Debra Shelton
It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take those first steps toward change - I’m glad you're here. I’m a licensed therapist in Tennessee, Mississippi and Florida with 22 years of experience and I have been providing services for Betterhelp for the past 6 years. Whether you are feeling stuck or facing big challenges in your life, counseling can be helpful and rewarding for anyone wanting positive change. I work with clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship difficulties, and many other challenges. I also work with those recovering from narcissistic abuse. My therapy style is interactive, direct, casual and respectful. I want to provide a safe space for you to explore your challenges and solutions. I use principles of different therapies such as cognitive behavior therapy, ACT, and humanistic counseling. In other words, I believe you have the answers within you and we can work together to uncover them and to find solutions. You will learn new problem solving skills that you can apply to future challenges and try on some new perspectives and new behaviors in an effort to bring about the change you would like in your life. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you.
Kimberly Simerly
*NO LIVE SESSION AVAILABILITY AT THIS TIME* *PLEASE NOTE AT THIS TIME I AM AVAILABLE FOR ASYNCHRONOUS MESSAGING ONLY* "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16-17 ESV "I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought." 1 Corinthians 1:10 Regardless of what you have been through, Jesus loves you deeply and He hurts when you hurt. At this time, your journey may be more difficult than you thought and more lonely than it should be, but trust me when I say, you are NOT alone. Your past doesn’t have to define your future… God gives second chances. Even if and when people turn their back on you, God will never leave you. Your life does have a purpose and you are significant. I would love to have the opportunity to work with you to help you learn more and/or strengthen your relationship with Christ and how living a Christ-centered life can be more fulfilling than you ever imagined! As a Christian based therapist, my goal is to help others live a healthier and more fulfilling God-centered life, in which one can look back on in 20 years and say, “Yes I have had struggles, and yes I have been challenged, but they didn’t define who I became!” I truly believe we are creatures of habit and are all a work in progress. We can limit ourselves by choosing to avoid uncomfortable and unfamiliar emotions that are associated with change. I believe by utilizing a holistic approach in examining all areas of our lives, we can only then be knowledgeable and intentional about taking responsibility for and making necessary changes to truly allow us to be the truest and healthiest version of our self. Together we will explore and improve your emotional, behavioral, and relationship functioning by utilizing skills learned through Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, among other evidence-based therapeutic approaches. Between academia, career, and life experiences in general, I have been blessed to encourage, challenge, and empower many others to live their best life. A life they are in control of and can wake up in the morning, look in the mirror, and be proud of who they have become and are still aspiring to be. If you are uncomfortable in the life you’re living, stuck in your own head and patterns, then let’s talk and get to work! I challenge you to seek therapy and to be intentional about not only surviving but thriving in this amazing God given journey called life. Through our sessions, we will be working together to establish where you are in your faith and living a Christ-centered life. We will be exploring goals to help you reach your unlimited potential. I would be honored to be by your side every step of the way! If at any point you feel we’re not making progress or we are not a good fit, we can discuss alternative treatment options, such as making a referral to someone who might be a better fit for your unique situation. “Learn to work harder on yourself than you do on your job. If you work hard on your job you’ll make a living, but if you work hard on yourself you’ll make a fortune” - John Rohn My personal statement of faith is in direct alignment with that of Faithful Counseling's online platform: Statement of Faith "I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought." 1 Corinthians 1:10 Paul's message for the Corinthian church calls us to a very high standard. When we observe the many denominations and theological rifts within the Christian church today, it can seem a daunting task to be "perfectly united in mind and thought." Despite this, I believe that these differences in thought that exist in the church needn't outweigh the greater truths that bind us together, and it is important that all members of Faithful Counseling--therapists and members alike--make an effort to strive toward being united in Christ under what matters most. I believe this will lead to the most successful therapy sessions, and any further details around theological leanings needn't be pressed. In order to reach common ground on what I believe are the most fundamental truths, and being a member of this platform, have agreed to the following core tenets of faith: 1. I believe that the Bible is the word of God, a collection of divinely-inspired writings that have been preserved for each generation, inspired by the Holy Spirit, and the only authoritative and infallible rule of Christian faith and practice. ("All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16-17 ESV) 2. I believe in the Triune nature of God (Trinitarianism), that He is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in one. ("Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." Matthew 28:19-20 ESV) 3. I believe the only true basis of Christian fellowship is Christ's (agape) love, which is greater than differences one may possess, and without which we have no right to claim ourselves Christians. ("Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." John 14:6 ESV) 4. I believe salvation is by God's grace through faith in Jesus Christ who died for our sins and rose again, providing eternal redemption to those who believe. It is not by our works or works of the law. ("For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." Ephesians 2:8-9 ESV)
Janet Ferrell
Hello, I'm Janet Ferrell. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Service Provider additionally. I have worked in mental health for over 30 years in a variety of settings. I have worked with individuals with addiction issues, domestic violence, mental health issues, inpatient and outpatient treatment. I have a background of working with adolescents and adults but not small children. I have experience in many types of therapy but excel in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I enjoy mindfulness and guided imagery techniques. I believe therapy must be individualized to the client and not a one fits all experience. We are all unique and special in our own ways. I strive to create a safe space where the client feels comfortable opening up. I hope to hear from you so we can start the journey of therapy together. It takes a brave person to pursue change but I believe if that is your goal it can be achieved.
David Thomas
From the first breath of life to the last, relationship with others is a living passion. When relating becomes dysfunctional, life is turned inside out and upside down. Through practiced clinical skills, client sensitivity, and compassion born through faith, the therapeutic approach I bring to clients can foster a life-balance of living, loving, and relating once again, or for the first time ever. It can be a difficult task. I am here to help make it easier. In addition to a normal practice of building healthy relationships and families, I also specialize in working with children and adolescents experiencing trauma and crisis. I also provide Prolonged Exposure Therapy for adults suffering with PTSD resulting from domestic violence, sexual abuse, combat, or first responder situations. Efficacy of treatment is validated and enhanced in my practice through purposeful utilization of quality assessment tools. These tools help take the guess work out of diagnosis and treatment, and help facilitate a brief therapy approach, reducing therapeutic involvement and investment from months of work to a matter of weeks. On a personal note, I have been married for 46 years and have two wonderful adult children and two fabulous grandsons! I hold a Master of Church Music degree from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and a Master of Psychology Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Palm Beach Atlantic University. I have a pet cat named Soxy, who loves me as much as I love her!
Sabrina Lewis
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have 8 years of combined experience and education in the mental health/counseling field with specialized education and training in trauma and rehabilitation. I use a client centered approach with cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy approaches to help clients navigate through life’s most challenging circumstances. It takes courage and strength to ask for help and I appreciate you trusting me to guide you through your healing process.
Juanita Gamache
"No shame or judgment" we all need a safe place to unpack our thoughts, feelings, and experiences. None of us gets through life without support, connection, and understanding. I want to create that place for you. I want to help you be understood, resource you with options, and be with you on your healing journey. Today is a new day. I look forward to talking with you and meeting you. Online virtual connecting by video or phone is a great way to feel safe, both physically and socially. With any digital video or audio device you can be in your car, at a park, at a cafe, or on your sofa and have instant connection with me-someone trained and licensed to help you process and sort out whatever uncertainties you may have. Step one is admitting you need help, that is your strength today. To walk toward life requires courage. Contact me. A three stranded cord is not easily broken: you, me, and your Faith!
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.
Mindy Hopper
I am licensed in Tennessee with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & trauma. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
James Ward
The relationship between client and therapist is a foundational piece of successful outcomes. I am dedicated to providing my clients with a treatment experience that is nonjudgemental, professional, but personable , and includes objectivity, guidance and feedback to support them in reaching their personal goals. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider in Tennessee. My 24 year career has provided me opportunities to work with people from all walks of life. I have extensive experience working with families, members of the adoption triad, survivors of trauma, and those struggling with addiction and their family members. In addition, I have experience in helping clients with LGTBQ+ related life issues, depression, stress and anxiety, divorce, grief, post-rehabilitation adjustment, shame, anger, relationship issues, religious trauma, and overall trauma and abuse. To conclude, the decision to invest in yourself and start therapy takes courage. If I can be of help to you in your efforts I will be honored.
Mary Adams
I am licensed in Tennessee with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our 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!
Keshia Dunn
I am licensed in Tennessee with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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.
Soncharre Hodges
I am licensed in Tennessee with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & depression. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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.
Bradley Clayton
I am licensed in Tennessee with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, despression, concentration, & memory. I also have experience working with focus. 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. 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.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Gainesboro, Tennessee
Finding a therapist near you in Gainesboro, Tennessee starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Tennessee 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 Tennessee, 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 Tennessee, 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 Tennessee
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Tennessee, 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 Tennessee
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' copay is as low as $15, some pay $0.
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 Tennessee
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Tennessee 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 Tennessee
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Tennessee, including residents in Gainesboro.
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 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' copay is as low as $15 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' copay is as low as $15 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 Gainesboro, Tennessee
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Gainesboro and the surrounding TN area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.