This is Joshua McElroy's avatar and link to their profile

Joshua McElroy

Offering therapy in MS
License: MS,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemADHD
10 years of experience

***Currently unable to accept new clients as my caseload is full*** “I like flaws and feel more comfortable around people who have them. I myself am made entirely of flaws, stitched together with good intentions.” Hi there! I am Joshua, a nationally certified licensed professional counselor who adores meeting new people! I truly love my job, and hope that this reflects in our sessions. As a neurodivergent and queer human, I find my work to be special and unique, and I seek to provide informed services to fellow neurospicy humans :) Formerly from the Southern US (Mississippi), I now reside in Denver, Colorado. I have approximately 10 years of involvement with the counseling profession. I acquired my degrees from Mississippi State University in Psychology and Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have multiple national certifications. I have experience working in various settings, including acute/inpatient, university-based, outpatient addiction, and most recently as a children's therapist. I am a specialist in LGBTQ+ issues, and incorporate a lense of Neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD) and Trauma-informed approaches to my practice. Domestically, I'm licensed to practice in the states of Mississippi and Colorado. I would describe myself as a very accepting and warm therapist, operating from a drive of empathy, multicultural competency, and compassion. I also view myself as alternative and non-traditional in most of my approaches. I tend to sway more towards a psychodynamic approach to therapy but also incorporate cognitive-behavioral, reality, existential, feminist, relational, culture-centered, and narrative styles. I’ve also taught and lectured in various psychology courses, with my favorite being Human Sexual Behavior. I like to incorporate my academic knowledge into my therapy practices, as I find psycho-education to be a magnificent tool in sustaining mental wellness. My primary goal is to be adaptable, accepting, and embracing. I love the experience of interpersonal connection that is provided by my career, and the ability to help empower others. I also love humor, and utilize it often! Therapy can often be portrayed as serious and 'stuffy' so I try to bring some joy into the room. I love the bonus of meeting international clients, as it provides the opportunity to learn more about each other's cultures! I feel honored to have the opportunity to provide my services to whoever is in need, and am eager to explore the journey of life with you!

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Pamela Luckett

Offering therapy in MS
License: MCC,LPC,CTTS
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

My name is Pamela Luckett. I am glad that you have decided to reach out and utilize the services provided by BetterHelp. When you need some help to find your balance, this is a very good option. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi and have been involved in counseling for over 35 years. My areas of experience have been with an inpatient psychiatric facility, geriatric counseling, management of mental health facilities and am a Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist. My experience in tobacco cessation has opened doors for me to provide additional emotional, addiction and behavior change counseling. Life style changes are part of my area and I would describe my counseling style as a good listener and 'reflector' to help a client make their own decisions by obtaining a better perspective. Your interest in reaching out for help is what makes therapy work - you are the driver, I'm the guide! I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques as well as Motivational Interviewing systems. I have also used Cognitive Process Therapy. The clients I have worked with are mostly over 25 and many have multiple issues such as bipolar disorder, depression and personality disorders. I am honest with clients about what I hear and offer a chance to make changes that can help them find small successes and build from there. I would describe myself as being culturally sensitive and aware of issues that may relate. I look forward to contributing to your decision to find ways to make changes to help you find a more comfortable way to live your own life. I will respond within 24 hours during the week days and by Monday for messages on weekends.

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kariean Smith

Offering therapy in MS
License: LPC-S,NCC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I have 15 years of counseling work experience with populations ranging from ages 13-89, where I provided individual counseling, crisis counseling while on-call, family counseling, and group therapy while using an eclectic approach to treatment as well as Evidence Based Psychotherapies. I have experience delivering therapy for chemical abuse and dependence, depression, anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, mood disturbance, grief, mania, adjustment, poor impulse control, and anger management. I believe the dynamics between the counselor and client are critical to the process of growth and recovery. I am intentional, proactive, and flexible. Active involvement as well as efforts to improve yourself are vital to the process . I will create an environment that promotes a joint effort in the process of counseling. I seek to provide a place of growth while reflecting on inner self, strengths, and abilities. My interventions are tailored to the client’s developmental, cognitive, and conceptual levels. I will be here to provide support and challenge you to reach new heights. If you are looking for someone to support you, be honest with you, and open, I welcome the opportunity to talk with you!

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Kenyatta Dent

Offering therapy in MS
License: MS, LPC
AddictionsAnger managementSelf esteem
3 years of experience

“Know all the theories, master all the techniques, but as you touch a human soul be just another human soul.”― C.G. Jung Hello, my name is Kenyatta Dent and I am a Licensed Professional Counseling in Mississippi. I love helping others overcome obstacles through goal setting and finding potential solutions to problems that are causing emotional turmoil in their lives. Like Carl Rogers, I believe a clinician should be empathetic, congruent, and have unconditional positive regard. When working with my clients, it is my job to provide an atmoshphere that is conducive to change. I have over 10 years experience working in the mental health field. I've served as a school based therapist providing services to children with behavior problems. Most of the children I have worked with were diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant, and some trauma. I currently provide individual and group counseling services to male inmates who have been diagnosed with substance abuse disorders in a correctional facility . I also facilitate groups on Anger Management and Basic Cognitive Skills. My counseling approach is a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered, and Motivational Interviewing. I currently hold a Master's in Rehabilitation Counseling and Master's in Counseling/Psychology. I look forward to working with you!

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John McRee

Offering therapy in MS
License: LPC
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
13 years of experience

My name is John Thomas McRee. I am 62 years old and I have been counseling individuals and groups for most of my life. I became a licensed professional about 15 years ago and after working for mental health agencies and hospitals I became indendently credentialed in mental health and elemental health. I have enjoyed working with Betterhelp for several years and that is how we have been put together. According to the information you shared about your need for therapy/counseling, I have been matched with you. I am happy to assist you and will help you find other resources if we need to. I live in Mississippi, USA, and have worked with individuals from around the world with much success in resolving conflicts and finding control over various circumstances. I hope to be of help to you.

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John Zufall

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTGriefDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana and Mississippi with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbt-related issues, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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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.

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Ravondra (Shay) Adams

Offering therapy in MS
License: MS, LPC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
21 years of experience

As we move throughout our lives, there are instances in which we find ourselves experiencing feelings that can be hard to describe and understand. Anxiety, depression, mood changes and self esteem issues are just a few of the elements we encounter in our quest to have a fulfilling life. As a Licensed Professional Counselor Shay believe that the therapeutic relationship is the primary vehicle for growth, change, healing and restoration and I work to create an environment in which you can feel safe, heard and understood. Shay has over 20 years of experience working with adults and teenagers who are dealing with substance abuse,, anxiety, adjustment issues, trauma and stress, anger management, grief, PTSD, trauma, postpartum depression and other women's issues, Bipolar Disorder, Depressive and other mood disturbances and change of life. Clinical approaches include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Solution Focused Therapy

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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!

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Joycelyn Green

Offering therapy in MS
Relationship issuesGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & 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.

How to find counseling in Macon

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Macon 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 Macon 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 Macon 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 Macon, 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 Macon 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 Macon 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 Macon 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 Macon 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 Macon 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 39341 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 Macon 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 Macon 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 Macon, 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.

Macon 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 Macon.

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

39341

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