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Valerie Keller Gates

Offering therapy in OK
License: MHR, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in Oklahoma. I received a Bachelor of Science from Southern Nazarene University in Family Studies and Gerontology and a Masters of Human Relations with the emphasis of Licensed Professional Counseling from The University of Oklahoma. I have experience with adults, families, and groups. I have worked with those struggling with mild to severe mental illness as well as those individuals who are struggling with issues including depression, grief & loss, abuse/neglect, addictions with dual diagnosis, behavioral problems, bipolar, and parenting problems. I adapt my counseling style to each individual. However, within 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".

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De'Shaun Thornton

Offering therapy in OK
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

Hello, I'm De'Shaun, and am very excited to be of service to you. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) dedicated to implementing effective treatment and education strategies that help children, adolescents, and adults cope with and conquer life’s challenges. I incorporate a holistic approach to therapy, by helping people understand the connection between mind and body. I have taken time to recognize and highlight how our daily nutritional intake, directly correlates with our vast array of thoughts and emotions. As a certified Integrative Mental Health Professional, I appreciate the opportunities I’m given to educate communities on the many benefits of non-pharmaceutical integrative medicine. My other areas of certification include Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family & Divorce Mediation, and Batterer’s Intervention Program Facilitation. I am also a Board Approved Oklahoma LPC Supervisor. I hold a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Science with a major in Psychology/Sociology from St. Gregory’s University, and a Master of Science Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Langston University.     My commitment to program development and the desire to bring people together, is reflected in my professional career throughout Oklahoma and abroad. I began work as a Psychosocial Rehabilitation Specialist in 2008, linking families to valuable resources and teaching healthy social skills to adolescents. I’ve worked as Lead Counselor of Upward Bound, where I helped high school students bridge the gap between high school and college preparation, and as an Outpatient Behavioral Therapist providing individual, and family services. I’ve gained significant experience also working as a Program Director for School-based Day Treatment/Outpatient Mental Health Services. I have created curriculum for emotional support classrooms, educated the educators on best practices for working with children who have experienced complex traumas, and developed useful strategies that help families manage the painful effects of anxiety trauma and depression. My goal is to equip individuals and families with tools that promote positive self-outlook, healthy relationships, and nutritional well-being for improved “Mental Wealth”.   Within the field of the helping profession, I’ve witnessed significant increases in the support of individuals taking the initiative to address their underlying mental health needs, begin their healing processes, and set new standards for living. I believe there is a sacredness built into the creation of safe spaces for self-reflection and growth. Daily obstacles continue to be fundamental part of our journey towards self-knowledge, and ultimately self-healing. I find it helpful to focus on what is within our control, maintaining the capacity to analyze situations from a place of peace, and to think through solutions that enhance our personal growth in difficult times. In the same way, as we work to balance life’s disappointments and the inevitable, I encourage that we use the power of mind and voice to prioritize our mental health. Outside of supporting and counseling in my community, I find enjoyment in playing the guitar, travel, creative writing, exercise, and using my art to promote mental prosperity.

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Lance Smith

Offering therapy in OK
License: MA, MDiv, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefAnger management
23 years of experience

I am a licensed marital and family therapist in Oklahoma with over 20 years of experience working with youth, individuals, couples, and families. I have provided counseling to clients with various concerns including depression, anxiety, family conflict, parenting problems, autism spectrum disorder, anger management, and ADHD. I have also supported couples with premarital and marital counseling. By nature I am a thoughtful and compassionate person. My hope is to create a space where you feel safe, valued, and respected in a way that will allow you to feel comfortable enough to talk about the challenges that have brought you to therapy. Depending on your goals, my counseling approach may combine cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, solution focused, experiential, narrative or family systems counseling. I am here to help you reach your goals and am looking forward to working with you!

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Leonard Shepherd

Offering therapy in OK
License: M.S. LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in Oklahoma with over 10 years of experience providing psychotherapy, psychoeducation, counseling and life coaching. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD, bipolar, and sexual and gender issues. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, sensitivity, and compassion. I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines a family systems approach, choice theory, cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards 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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This is Tracie Gillispie's avatar and link to their profile

Tracie Gillispie

Offering therapy in OK
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Oklahoma and also able to provide counseling in many other states with 20 years of professional work experience. I am not only a Licensed Professional Counselor, but also have a post Master’s Certification in School Psychology and I am a National Board Certified Counselor. I have extensive experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, traumas, abuse, relationship issues, as well as teen and parenting issues. These areas are my favorite to work with. I believe that you are the expert of your story, have all the answers within yourself, and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. My job is never to judge, but direct and help you find the path that helps you become the best version of 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.

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Sydney Pruett

Offering therapy in OK
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma, Missouri, & New Jersey, & Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Utah. I have 5+ years of experience in this field. I have experience in helping clients with depression and anxiety, trauma and abuse, and many other concerns. I most enjoy working with clients between the ages 18-35. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, regardless of background. Working with those who are from more marginalized populations and concerns related to these areas (2SLGBTQIA+ populations, women's issues, religious trauma, racism, physical health concerns or disabilities, etc.) is a passion of mine, but I am happy to work with those who are not part of these populations as well, if your needs meet my scope of practice. Please note that if you are outside of the age range or areas of knowledge that I work within, I may request that you switch to a different therapist. I will tailor our treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and vulnerability, and I am proud of you for getting started! *Please do not schedule a session with me until you have received your first message from me! Thank you!*

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This is La Shawn Underwood's avatar and link to their profile

La Shawn Underwood

Offering therapy in OK
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Oklahoma with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our time together to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and balanced life and to take the first steps towards a shift in your life. I am here to support you. Let's do the hard work and begin the healing process.

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Sabrina Potter

Offering therapy in OK
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Oklahoma with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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!

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Sarah Tronnier

Offering therapy in OK
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Oklahoma with 3 years of therapy experience. I have worked over 25 years in various roles working with children and families in schools, social service agencies and other private agencies . I have experience in helping families and caregivers travel the journey of dementia with a loved one and in working directly with the person affected with dementia. Additionally, I am trained in helping deal with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, navigating special needs and parenting issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion and meeting people where they are. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes bravery to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support, help you find hope & empower you in that journey.

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This is Ashley Foster's avatar and link to their profile

Ashley Foster

Offering therapy in OK
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Oklahoma with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & 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.

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How to find counseling in Douglas

Finding the best therapist close by in Douglas 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 Douglas. 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 Douglas, 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 Douglas 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 Douglas 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 Douglas, elsewhere in Garfield, or in the greater state of Oklahoma.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Douglas area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Douglas 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 Douglas 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 Douglas may not take health insurance, some in the state of Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma 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 Douglas, Oklahoma 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 Douglas 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 Douglas 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 Douglas 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 Douglas 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 Douglas 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 OK, 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 73733 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 Douglas 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 Douglas 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 Douglas, Oklahoma 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.

Douglas 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 Douglas.

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

73733

Popular cities near Douglas, OK

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