Valerie Keller Gates
I am a licensed professional counselor in Oklahoma. I received a Bachelor of Science in Family Studies and Gerontology from Southern Nazarene University and a Master of Human Relations with an emphasis in Licensed Professional Counseling from the University of Oklahoma. I retired from the Oklahoma Air National Guard in 2024 as an Equal Opportunity Advisor. I have experience with adults, families, and groups. I have worked with those struggling with mild to severe mental illness, as well as individuals who are struggling with issues including depression, grief & loss, abuse/neglect, addictions with dual diagnosis, behavioral problems, bipolar disorder, and parenting problems. I adapt my counseling style to each individual. However, in my experience, I have noticed that clients are more adaptable to me utilizing a counseling style of a client-focused approach. I believe that it is important to meet the client where they currently are in their journey of life and work from that point. I am a very transparent, honest, caring individual in my day-to-day life, and I bring that trait to each session with the belief that, in doing so, the client feels more at ease with being honest as issues and challenges are being processed. I believe everyone deserves respect and compassion as well as the opportunity to have added support when needed. My approach/style combines cognitive-behavioral and client-centered….just to name a few. A client’s treatment plan and the direction of the sessions will be tailored to meet the individual needs. "Whenever you find yourself doubting how far you can go, just remember how far you have come".
Paula Lister
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.
Tracey Sherron-Spies
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Oklahoma, as well as a Nationally Board-Certified Counselor. I hold a Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Capella University, Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Ashford University, and a Doctoral Degree of Ministry from Fellowship Bible Institute. I have experience working with a wide range of clients and love working with families, couples, and individuals. I believe that everyone should have a safe space where they can be heard and helped to navigate the difficulties in life and relationships. I work collaboratively with clients to achieve this by focusing on the areas they desire to improve by using a variety of systemic approaches such as Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
Deborah Tommey
As a licensed therapist (Licensed Professional Counselor), I obtained my Master of Counseling from Oklahoma State University/Tulsa, Oklahoma. My practice includes adults. Specialties I offer, and am experienced and well-trained in, are anxiety, depression, grief/loss, dementia/cognitive impairment, trauma, and stress-related disorders. Other areas of focus include sexuality, LGBTQ concerns, hoarding disorder, and other behavioral health interests. I also offer extensive knowledge of the aging population and caregivers. Although I recognize that all clients are unique individuals and that different theories work differently for everyone, I strive to assess clients and determine which type of therapy will be most successful. Primarily, I practice Person-Centered Therapy and incorporate some Solution-Focused, Gestalt, and Existential techniques. I start with an optimistic view of all clients, providing a positive, supportive, and comfortable atmosphere/conversation. I offer an empathic outlook, working to connect with you. I am hopeful my clients can feel autonomy, and I also ask, “What difference or change do you want to achieve”? I believe taking a look at your meaning in life can be insightful many times, too. I also offer mindfulness techniques when appropriate, as I do credit holistic approaches as important for us emotionally and physically. I have been successful in facilitating support groups for various populations and numerous diagnoses, as well as training and education of other professionals regarding many Behavioral Health concerns. I prefer to work with adults aged 20 or older. Phone and video are astonishing ways to provide counseling sessions; however, I am not so keen on live chat. I do use the messaging for in between sessions, if there is something of importance you want to share or let me know. I will do the same. I hope to facilitate and support you through this process and towards your goal in seeking therapy.
Joyce McDowell
I have been providing counseling for about 25 years. I worked my first 10 years with the elderly population. For the past 15 years I have worked with all age ranges in a variety of areas. I meet my clients where they are, using Client Centered focus, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, including Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (cause & effect) of behaviors. I also use EFIT (Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy) to assist with trauma. My clients are a critical part of my treatment plan development as my desire is to assist in their success - effectively working myself out of their lives. They learn the coping skills rather than dependence on a person to go from one crisis to the next.
Terrill (Terry) Watson
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, career difficulties, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Camille Palmer
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 31 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, LGBTQ issues & substance abuse. 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.
Vanessa Costello
I am pleased that you have selected BetterHelp and reached out to me as you begin your counseling journey. My name is Vanessa, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona, Oklahoma, and Texas. I have more than 12 years of professional counseling experience and hold a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, and older adults with a variety of emotional, relational, and life concerns. As a Christian counselor, I believe that true healing involves caring for the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. My counseling approach is grounded in biblical Christian principles and the Word of God, while also incorporating therapeutic modalities that are clinically appropriate and responsive to your individual needs. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where faith and professional counseling can work together to encourage healing, growth, and meaningful change. I have experience helping clients navigate anxiety and stress, depression, relationship concerns, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, life transitions, and other personal challenges. My clinical approach incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and trauma-focused approaches, along with other therapeutic interventions as appropriate. I believe that counseling should be collaborative and individualized rather than a one-size-fits-all process. My faith is an important part of who I am as a counselor. I am passionate about helping individuals discover hope, healing, identity, purpose, and strength through their relationship with God and the truth of His Word. When appropriate and desired by the client, I integrate Scripture and biblical principles into the counseling process while also utilizing therapeutic interventions that support emotional and psychological well-being. I believe you are the expert on your own story. You bring strengths, experiences, values, and abilities into counseling that can become important resources for your healing and growth. My role is to walk alongside you, provide professional guidance, help you understand the challenges you are facing, and support you as you work toward the changes you desire. Taking the first step toward therapy requires courage. I am glad you have taken that step, and I look forward to walking alongside you as you pursue healing, growth, and a deeper understanding of yourself and your faith.
Samayra Tavakoli
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, 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. My ideal client is one that is motivated, open to be challenged and step out of their comfort zone. I want my clients to take an active approach to their mental health treatment and do the work in session and outside of session in order to reach their life goals. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I am also a behavioral health science professor with a passion for both learning and educating others.
Jamie Crow
I am licensed in Oklahoma and Texas with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with a variety of issues, including stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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!
Amber Fewell
I am a licensed clinical social worker in Oklahoma, with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, depression, impulse control, emotion regulation, self esteem, attachment styles, couples therapy, nervous system work, somatic therapy, vagus nerve stimulation, loss of motivation, low self worth, confidence, and many other areas. I utilize a combination of different therapy techniques and styles, to help best assist you with your specific needs. I strongly believe that building a great therapeutic relationship is one of the main keys to success. I enjoy warm, kind-hearted discussions, as well as deep and solution-focused conversations on how we can resolve challenges with new and improved tools to give you the best chance at success. 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 am proud of you for taking this step in your health and well-being.
Brooke Brunken
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 13 years of professional work experience. I use a laid-back, solution-focused approach to therapy. I like to help my clients find small things they can do that will make a big impact in their lives. I also like to help my clients explore how their lifestyles and habits impact their lives in both negative and positive ways.
Dominick Haber
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I have also 3 years of behavioral therapy experience prior to counseling. My modalities are a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). I work to identify and reframe and re examine the things about us that we need to change, and accept and love ourselves on the things that can't be changed. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Kerri Shaw
From a young age, I’ve been deeply empathetic—drawn to people’s stories and attuned to their pain. What once felt like a tender personality trait has become a guiding force in my work. I believe every person holds inherent dignity and worth, regardless of their experiences, choices, or circumstances. This belief is the foundation of how I show up as a therapist: with compassion, curiosity, and respect. My journey into the counseling field was encouraged by my husband, who saw how naturally I connected with others. I completed my undergraduate degree in Marketing at East Central University and went on to earn a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Oklahoma. I am currently pursuing an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in Marriage and Family Counseling. I specialize in couples therapy, supporting partners as they navigate challenges with communication, trust, intimacy, and emotional connection. Whether you're feeling stuck, hurting, or simply wanting to grow closer, I offer a space where both individuals can feel seen, heard, and understood. My approach focuses on helping couples build deeper understanding, develop practical tools, and reconnect with what matters most to them. In every session—whether with individuals or couples—my goal is to create a space where you feel safe, supported, and empowered to grow. Healing is possible, and you don’t have to walk through it alone. I also believe therapy doesn’t have to feel heavy all the time. I hold healing in a sacred light, but I also appreciate the value of humor. Being able to feel free in therapy—even when facing pain—is the heart of Eremos. It’s brave to come, but many clients find it’s also a place to enjoy. Outside the therapy room, I love being married and am grateful for the fullness of life with our five children. These days, you’ll likely find me enjoying a good thriller TV series over a movie—especially if it’s a whodunit. I’d love to say I grow my own food and live in the outdoors, but let’s be honest—my life is mostly made up of ordinary moments, full hands, and small, sacred acts of courage. Reality for me isn’t glamorous, but it’s good. And it’s in the everyday that growth, connection, and healing often begin.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Criner, Oklahoma
Finding a therapist near you in Criner, Oklahoma starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Oklahoma is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Oklahoma, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Oklahoma, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Oklahoma
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Oklahoma, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Oklahoma
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Oklahoma
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Oklahoma through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in Oklahoma
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Oklahoma, including residents in Criner.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Oklahoma do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Criner, Oklahoma
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Criner and the surrounding OK area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.