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!

This is Robin Aucoin's avatar and link to their profile

Robin Aucoin

Offering therapy in MS
License: LPC,BC-TMH
Trauma and abuseCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

Hello. My name is Robin Aucoin, I am a licensed professional counselor in Mississippi. I received both my bachelors of science in psychology and masters of science in counseling psychology from William Carey University. I have 13+ years experience in the mental health field. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults and families experiencing a variety of challenges such as depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, self-harm, eating disorders, ADHD, trauma and abuse, relationship issues, and more. I particularly enjoy working with adolescent females and young adults. My approach to therapy is understanding, empathetic and interactive. My desire is to help you find purpose, hope and healing: even in the midst of struggles. I believe each person is unique and work to incorporate a holistic approach in therapy.

This is Dr. Nathaniel  Mitchell  's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Nathaniel Mitchell

Offering therapy in MS
License: DSW ,LCSW ,CTP-C, CGCS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
22 years of experience

Welcome to Better Help! According to the Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC), in 2020, forty percent of U.S. citizens reported struggling with mental health issues. My name is Nathaniel Mitchell. I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker in the State of Mississippi, with over 22 years of experience helping individuals and families with various concerns. I received a Master of Social Work degree from Jackson State University. I earned a Doctor of Social Work degree, specializing in Theories and Techniques in Marriage, Couple, Family Counseling, Child and Adolescent Counseling, Prevention, Intervention, and Consultation, from Walden University. I have worked in various settings with individuals and families who experienced personal issues such as Adjustment Issues, Anxiety, Attention-Deficit Hyperactive Disorders, Depression, Grief and Loss, Low Self-Esteem, and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. I utilize evidence-based interventions, and I am culturally- sensitive and person-centered. I am currently a Certified Trauma Practitioner-Clinical and a Certified Grief Counseling Specialist. You have taken a step of courage and hope. I empathized with the anxious stage of trusting someone with your story and presentation. We all want to share our thoughts, feelings, and experiences and be accepted and understood. I will meet you where you are on your journey. I am honored to partner with you to explore and find coping skills and techniques to develop control, peace, and strengths. I look forward to working with you!

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

Taylor Smith

Offering therapy in MS
License: M.Ed.,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Mississippi as well as a Board Certified Counselor through the National Board for Certified Counselors. I have 7 years of post-graduate experience in counseling. I have worked in community mental health since completing my Masters of Education in Counselor Education in 2016, helping individuals with disorders such as depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, social phobia, and bipolar disorder. I also have experience doing college counseling as an intern, where I worked with primarily young adults who were struggling to maintain academic success while coping with life issues. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy which I have used to help several people be able to cope with their traumatic experiences. My counseling approach is geared towards prompting positive self-image, self-acceptance and love, and helping others enhance their worldview. I practice Solution-Focused therapy and Choice Theory along with a Client-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral stance. My goal as a counselor is to assist my clients in living lives that they enjoy and overcoming any obstacles that stand in their way. It is my belief that each person holds the key to their success. Life can be challenging, and we all go through hard experiences that can cause us to experience setbacks. To be able to ask for help to overcome these challenges and be vulnerable requires humility and strength. I have been honored to serve the clients I have had and help them along in their journey towards emotional freedom and success, and I look forward to continuing to do this with you as well.

This is Vanessa Cox's avatar and link to their profile

Vanessa Cox

Offering therapy in MS
License: MSW, LCSW, CMAT
AddictionsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) with over 30 years of experience and licensed in Alabama, Georgia, Louisianna, Mississippi and North Carolina. My approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Thns to food, sex and relationshierapy, Motivational Interverviewing, some aspects of Dialectibal Behavioral Therapy and Reality Orientation while working with people with chemical depeddictiops. I am a certified Eye Movement Desensesitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist and have worked with victims of trauma and PTSD for a number of years. As a certied Multi-addiction Therapist (CMAT), I've worked with clients who are unsure of their sexual identity and /or have sexual compulsivity. I also work with clients ages 15 to 75 who have anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trichotiillomania and unresolved family of orgin issues. I am a compassionate person who listens intently to what is said as well as to what is not said. It is my belief that no one's feelings are good, bad, right or wrong. Since I view a therapeutic relationship as teamwork, it is very important to me that my relationship with a client is therapeutic; it is just as important to me that our relationship is trustworthy. My ultimate goal for therapy is for the patient to gain an optimal level of functioning.I am Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) with over 30 years of experience and licensed in Alabama, Georgia, Louisianna, Mississippi and North Carolina. My approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Thns to food, sex and relationshierapy, Motivational Interverviewing, some aspects of Dialectibal Behavioral Therapy and Reality Orientation while working with people with chemical depeddictiops. I am a certified Eye Movement Desensesitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist and have worked with victims of trauma and PTSD for a number of years. As a certied Multi-addiction Therapist (CMAT), I've worked with clients who are unsure of their sexual identity and /or have sexual compulsivity. I also work with clients ages 15 to 75 who have anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trichotiillomania and unresolved family of orgin issues. I am a compassionate person who listens intently to what is said as well as to what is not said. It is my belief that no one's feelings are good, bad, right or wrong. Since I view a therapeutic relationship as teamwork, it is very important to me that my relationship with a client is therapeutic; it is just as important to me that our relationship is trustworthy. My ultimate goal for therapy is for the patient to gain an optimal level of functioning.

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

Jerra Smith

Offering therapy in MS
License: LPC,BC-TMH ,Jerra Leigh Smith
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepression
3 years of experience

I am a licensed profession counselor in Mississippi with 4 years of experience working as a counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and most recently substance use disorders. My therapy style is based on what my client needs in the present moment. I believe in treating everyone with respect and empowering the client to make change in their lives. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution focused, and mindfulness practices. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you navigate this thing called life.

This is Brandy Rea's avatar and link to their profile

Brandy Rea

Offering therapy in MS
Trauma and abuseCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigue
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with more than 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with life changes, & executive and professional coaching. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. I have a very laid back style and want the process to fit your personality and your needs. I believe this process should be supportive and respectful for everyone. Reaching out for help isn't easy and I want you to feel supported and be on your way to feeling your best and working towards meeting your goals for feeling happy, hopeful, and whole.

This is Jennifer Tripoli's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Tripoli

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseADHD
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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. I seek to promote a positive sense of self and seek to lessen the experience of anxiety and worry which can inhibit one's enjoyment of life. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage. My goal is help facilitate in making meaningful changes in your life, alleviate pain and empower positive healthy choices.

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 Harmony Raffeo's avatar and link to their profile

Harmony Raffeo

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

How to find counseling in Leakesville

Finding the best therapist close by in Leakesville 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 Leakesville. 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 Leakesville, 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 Leakesville 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 Leakesville 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 Leakesville, elsewhere in Greene, 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 Leakesville area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Leakesville 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 Leakesville 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 Leakesville 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 Leakesville, 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 Leakesville 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 Leakesville 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 Leakesville 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 Leakesville 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 Leakesville 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 39451 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 Leakesville 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 Leakesville 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 Leakesville, 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.

Leakesville 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 Leakesville.

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

39451

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