as getting to know you well so that I can provide interventions that make sense for you rather than a one size fits all approach. I believe in helping you build a toolbox of concrete tools and skills that you can draw from moving forward—in helping you equip yourself to meet not only the challenges you’re facing now, but also leaving you better prepared to manage future challenges as they come. I'm here to support you as we explore ways to help you meet your goals and live your best life!

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Dr. Alfred White, Jr.

Offering therapy in LA
License: LPC-S,LMFT-S,Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

With over 26 years of experience, I work with everyday people on everyday life issues and challenges. My purpose is to assist individuals identify and work towards living the lifestyle that brings them the most joy and fulfillment. My philosophy is that at each individual's core exists knowledge of one's ideal self for every life area, relationship involved, and role played. Through consultations one's ideal selves and desired lifestyles are identified,, as well as both the obstacles and paths associated with the attainment and maintaining of the identified ideal selves and desired lifestyles Consultations are a collaborative team effort. As a "Life Consultant" my role is to ask the questions that assist in the reflection, awareness, and identification of the client's desired lifestyle and ideal self for every life area, the acceptance of who and where they at this moment in life, and the feedback, support, and encouragement needed for success. Life areas in which Consultations may be engaged include relationships with family, friends, significant others, and individuals in various community venues, to include work, school, neighborhood, and one's community at large. Questions, challenges, and issues concerning, self-identity, purpose, spirituality, career, and an array of everyday human concerns are welcomed for consult. With regard to my formal education and training, I received a Masters in Counseling from the University of New Orleans in 1994 and my Doctorate in Counseling in 1999. In the state of Louisiana I and licensed as both a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. In addition, I am Board Approved in the State of Louisiana as Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor. With over 26 years of experience, I work with everyday people on everyday life issues and challenges. My purpose is to assist individuals identify and work towards living the lifestyle that brings them the most joy and fulfillment. My philosophy is that at each individual's core exists knowledge of one's ideal self for every life area, relationship involved, and role played. Through consultations one's ideal selves and desired lifestyles are identified,, as well as both the obstacles and paths associated with the attainment and maintaining of the identified ideal selves and desired lifestyles Life areas in which Consultations may be engaged include relationships with family, friends, significant others, and individuals in various community venues, to include work, school, neighborhood, and one's community at large. Questions, challenges, and issues concerning, self-identity, purpose, spirituality, career, and an array of everyday human concerns are welcomed for consult. With regard to my formal education and training, I received a Masters in Counseling from the University of New Orleans in 1994 and my Doctorate in Counseling in 1999. In the state of Louisiana I and licensed as both a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. In addition, I am Board Approved in the State of Louisiana as Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor.

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Carmen Kinzy

Offering therapy in LA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
3 years of experience

My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. I view counseling as a collaborative relationship in which the client and I work together to explore the current problematic issues and develop goals to address these issues. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, behavioral issues and communication and relationships. I work with children, adults, teens, couples, and families of all backgrounds.

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Mary Tobias

Offering therapy in LA
License: LPC, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
3 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor with 4 years of experience working with adults and many other age groups who had diagnoses of depression, anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD, PTSD, or relationship issues, and parenting challenges. My counseling style is empathetic, active listening, interactive, and each person is treated as an expert of their own experiences. I view each person as needing assistance with finding tools that help them live the life they prefer. My counseling approach encompasses humanistic, Narrative, Solution-Focused, Cognitive-Behavioral, Emotionally Focused, and other family therapies that can assist with healing and challenges. I will work with you to create a plan that accommodates your special needs. The focus is on the strength that it takes for someone to seek assistance with various challenges. I look forward to collaborating with you on your new life plan.

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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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Allan Rowe

Offering therapy in LA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyBipolar disorderDepression
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) nearing seven years of experience. My time as a social worker has led me to work with clients of all ages from toddlers to the elderly. My experiences have come from home and community-based settings, outpatient clinics, and inpatient facilities. I often take an eclectic approach implementing psychoedcuation, CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy. Of course, I'm always client-centered. This empowering approach allows clients to reach their best outcomes with counseling. If you're experiencing prolonged sadness, high levels of stress, or you even need help identifying what you are feeling, please reach out. I have experience in helping others manage depression, anxiety, anger, stress, self-esteem, substance use, bipolar disorders, personality disorders, and dementia.

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This is Dr. Melani Wheeler's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Melani Wheeler

Offering therapy in LA
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorder
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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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This is Jena Ourso's avatar and link to their profile

Jena Ourso

Offering therapy in LA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseParenting issues
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana with 11 years of professional work experience. I have a wide variety of experience in helping clients with stress, grief, trauma, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Autism Substance Use, Codependency, LGBTQIA- related issues as well as BDSM and kink related challenges. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. You and I will work together as a team to achieve the outcomes you desire from therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage, and I am proud of you for getting started!

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

Lilian Gathanga

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

I am licensed in Louisiana with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with substance use, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Quintell Price-Turner

Offering therapy in LA
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementADHD
11 years of experience

Hello, let's chat. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 11 years of professional work experience in behavior and mental health. I have spent many years working with adults and adolescents to decrease conflict in the home, school and community setting. I have experience helping families with a with a variety of issues such as family conflict, conflict resolution, communication skills, crisis management, behavior modification, trauma, stress, anxiety, depression & anger management. I also have experience helping clients increase their 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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How to find counseling in Port Barre

Finding the best therapist close by in Port Barre 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 Port Barre. 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 Port Barre, 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 Port Barre 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 Port Barre 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 Port Barre, 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 Port Barre area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Port Barre 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 Port Barre 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 Port Barre 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 Port Barre, 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 Port Barre 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 Port Barre 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 Port Barre 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 Port Barre 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 Port Barre 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 70577 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 Port Barre 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 Port Barre 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 Port Barre, 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.

Port Barre 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 Port Barre.

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

70577

Popular cities near Port Barre, LA

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