Creativity is in full supply in the charming town of Ocean Springs, Mississippi just two miles outside of Biloxi. That’s because Ocean Springs is known for its sprawling arts community, and it was voted in 2015 as the top Happiest Seaside Town by Coastal Living. But even residents in one of the most copasetic towns in America need a little help now and then. If you’re one of those people, don’t fret.

Ocean Springs has a good number of mental health professionals serving the town of Ocean Springs in a variety of capacities, from counseling to intense therapy. If you're in need, reach out to an Ocean Springs-area therapist today.

This is VaKendall Long 's avatar and link to their profile

VaKendall Long

Offering therapy in MS
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 19 years of experience in the social work field. I have over 12 years of experience providing counseling and mental health services. I have extensive knowledge working with individuals who have experienced some type of trauma or mental health crisis; specifically, individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, and anger issues. I enjoy working with a diverse clientele; I enjoy helping people in general navigate through life challenges. My theoretical orientation in therapy is Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Solution Focused Therapy. My counseling style is very laid back; I launch from a strength perspective; always exploring the strengths of the individual. I believe in work life balance. Some of my self-care activities include tennis, exercise, travel, prayer, music, and spending time with family & friends.

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Marissa Kent

Offering therapy in MS
License: LPC,BC-TMH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

Hi! My name is Marissa Kent and I am a nationally certified and licensed professional counselor in the state of Mississippi and Louisiana. I have nearly a decade's worth of experience in the mental health field, the last four of those years working with various populations as a counselor/therapist. I have worked with individuals dealing with a range of concerns and have the most experience with depression, anxiety and stress, anger management, and relationship issues. I got into the field of counseling because I love helping people. There are few things better than seeing someone reach a goal or fulfill their potential. I believe in treating people with respect and getting to know their story. It helps me gain a deeper understanding for who they are, the family and cultural values, beliefs, and traditions they hold dear, and the goals they would like to achieve in counseling. My approach in counseling is an eclectic mix that primarily combines cognitive behavioral and person-centered techniques, but the specifics of how I work with each individual is as unique as the individual. I realize that it can be challenging to tackle some of life's concerns head-on, so my goal is to empower you by highlighting the strengths you already possess and give you additional tools needed to accomplish your goals. Congratulations on taking the first step! I look forward to working with you.

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Angela Mallard

Offering therapy in MS
License: LPC/LPC-MHSP,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
14 years of experience

Hello. My name is Angela Mallard and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Mental Health Provider with over 14 years of experience in Counseling. I have spent most of my career in out patient settings, working in schools, offices, and in home family therapy. I have worked with individuals, couples and families with a wide range of backgrounds. The last several years I have worked with at risk youth and their families. I have experience working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, ADHD, trauma and abuse, stress, family difficulties, and concerns with parenting. I use a variety of therapeutic interventions to best meet the needs of those I am working with. My goal is to collaborate with you, understanding your story, your strengths, and your goals, and walking with you on the path to find your success. My approach to therapy is client centered, solution focused and trauma informed. I strive to be sensitive and compassionate, focusing on your unique story and circumstances to tailor treatment to meet your needs. My goal is to both support and empower you.

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Denise Morgan

Offering therapy in MS
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of direct mental health therapy experience working with a range of populations and ages. I see clients with a variety of issues, including anxiety, post-traumatic stress, phobias, depression, low self-esteem, codependency, parenting problems, relationship challenges, work problems, and communication issues. I especially love working to resolve the effects of trauma on clients' lives. Traumatic memories can include big, life-threatening things like natural disasters and active shooters, but it can also be small things that stick in the memory banks, like the teacher who made an insensitive comment in front of the whole class. Those memories can get stuck and affect us later until they are fully processed and resolved. People's experiences are what make them who they are, and I love to hear about them. In the counseling setting, I work to get to know what makes each person unique. As clients identify their strengths, we work to build on those to help overcome mental health issues. It is exciting when clients experience moments of insight during or between sessions. I work to keep us focused on the goals that we discuss and agree on at the beginning of counseling. The methods I use include cognitive-behavioral, EMDR, solution-focused, and client centered, with an ecological approach. My Christian faith is important to me and my outlook on life. If a client wants that perspective included in therapy, I will include it. If not, I keep it to myself. The therapy session is always about mutual respect flowing between therapist and client. If you are interested in beginning a fascinating journey of self discovery leading to better mental and emotional health, I would love to hear from you. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Fulivia Cannady

Offering therapy in MS
License: PhD,LPC-S,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
15 years of experience

Hello Prospective clients. I applaud you for having the motivation to pursue therapy. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I also serve as a Qualified Board Supervisor with the State of MS for Licensed Professional Counselors. I earned a Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Doctorate in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Mental/Behavioral Health. I have over 15 years of experience in mental health and social services. I have experience providing services for children, teens and adults presenting with various mental, emotional, and behavioral issues. My approach to therapy is client centered, strength based and solution focused. As a professionally trained and experienced mental health practitioner, I have the tools and understanding to help you create the life you imagine and get a renewed sense of self. I welcome any client who has taken the initiative to reach out and make attempts to do something differently, something better to change their lives. I enjoy meeting people, hearing their unique life experiences, helping them meet their goals, and collaborating with them in a manner that facilitates positive change and growth. In our collaboration, I want you to feel calm, safe and secure in knowing that you can openly and freely share your thoughts, feelings and experiences. I will help you process, work through, increase awareness, gain better insight, motivate, support and empower you to be the best version of yourself possible. We are all in this journey of life together. Despite our differences, there are so many aspects of the human experience that are universal. At the end of the day, we all just want to be healthy, in our minds and bodies, happy, feel loved, supported and validated and our lives to the highest potential. It's my pleasure to assist you in this journey!

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Abby Miller

Offering therapy in MS
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
7 years of experience

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

Offering therapy in MS
License: LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

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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Luke Garner

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related 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. 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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Dr. Katherine Clark

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work together with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Using a collaborative approach, clients identify their life goals, take the steps to move toward those goals and enjoy the benefits of long-term success. This approach uses Rational Living Therapy (RLT), a cognitive–behavioral therapy. Using this approach, many people have learned and continue to practice new ways of living so they can feel the way they want to feel more often and do the things they want to do most with their lives. People have learned to counsel themselves to make their lives meaningful and more fulfilling. In my work, I focus on helping people attend specifically to what really matters in life: desires, dreams, and goals. I help people identify the mental mistakes that are at the root of unwanted feelings and behaviors. I teach them self-counseling skills to achieve their dreams and goals and to enjoy a more healthy and satisfying life.” The first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and you are demonstrating that courage getting started here!

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Marshall Kuhn

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger management
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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.

How to find counseling in Ocean Springs

Finding the best therapist close by in Ocean Springs 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 Ocean Springs. 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 Ocean Springs, 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 Ocean Springs 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 Ocean Springs 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 Ocean Springs, elsewhere in Jackson, 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 Ocean Springs area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Ocean Springs 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 Ocean Springs 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 Ocean Springs 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 Ocean Springs, 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 Ocean Springs 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 Ocean Springs 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 Ocean Springs 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 Ocean Springs 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 Ocean Springs 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 39564 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 Ocean Springs 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 Ocean Springs 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 Ocean Springs, 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.

Ocean Springs 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 Ocean Springs.

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

39564, 39566

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