You can always pretend that everything is okay even when you know that things are not okay. You have gotten good at acting happy even when you feel sad. Depression can be like that sometimes and you can get so used to faking it that you may just feel normal that way. But it’s not normal. There are counselors in Oxford who can explain that to you. 

The City of Oxford has many attractions such as the Lyric Theater, Gertrude Castellow Ford Center for Performing Arts, Burns-Belfry Museum, and the historic Square Courthouse. However, if you are trying so hard to pretend you don’t have depression, it can be hard to enjoy anything. Talk to a therapist in Oxford today.

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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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Dr. Timothy (Tim) Norris

Offering therapy in MS
License: DPC , GC-C,LPC, BC-TMH
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

My goal in counseling is to assist a client with uncovering their true potential. We will discover new ways to accomplish goals and live a more productive lifestyle. We all face challenges in life and with correct tools we can face any challenge and overcome all obstacles. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a National Certified Grief Counselor (GC-C ) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) Licensed Psychometrist; with a Masters degree in Sociology from the Jackson State University University , a Specialist degree in Education (Psychometry) and a Doctorate in Professional Counselor from Mississippi College. We will uncover long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. My practice is online and face-to-face. Do to Covid-19 online therapy is the most appropriate way right now. Online therapy, also known as Telemental health, is a growing field. A therapist or counselor provides psychological counseling and support over the internet through video. Telemental health may be useful to individuals who want to experience counseling in the privacy of their own home or who work unconventional hours.

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Shannon Lloyd

Offering therapy in MS
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementDepressionADHD
13 years of experience

Hello!!! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi as well as a National Certified Counselor with over 13 years experience in providing individual, family and group counseling. I have experience working with clients ages 3 to adulthood with a multitude of presenting issues such as developmental delays, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, loss, anger management, life changes, self esteem and identify issues as well as relationship and family issues. I have also worked in many different counseling settings and have experience working with culturally diverse clients. My counseling style is warm, and emphatic, it is influenced by Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT). My approach combines client centered therapy and structured family therapy along with goal oriented, and solution focused therapy to highlight ones strengths to help my client become the best version of themselves and do so authentically. I believe everyone is unique and should have a unique counseling experience tailored to them where they can work through life’s challenges. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you in a safe, nonjudgmental, compassionate and nurturing space to help you achieve your identified goals to become the best version of yourself with dignity and respect It takes courage to reach out and I am here to provide you with the safe space you need to be vulnerable and to begin to heal.

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Dr. Ricardo Gillispie, PhD, LCSW

Offering therapy in MS
License: PhD, LCSW, ACSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
50 years of experience

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 , ACin 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. 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

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Shonna Burnett

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

Hi, there. I am a licensed professional counselor in both Georgia and Mississippi , and I have over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in professional counseling. My experience includes service to a variety of populations in various settings to include—Department of Corrections/Juvenile Justice, inpatient/acute/outpatient/residential care to name a few. I have experience with adults, children/ adolescents in family, group, and individual care. I also have experience working from several therapy models and have found Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to be the best fit for the clients I serve. I am not rigid in my approaches, however, and enjoy a challenge, so I'm open to utilizing whichever model, tool, skill that meets the needs of my clients. 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. I believe in meeting people where they are, so I am always working to be a better me. I challenge you to work with me, so I can help you be the BEST YOU, YOU CAN BE!!! Hello there! I am Shonna. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) dual state, and I have a wide range of experience providing therapy services to individuals, groups, families, in a variety of settings. I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in professional counseling. My experience includes service to a variety of populations in various settings to include—Department of Corrections/Juvenile Justice, inpatient/acute/outpatient/residential care to name a few. I have experience with adults, children/adolescents in family, group, and individual care. I also have experience working from several therapy models and have found Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to be the best fit for the clients I serve. I am not rigid in my approaches, however, and enjoy a challenge, so I'm open to utilizing whichever model, tool, skill that meets the needs of my clients. I believe in meeting people where they are, so I am always working to be a better me. I challenge you to work with me, so I can help you be the BEST YOU, YOU CAN BE!!!

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Brittany Chandler

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyCareer difficulties
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Mississippi and Tennessee with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have assisted clients in resolving conflicts, working through anxiety, motivation, and addressing self-esteem issues. I have a passion for helping others while maintaining healthy boundaries and respecting thoughts and ideas. My goal is for us to work together to develop a plan to meet the specific needs of all clients. It takes courage to step outside of your comfort zones and seek assistance, but it is my goal to support and empower you throughout this journey. If you are willing, we can take this step by step.

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David Mitchell

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am licensed therapist in Mississippi with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self-worth, 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. PLEASE REMEMBER!! If you feel in need of urgent help or that you are in crisis at any time; call 1-800-273-TALK, which is available 24 hours a day. In an emergency 911 or 988 for mental health trained emergency workers. The BetterHelp forum/platform does not provide any type of emergency services. SO please contact the numbers above if you need immediate help.

This is Ayanna Gill-Cooper's avatar and link to their profile

Ayanna Gill-Cooper

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issues
22 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety. 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 Lindsay Elkins's avatar and link to their profile

Lindsay Elkins

Offering therapy in MS
Relationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
27 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 27 years of professional work experience. I have worked with many people struggling to get through life's many challenges and know that you are very resilient; you have survived this far. I am here to support you in the process of addressing these issues and moving forward.

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Regina Hood

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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 counseling in Oxford

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Oxford 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 Oxford 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 Oxford 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 Oxford, 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 Oxford 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 Oxford 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 Oxford 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 Oxford 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 Oxford 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 38655 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 Oxford 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 Oxford 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 Oxford, 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.

Oxford 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 Oxford.

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

38655

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