This is Susan Jentoft's avatar and link to their profile

Susan Jentoft

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,NCC,MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, It is nice to meet you. Thank-you for visiting my profile. My name is Susan Jentoft and I am a Masters leveled LPC, licensed professional counselor. I l currently live in Mississippi and have been doing mental health counseling for over 25 years. I have been a military spouse for over 30 years and have a lot of experience dealing with military issues and situations. I have an eclectic approach to counseling and use a variety of theories and techniques. Some of my favorite theories are CBT, cognitive behavioral theory. I like to work on goals and changing thinking patterns and behaviors. I also use person centered theory. This applies the usage of empathy, positive regard and non judgement. Also I use solution focused therapy. Sometimes we need to look where we are and move forward with our goals. I would very much like to assist you on your journey. Thank-you again for viewing my profile.

This is Carvan Walker's avatar and link to their profile

Carvan Walker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): Ed.S,MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesAnger managementDepression
19 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Welcome! Carvan Lorraine Carter Walker, Ed.S, MS, LPC, BC-TMH is located in Meridian, MS. Her credentials are an Education Specialist Degree in Counseling, a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology, and a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Social Worker in the State of Mississippi and also a Board Certified Tele-Mental Health Therapist. She has 19 years of experience in the mental health field which includes substance use and abuse, adolescent issues, school counseling, adults, the elderly, and marriage and couples counseling. Carvan Lorraine Carter Walker is a Solution-Focused and Humanistic Psychotherapist. Utilizing Narrative Practice as a valuable tool during sessions helps to uncover one's true potential and cultivate their inherent strengths by allowing the client to identify their values and skills associated with them. Her role is to be a guide for her clients in finding understanding as we develop a plan for possible resolutions to challenges. Mastering a solid "Mental Health Toolbox" which solidifies the foundation needed to help one overcome painful experiences by using the lessons learned from those experiences as stepping stones instead of stumbling blocks as one moves toward their desired growth and goals.

This is Quinton Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Quinton Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): M.Ed, NCC, CCMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I feel every individual is a unique and a complex being. Therefore, the approach I take with your concerns is based on the information you provide and my assessment of your emotional, mental, physical, social, spiritual, economic and career characteristics. I will need your collaboration as we identify issues that will be worked on in sessions or what issues may need other resources. It is important that we be open and honest with each other for appropriate counseling goals to be established. I work from a person-centered perspective, with focus given to congruence, unconditional positive regard, genuineness, and being non-judgmental. However, this is coupled with concepts, interventions and techniques taken from other theoretical orientation. Therefore, I may utilize concepts from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma models. I believe in the power of the healing relationship between therapist and you, where we strive to be self-aware, honest and real. I work in a comfortable atmosphere and am non-judgmental in my approach. I believe a trusting, working relationship between counselor and client is important. I am comfortable working with individuals from diverse cultures and lifestyles; and I feel that being accepting, objective, respectful, and genuine are characteristics essential in working with clients. Overall, counseling is a process in which the individual gains knowledge and tools that will facilitate continued growth and development after therapy has ended.

This is Mary Johnson-Waldington's avatar and link to their profile

Mary Johnson-Waldington

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): LPC-S,ACS,NCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementCoping with life changes
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

My name is Mary Johnson-Waldington. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S), Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Certified Mental Health Therapist (CMHT). I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I have 17 years of counseling and supervision experience in outpatient and school based settings. I have experience working with children/adolescents and families/couples providing individual therapy, family therapy, couple therapy, group therapy, and crisis management. I have extensive training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). Also, trained in TeleMental Health. My orientation to counseling is based on cognitive-behavioral (CBT) approach. However, I employ eclectic techniques in counseling to best fit each client. I believe that the primary process of counseling involves helping clients to find the resources within themselves in order to develop requisite skills and address themes related to their presenting problem(s) or underlying issues. My focus is to help clients gain insight into their concerns, gain an empowered sense of self, internalize a range of coping skills, and minimize negative influences.

This is Sandra Clark's avatar and link to their profile

Sandra Clark

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
29 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Professional Counseling Supervisor. I have over twenty-three years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with a range of concerns. I have worked approximately ten years as a Psychologist I/Qualified Mental Health Professional for a local state hospital where individuals receiving services received inpatient treatment from active delusions, paranoid ideations, schizophrenia, and a range of mood disorders. As a Program Director for an outpatient clinic for seven years there were opportunities to work with adolescent and children with diagnosis such as disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, as well as working with adults facing problems with alcohol and drug usage, unmanaged anger, generalized anxiety, and clinical depression. Other years in my career allowed me to provide a service to children and their families both at a school level and local social service agency.

This is Kimala Flowers's avatar and link to their profile

Kimala Flowers

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): MS, CMHT, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a LPC and BC-TMH. I graduated from William Carey College with a Bachelors of General Studies in Business Administration and Psychology; and I received my MS in Rehabilitation Counseling from Jackson State University. I have over 16 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have experience working as an adult clinician, in outpatient community mental health. I focus on working with adults and families often with emotional and mental health problems, by providing mental health counseling. I have experience working with a variety of issues such as suicidal ideations, homicidal ideations, drug and alcohol abuse, depression, self-esteem, anxiety, coping skills, and trauma. I also have experience working in a residential treatment facility with youths and adolescents with behavioral and emotional problems. I enjoy helping others establish goals, meeting those goals, and developing coping skills to help them manage everyday life situations and issues. I have worked with all ages, providing individual therapy, family therapy, and group therapy. My approach to counseling is a cognitive-behavioral perspective; meaning my goal is to help clients change patterns of thinking and behavior by recognizing and changing negative thoughts, learning to manage negative emotions, and controlling unhealthy impulses. Other interventions and treatment approaches that I utilize are DBT and Trauma-Focused therapy.

This is Dr. Shonda Sessoms's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Shonda Sessoms

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
9 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi with 9 years of professional work experience as a LPC. I received my doctorate degree in Professional Counseling from Mississippi College in 2015. I have worked in the education and community settings for over 12 years where I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I work with individuals ages 10 and up. 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 on that journey.

This is Regina Ammons's avatar and link to their profile

Regina Ammons

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Family conflictsGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Mississippi with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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.

This is Erwin Gilliam's avatar and link to their profile

Erwin Gilliam

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Relationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi, I am Erwin Gilliam, a Mississippi licensed professional counselor with 3 years of direct professional work experience in therapeutic counseling. This experience includes working with clients with identity issues, stress, depression, relationship &/or marital issues, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and career difficulties. My background and experiences have given me a variety of opportunities and have allowed me to see the world from different angles, helping me sharpen my counseling skills. I have a masters degree in organizational counseling psychology. In addition, I also hold an educator's license with endorsements in school counseling and administration. To add to my career experiences, I served as a school counselor for 3 years, as an assistant principal for 7 years, and head principal for one year in a public school setting. When it comes to therapy, I primarily use the cognitive behavioral approach with my clients; however, I am able to utilize other approaches depending on my client's needs. I believe in treating everyone with dignity, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. We will work as a team in setting your goals so that you achieve the outcome you are seeking. This first step, seeking out better health, is a huge milestone in finding the happiness and fulfillment we all desire in life. I am forever grateful that you have given me the opportunity to be a part of your journey.

This is Dr. Alisha (LeeLee) Marlow's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Alisha (LeeLee) Marlow

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepressionCoachingADHD
28 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed psychologist in Mississippi with 27 years of professional work experience. I have worked with a variety of clients Some have stress and anxiety, parenting issues, and/or depression. I have also supervised many therapists. I believe that it is important to meet you where you are and help you go in a direction that you feel comfortable and do not feel judged in any way. I am happy to be the person who helps you.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Algoma

Finding the best therapist close by in Algoma 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 in Algoma that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Algoma. 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 Algoma, 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 in the Algoma region and in the state of Mississippi. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Algoma or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Algoma area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Algoma 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 Algoma, elsewhere in Pontotoc, or in the greater state of Mississippi.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Algoma area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Algoma 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 Algoma 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 Algoma may not take health insurance, some in the state of Mississippi may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Mississippi you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this Algoma online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Algoma, Mississippi 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 Algoma psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional 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, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Algoma 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 Algoma helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Algoma 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:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Algoma 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 in Algoma?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Algoma 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.

Algoma therapists 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 Algoma 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 Algoma 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in MS, therapists 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 38820 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Algoma counselor?

Before seeing your Algoma 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 while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Algoma.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. A Algoma 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 with a Algoma counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Algoma, Mississippi 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.

Algoma 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Algoma, Mississippi

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 to customer service 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 Algoma.

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

38820, 38863

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist