Find a licensed online therapist in Matherville, MS

I am a social worker licensed at LCSW level in Mississippi. Sometimes we need someone to help us make needed changes or keep track of how we’re doing with the many ways we and our lives can change. Becoming a social worker was a midlife transition for me. “It’s never too late.” was a saying that became a mantra as I learned from challenges related to making a new life 30+ years ago. But now, with a stronger cognitive perspective, I’d change that to, “It’s not too late right now”. My cultural background is mixed. To me, each person is unique, but our common humanity makes us alike. My experience is broad including : outpatient, inpatient, IOP, home health and hospice. I take an eclectic approach towards working with others, so that I can fit what I offer to your individual needs. Modalities and techniques I can bring to our work include: humanistic, insight-oriented, cognitive behavioral, wholistic, and solution focused .

I am a Doctor of Behavioral Health, as well as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my doctorate degree from Arizona State University. I earned my undergraduate and graduate degrees from Louisiana State University. I have been rendering professional counseling services throughout the state of Louisiana for the last for 15 years. My work experience includes a variety of clinical backgrounds, such as child protection, grief therapy, medical social work, school social work, inpatient psychiatric social work, individual, family & group psychotherapy as well as serving as the clinical director of an outpatient behavioral health agency with multiple locations in Louisiana. I have also rendered intense trauma-focused therapy to children who have endured or witnessed different forms of trauma such as being sexually abused or witnessing domestic violence or a murder. I pride myself with meeting each client where they are in hopes of helping them to get to where they desire to be. I look forward to working with you to help you reach your individualized goals.

If positive change is what you are seeking, let me help you get there. Discovering your unique self and achieving life satisfaction while improving your quality of life will take time, but I am here to help. Self awareness and insight are beneficial aspects of treatment. A willingness to put in the work to improve is vital. I believe that change is possible, but I also understand that it is not an easy path to take. My goal is to create a safe, therapeutic environment where change and growth can occur. I want to help you develop ways to positively cope with the world around you. I have traveled the path to change; you are not alone in your journey. As a published author on the topic of social anxiety, I'm here to help you better understand your anxiety, its symptoms, and learn how to cope and take control of your life. I am glad that you have taken this first step. I am skilled in helping adults cope with anxiety, conflict, behavior issues, anger, depression, self esteem, marital and family issues, and more. I am also a Christian and can provide faith/Christian based counseling.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor- Supervisor with a national board certification in counseling and a Specialist Degree in counseling and psychology. I have over 20 years experience in counseling with diverse populations from many different backgrounds. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, women's issues, relationship issues, and career concerns. I have been successful in helping clients become emotionally healthier and make better decisions. My counseling style is eclectic and insight oriented. I combine rational-emotive, psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. I also use reality therapy techniques to assist clients in evaluating their present situation and setting goals for the future. If you are struggling with depression, feeling discouraged, isolated or anxious and fearful, I understand and I can help. I have the credentials necessary to bring hope and change to brighten your tomorrows. I enter the process with you and will assist you in reaching your goals for treatment. You no longer have to struggle alone but have someone ready to help meet your needs.

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

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION Ricardo Gillispie, PhD, LCSW I received my Bachelor’s Degree in 1973 in Social Science from Mississippi Valley State University. I was accepted in the first Masters of Social Work Program at the University of Southern Mississippi graduating in 1975. I was awarded the first Social Worker of the Year by the Mississippi Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers in 1992. I was accepted in the first Ph.D. Program in Social Work at Jackson State University graduating in 2000, with the primary focus in Psychotherapeutic Social Work. Prior to retiring from Private Practice, I was part owner and CEO of Family Counseling Services, PLLC in Meridian, MS. This was a Private Behavioral Health Care Group Practice consisting of Psychiatrists, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, PhD Clinical Psychologists, Licensed Professional Counselors and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. While in Private Practice, I specialized in Marriage and Family Therapy, Cognitive/Affective Disorders, to include patients experiencing Depression, Anxiety and Post Traumatic Disorder. After retirement, I accepted the offer to serve as a group therapist for Rush/Ochsner Intensive Outpatient Psychogeriatric Programs. These are IOP's throughout East Mississippi. In 2000, I accepted to be a consultant for Rush Psychogeriatric Intensive Outpatient Programs. In this role, I help develop the Behavioral Healthcare Program for geriatric patients with mental health, aging and emotional conditions. After developing these Programs, I provided training for social workers, psychiatrist and nurses. Afterward, I surveyed these Programs in accordance to CMS guidelines. In 1999 I accepted the consulting role with East Mississippi Correctional Facility, a private prison under the management of the GEO Group, Inc. in Boca Raton, Florida. In that consulting role, I designed the first exclusive mental health program in corrections in the United States. February 2006, I accepted the full-time position as Deputy Warden of Mental Health Programs with East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF), and maintained my private practice with Family Counseling Services, PLLC. From 1973 to 1985, I served as Assistant Director for Region Ten (Weems) Mental Health Center covering a catchment area of nine counties in East Central Mississippi. In that role, I wrote the Initial Operation Grant for Weems Mental Health Center and other grants. 1986, I served as Clinical Director and an investor of Laurel Wood Psychiatric Hospital in Meridian, MS. I served fifteen years on the Meridian School Board of Trustees, serving two terms as President. I was elected as Region Ten National Association of Social Work Representative for the Nomination and Leadership Committee, representing Mississippi, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Louisiana and Tennessee. 1994, I was appointed to the first Mississippi Social Workers Licensure Board serving one term as chairman. I served as an Auditor of Correctional Facilities in the United States for the American Correctional Association (ACA). Also, I was a Psychiatric Social Worker Surveyor consultant for the Center of Medicaid/Medicare Services (CMS), in which I surveyed public and private psychiatric hospitals for Medicare and Medicaid compliance in the United States. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Diplomat in Clinical Social Work, and Certified by the Academy of Certified Social Workers. 2006, I was inducted in the Hall of Fame at Meridian Community College. I have served as a part-time instructor for Mississippi State University School of Social Working – Meridian Branch, Meridian Community College and Adjunct Faculty for the University of Southern Mississippi School of Social Work. I have provided the following professional presentations: • 2015 Techniques in the Provision of Group Psychotherapy - Rush Hospital Senior Citizens Program • 2017 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – Rush Hospital Senior Citizens Program • Guest speaker for the 2010 American Correctional Association Annual Conference in New Orleans, LA. Topic: Efficacy of Mental Health Services in Corrections • Presenter at 2011 American Correctional Association Annual Conference in Chicago, Ill, Topic: Long Term Segregated Offender Mental Health Program. • Social Work Standards of Practice in Psychiatric Hospitals for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – Seattle, WA • Assessment Interviewing Training for the Mississippi Department of Health and Human Services- Jackson, MS • Stress Management Workshops for Industries, Hospitals and other professional organizations. • Interviewing Skills Training for the Department of Public Welfare; sponsored by the University of Southern Mississippi Continuing Education Department - Gulfport, MS • Assessment Interviewing/Assessment Training for the Bureau of Indian Affairs; Choctaw Reservation - Philadelphia, MS • Developing of Treatment Plans for the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – Baltimore, MD • Guest Speaker for the Institute of Rural Mental Health; Topic: Barriers for African Americans in Obtaining Mental Health Services In the Rural South • Operational Development of the Psychosocial Assessments – Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – Kansas City, MO I have authored the following publications: Book: How to Prevent the Collision of the Two Worlds we Live, Publisher - Mulberry Book, LLC, 2020. Hospitalized Africa American Men with Mental Illness: Some Antecedents to Service Satisfaction and Intent to Comply with Aftercare. Psychiatric Rehabilitation Skills, Volume 6, Number 3, winter 2002. Hospitalized African American Mental Health Consumers: Some Antecedents to Service Satisfaction and Intent to Comply with Aftercare. American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, Volume 75, Number 2, pp. 254-261, 2005. I have been married to Catherine Nelson Gillispie since 1973. We have a daughter Dr. Veronica Gillispie-Bell who is a physician of OBGY at Ochsner Hospital in New Orleans and son, Rashad Gillispie a graduate of MVSU with a degree in computer science. My wife and I attend North Park church in Meridian, MS a multiracial and cultural congregation. Licensed and Certifications: • Mississippi Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Marriage and Family Counselor - #COO82 • Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW) - #881216796 • Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (BCD) - #006164

As a licensed therapist with two decades of experience serving clients across Mississippi, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and personal challenges. My practice focuses on addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and men's mental health issues with compassionate, targeted support. I bring extensive expertise in helping clients navigate workplace stress, family conflicts, addiction recovery, and personal growth. My approach centers on empowering individuals to develop self-understanding, build resilience, and create meaningful life strategies. Whether you're dealing with relationship challenges, career transitions, or personal healing, I'm committed to providing thoughtful, personalized guidance that respects your unique journey. My therapeutic work draws from evidence-based practices designed to help you develop practical coping skills, enhance emotional well-being, and move toward your personal and professional goals. I understand that seeking support takes courage, and I'm dedicated to creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where you can explore your experiences and strengths.

As a licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience, I provide compassionate, holistic support to individuals navigating complex life challenges. My practice centers on understanding each person's unique journey, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and life transitions. I am deeply committed to creating a supportive, affirming therapeutic environment that honors diverse experiences and identities. My approach is rooted in empathy, cultural responsiveness, and evidence-based practices that empower clients to explore personal growth, heal from past wounds, and develop meaningful coping strategies. My professional focus spans a wide range of concerns, including social anxiety, self-love, communication challenges, workplace stress, and multicultural experiences. I work collaboratively with clients to unpack complex emotions, build resilience, and cultivate authentic connections—both with themselves and others. Through a person-centered lens, I support individuals in understanding their inner landscape, confronting barriers, and moving toward more fulfilling, intentional lives. My goal is to walk alongside you with genuine care, respect, and professional guidance. For most people, seeking counseling is a giant step and it takes a lot of courage. If you are ready to work on having a more meaningful life, I am here to support and encourage you. I look forward to working with you!

Hello, my name is Laura Gillom. I am an LCSW in Mississippi with over 15 years of psychotherapy experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including stress, depression, anxiety, family conflict, and transitions of life. I have also helped many people who have experienced all types of trauma and emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with dignity, respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stereotyping and stigmatizing labels. I use an eclectic approach to 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!

As a licensed therapist serving Mississippi, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients through transformative healing, with a deep commitment to addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. My approach honors each person's unique journey, particularly focusing on young adults, women's experiences, and individuals working through family conflicts, social anxiety, and life transitions. I bring culturally responsive care that centers on self-love, communication, and personal empowerment. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I create a compassionate, affirming therapeutic space where clients can explore their deepest challenges. Whether you're confronting isolation, seeking purpose, or healing from difficult experiences, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with understanding and professional guidance. My work is grounded in evidence-based practices that respect your individual strengths and lived experiences. Together, we'll develop meaningful strategies to support your emotional wellness and personal transformation.

Hello, I am Melissa Loper I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi. I am also a National Certified Counselor with NBCC. I received my Master's and Specialist's Degree from Mississippi State University in School Counseling. I have 14 years of experience in school counseling and 27 years of experience in the public school system in Mississippi. I have worked with adolescents for 27 years. I am looking to broaden my horizon and begin a new phase in my life with more one-on-one counseling. I have observed in the past 27 years, the need for counselors in everyone’s life. I have worked with students in anger management, depression, coping skills, anxiety, relationship issues and ADHD, as well as academic and career planning in the school setting. I am looking forward to working with different age groups to provide counseling services in these areas and possibly more. My therapy style is client-centered and cognitive behavioral. I use the RIASEC model, John Holland's career inventory model when providing academic/career counseling. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I believe counseling should provide a place to be yourself and work through conflicts that come with everyday life. We all need to practice “self-help” more than we do. Talking to a counselor is one approach towards helping yourself live a happy and balanced life. If you are ready to begin the “self-help” process and begin to have a more fulfilling and balanced life, I am here to support you and help to begin that journey. I look forward to working with you!

As a licensed therapist in Mississippi, I bring 15 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My practice centers on empowering clients across diverse backgrounds, with a specialized focus on women's issues, career development, and multicultural concerns. I offer compassionate guidance for individuals navigating significant life transitions, including parenting challenges, self-esteem growth, divorce, and workplace dynamics. My approach is rooted in understanding each client's unique journey, with particular sensitivity to the experiences of women, young adults, and those in helping professions. Drawing from a trauma-informed and culturally responsive framework, I help clients rediscover their inner strength, clarify life purpose, and develop resilient strategies for personal growth. Whether you're facing midlife transitions, caregiver stress, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise.

I am licensed in Mississippi with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.

As a licensed therapist, I bring over two decades of compassionate counseling experience to supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate stress, trauma, parenting difficulties, and personal growth with a faith-informed, empathetic approach. I specialize in addressing women's issues, social anxiety, communication challenges, and healing from difficult life experiences. My therapeutic work focuses on supporting individuals through transitions like divorce, adoption, blended family dynamics, and personal transformation. My approach is rooted in understanding each person's unique journey, with particular sensitivity to attachment issues, self-esteem, and emotional healing. I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop healthier relationships, and rediscover their inner strength and purpose. Drawing from a Christian perspective, I offer guidance that respects individual spiritual beliefs while providing evidence-based, compassionate therapeutic support. My goal is to walk alongside you as you work toward personal growth, emotional resilience, and meaningful life change.