When you are struggling with depression, just getting out of bed can be difficult so trying to keep up with your daily activities such as work, family activities, and even going to the grocery store can be a huge deal. In the town of Madison, Mississippi, there are many different counselors devoted to helping people deal with their depression. 

Madison has several parks and other natural resources where the residents and visitors go to have fun such as the Simmons Arboretum, Liberty Park, and Strawberry Patch Park. But if you are depressed, you likely won’t feel like going anywhere and fun is not on your list of daily activities. Perhaps you can get back to the fun if you talk to one of the counselors in Madison. Try it today, it can’t hurt.

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Shawna Pankonin

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

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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Kenyatta Dent

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): MS, LPC
AddictionsAnger managementSelf esteem
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

“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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Pamela Phipps

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed professional counselor in Mississippi. For the last 5 years I have worked with at risk populations, including homeless veterans, those struggling with addiction, and incarcerated males. I have extensive experience with adults who struggle with a wide array of mental health concerns. My experience includes crisis counseling, serious mental illness, self-injury, addiction, antisocial personality disorder, depression and/or anxiety, family relations, and homelessness. I have also worked with those who have experienced significant trauma. My counseling style is one built on trust and genuine concern for my clients. Therapy is a joint process in which the client has goals and together a plan is created to achieve those goals. My approach to therapy is eclectic borrowing from several different modalities including; cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), solution focused, motivational, and person centered. I believe each person is an individual and each situation must be tailored to meet the client where he/she is. Facing problems can be scary and overwhelming but you do not need to do it alone. I am here to help. You have already taken the first step you our considering help. I look forward to working with you.

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Maria Britt

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

Welcome! My name is Maria, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of Mississippi and Arizona with over 25 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have BA degree in Psychology and a MS degree in Clinical Psychology from Mississippi State University. I also have an Ed.S. degree in Educational and Counseling Psychology from the University of Missouri. I have experience with both adults and adolescents. I have worked with an array of client populations and concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, substance abuse and recovery issues, trauma, self-esteem, bipolar, and schizophrenia. Life is often full of challenges, which ebbs and flows with each chapter of life. I am here to support, empower, and guide you on the journey that is uniquely yours, and one in which you are the author. I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to support your self-discovery, dreams, and aspirations and to help you live your best life on your own terms. People seek counseling for a variety of reasons. I realize that some people may only need a sounding board and support from their counselor. Some people solely need the processing element from a counselor to increase their confidence in decision-making skills and make sense of life’s happenstances. While for others, it proves to be a safe, confidential space to vent, which proves cathartic in its own right. For some individuals, it may be candid advice, perspective, and goal-directed solutions to pressing problems. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific goals. I realize that counseling can seem intimidating for some, so I will work with a format and at pace with which you are most comfortable. My counseling style is down-to-earth, warm, and empathetic. I believe in meeting a person where they are in guiding them along their journey. I believe every person has intrinsic value and worth, and I treat everyone with dignity, respect, and compassion. I also favor a person-centered, individualized approach that embraces self-determination, empowerment, and resiliency. I value holistic care, which seeks to improve overall wellness and health. My approach is eclectic in nature and combines person-centered, strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, brief solution-focused, mindfulness, and reality therapy. Additionally, I may assign worksheets from time to time to promote introspection and insight. I applaud you for being here today and your quest to improve your overall well-being and happiness. It takes courage and strength to seek a more fulfilling life and to contemplate change. When you are ready to take that next step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you on your journey!

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Paula Rainey

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Mississippi with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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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LaDonna Barner

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Mississippi with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, & 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. 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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Deidere Hollins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Anger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Mississippi with 12 years of professional work experience. I am also a Board Certified LPC Supervisor. I have experience in helping clients with anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and focus (ADHD). 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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Stephen Schottgen Jr

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Alabama and Mississippi with many years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Scott Arcement

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepression
26 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & 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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Jessica Davis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficulties
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Tennessee & Mississippi with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Madison

Finding the best therapist close by in Madison 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 Madison 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 Madison. 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 Madison, 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 Madison 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 Madison 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 Madison area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Madison 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 Madison, elsewhere in Madison, 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 Madison 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 Madison 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 Madison 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 Madison 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 Madison online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Madison, 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 Madison 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 Madison 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 Madison 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 Madison 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 Madison 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 Madison?

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

Madison 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 Madison 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 Madison 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 39110 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 Madison counselor?

Before seeing your Madison 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 Madison.

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 Madison 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 Madison 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 Madison, 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.

Madison 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 Madison, 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 Madison.

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

39110, 39130

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