In life, it can feel like you're a train that has no destination. Sometimes, you may be chugging along, but you don't know where. A counselor based in Chattanooga can help your mental health and help you reach a goal so that your train is running strong and is in the right destination.

Chattanooga is known for its song Chattanooga Choo Choo, which is about the train that runs through there. A counselor can make sure your choo choo train is heading to its destination at top speed. Speak to a counselor to get started improving your own train.

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Crystal Crumley

Offering therapy in TN
License: LPC MHSP ,NCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

Welcome! I am so glad you have taken the first step in reaching out for support. My name is Crystal Crumley, and I am a Licensed professional counselor in the state of Tennessee. I have 14 years of mental health experience in treating depression, anxiety, complex trauma, life changes, parenting issues, and more. I have enjoyed working in community settings with helping people grow and heal. My personal strengths are to encourage others, and I knew counseling was the best fit for my career after completing my masters degree at Lee University. I use a client centered approach in counseling, taking into account the goals you want to achieve and work at your pace. I typically use a eclectic approach including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and mindfulness. I feel that being heard is important and you need a safe place to share how you are feeling without fear of being judged. In counseling, I like to give practical skills and homework that will help you during the week to reach your personal goals. Since I started my career, it has been my purpose to help make a difference by simply being supportive to those who need it most. In society, I feel mental health is often times stigmatized , and I want to be an agent of change. I look forward to helping you in your journey.

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Dr. Sharee Light

Offering therapy in TN
License: PhD
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoachingADHD
3 years of experience

My name is Sharee Light, and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (PhD) with specialty training in clinical neuropsychology. Therefore, I am trained in the emotional and cognitive manifestations of various brain states. I firmly believe in our ability to change our brains by changing our minds! I help clients deal with a variety of issues, ranging from clinical depression and/or anxiety to the emotional and cognitive aftermath of traumatic brain injury (TBI), dementia, and other psychiatric and neurological disorders. I offer cognitive remediation/rehabilitation therapies as a means to address cognitive symptoms, and often this allows a person to then address emotional symptoms that often can be more nagging and difficult to treat. I am also very interested in generally improving clients’ quality of life. As the mental health field as a whole is increasingly realizing that mental health is more than just the absence of negative emotions, but also entails the discernable presence of positive emotions, I am dedicated to helping clients find joy in their life, however challenging or difficult. Thus, I often incorporate behavioral therapies such as behavioral activation, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and positive psychology techniques to enrich the experience of everyday happiness. Specialties: Adult ADHD Anhedonia Apathy Anxiety Cognitive Rehabilitation Depression Adults with Learning Disorders

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Robin Hall

Offering therapy in TN
License: LCSW
Relationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
12 years of experience

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

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Tynesha Palmer

Offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & anger management. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Ronald Surgeon

Offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee with professional work experience in clinical and private practice. I enjoy helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, coping with life changes and so much more. 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. I am here to journey with you. My heartfelt desire is for people to know the truth of their stories, feel heard, known and learn how to live in the tension of the goodness and tragedy of the world. 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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Rae Linkous

Offering therapy in TN
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

Why did you decide to become a counselor? I have always found that making connections with others is what drives change. I want to be able to provide others with that connection to help them find the best version of themselves and to help them through challenging situations in their lives. With my own personal experiences in my childhood, my goal has always been to help others overcome their circumstances, to show them they are not limited by their experiences and trauma. What would you say to a potential client? *This world is full of things and situations that make us feel powerless and not in charge of out own lives. My philosophy, and what drives my approach to therapy, is about learning to take control over yourself despite what is going on around you, or what has happened to you. You are the ultimate driver in your life, you find power within yourself. How does your personality influence your approach to therapy? *I am a no nonsense, down to Earth individual. I feel that I am straight forward and that helps me challenge clients to address the most difficult areas in their lives, the areas in which that hold them back from their full potential. I also believe that education is key, understanding how the brain works and how trauma affects the brain, it’s about using these concepts to help drive change. Brief description of Work Experience? *I did my internship at a Domestic Violence shelter for women and children as well as therapeutic day counseling in school settings. I have worked the past 7 years in residential treatment, 1 year doing outpatient, specializing in kids and teens with complex and severe trauma. I have worked extensively with self-harm, suicidal ideations, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, anger, aggression, defiance/conduct, family conflict, sexualized behaviors, trauma (sexual, physical, neglect, mental/psychological). I currently work outpatient therapy seeing both adults and children. Brief description of Education background? *BS in Pre-med Biology, Chemistry, and Psychology from Bluefield College in 2012 *M.Ed. In Human Services and Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lindsey Wilson College in 2015 My modalities include, but are not limited to, TF-CBT, Client Centered, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, DBT. I do not believe in a one size fits all therapy approach and try to cater my therapies to the need of the client. My modalities include, but are not limited to, TF-CBT, Client Centered, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, DBT. I do not believe in a one size fits all therapy approach and try to cater my therapies to the need of the client.

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Tina Henderson

Offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Tina Henderson, MA, LCSW is a licensed psychotherapist in 5 states, and has been practicing for more than 10 years. She uses a direct, no-nonsense style and eclectic “toolbox” of interventions to help you make the kind of progress that will enhance the way you feel on a daily basis. Tina has treated individuals on the full DSM spectrum. She is also an expert in codependency for those impacted by an addicted or mentally ill person, such as a family member, colleague, or friend. She understands the way codependency can impact childhoods, careers and enterprise. By showing people how to identify self-imposed obstacles, self-defeating beliefs, and toxic thought patterns, Tina helps adults untangle the issues standing in the way of optimal health and happiness. Tina’s goal is to inspire people - not to just "feel better," but to feel great.

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Norman Shaffer

Offering therapy in TN
Addictions
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients wanting to cope more effectively with mental health concerns and addictions. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Kristi Gilliam

Offering therapy in TN
Relationship issuesSleeping disordersSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
10 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical therapist inVirginia, Tennessee and Idaho with 10 years of professional work 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Robert Jackson

Offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Robert Jackson IV, LCSW is a Black American, Cisgender Male therapist who has worked throughout the social work field for 15 years. For the last 7 years, Robert has been working exclusively as an outpatient therapist providing Individual, Marriage and Family, Substance Abuse, Trauma, Anger and anxiety therapy for adults. LGBTQIA+ community are welcome. All races and religions are welcome as well. Robert is a married father of two, who pursued a career in social worker after dreams of being a professional football player ended. I look forward to meeting you and helping with your journey!

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How to find counseling in Chattanooga

Finding the best therapist close by in Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga. 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 Chattanooga, 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 Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga, elsewhere in Hamilton, or in the greater state of Tennessee.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga may not take health insurance, some in the state of Tennessee 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 Tennessee 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 Chattanooga, Tennessee 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 Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga 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 TN, 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 37405 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 Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga, Tennessee 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.

Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga.

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

37343, 37350, 37351, 37363, 37401, 37402, 37403, 37404, 37405, 37406, 37407, 37408, 37409, 37410, 37411, 37414, 37415, 37416, 37419, 37421, 37422, 37424, 37450

Popular cities near Chattanooga, TN

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