This is Julie Bridges's avatar and link to their profile

Julie Bridges

Offering therapy in MS
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

Hello, my name is Julie Bridges, and I am a licensed counselor in the states of Mississippi and North Carolina. I decided to become a counselor after receiving therapy myself for anxiety and addiction issues. Therapy can make a huge difference in your life. I have several years of experience working with adults in an acute care psychiatric facility. I also have experience providing group support in a Christian faith-based recovery ministry. I work with adults with a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and anger. My therapeutic approaches are mainly Solution Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have additional training in EMDR and IFS work. I offer a supportive, listening ear for you while helping you to identify needed changes for a better life. Together, we can identify strengths and goals to begin the process of resolving life issues and building stronger mental health. Therapy works best when there is good rapport between counselor and counselee. I am interested in hearing what you have to say so that I can work with you to find solutions. I am glad you have reached out to Better Help and I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Tonya Drake

Offering therapy in MS
License: LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCompassion fatigue
18 years of experience

Hello, My name is Dr. Tonya Drake. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Mississippi with over 15 years of experience working as a counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, self-esteem, and parenting problems. I also helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines humanistic, solution-focused, and person-centered counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Mary Johnson-Waldington

Offering therapy in MS
License: LPC-S,ACS,NCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

My name is Mary Johnson-Waldington. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S), Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Certified Mental Health Therapist (CMHT). I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I have 17 years of counseling and supervision experience in outpatient and school based settings. I have experience working with children/adolescents and families/couples providing individual therapy, family therapy, couple therapy, group therapy, and crisis management. I have extensive training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). Also, trained in TeleMental Health. My orientation to counseling is based on cognitive-behavioral (CBT) approach. However, I employ eclectic techniques in counseling to best fit each client. I believe that the primary process of counseling involves helping clients to find the resources within themselves in order to develop requisite skills and address themes related to their presenting problem(s) or underlying issues. My focus is to help clients gain insight into their concerns, gain an empowered sense of self, internalize a range of coping skills, and minimize negative influences.

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Jo Baker

Offering therapy in MS
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementADHD
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) In Mississippi. I have had more than ten years of experience as a licensed mental health practitioner, primarily in private practice. Before this, my professional experience involved providing social services to foster and adoptive children and families and counseling adolescents in an emergency shelter setting. In my therapy practice, I work with adults, adolescents, and children, as well as with families. I have had experience working with anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADHD, and traumatic stress disorders. I have considerable experience providing support and psycho-education to parents of children with behavioral and emotional problems. My treatment approach combines practices and techniques of several treatment methods including Cognitive-Behavioral, Mindfulness, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and others. The goal is to develop a treatment plan that meets the client's individual needs. I believe that a good therapeutic relationship between client and therapist is vital, and I strive to develop such a relationship through demonstrating respect, empathy, genuine concern, non-judgment, and unconditional positive regard. The decision to seek therapy can be a difficult one. The therapeutic process is a joint effort between client and therapist. I pledge to bring the best I have to offer to that process as we work to help you feel better and improve your quality of life.

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Ranarda Wright

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

I am a licensed mental health therapist in Mississippi with experience working in a wide range of settings. I have worked with whose challenges include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, attention deficit, mood and personality disorders. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive behavioral, humanistic and dialectical behavioral therapy. Your individualized treatment plan is tailored to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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 Marianne Shaffer's avatar and link to their profile

Marianne Shaffer

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

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!

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Dr. Michele Kelly

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Hello! I have been a practicing social worker for over 30 years. I am licensed in Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi. I have many years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families dealing with a range of issues in a variety of settings. Currently, I work primarily with teens and adults in their attempts to navigate challenging transitions. Life is full of transitions. These may include adjusting to college, beginning your first job, changing or losing a job, moving, getting married, welcoming and parenting a new baby, separating or divorcing, retiring, the passing of a loved one, or adjusting to life as an immigrant or ex-pat. Navigating these transitions -- even when they are joyful -- can be stressful and sometimes lead to anxiety and depression. I consider myself to be an eclectic therapist as I utilize several different approaches such as solution-focused brief therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and cognitive behavior therapy. Initially, I’ll conduct an assessment and based on the outcome will select approaches that are best for you. Research has shown that tailoring therapy to clients can enhance their treatment outcomes. By working together, I can assist you in developing or strengthening effective coping skills or problem-solving strategies that will better help you in the future. I have flexible hours to accommodate your work schedule. I appreciate your effort in reaching out and encourage you to contact me with any questions you might have. I look forward to us possibly working together.

This is LaShaunda Smith's avatar and link to their profile

LaShaunda Smith

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in Mississippi with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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

Jessica Davis

Offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficulties
5 years of experience

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

How to find counseling in Walnut

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Walnut 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 Walnut 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 Walnut 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 Walnut, 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 Walnut 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 Walnut 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 Walnut 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 Walnut 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 Walnut 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 38683 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 Walnut 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 Walnut 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 Walnut, 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.

Walnut 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 Walnut.

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

38683

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