Are you feeling like the world of possibilities is as bright as the beautiful night sky in Dallas Oregon? Or are you feeling the possibilities are covered over like an overcast day? If you can't seem to see the stars through the clouds of life, it may be time to seek the help of a qualified therapist or counselor.
Dallas area mental health professionals are here to support you in any way you need so that you can find the right way to deal with mental health hardships, and get back on track to feeling like life's possibilities are as endless as a star-filled night.
Valeria Clarke
Greetings! I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 11 years of work with people who are striving to thrive. I work through a trauma-informed lens, with a strengths-based, humanistic perspective. Those who have benefitted most from my work have experienced some trauma in their lives and are working to unravel the effects those events have had on them. I have a long history of working with those who have experienced significant domestic violence, grief and loss, and with loved ones of folks who are LGBTQIAA+. Additionally, those with PTSD, other anxiety disorders, and Bipolar have greatly benefited from their work with me. I also work with those who are challenged with addiction issues, especially if they are in tandem with other mental health issues. Together we can unravel the interconnectedness of the challenges you experience and I can support you in finding a life that is more meaningful and satisfying. My goal in my work with you is to develop a connection through which you can learn to develop trust, insight and a deeper understanding of yourself. This means at times I will work with your innate intelligence to identify and create solutions and at other times I may use what you have shared with me and my own intuition to offer advice, share observations and make suggestions. I have an eclectic toolkit that includes working with Narrative therapy, using aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprogramming (EMDR), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy. You have taken the first step on your road to healing, the first step is often the most difficult. Thanks for considering me as your therapist. I look forward to our work together.
L. Jenae Macnaughton
Life happens; the effects of loss vary; and the impacts of stress/trauma are more ‘normal’ than most people realize. You are not alone; your struggles are real; and your mental wellness is and should be treated with as much vigor as your need for food and shelter. It is natural for our bodies to want to heal themselves; and our human strength and natural behavior is to adapt and evolve. We develop negative coping skills as we adapt to stress/trauma, grief/loss, major life changes/transitions, chronic illness/pain, identity struggles, and relationship conflicts. As these behaviors can be learned through our abilities to adapt and evolve, so can they be unlearned through behavioral health and strengthening (aka counseling). I am a Certified Advanced Grief Counseling Specialist (CAGCS), a Certified Family Trauma Professional (CFTP), Certified in Brainspotting (BSP-C), and formally trained by the IFS Institute in Internal Family Systems (IFS) work (and will continue my journey to certification). I am independently licensed in AK, AR, ME, OR, SD, UT, and WA; and a Child Mental Health Specialist in WA. In addition to the specialties mentioned above, I also have experience and expertise in serving individuals struggling with addiction, chronic and/or terminal illness, adolescents, persons identifying as queer or LGBTQIA2S+, First Responders, Veterans, Government Personnel, Alaskan Native / Native American (AN/NA), and individuals struggling with high conflict situations. With over 23 years in the behavioral health field, I use my clients’ strengths to find natural healing, unique to their needs. I work with clients who may be struggling with trauma and loss/grief. During our initial sessions, we will delve deeply into the issues at hand, and collaborate to create a plan for addressing them in a way that helps you get your life back. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first few sessions and sustained improvement thereafter. I consider myself a Solution-Focused Therapist (SFT), meaning we focus on finding the strengths and solutions you already have within yourself (often a re-discovery process). I often use techniques such as strengths-based talk therapy, Brainspotting (learn more at www.brainspotting.com), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Psychoeducation; it all depends on your comfort level with each method.
Monica Cowan
I am licensed in Oregon with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, coping with life changes, & executive and professional coaching. 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!
Esther Zack
Hello. My name is Esther and I want to congratulate you for taking the first 2 steps required for feeling better: (1) Acknowledging to yourself that there's something in your life that isn't working the way you want, and (2) reaching out to get some help with it. The next step is finding the right person to work with. Most people start by looking for a specific technique. There are tons of techniques available and my experience is informed by many of them, as you can see in the lists below. The most important factor for therapy being successful, though, is not techniques -- it is the connection you are able to make with your therapist. You are the expert on you and no matter how it may look from the outside, whatever you did to get you to today was the right thing because you got here. It may be time to find better ways to move on from here, though. My goal is to walk alongside you and help guide you past what's blocking you, to help you find your own inner wisdom and answers. In this walk my clients tell me they experience me as being warm, compassionate, supportive, easy to talk to, non-judgmental, a good listener, and deeply committed to their well being. I also have a great sense of humor, which can really help you get past some of the tough spots in this work. I have been doing my own personal growth work all my life, so I know what it feels like. And from the decades of therapy-related work I've done in addition to traditional therapy -- a broad range of support and advocacy for both native born Americans and people from 30+ ethnic groups from around the world -- I know that every human being has the same basic wants and needs: To feel safe in their lives, to be seen and valued for who they are, to find purpose, and if they are parents to be able to create a life of opportunity for their children. We are all in this together, and in this work I celebrate our commonalities as well as our diversity. I am acutely aware of the impact on our personal lives of the racism, the discrimination experienced by the LGBT communities, and the many other inequities currently rampant in our society. I also bring the experience of being a single adoptive parent who has raised an adopted toddler to successful adulthood, and I'm passionate and experienced in walking alongside foster and adoptive parents in therapy. Looking inside takes great courage, so I applaud you for reaching out. Whatever you bring, I look forward to speaking with you and walking alongside you. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My experience includes working with individuals, couples, and families. Feel free to get in touch.
Skyler Dorsey
Hi! My name is Skyler Dorsey and I am a licensed mental health therapist in the States of Washington and Oregon. I have been working in the field of social work for over 20 years and mental health for over 10 years. I received my master's degree in social work in 2006 from Eastern Washington University. I have experience with depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. I primarily use cognitive behavioral and strengths based therapeutic methods to help people identify what isn't working in their lives and how to make changes that will lead to greater life satisfaction. I began as a part-time therapist with Betterhelp in August of 2018 and transitioned to make it my full-time job in December of 2019. Together, we can work to help move you along the path to happiness and contentment. I look forward to working with you!
Troy Kindy
I am licensed in Oregon with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Valeta Wilson
I am licensed in Indiana with 13 years of professional work experience. I have extensive experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.
Angela Krilich
Hello! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the states of Indiana, Massachusetts and Washington, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Maine, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the states of Arizona, Oregon, and DC, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in the state of Utah, a Clinical Professional Counselor (CPC) in the state of Nevada, a National Certified Counselor (NCC), and a Board Certified Coach (BCC). I have a master's degree in Counseling & Counselor Education and an Education Specialist degree in Mental Health Counseling, both from Indiana University. I have 6 years of counseling experience, have worked in two community mental health centers and two college counseling centers, with a focus on depression, anxiety, relationship issues, PTSD, and other mood disorders. I have also worked with college students, primarily student-athletes, helping them navigate academic and personal issues. I have experience with career counseling and life coaching. My counseling style is focused on meeting my clients where they are. I utilize a humanistic, person-centered approach, with techniques centered in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioral therapy and Solution-Focused therapy. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental environment that allows my clients to freely express themselves as they work toward their goals. My greatest reward is when clients allow me to join them on their journey, providing some help as they make positive changes in their lives. Let me know how I can help you on your journey. I look forward to working with you!
Shavondria "Vonda" Jacobs
I am a licensed clinical social worker in Colorado with over 5 years of experience working as a psych counselor and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, stress management and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma, PTSD and emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, Acceptance & Commitment and psychodynamic 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!
Dr. Freya Meraki
Hello there! My name is Dr. Freya Felicia Meraki (she/her/hers; formerly Dr. Thomas)- I would prefer it if you called me Freya, however, if you prefer Dr. Meraki, I will honor that. Life is a journey and sometimes on that journey we need additional help. I often see therapy as a road trip we embark upon together to provide extra help when you need it. You're the driver while I'm a passenger and a guide. This means we'll work together to figure out the best road map for your goals, after all, you're the expert on you and I have expertise in mental health so why not collaborate? In my approach, I do my best to meet you where you're at with what you need. This is your journey after all and I want you to get the most of it possible. I work with you to create a warm, safe environment to explore, practice, experiment, be curious, and test out new skills and ways of functioning. Everyone is doing the best they can with what they have (knowledge, skills, resources, support, energy, etc) and with willingness, people can do better and work towards living a life worth living - not just surviving day-to-day. During our time together, we will also discuss appropriate pacing for you. It's important not to speed through this healing road trip (nor ride the brakes throughout it). When in distress, we may freeze or try to rush through things, however, processing pain (current, future, and past), learning new skills, new ways of functioning, new ways of being, and/or new beliefs can take time and often requires compassion, repetition, patience, and practice. There also might be setbacks or relapses on your road trip, which is normal especially with new habits/behaviors/ways of being/healing, and that doesn't necessarily mean therapy isn't working (nor does it mean you're a failure) - it's just more information to consider in revising or modifying your roadmap to get you where you want/need to be. Treatment approach: I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups ages 13+ years and use integrative and collaborative approaches to treatment, which includes psychodynamic theory, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and interpersonal process. Specialties: ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Grief/Death, LGBTQ+, Transgender identity and transition process, Sexual issues, Women's issues, Men's issues, Anger Management, Abuse, Substance use issues/addiction, Stress management, Mindfulness, Identity, Life transitions I am a sex positive provider, including kink & BDSM, relationship style & orientation, gender identity, and sexual orientation. Education: I earned both my Master's degree and Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from Pacific University, but those are not the end all, be all of my education. I highly value continuing education and often attend various workshops and classes throughout the year in addition to following recent research and literature related to psychology and medical science. Experience: In the field of psychology I have had the following experiences: interning at a county jail, working as a mental health worker in a child residential center, working as a case manager for populations with severe and persistent mental illness, working as a student clinician (several years: graduate school clinic, adult residential for substance use and mental health, an outpatient clinic specializing in domestic violence, and community mental health clinics), and as a psychologist in community mental health. Licenses: Colorado and Oregon: Clinical Psychologist
How to find counseling in Dallas
Finding the best therapist close by in Dallas 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 Dallas. 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 Dallas, 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 Dallas 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 Dallas 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 Dallas, elsewhere in Polk, or in the greater state of Oregon.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Dallas area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Dallas 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 Dallas 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 Dallas may not take health insurance, some in the state of Oregon 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 Oregon 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 Dallas, Oregon 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 Dallas 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 Dallas 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 Dallas 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:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Behavior therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Talk therapy
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Attachment therapy
- Relationships
- Children, adolescents, and teens
- Addiction (substance abuse)
- Divorce
- Trauma or PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychodynamic treatment
- Career counseling
- Alcohol use disorders
- OCD
- ADHD
- Mood disorders
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
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 Dallas 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 Dallas 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 OR, 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 97338 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 Dallas 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 Dallas 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 Dallas, Oregon 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.
Dallas 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Dallas:
97338