As we get older, our bodies can start getting slower and our minds are not as sharp as they once were. However, some people start losing memory faster than normal and cannot seem to function properly. If you or someone you love is feeling more confused or forgetful than usual, it may be a sign of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Thankfully, there are many Bristol based counselors who are trained in these and other illnesses.
Bristol is called the birthplace of country music and its motto is “a good place to live.” However, if you are suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia, enjoying country music or a good place to live is more difficult. If you think you or someone you know may be suffering from one of these or another mental health condition, talk to one of the counselors in Bristol today.
Kalene McSwain-Faulkner
Hello! You can call me Kalene (Kay-lean)! I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2015 and a social worker since 2013. I am experienced and what I like to call seasoned, as life has taught me many things through times of sorrow, pain, grief, and, other times, so much joy. My knowledge also comes from higher education and practice of that knowledge throughout my career. Each year, I meet licensing requirements by yearly obtaining continuing educational credits. Additionally, I am a doctorate student who completed all coursework with a 4.0 and in the research phase. Further, I am well-rounded and have experience working with young and older clients. Serving ten years in the military taught me how to and the importance of working with an array of different people from various backgrounds, ethnicities, ages, religions, sexualities, and overall different socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. My passion is in supporting others through multiple parts of their journeys utilizing practical, evidence-based approaches. Some therapy strategies may include cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing techniques, supportive therapy, narrative therapy, mindfulness, whole health, and a variety of other strategies or a mixture thereof. I want you to know that therapy is a process. The changes you want to see will only happen after some time, more than likely, but will result from various interactions we will have together, which will make a difference. I often refer to therapy as going to a chiropractor. You do not go to a chiropractor and say give me a spine. You have a spine, and all you need is an alignment. This means you are the true expert in your life, and you do have what you need. My plan in this current stage of your journey is to help you use what you have; sometimes, it just takes aligning things differently. I look forward to supporting you by first listening, clarifying what is heard, and advocating for your individuality, even in your partnership or marriage. Therapy strategies are not a one-size-fits-all. If you do not wish to have someone highly motivated, a positive and rational thinker who continually supports the use of your strengths and believes that YOU CAN every time, then I am not the one for you. I also incorporate many coaching and motivational principles as they are a part of my personality. Remember, you are unique, and for me to adjust what is needed, I will need your feedback and honesty regarding what is working or what you may need more. I look forward to supporting you during this part of your journey. Please participate and trust the process. Trust is a big word, but it will be well worth the journey!
Robin Hall
Hello and Welcome! Are you tired of trying to resolve problems and issues life has thrown at you, tired of friends and family offering advice or struggling alone with things that seem overwhelming? The reason I became a social worker and progressed to being a therapist is because of my own life experiences. I joined the military out of high school to escape. After three years I came back to the same places and people that I had run away from. I enrolled in college and started counseling with a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who changed my life. She helped me realize that I could change detrimental aspects of my life and gave me the support I needed to succeed. If you are struggling with life challenges, I would like to help you. I recognize that taking the first steps to make changes can be incredibly difficult and I strive to create a calm and relaxed relationship with my clients, so they feel comfortable discussing the intimate details of their problems and life challenges. My style of counseling is warm, empathetic. I use a strength based, goal oriented approach for my clients to set attainable goals to help empower them overcome obstacles they face on their life journey. I have worked with inpatient and outpatient clients from adolescents to geriatrics with a broad range of problems in individual and group settings. I would welcome the opportunity to assist you regarding the obstacles in your personal or professional life. SPECIALITIES Stress and Anxiety Depression Grief/Loss adjustment issues Trauma and Abuse Domestic violence Codependency Life changes Asperger's syndrome Elder care CLINICAL APPROACHES Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Solution Focused Therapy Client Centered Therapy Motivational Interviewing Tennessee license #5759
Erica Kesse
You have done enough! It is time to "be". I have coined it "Be Me" Time. Being is an allowing of self- nurture. Being is stillness. Being is thinking and feeling the ache, instead of avoiding it. I know it is scary, yet I am your cheerleader, who encourages you to explore your resources to ease the hurt. I will hold your hand when you learn your worth and your whole life is turned upside down. You can have a reality where you are the Superhero that first saves and celebrates yourself. It is time to stop the self-abuse. You deserve a life of lavish beauty and connection as you effortlessly "be" you. I am an Integrative Therapist and Business Coach in Escape and Execution. We investigate all the components of your life, which include physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and professional life. The goal is to integrate these components, build your social support system, and bring together all partners to hold you accountable to being the best version of yourself. I use Person Centered therapy as the core of our work. Then, I splash Integrative Therapy (utilization of all therapy types based on the individual) into our work. I am specialized in Trauma-Focused- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person/ Child-Centered Play, and Expressive Arts Therapy. You deserve the best.
Mariellen LePage
Hello, and welcome! My name is Mariellen, and I am a licensed therapist based in Tennessee, with over 20 years of experience in the field. I am committed to ensuring that every client I work with feels heard, understood, and validated in a confidential and safe place. I know that seeking therapy can be an intimidating and vulnerable process, and I want to assure you that you are not alone. Together, we will work towards finding solutions and creating positive change in your life. My background in therapy and extensive training in various Evidence-Based Treatments allows me to draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities to customize treatment to fit your unique needs. These modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). As we work together, we will collaborate to help you develop skills and strategies that can empower you to achieve your goals and maintain lasting change. I truly believe that therapy is a collaborative journey, and I look forward to working with you to help you achieve your personal and emotional well-being. If you're ready to take the first step towards improving your emotional well-being, you can schedule an appointment directly on my page. I look forward to working with you and helping you create a path towards a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life.
Dr. Heide Schlack
Hello! I wish you well on your counseling journey. I am a licensed psychologist in the Middle Tennessee area and have been in the field of mental health for over 30 years. I see counseling as a partnership where I am a consultant. Everyone gets stuck at times. It can be very helpful to tell our stories to trusted others to work through our concerns. Family and friends can be helpful, and sometimes a trained counselor can offer unbiased, positive support. I often feel like an interviewer asking specific questions in a curious and non-accusing manner. You are the focus of my hour, and I want to learn as much about your story as I can. I also want to know where you want to take your story. Humor, curiosity, self-kindness, creativity and increased self-awareness (mindfulness) help in the process. Clients who do well are willing to entertain different perspectives of themselves and of their situations. New behaviors can be learned with practice. Sometimes what we mainly need to do is accept things we cannot change and let go of constricting beliefs and "rules" for ourselves. Sometimes our daily patterns are disconnected from our feelings and values. I try to help people gain more awareness of their feelings, life dreams and what is truly important to them. I offer systematic ways of exploring these issues and making plans to sort of knit together more coherently one's thoughts and feelings, past and present, and habits and values. We have self-healing capacities within ourselves that I try to facilitate and not get in the way of! I use strategies from cognitive-behavioral-mindfulness therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, narrative therapy and trauma-informed therapy. Exploring our past interpersonal patterns can help us redirect our social behaviors to more satisfying relationships. Sometimes I might act more like a coach to help you spring forward from the present. I love working with ADD/ADHD clients. Dealing with my own ADD, I know intimately the challenges, struggles and even the upsides of ADD! Finding creative, ADD-informed ways to manage our space and time is something I often do with clients. Other frequent issues are depression, anxiety, social anxiety , lack of motivation, self-doubt, communication and relationship issues, sleep and weight, work issues, trauma and loss. I am also comfortable working with the LGBQ+ populations, transgender dysphoria and clients in polyamorous relationships. I look forward to meeting new clients and do not take personally decisions not to return. There are a number of reasons for client choices. Like most relationships, including work colleagues, we look for compatibility. And sometimes we glean things from one-time meetings.
Victoria Bryant
As a licensed therapist in Tennessee, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients address challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and trauma with compassionate, culturally responsive care. I bring a deep understanding of women's experiences, multicultural concerns, and the unique stressors facing young adults and midlife individuals. My approach honors each person's distinct journey, creating a supportive space to explore personal growth, healing, and meaningful transformation. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively to help clients develop resilience, improve communication, and address issues like isolation, workplace stress, and interpersonal dynamics. My goal is to empower you to reconnect with your sense of purpose and build healthier, more fulfilling relationships with yourself and others.
Dr. Edward Varner
As a licensed therapist in Tennessee, I bring over 30 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate depression, relationship dynamics, trauma recovery, and personal growth. I specialize in working with men, veterans, first responders, and individuals managing mood disorders, offering a compassionate and understanding approach. My therapeutic style is rooted in Christian values and a conservative perspective, creating a safe space for clients seeking aligned counseling. I focus on holistic healing, addressing challenges like communication difficulties, body image concerns, sexual assault recovery, and multicultural experiences. My approach emphasizes self-love, healthy coping strategies, and rebuilding personal resilience. I am committed to walking alongside clients through their unique journeys, offering professional guidance with empathy and respect. Whether you're dealing with posttraumatic stress, family dynamics, or personal transformation, I'm here to support your path toward healing and growth.
John Trainer
As a licensed therapist in Tennessee with over four decades of professional experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice focuses on addressing depression, addiction, self-esteem issues, and helping clients navigate significant life changes. I offer compassionate counseling for individuals struggling with communication problems, isolation, life purpose questions, and emotional healing from experiences like divorce, trauma, and family dynamics. My approach is particularly attuned to supporting older adults, first responders, and those facing challenging life circumstances such as illness, aging, and family transitions. If you choose to draw from a Christian perspective, I provide a supportive environment where clients can explore personal growth, work through guilt and shame, and develop meaningful coping strategies. My goal is to help you find hope, restore emotional balance, and rediscover your inner strength during difficult times.
Debra Fitzgerald
As a licensed therapist in Tennessee, I bring over two decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding the unique emotional landscapes of each person who enters my practice. I specialize in addressing a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, stress, relationship dynamics, grief, substance use issues, and self-esteem challenges. My therapeutic work focuses on supporting individuals navigating grief and loss, social anxiety, substance use, body image concerns, and mood-related difficulties. With particular expertise in grief, midlife transitions, and caregiver stress, I offer a nuanced and empathetic approach to healing. I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. My practice embraces diverse perspectives and welcomes individuals from all backgrounds seeking understanding, healing, and emotional well-being. I strive to meet each client exactly where they are in their journey, offering compassionate guidance and evidence-based support.
Kimberly Rickels
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, 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!
Sherry Bougard
I am licensed in Tennessee with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Anna Owens
Greetings! I am a trauma-informed, evidence-based, multi-modal, culturally aware, licensed professional psychotherapist and mental health service provider across the lifespan for over 14 years. I'm also a psychiatric nurse practitioner(be), family nurse practitioner(c) and mental health coaching for Tennessee and beyond. Prior to going back to graduate school, I had a 10 year career as a professional musician. These varied experiences have contributed to creating individualized approaches for each client. Recently, I decided I wanted a bit more of a work/life balance, which led me to Betterhelp. My approach is a bit different, I'm not just an active listener or reflector, I am willing to get in the trenches with you and dialogue. I'm also not afraid to self-disclose pieces of my experiences if I think it will contribute to your healing process. I'm a specialist in narcissistic victim syndrome, addiction, and conduct expert assessments for the judicial system. As a generalist, I work with mood, anxiety, and personality difficulties. I also work with individuals, couples, and families. Therapy is a purpose work for me and I'm invested in every client. You are the expert of your story and throughout therapy, we'll partner to tackle the most acute difficulties first. You'll gain inner strength, learn new coping mechanisms and develop tools to navigate your life. Most growth begins in the dark, and you'll have to do some serious soul-searching, considering, sitting with uncomfortable feelings, and facing difficult situations, thoughts and emotions. Therapy isn't for the faint of heart. A safe, non-judgmental environment is imperative. Once this process begins, you'll most likely find therapy exciting as we work together to curate your life. Curating uses the garden analogy. It can solely apply to your inner-world, but it's usually a reflection of your life as a whole. We continue pulling up and out the emotions, thoughts, situations, people, places, or things that no longer serve you. It's about gaining inner self worth, setting boundaries, pouring into yourself, and evolving. The exceptional thing about curating is that together, we will open up new space in your life for yourself or for new experiences to grow. The most important thing during the beginning is having the empathy, guidance, and support you need to overcome. As your therapist, the goal is never just to resolve, but to use the resolution phase to go beyond and curate the life experience you've truly wanted. Since I am just getting started with better help, I have plenty of spots and will try my best to provide flexible hours to compliment your schedule! In my opinion, there are no coincidences. If you landed on my page, and you're still here, there's a reason! I realize how difficult this first step is but you did it, and that speaks volumes. I would love to partner with you to help navigate through life's difficulties no matter what it is at the time, and together, you will heal and create the life you've truly wanted!
Marvin Amos
As a licensed therapist in Tennessee, I bring over a decade of experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenging life transitions, interpersonal dynamics, and personal growth. I specialize in addressing depression, trauma recovery, social anxiety, and relationship difficulties with a compassionate, client-centered approach. My therapeutic work focuses on understanding each person's unique journey, whether they're struggling with mood disorders, workplace stress, attachment challenges, or navigating significant life changes like divorce. I offer a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop healthier coping strategies, and build emotional resilience. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I aim to create a collaborative therapeutic space that honors individual experiences and promotes meaningful personal transformation. My goal is to empower clients to understand themselves more deeply and move toward healing and personal growth. I look forward to being a part of your story for a page or two!
Dr. Saja Mboge
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Delaware and in Tennessee, I bring over 15 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on understanding and addressing challenges like depression, trauma, grief, and interpersonal dynamics. I specialize in working with diverse populations, including young adults, military veterans, and individuals navigating social anxiety, mood disorders, and family-related concerns. My therapeutic practice is rooted in compassionate, evidence-based strategies that honor each client's unique journey. I create a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. Whether you're struggling with self-esteem, communication challenges, or processing past experiences, I'm committed to walking alongside you with respect and professional guidance. My background encompasses a comprehensive understanding of mental health nuances, with a particular focus on helping individuals transform challenging life experiences into opportunities for healing and self-discovery. I approach each therapeutic relationship with cultural sensitivity, deep empathy, and a genuine commitment to your well-being.
Find a Therapist Near You in Bristol , Tennessee
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Tennessee can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
Tennessee is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Tennessee, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Tennessee (TN). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Tennessee, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Tennessee with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Tennessee
When searching for a therapist near me in Tennessee, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Tennessee, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Tennessee.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Tennessee want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Tennessee
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Tennessee without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Tennessee (TN)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in Tennessee
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Tennessee, including residents in Bristol.
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 Tennessee 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 vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
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 private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.