This is Jessica Dean's avatar and link to their profile

Jessica Dean

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,NCC,BC-TMH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 15 years experience in counseling and clinical mental/behavioral health. I graduated with honors from Alcorn State University with a Bachelor's in Educational Psychology and a Master's in Guidance and counseling. I have been clinically trained in diagnosis and treatment of mental, behavioral, and emotional instabilities. I have taught and facilitated several workshops regarding parental education, family relationships, and motivation empowerment. My therapeutic approaches vary. It is and has always been to individualize techniques specifically to each person. I am skilled in cognitive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, integrative therapy, dialectical and client-centered therapy. I have counseled individuals with a wide variety of issues which include: depression, parental concerns, career discord, marriage and family, anxiety, emotional abuse, and other issues. It is my goal to help each client reach their goals and maximum functioning level by motivating and working alongside the client to tackle their challenges. I have the utmost respect and regard for my client's privacy and want them to feel that about themselves as we work together. I'm excited about what challenges we will resolve together and look forward to being here for you soon.~ JD.

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Tenecia Funches

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

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.

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Hope Spencer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): LPC 1144,NBSC 84187,NCC 84187
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementDepressionADHD
19 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I believe that to have a successful outcome in therapy, the client and therapist must first build a strong rapport. Once that foundation is laid, We will use one of several therapeutic modalities, depending on the issue at hand. These modalities may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Client-Centered Therapy. An Integrated approach can be utilized as well. I am a good listener, and caring, sensitive, and energetic. Not only do I have the necessary credentials, experience, and hours to be licensed, but I have a lifetime of experience and wisdom to draw from, which is invaluable! I like to think I am funny :)! I have wanted to be a therapist since the age of 16 and that was a loooong time ago!

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Sherita Dobbins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefBipolar disorderDepression
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Mississippi with over 13 years of experience working with children and families. I earned a Master of Science degree in Social Work specializing in Clinical Evidenced-Based Interpersonal Practice from the University of Tennessee. I am currently pursuing an Educational Specialist degree specializing in Play Therapy from the University of Mississippi. I have extensive training in trauma, child abuse, sexual abuse, and grief-related issues. I have experience in working in mental health, inpatient, outpatient, and school settings, in addition to working in a home hospice program. Additionally, I have experience providing individual, group, and family therapy. I have supported and worked with patients and families dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief/loss, Bipolar, adjustment issues, trauma, abuse, relationship issues, and crisis. My counseling style is client-centered focused, warm with empathy and compassion, yet direct, open, and honest. I am very dedicated to treating everyone with dignity and respect. Still, most importantly, I pride myself on meeting my clients where they are with support, being non-judgmental, and being sensitive to their needs. My approach includes an eclectic approach using various techniques in counseling sessions. I have training and experience in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavior Modification, and Person-Centered. I am dedicated to supporting the personal growth and healing that help create changes. Thank you for taking the time to review my profile, as I look forward to assisting and supporting you on your healing journey.

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Kimberly Miller

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi! I’m so glad you’re interested in seeking help in your journey. Therapy is really just a fancy word for working through life issues (everybody has them!) with someone who is trained to listen and offer specific support. I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed in Mississippi with over 6 years of experience working as a therapist and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. My career areas of focus have been domestic violence, women's issues, family problems, teen issues, and end-of-life related discussions. I have helped many people who have experienced trauma and abuse. My approach is solution-focused, client-centered, and strengths-based. I believe everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and I also believe each person should be treated as a unique individual. My therapy style is warm and encouraging. I want your experience with therapy to be a positive, helpful, and for you to have a safe space to share your story. We will tailor our meetings to meet your specific goals, strengths, and areas you would like to grow in. You have already done the hardest part which is taking the first step towards achieving your goals! I look forward to working with you!

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Alyece Loyd

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! I am Alyece Loyd and thank you for visiting my profile. I received my Bachelor of Social Work degree in 2009 from Jackson State University and furthered my education at the University of Alabama to obtain a Master of Social Work degree in 2011. In 2019, I became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have almost 7 years in community mental health counseling and have worked with children, adolescents, and families. My counseling style is client-focused, mindful, and empathetic with a direct approach. I believe in the dignity and self-worth of every individual and aim to provide encouragement, strength, clarity, direction, and purpose. I am already proud of you for taking this step in opening yourself to counseling. We all need someone in our lives to talk to without judgment or fear, and I aim to create a therapeutic relationship that is welcoming, trusting, and inspiring. You are not alone, and I look forward to assisting and equipping you on your journey of growth, healing, and empowerment.

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Amanda Adams

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
11 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Mississippi with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. I am also an LGBTQ+ advocate and ally. 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. I have weekly appointments between the hours of 10-5 pm. Times before 10 am and after 5 pm are available by request. "I'm looking for a mind at work!"

This is Marianne Shaffer's avatar and link to their profile

Marianne Shaffer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

We all need compassionate connection to grow and heal, and that is especially important in therapy. I provide a connection that is warm, yet intellectual, making sure to challenge your mind and heart for growth, support, and ultimately deeper relationships. I am licensed in Mississippi with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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 using a multi-theoretical approach of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness. I specialize in seeing clients who have experienced sexual assault and domestic violence. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Erica Brumfield's avatar and link to their profile

Erica Brumfield

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Mississippi with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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. 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.

This is Dr. Hilary DeShong's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Hilary DeShong

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Mississippi with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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 Oakland

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

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

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

Therapists in Oakland, 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland?

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

Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 38948 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 Oakland counselor?

Before seeing your Oakland 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 Oakland.

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 Oakland 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 Oakland 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 Oakland, 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.

Oakland 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 Oakland, 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 Oakland.

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

38948

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