Dr. Lawana Mabry
I am a Doctor of Behavioral Health, as well as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my doctorate degree from Arizona State University. I earned my undergraduate and graduate degrees from Louisiana State University. I have been rendering professional counseling services throughout the state of Louisiana for the last for 15 years. My work experience includes a variety of clinical backgrounds, such as child protection, grief therapy, medical social work, school social work, inpatient psychiatric social work, individual, family & group psychotherapy as well as serving as the clinical director of an outpatient behavioral health agency with multiple locations in Louisiana. I have also rendered intense trauma-focused therapy to children who have endured or witnessed different forms of trauma such as being sexually abused or witnessing domestic violence or a murder. I pride myself with meeting each client where they are in hopes of helping them to get to where they desire to be. I look forward to working with you to help you reach your individualized goals.
Leslie Cates
Hi! My name is Leslie, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Louisiana with 10 years of experience providing counseling and psychotherapy services. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, stress, life changes, self-esteem, codependency, addictions, relationship issues, PTSD, and grief and loss. I have also helped many people who have struggled with the effects of childhood trauma and abusive relationships. I earned my Master of Arts in Counseling in December of 2016, in New Orleans, LA. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. I approach therapy from a client-centered perspective: You determine your goals and direction for therapy, and I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I conduct therapy through a strengths-based and solutions-focused lens, and I draw on multiple treatment modalities to help clients achieve their desired goals, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance-and-Commitment Therapy. More specifically, I aim to help clients change their thoughts and perspectives to become more realistic and encouraging, while emphasizing purposeful acceptance and willingness to change. I also utilize interventions from Cognitive Processing Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy to help clients process traumatic experiences and manage difficult emotions. It takes courage to seek help to achieve positive changes and healing for a more fulfilling life. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Dr. Joshua Smith
I am licensed in Louisiana with 15 years of professional clinical experience. I have helped many cope with and overcome a variety of challenges, crises, conflicts, and griefs. Yet, I feel therapy is a type of partnership whereby two experts work together to realize a healing end, one providing the guidance, and the other execution. So, it's not all my training, ability, or even wisdom that has gifted me so many opportunities to see people become so much more than they ever thought they could be. It's also the person that decides to live their life better today than it was yesterday. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy is not easy, but everything we know about recovery is clear to how powerfully therapeutic taking these first steps can be. Welcome to your journey of self-care! I'm grateful to be of some assistance along the way.
John Hamblin
As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Louisiana with over two decades of professional experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on addressing challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and interpersonal dynamics. I offer a compassionate, faith-informed approach that respects individual experiences and promotes healing. My therapeutic work centers on helping clients develop resilience and effective coping strategies across various life transitions, including relationship difficulties, personal growth, and emotional recovery. I am particularly experienced in supporting individuals dealing with social anxiety, panic disorders, post-traumatic stress, and family-related challenges. I understand that seeking therapy takes courage, and I am committed to creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their experiences and work towards meaningful personal transformation. My approach is tailored to each individual's unique needs, drawing from evidence-based practices to facilitate genuine healing and growth.
Shannon Mott
I specialize in addressing a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, trauma recovery, and life transitions. My therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in understanding each person's unique experiences and strengths, with a commitment to providing culturally responsive and inclusive care. My work focuses on helping clients navigate complex emotional terrain, whether they're struggling with social anxiety, workplace stress, family dynamics, or personal identity challenges. I'm dedicated to supporting individuals across diverse backgrounds, with particular expertise in addressing multicultural concerns, women's issues, and young adult experiences. Through collaborative, evidence-based techniques, I aim to empower clients to develop self-understanding, build resilience, and create positive life changes at their own pace. My goal is to walk alongside you with genuine empathy, respect, and professional guidance.
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!
Michelle St. Raymond
LIFE IS CHANGE! I am a heart-centered licensed clinical social worker and Board Approaved Clinical Supervisor (LCSW-BACS) working in Louisiana. I come from the New Orleans/Covington area as a life long resident, Southern bred but with exposure to diversity having lived in San Juan, Puerto Rico. My passion and my work is centered around trauma recovery, family of origin programming, relationship growth and change. Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a modality I focus on in my practice I also specialize in natural healing modalities, mindfulness, in supporting families and individuals in transition, struggling with anxiety and self expression. Transitions from the old to the new is stressful, especially when the new is not yet formed. Our bodies, minds and even emotions can get stuck as we are called forward through aging, job changes, health issues and family re-creations. Letting go to move forward can require new skills and new ways of thinking and most of all compassionate self-acceptance. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a powerful tool that can support new ways of thinking when the old no longer serves. Additionally, inner body awareness supports healthy mind/body connection. Nurturing body, mind and spirit is essential for successful transformation, especially in our current turbulent times. As we collaborate and co-create a new direction for your life, your dreams and wishes will guide us. Your life centered in the here and now can lead to healthy goals and behaviors to carry you forward. No change takes place without action, and having a heart center guide can make it easier. I can be a guide, but you are the leader.
Jessica Merrells
I am licensed in Louisiana and Texas with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.
Becky Todaro
I am licensed in Louisiana with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression and mood stability, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Candance Grayson
I am licensed in Louisiana with 29 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, & motivation, grief, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will customize 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.
William Knecht
I am licensed in Louisiana with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy related issues, including sex therapy and sexual addictions, & career difficulties. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Ashley Gaston
I am licensed in Louisiana with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & depression. I also have experience working with 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
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.
Nisheka Brown
With over 10 years of experience in the mental health field, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges with compassion, understanding, and evidence-based support. I work with adolescents and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship concerns, low self-esteem, and other emotional or behavioral difficulties. My areas of focus include helping clients develop self-love, strengthen communication skills, process grief and loss, heal from abandonment wounds, improve family and interpersonal relationships, and build healthier coping strategies. I also support individuals experiencing panic attacks, post-traumatic stress, mood-related concerns, workplace stress, life transitions, and challenges related to finding purpose and balance. My therapeutic approach is person-centered and trauma-informed, recognizing that every individual's experiences and needs are unique. I strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. Together, we will identify your goals, build on your strengths, and develop practical strategies that promote healing, resilience, and lasting personal growth. Seeking therapy is a courageous first step, and you don't have to face life's challenges alone. It is a privilege to walk alongside my clients as they work toward healing, greater self-awareness, and a more fulfilling life. I look forward to supporting you on your journey.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Westlake, Louisiana
Finding a therapist near you in Westlake, 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' copay is as low as $15, some pay $0.
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 Westlake.
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' copay is as low as $15 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' copay is as low as $15 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 Westlake, Louisiana
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Westlake and the surrounding LA area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.