Gerald Winter
The information below is my introduction to you, to let you know a little more about me and how I approach counseling. Hi, my name is Jerry, I have over 30 years counseling experience in the mental health field, I specialize in working with adults who have problems with depression and anxiety and general everyday life concerns and PTSD. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Oklahoma. I believe that counseling is a process that helps you become the person you want to be, not by giving advice but by working together to help you solve your concerns. I also use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as my preferred choice of treatment. CBT for shorts offers a variety of tools that be can be used to speed up your progress. I usually recommend a book called "Understanding, subtitled, Finding Peace and Serenity in Life and Relationships, this is to help you better understand the principles of CBT If you would like to check this book out it can be found on Amazon.com, it is a very old book but a good book. Please let me know at anytime if you have any questions or concerns about this or anything else. FYI - Symptoms of depression include: feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness or hopelessness, angry outbursts, irritability or frustration, even over small matters, loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, such as sex, hobbies or sports, sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much, tiredness and lack of energy, so even small tasks take extra effort, reduced appetite and weight loss or increased cravings for food and weight gain, anxiety, agitation or restlessness, slowed thinking, speaking or body movements, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fixating on past failures or self-blame, trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things, frequent or recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts or suicide. Symptoms of anxiety include: common anxiety signs and symptoms include: feeling nervous, restless or tense, having a sense of impending danger, panic or doom, having an increased heart rate, breathing rapidly, experiencing, having difficulty controlling worry, having the urge to avoid things that trigger anxiety. I also work with trauma victims who suffer from symptoms of PTSD or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that's triggered by a terrifying event - either experiencing it or witnessing it. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event. Most people who go through traumatic events may have temporary difficulty adjusting and coping, but with time and good self-care, they usually get better. If the symptoms get worse, last for months or even years, and interfere with your day-to-day functioning, you may have PTSD. Symptoms can include all of the following: Symptoms of negative changes in thinking and mood may include: negative thoughts about yourself, other people or the world, hopelessness about the future. Memory problems, including not remembering important aspects of the traumatic event, difficulty maintaining close relationships, feeling detached from family and friend, lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed, difficulty experiencing positive emotions, feeling emotionally numb. Changes in physical and emotional reactions. Symptoms of changes in physical and emotional reactions (also called arousal symptoms) may include: being easily startled or frightened, always being on guard for danger, self-destructive behavior, such as drinking too much or driving too fast, trouble sleeping, trouble concentrating, irritability, angry outbursts or aggressive behavior and overwhelming guilt or shame. Getting effective treatment after PTSD symptoms develop can be critical to reduce symptoms and improve function. Symptoms can include, Avoidance Symptoms of avoidance may include: trying to avoid thinking or talking about the traumatic event, avoiding places, activities or people that remind you of the traumatic even. I use a thoroughly researched and proven method of therapy for PTSD that is called Written Exposure Therapy or WET for short. WET can be completed in as little as 5 sessions but may require more session for some people. If you have any of these symptoms and you want to get better faster, WET is one of the recommend treatment methods. I believe that it is a relationship between two people. It takes courage to seek a more happy and fulfilling life to take the first steps to change. Counseling is about making changes that you want to make. If you are interested in a person that cares about your needs, is respectful and will listen to your needs then I am the counselor that can help you. I look forward to meeting and working with you. I find some people like to chat, some like to do phone calls and some people like to do video sessions. In order to better understand your needs, could you please let me know how you would like to proceed. If you would like to schedule a session, please check my calendar and pick an available time slot that works for you, if nothing is available that works for you, let me know as I am flexible will do my best to meet your needs. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to meeting you soon. Some people like to start off with just chatting others feel more comfortable using the phone or video sessions. I just wanted to let you know, that I will never judge you and that I am here for your needs only, please let me know how I can assist you. When you do decide to take the next step, the following are instructions to help you have a better session. Here is some useful information. When you come online for your video or phone session and or chat, I will see you and initiate the call all you have to do is to accept it. Better help states that the videos and phone calls work best with Google Chrome, please do a video test before your session to make sure your video and microphone are working correctly. It should be in the help section. If you have any questions just send me a message. This is to ensure a problem free and productive session for you. FYI, chats can either be completed on your page, and I have 24 hours to respond to each message or you can actually schedule a chat session, just like you would a phone or video session. Other important information, one important piece of information about this website, I am required to respond to any of your messages within 24 hours, except for weekends and holiday, but as you can see I am also up early in the morning as that is when I tend to answer my messages. Sometimes if it is early and not busy I even answer messages on weekends and sometime on holidays. I also wanted to let you know that I do schedule some evening sessions, I schedule them Monday through Wednesday. I do not put them on my calendar as I want to save them for people who need them. I currently have open session on Monday through Wednesday at 5:30 and 6:30 EST. Please let me know if you need one of these early evening sessions. Please let me know also what kind of session you would like, either chat, phone of video and I will be happy to schedule it for you. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Stephanie Brace
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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.
Lorri Perez
As a licensed therapist with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on addressing depression, anxiety, stress, and interpersonal challenges, with a deep commitment to helping clients heal from trauma and relationship difficulties. I bring compassionate expertise to working with women, young adults, and individuals experiencing mood disorders, caregiver stress, and workplace challenges. My approach centers on understanding each person's unique journey, helping clients develop stronger communication skills, overcome isolation, and process difficult emotions like guilt and shame. My therapeutic work is grounded in creating a supportive environment where clients can explore attachment issues, family dynamics, and personal growth. I'm particularly passionate about supporting survivors of sexual assault and those managing complex emotional experiences, offering a warm, non-judgmental space for healing and transformation.
Marissa Savala
My name is Marissa, and I am a licensed therapist in Oklahoma with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & coping with addiction and recovery. I prefer to use a solution-focused approach, identifying the strengths you already have and empowering you to work towards your unique goals. I pull from research and evidence-based treatments to provide the most effective treatment experience. 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! I have limited availability, currently only scheduling sessions on Saturdays and Sundays unless otherwise scheduled on a case-by-case basis. Please take this into consideration when determining if I am able to meet your therapy needs.
Jacklyn McNeil
I am licensed in both Oklahoma and Kansas and have over 25 years of professional counseling experience. I have worked with individuals facing a wide range of concerns, including stress and anxiety, addictions, relationship challenges, trauma and abuse, and depression. I believe you are the expert of your own story and that you already possess many strengths and abilities that can help you navigate life’s challenges and move toward healing and growth. My role is to provide support, guidance, and a safe space where you can process your experiences and work toward your goals. Taking the first step to begin therapy requires courage, and I want to acknowledge the strength it took for you to reach out and get started. I look forward to walking alongside you in this journey.
Stana Self
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & despression. 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. 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.
Sharhonda Givens
As a licensed therapist serving Oklahoma, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients work through stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, and life transitions with compassionate, culturally-responsive care. Drawing from my background as a Black woman of faith, I create a welcoming space where clients can explore personal growth, heal from past experiences, and develop stronger communication and self-understanding. I'm particularly passionate about supporting women's emotional wellness, addressing attachment dynamics, and helping individuals rediscover their sense of purpose and self-love. My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based practices with a holistic understanding of personal experience. I believe in empowering clients to develop resilient coping strategies, work through shame and isolation, and cultivate meaningful connections in their lives. Together, we'll collaborate to transform challenges into opportunities for healing and personal transformation.
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.
Marchella Dennis
I am Marchella, a licensed therapist in Oklahoma City specializing in helping people deal with anxiety and depression, relationship problems and major life changes, and the resulting difficult emotions. My goal is to help clients overcome life’s hurdles, from grief and depression to addiction and behavioral problems; whatever you’re faced with, I am on your side. I invite you to browse through my website where you will find out more about my professional experience and qualifications, my personalized approach, and guiding principles. You will also discover that I’m genuinely fascinated by people and their life stories, and how much I love helping them win at life. I would be so honored to work with you and to help you reconnect with your authentic self, and show you the tools to help manage life‘s challenges more easily. I look forward to answering your questions and helping you take control of your life again.
Tracie Martin
As a licensed therapist in Arkansas, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life challenges. My professional experience centers on helping clients address depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and family conflicts. I have a deep understanding of the unique pressures faced by caregivers, workplace professionals, military veterans, and individuals experiencing seasonal emotional shifts. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and tailored to each person's individual needs. I believe in creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful strategies for emotional well-being. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I aim to empower individuals to understand their emotional landscapes and build sustainable coping mechanisms. My work is particularly focused on supporting older adults and those experiencing significant life transitions. I bring a trauma-informed perspective to our sessions, ensuring that every client feels heard, respected, and supported in their healing journey. Together, we can work collaboratively to address your unique challenges and move toward greater emotional balance and personal growth.
Syzyline Dada
Syzyline Diana Dada, LCSW, provides compassionate and individualized therapy to adolescents, adults, and seniors across Oklahoma. With a warm, collaborative approach, she supports clients navigating life transitions, emotional distress, and complex relationship dynamics. Diana offers both individual and couples therapy, helping patients build resilience, strengthen communication, and find meaningful paths forward. Her evidence-based approach combines clinical insight with a deep understanding of the emotional needs of those she serves. Diana is especially passionate about helping individuals heal from trauma, overcome depression, manage substance use challenges, and navigate anxiety disorders. She understands how these concerns can disrupt every part of life—from self-esteem and relationships to physical health—and works closely with each person to develop customized strategies for recovery. Her therapeutic style is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness practices that promote long-term growth and emotional regulation. In addition to working with the general adult population, Diana has specialized experience supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, clients with developmental and autism spectrum disorders, and military veterans. She also offers psychological testing to support diagnostic clarity and guide effective treatment. Her areas of focus include reproductive challenges, grief, and midlife transitions. Outside of the therapy room, Diana enjoys cooking, traveling, and hunting for unique finds in thrift stores. A passionate writer, she believes in the power of stories to heal and inspire.
Thuy "Vi" Nguyen
Hello, I’m Vi Nguyen, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I’m passionate about helping people feel understood, supported, and empowered to create meaningful change in their lives. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem challenges, and life transitions. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in a person-centered, humanistic framework. I believe that when you feel truly seen and heard, growth becomes possible. Together, we’ll create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions, build insight, and develop practical tools to move forward. I tailor therapy to your unique needs and values—whether that means learning to manage overwhelming emotions, improving relationships, or reconnecting with yourself. Reaching out for support can feel difficult, and by being here, you’ve already taken the first step. You don’t have to do this alone—I’m here to walk alongside you in your journey.
Chasity Chance
I am an outgoing and approachable individual who builds rapport with ease, creating a safe and supportive space for clients. I enjoy working with adults, adolescents, and teenagers, particularly those navigating childhood trauma, relationship challenges, and symptoms of depression and anxiety. My ability to connect authentically allows me to engage clients in meaningful ways and support their growth and healing.
LeeAndrea Sturtz
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to helping individuals reconnect with themselves, cultivate emotional safety, and build meaningful, authentic relationships. My work is grounded in trauma-informed care and integrative approaches, drawing from modalities such as CPT, DBT, ACT and somatic informed practices. I am deeply passionate about creating the therapeutic spaces where clients feel seen, understood, and empowered to move towards healing with compassion. I am a committed practioner of radical self-compassion and intentionally seek out moments of awe in everyday life. Whether through nature, relationships, or quiet reflection, I believe these moments are essential to expanding our capacity for resilience, meaning, and healing.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Optima, Oklahoma
Finding a therapist near you in Optima, 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 Optima.
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 Optima, Oklahoma
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Optima and the surrounding OK area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.