This is Shawna Pankonin's avatar and link to their profile

Shawna Pankonin

Offering therapy in MS
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
14 years of experience

Hello, and thank you for taking your time to learn more about me! My name is Shawna, I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Mississippi. I have over 12 years’ experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings including: in homes, providing residential level of care therapy services, schools, youth court systems throughout the Gulf Coast of Mississippi, outpatient services, as well as a Child Advocacy Center. Although that seems like a mouthful, it simply means that I have had experience working in a several different settings, with a broad range of clinical issues. I believe the best way to truly understand what someone is going through is to understand where they come from, let them be the expert on themselves and provide the services they need to help them succeed. I have the most experience working with stress reduction, anxiety, depression, anger management, family conflict, parenting skills, relationship conflict, and complex trauma/abuse. I also have experience with a wide variety of mental health disorders. My dedication to the field of mental health stems from years of working with children, adolescents and their families, in state custody; along with watching friends and family members struggle with mental illness. I have seen firsthand that having mental health concerns can be difficult and cause feelings of despair and isolation; not to mention the process for getting help can be overwhelming. However, I also know from experience how much life can change for the better when you find the right support and take steps towards taking care of yourself! I use a person-centered, holistic, and eclectic approach in treatment, meaning I begin where you are and tailor my treatment approach to your needs while being sensitive to how your personal thoughts, beliefs and lifestyle choices impact your experience. I primarily use evidence based techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused counseling. However, I do incorporate more "classical" approaches to counseling as well. I would describe my style as warm and supportive, but I am ready to help you tackle your struggle head-on. I am very creative and do not like to conform our sessions into something that will place a box around it. I want it to go where it needs to go for you to get what you need to feel empowered and in control. Remember, no one is a magician. No one can "fix" your situation. It will take time and hard work on your part to make the changes you want. If you're willing to put in the work, I'm willing to walk alongside you and work as well! Together we can work on establishing goals and steps for you to understand the problem and gain the confidence to move forward and feel more in control of your life. Throughout my years of practice I’ve found a recurrent theme: the need to be heard, to be validated, and to know you are not alone!

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Annette Riddle

Offering therapy in MS
License: Ed.D
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

Hello, I am Annette C. Riddle, a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and Board Certified Telemental Health Provider with over 20 years of experience. I work with clients who experience issues such as stress and anxiety, anger, depression, family conflicts, motivation and self-esteem, and career challenges. Recently, I have started working with clients who have experienced traumatic experiences. I am an empathic, optimistic, inspirational counselor who takes pride in helping clients focus on their goals. I utilize an eclectic approach that includes client-centered, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and trauma-focused therapies. Based on your concern, I will determine the appropriate approach to help you. I am proud of you for wanting to make positive life changes. I am confident that I can “focus” on possible solutions to help you reach your goals!

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Lakitta Johnson

Offering therapy in MS
License: PhD,LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Distance Professional Services Provider in the state of MS. With over 20 years of experience working in inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, I am committed to the well-being of all of my clients and go above and beyond to help them reach their therapeutic goals. I provide an array of therapeutic services to individuals struggling with life's problems. I am a graduate of Tougaloo College, Jackson State University, and Loyola University of Chicago. I am a counselor, counselor supervisor, and an educator. I. I specialize in helping others cope with depression, anxiety, trauma, and a host of other mental and emotional issues. I believe in treating everyone with dignity and respect. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, solution-focused, and rational-emotive behavioral therapy. I will tailor my approach to meet your specific needs. It takes courage to ask for help and to trust others, but if you are willing to take a leap of faith, I believe that with infinite hope, hard work, and a willingness to change, anything is possible. I look forward to working with you!

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Casey Nobile

Offering therapy in MS
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Florida with over three years of experience. I received my undergraduate and graduate degrees from Florida Gulf Coast University, and have worked with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relational issues, career challenges, and coping with chronic medical conditions. I have spent a lot of time working with caregivers in relation to stress, caregiver burden, grief, and coping with relationship changes. My therapeutic style is warm, welcoming, and interactive. I believe in treating every person with respect, compassion, and sensitivity to their individual needs and preferences. Together we will identify the issues you would like to work on, explore your thoughts and feelings in the safe space we create, and find helpful solutions to get you where you'd like to be. I utilize various treatment modalities that are tailored to each client's individual needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Client-Centered, and Strength-Based. Making the choice to seek therapy can be apprehensive, and also courageous. If you think we might be a good fit, please reach out to me. I will be happy to answer any questions you may have, and meet you where you are at to help you work through your concerns together. Thank you for taking the first step in being here. I look forward to working with you!

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Emily Shiers

Offering therapy in MS
Parenting issuesBipolar disorderCoping with life changesCompassion fatigueADHD
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with more than 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with parenting issues, coping with life changes, compassion fatigue, and anxiety. I regularly work with adults who are involved with CPS and seeking reunification with family. I also have specialized training for populations diagnosed with varying forms of psychosis. 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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Dr. Robert Cross

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Kimberly Bennett

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am licensed in the state of Mississippi with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience working with individuals from the age of 5 to 100. I have worked with individuals experiencing distress related to various issues such as depression, anxiety, bullying, gender identity issues, abuse and neglect, emotional regulation, anger management, and many more issues. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion.. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, dialectic behavioral, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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. I look forward to working with you!

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

Maricus Walker

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
3 years of experience

Hello! My name is Maricus Walker, and I am active professional counselor (LPC) and certified counselor (NCC) in the state of Mississippi. I provide counseling services to adults of varying ages and backgrounds with multiple concerns related to depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, relationship-intimacy issues, and several other areas. I have experience working with in outpatient settings, correctional settings, and inpatient care settings. I make it my mission to provide the most effective treatment in order to help those meet their needs and daily life goals.

This is Rachel Alcorn's avatar and link to their profile

Rachel Alcorn

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, intimacy related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Dr. Shandra Wilson 's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Shandra Wilson

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, & relationship issues. 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!

How to find counseling in Duncan

Finding the best therapist close by in Duncan 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 Duncan. 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 Duncan, 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 Duncan 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 Duncan 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 Duncan, elsewhere in Bolivar, or in the greater state of Mississippi.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Duncan 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 Duncan 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 Duncan 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 BetterHelp or clinicians 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).

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

Therapists in Duncan, 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 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 Duncan 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 Duncan 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 Duncan 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 Duncan 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 Duncan 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 MS, 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 38774 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 Duncan 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 Duncan 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 Duncan, 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.

Duncan 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 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 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 Duncan.

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

38740, 38774

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