
Megan Woods
I am an LPC that has been working in some capacity in the mental health field for about 8 years serving a variety of people from various backgrounds and struggles. I have a Master's in Marriage and Family therapy from Liberty University and have worked both in offices providing individual, group, and family therapy as well as meeting people in their homes for individual therapy. I have experience in working with individuals that face a variety of struggles including depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, identify issues, Bipolar disorder, psychosis, eating disorders, trauma, relationship issues, grief, anger management concerns, and low self esteem. Often people I work with enter the counseling relationship with fear that their struggles are too big and overwhelming for any possible help. I find joy in building a therapeutic alliance with that individual to help them see that although I will not be able to understand their experience, I am not deterred from working with them to become healthier and more stable. I am more of an eclectic counselor, working from a variety of theories and techniques. Sessions, in my opinion, should be a natural engagement of two individuals working toward a common goal and not forced or ridged. One day a person may need to establish a daily schedule and identify 3 coping skills to manage anxiety. Another day that same individual may need to talk while painting a picture. An important question I believe is important for me to answer as a counselor is, "what do in know about my client?" Not meaning what is the person's name and demographics. What is their favorite color? What books do they like to read? What brings them joy? If I don't know an individual then how and why should that person trust me to share burdens? In that journey I do like to utilize techniques often from Cognitive Behavioral therapy, individual therapy, grief therapy, anger management, and systems theory among other modalities. I look forward to having the opportunity to working with new individuals toward a better future!

Shomaya McFarland
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Louisiana and have 13 years of experience in mental health working as a counselor, crisis therapist, counselor supervisor, and case manager. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, anger struggles, interpersonal problems and focusing struggles. Disclaimer: My therapy style is informal and relaxed. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I may be a good fit for you as a therapist if your symptoms are mild to moderate or if you might just want to have an outlet to express yourself, work through attachment issues in relationships, talk about stress, pinned up emotions, frustrations and disappointments you otherwise might not feel comfortable discussing with friends or members of your family. Therapy process comes with a variety of different techniques that therapist have learned and even provide as a niche. My niche is active listening and providing feedback and making a person feel safe and comfortable to be themselves and change whatever aspect they want to change of themselves. Helping you to see that there are alternatives and it's never too late to go in a new direction. If you want to cover trauma, deep rooted emotional baggage from your childhood, I may not be the best fit at this time. However, if you want to discuss matters related to work stress, relationship and communication problems, LGBTQ+ concerns. processing emotions, coming to terms with parenting, out of control children, issues within the family, forgiving someone who caused pain to you, getting through a breakup or divorce, infidelity, navigating common changes, then we might be a match! It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you to be your best self and overcome whatever issues that are the most concerning to you. I look forward to working with you!

Shawnene Weeks
I am a licensed clinical social worker [LCSW] with specialized training as an Addiction Recovery Practitioner. I am also trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy; to help individuals recover from trauma. My therapy style is person-centered. I focus on the whole person. I am experienced in working with individuals suffering from the cycle of substance abuse, trauma, and anxiety. My vision is one of inclusivity. My aim is to help people through difficult times, unexpected life-stressors, and to ultimately be an effective collaborator in their well-being. I’m delighted in the possibility of collaborating with you in finding ways to effectively manage your current life-stressors. And in helping you reach your current goals. In being tenacious about dealing with my own life challenges, I hold close to the belief that we are all deserving of a big, full life! “Ready to talk? I’m listening.”

Patricia (Patty) Earl
I am a LPC for 27 years and a board certified dance movement therapist. I am also a registered nurse and a certified yoga instructor. I have worked with children and adults offering trauma and grief therapy. As a movement therapist, I offer the opportunity to experience bodily felt emotions by teaching mindfulness. I use systems family theory as well as Jungian and object relations. Currently, I am working with eating disordered and addiction patients. I feel I am centered and grounded in my approach with clients. I listen and respond thoughtfully.

Julie Duncan
I am licensed in Louisiana with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, substance abuse issues, questions of faith and spirituality, military life related issues, intimacy related issues, and individuals in the LBGTQ community. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Reaching out for help and taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I am excited to support you along your journey of self-discovery, healing, self-empowerment, and positive change towards creating the life you most desire and deserve.

Ila Rice
I am licensed in Louisiana with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Jacqueline Edmond
I am licensed in Louisiana with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with 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.

Dean Altenhofen
With over 20 years of professional work experience, I am a board certified counselor in Louisiana dedicated to helping clients navigate life's myriad challenges. My expertise spans a range of issues, including relationship problems, depression, coping with life changes, and LGBTQ+ matters. I firmly believe that you are the expert of your story. Each person possesses unique strengths that can be harnessed to overcome obstacles and achieve personal growth. My role is to support and guide you in uncovering and leveraging these strengths to surmount the challenges you face. Taking the first step towards a more fulfilling and happier life requires immense courage. I am here to support you through this journey, providing a compassionate and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly. Together, we will work towards your goals, ensuring that you feel empowered and equipped to face whatever lies ahead. If you are ready to take that courageous step, I am committed to walking alongside you, offering the expertise and support needed to achieve a more fulfilling and happier life.

Whitany Perry
Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is dedicated and compassionate about fostering positive change in individuals and communities. With 10+ years of experience in behavioral health, anxiety, depression, death and dying, juvenile justice, and child welfare. Experienced in psychosocial and mental health assessment, individual, family and group therapy, suicide and risk assessments. Utilizing techniques such as Cognitive and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focus Therapy. My goal is always to assist with navigation to better mental health and wellbeing.

Kelsey Giddings
I am licensed in Louisiana with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Find a therapist serving clients in Louisiana
What types of therapists are available to clients in Ridgecrest?
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Ridgecrest that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), therapeutic talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.
Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform
Mental health therapists in Ridgecrest available through BetterHelp are accredited as psychologists to help individuals and couples. Ridgecrest therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Ridgecrest therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Ridgecrest region and in the state of Louisiana.
How can a therapist help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want?
Therapists in Ridgecrest can help clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist in Ridgecrest may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment.
Is it better to find a mental health counselor or therapist in Ridgecrest offering online therapy or in person?
Studies show online therapy can be just as effective as in-person counseling. Online therapy with licensed counselors is often more affordable, with BetterHelp pricing ranging from $65-$100 weekly, while in person therapy can cost up to $200 per session.