Deborah Youngblood
As a licensed therapist in Louisiana, I bring 15 years of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I specialize in addressing communication difficulties, social anxiety, trauma recovery, and family relationship healing. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding each person's unique journey, with particular sensitivity to Christian perspectives and conservative values. My therapeutic work focuses on guiding individuals toward meaningful personal transformation—helping clients work through feelings of isolation, shame, and uncertainty while developing stronger coping strategies. I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their life purpose, process difficult experiences, and move toward emotional wellness. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I aim to provide thoughtful, empathetic support tailored to each client's specific needs and personal background. My goal is to walk alongside you as you develop resilience, insight, and hope.
Dr. Gwendolyn Jackson
As a Licensed Therapist, I offer services to children, youth, families, and senior populations. A primary area of focus has included assisting others in healing from emotional wounds and past experiences: such as childhood trauma, physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, childhood maltreatment, neglect or endangerment, domestic violence and unresolved grief. I seek to empower survivors along their journey toward wholeness and wellness. Services are provided in an effort to effectively address those challenging emotions, behaviors, and experiences that maybe adversely affecting the individual and/or family functioning.
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.
Tammy Threatts
Hello! My name is Ms. Tammy Threatts, I’m a licensed clinical social worker. I attended Jackson State University and have been practicing social work for 26 years. I specialize in individual psychotherapy with adults, couples counseling, and family therapy. I have a passion for helping survivors of trauma and abuse to heal from their past wounds and to live purposefully in the present.
Latoya Johnson
Hello, I’m a licensed clinical social worker and PsyD with a specialty in mental health practices. I have over 20 years of diversified experience working with all age groups and demographics. I tailor my therapy approach based off the assessment of the client and establish the appropriate treatment modality in conjunction with the client. Therapy is to alleviate symptom reduction and to attainable treatment goals. I describe myself as an eclectic therapist, laid back, straightforward with gentle sensitivity based on case circumstances. I want my clients to see a relatable person, I am not a textbook therapist. It is my passion to work with others in the midst of their crisis to guide them to a safe place for healing and recovering from recurrent patterns of disruptive and dysfunctional behavior.
Kimberly Ragas-Matalamaki
Welcome, I am an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor in Louisiana. I have several years working with clients of diverse backgrounds and cultures. It is my daily commitment to provide professional punctuality, expertise and an array of resources to ensure a stable, safe and healthy environment for my clients. This will ensure that each client continues to gain growth, daily wellness and mental health assistance. Although I am open to working with clients of all ages, my current focus is on individuals from early adulthood to geriatrics. I specialize in anxiety, depression, coping with grief and loss, life changes, , and family issues. I pride myself on making sure each client is in a non judgement atmosphere, and an empowering environment which allows them the support they need to effectively express themselves and communicate in a manner best suited for their needs. Together, we will create an effective working treatment plan that would assess a way to evaluate growth, discuss results, and provide feedback that would assist with upward success. I am here to support you as you take that step. Contact me and together we can start your journey to a better, healthier tomorrow.
Wynona Russ
As a licensed therapist serving Louisiana, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients through challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach to addressing stress, family conflicts, and individual healing. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, explore life purpose, and overcome social anxiety. I'm particularly committed to supporting women and men, young adults, and individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds through transformative personal journeys. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past wounds, and develop meaningful strategies for emotional well-being. My approach honors each person's unique story and strengths, providing personalized guidance toward personal empowerment and resilience.
Amber Tassin
I am licensed in Louisiana with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.
Tissan Jackson
As a licensed therapist in Mississippi, I bring 15 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on creating compassionate, affirming spaces where clients can explore their unique challenges and strengths. I specialize in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, trauma recovery, and personal growth. My approach is holistic and client-centered, drawing from evidence-based practices to help individuals navigate life's most challenging transitions. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, including young adults, women, and individuals processing complex emotional experiences like workplace stress, relationship difficulties, and personal transformation. I understand that seeking therapy takes courage, and I'm committed to providing a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you can explore your experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal change. Whether you're struggling with social anxiety, processing past trauma, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm here to support your journey with empathy and professional expertise.
Jessica O'Connor-Rathbun
As a licensed therapist in Louisiana, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients address challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and trauma. I'm particularly passionate about empowering young adults and women through transformative therapeutic experiences. My approach centers on creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their deepest struggles—including issues related to self-esteem, attachment, isolation, and personal growth. I understand that healing is a deeply personal journey, and I'm committed to walking alongside my clients with genuine empathy and professional expertise. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help individuals develop stronger communication skills, process difficult emotions, and reconnect with their inherent worth. Whether you're experiencing postpartum challenges, relationship difficulties, or seeking to understand your life's purpose, I'm dedicated to supporting your unique path toward healing and self-discovery.
Destiny York
Reaching out for support takes courage, and I believe that meaningful change begins in a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment. As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate complex life challenges and create lasting personal growth. I work with clients facing concerns related to anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and recovery, relationship difficulties, life transitions, career development, communication challenges, family dynamics, and involvement with the legal system. I also have experience supporting individuals exploring life purpose, rebuilding self-worth, and overcoming barriers that may be preventing them from living the life they want. My therapeutic approach is holistic, collaborative, and client-centered. I believe that every individual possesses unique strengths and the capacity for growth, regardless of their past experiences or current circumstances. Together, we will identify obstacles, build on existing strengths, and develop practical strategies to help you move toward your goals. Drawing from evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, and person-centered techniques, I tailor treatment to meet your specific needs. Whether you are processing trauma, working through relationship concerns, navigating recovery, managing stress, or seeking greater self-understanding, I am committed to walking alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional expertise. My goal is to help you build resilience, develop healthier coping strategies, cultivate meaningful connections, and create a more fulfilling life. I look forward to supporting you on your journey toward healing and growth.
Shaven Smith
Hello, and welcome. I'm Dr. Shaven Abney Smith, a licensed clinical social worker with a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) degree and experience supporting individuals through a variety of life's challenges. I specialize in helping individuals navigate depression, trauma, anxiety, and life transitions using proven, evidence-based approaches tailored to each person's unique needs and experiences. My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in evidence-based practices. I believe therapy is a partnership where we work together to identify your goals, build on your strengths, and develop practical tools to support meaningful and lasting change. I communicate in a clear and direct manner because I value transparency and believe in helping you get to the heart of what's going on, always with compassion, warmth, and sensitivity. I strive to create a space where you feel safe, seen, and never judged. Whether you are seeking healing from past experiences, support through current challenges, or personal growth, I am committed to meeting you where you are and walking alongside you on your journey toward greater well-being.
Dejion Hughes
Welcome. I am Dejion Hughes, LCSW, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping individuals and families reclaim their inner strength. My therapeutic approach is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and systemic advocacy. Throughout my career in clinical social work, I have learned that true, lasting growth happens when an individual is given the right tools, unconditional support, and a safe environment to heal. I specialize in working with youth and adults navigating anxiety, life transitions, and behavioral hurdles. Because people do not exist in a vacuum, I bring an advocate's lens to therapy—helping my clients understand the systems around them while building the confidence to stand firm within themselves. Outside of the therapy space, I am deeply committed to community growth and leadership right here in Louisiana. I look forward to walking alongside you on your journey toward healing.
Brittany Peoples
I'm a therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through depression, anxiety, stress, and trauma with compassion and cultural awareness. My work centers on helping clients navigate life transitions, process difficult emotions, and build meaningful connections with themselves and others. I specialize in addressing social anxiety, panic, posttraumatic stress, and attachment challenges. I also focus on deeper work around self-love, forgiveness, guilt, shame, and abandonment—recognizing how these experiences shape our sense of identity and belonging. I'm particularly attuned to women's issues and the unique pressures many face navigating identity, purpose, and social expectations. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices and informed by my commitment to creating an affirming, non-judgmental space. I honor each client's values, background, and lived experience, and I bring authenticity and cultural responsiveness to our work together. Whether you're managing anger, processing trauma, or feeling lost in isolation, I'm here to help you reconnect with your strength and move toward healing. Taking that first step toward therapy takes real courage, and I'm honored to walk alongside you.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Starks, Louisiana
Finding a therapist near you in Starks, Louisiana starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Louisiana is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Louisiana, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
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 can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Louisiana
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Louisiana, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Louisiana
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Louisiana
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Louisiana through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in Louisiana
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Louisiana, including residents in Starks.
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 near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
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 discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Starks, Louisiana
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Starks and the surrounding LA area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.