Knoxville, TN, hosted the World’s Fair in 1982, which brought 11 million visitors to the city. The theme that year was “Energy Turns the World,” which is just as apt today as it was back then. If you’re having difficulty finding the mental energy to cope with life’s challenges, talking to a therapist in Knoxville, TN, can give you the support you need to achieve personal growth.

You have several choices for counseling services in Knoxville, but finding the right therapist can be challenging. Working with an in-office therapist can be a good option if you need intensive outpatient treatment. Just keep in mind that you may need to travel down Kingston Pike to find a therapist with an open appointment. Call the number on the back of your insurance card to determine if your policy covers your treatment. 

Another way to connect with a mental health professional without worrying about your insurance company is to use an online therapy platform like BetterHelp. BetterHelp is self-pay and does not take insurance; subscriptions range from $65 to $90 per week (billed every four weeks), which may be more affordable than in-person treatment. 

Whether online or in-person, a therapist can create a non-judgmental space where you can work on behavioral challenges using cognitive behavior therapy or other evidence-based practices. Whether you need help coping with the symptoms of things like anxiety and depression, behavioral issues, or the stress of everyday life, connect with a therapist serving Knoxville below.

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Psychologist Ace Glaspy providing different types of therapy in Knoxville

Ace Glaspy

Clinician
License Type(s): TN LPC 5304
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
5 years offering treatment

Hello, and welcome to my corner of BetterHelp. My name is Ace Glaspy, and I am a licensed mental health counselor in Tennessee. I have had the esteemed opportunity to work in the mental health field for over 17 years with individuals from various walks of life, backgrounds, and cultures. Since becoming a counselor, I have strived to help others shine a light on the roots of their struggles, and write the life story they want to live. Life can be challenging and overwhelming, and I believe we are all trying to find our purpose and place in this world. As a counselor, I believe my clients are the authors of their stories and want to help them write it. When not walking alongside my clients in their journey, I can often be found reading a good book (I am a little bit of a fantasy nut), playing with my kids (the lights in my life that overcome all kinds of darkness), or trying to write one of the many books I have flapping around in my head. Using integrative counseling, I utilize various, evidence and scientifically based methods such as Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, and more to help my clients overcome their past and turn complex situations and decisions into a manageable journey. Life can be hard, but I truly believe anyone can find joy and contentment along their path. My schedule is as follows, with some variation depending on other circumstances: I am in my virtual office Mon, Tues, Sat and Sun. On those days, you can expect responses within a brief time period (sometimes immediately, depending on what I am doing) or in between other clients. Tuesday evening and Wed-Fri, I spend time with my family, and may respond, but it will most likely have time in between responses that I can't really identify surety. But I will respond within 6-8 hours most of the time, even on those days.

Psychologist Christine Nusser providing different types of therapy in Knoxville

Christine Nusser

Clinician
License Type(s): TN LCSW 284
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years offering treatment

ABOUT ME Greetings: My name is Christine Nusser. I am a licensed clinical social worker with a private practice in Tennessee. I have an undergraduate degree from Lipscomb University (psychology major), an MSSW degree (clinical social work major) from the University of Tennessee School of Social Work, and an MBA (finance major) from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. I have been in practice for over 30 years. I am a seasoned therapist experienced in the provision of services for those with chronic mental illnesses, mood disorders, situational disorders, dual diagnoses, substance abuse, life crises, obsessive compulsive disorders, unresolved grief, anxiety disorders, and phobias etc. Services provided are designed to address each individual’s needs and preferences. I am trained and experienced in the use of an array of techniques and will use a specific technique upon request. The mission of my practice is to enable individuals to work towards achieving their goals including the lessening of or relief of symptoms, maintaining stability, achieving personal growth, and increasing self-actualization through the provision of quality, supportive, and affordable therapy. Feedback from clients has been consistently very positive. In fact, the majority of the referrals to the practice come from former clients. SPECIALTIES • Stress, Anxiety • Career difficulties • Bipolar disorder • Depression • Obsessions, compulsions, and OCD Also experienced in: Addictions, LGBT, relationship issues, family conflicts, grief, parenting issues, anger management, self-esteem, career difficulties, coping with life changes, gender dysphoria, HIV/AIDS, phobias, personality disorders, dual diagnosis Clinical approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, Gestalt. Psychodynamic Therapy Years of Experience: 30 years LANGUAGES English

Psychologist John Trainer providing different types of therapy in Knoxville

John Trainer

Clinician
License Type(s): TN LPC-MHSP 307
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
38 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Jacques Causey providing different types of therapy in Knoxville

Jacques Causey

Clinician
License Type(s): TN LPC 6383
Mental Wellness Specialties: GriefAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
9 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Tennessee, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, emotional challenges, and personal growth. My approach centers on empowering clients to develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome barriers like social anxiety, isolation, and workplace stress. With expertise in grief counseling, self-esteem development, and anger management, I create a compassionate space where clients can explore their experiences. I'm particularly passionate about helping individuals work through attachment issues, trauma recovery, and life purpose exploration. My therapeutic practice honors the unique experiences of women, neurodivergent individuals, and those facing family dynamics or caregiving challenges. I draw from evidence-based approaches to support clients in building resilience, understanding themselves more deeply, and creating meaningful change. I believe every person has inherent strength and potential. Together, we'll collaborate to develop strategies that help you move toward healing, self-acceptance, and a more fulfilling life journey.

Psychologist Sara Gatlin providing different types of therapy in Knoxville

Sara Gatlin

Clinician
License Type(s): TN LPC 5032
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Tennessee with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem and confidence, career difficulties, & depression. 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!

Psychologist Shelby Johnson providing different types of therapy in Knoxville

Shelby Johnson

Clinician
License Type(s): TN LPC-MHSP 5940
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCompassion fatigue
5 years offering treatment

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, & trauma and abuse. 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!

Psychologist Reginald Butler providing different types of therapy in Knoxville

Reginald Butler

Clinician
License Type(s): TN LPC 1551
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
40 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Tennessee with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma, & abuse. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Marvin Amos providing different types of therapy in Knoxville

Marvin Amos

Clinician
License Type(s): TN LPC-MHSP 7937
Mental Wellness Specialties: Trauma and abuseEating disordersBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
12 years offering treatment

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!

Psychologist Brandi Lightsey providing different types of therapy in Knoxville

Brandi Lightsey

Clinician
License Type(s): TX LCSW 41244, VA LCSW 0904016034
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

As a therapist licensed in TX, TN and VA, I bring over 15 years of experience working in mental health across crisis intervention and inpatient psychiatric hospital settings. Throughout my career, I have provided therapy to individuals navigating acute distress, complex diagnoses, and life-altering transitions. My work has placed me on the front lines of the mental health system, where I’ve seen firsthand both its potential to help and the ways it can overwhelm and fail the people it’s meant to serve. I am a strong advocate for my clients. I believe therapy should be collaborative, transparent, and grounded in respect for each person’s lived experience. Many of my clients come to me feeling confused, unheard, or worn down by the psychiatric system. I help them make sense of that chaos — whether that means understanding diagnoses, navigating treatment options, or reclaiming a sense of agency in their care. Many individuals living with grief find comfort in working with a therapist who brings both professional training and personal understanding to the therapeutic space. I experienced the sudden loss of my brother as a young adult and later supported a close friend throughout a multi-year cancer journey. These experiences shaped my deep respect for the complexity of grief, resilience, and the emotional impact of life-altering transitions. While each person’s path is unique, I strive to offer a grounded, compassionate presence where clients feel supported, understood, and never alone in their healing process.

Psychologist Tera O'Connor providing different types of therapy in Knoxville

Tera O'Connor

Clinician
License Type(s): TN LMFT 2845
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
23 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Tennessee, I bring over two decades of experience supporting individuals through life’s complex challenges. My practice specializes in helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, self-esteem concerns, career transitions, and major life changes. I focus on empowering individuals through various life stages, from workplace dynamics to pregnancy, childbirth, and midlife transitions. My approach centers on helping clients strengthen self-worth, improve communication, and reconnect with a deeper sense of purpose. I’m especially drawn to supporting individuals navigating relationship stress, major life transitions, and the emotional demands of caring deeply for others while trying not to lose themselves in the process. My therapeutic style is compassionate and collaborative, designed to help you build resilience, gain clarity, and create meaningful personal growth. I believe each person has unique strengths and the capacity to move through challenges with support, insight, and intention. Together, we’ll develop practical strategies that support your emotional well-being and help you move toward a more grounded, fulfilling life.

Psychologist Harmon Southerland providing different types of therapy in Knoxville

Harmon Southerland

Clinician
License Type(s): TN LPC-MHSP 7824
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
4 years offering treatment

As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life challenges. My professional approach centers on helping clients develop resilience, self-understanding, and effective coping strategies across diverse areas including depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, and life transitions. I bring compassionate expertise to addressing workplace stress, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. My practice focuses on supporting young adults, veterans, and individuals experiencing mood disorders, sexual health concerns, and interpersonal communication challenges. My therapeutic work honors each client's unique journey, creating a supportive environment that empowers personal transformation. I'm committed to helping individuals develop self-love, explore life purpose, and build meaningful strategies for emotional wellness. Whether you're confronting past traumas, managing stress, or seeking personal growth, I'm here to support your healing process with empathy, professional guidance, and evidence-based practice with EMDR, DBT, CBT, or TF-CBT.

Psychologist Jennifer Wilmore providing different types of therapy in Knoxville

Jennifer Wilmore

Clinician
License Type(s): TN LMFT 995
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
18 years offering treatment

I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in in Tennessee with almost 20 years of experience working in clinical practice. I work with clients who experience a wide range of symptoms and concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I have also worked with many people who have experienced trauma and emotional abuse as well as those who are dealing with PTSD including the veteran population. 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, psychodynamic, and rational-emotive therapy and incorporates faith as a major component of your healing. EMDR is a common tool I utilize to help clients process past events and embrace their full potential. 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!

Psychologist Tiffany Pulliam providing different types of therapy in Knoxville

Tiffany Pulliam

Clinician
License Type(s): TN LPC-MHSP 7067
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
5 years offering treatment

I’m a licensed therapist who works with adults navigating anxiety, trauma, depression, relationship stress, burnout, life transitions, and emotional overwhelm. My approach incorporates EMDR, CBT, and DBT techniques while focusing on creating a space that feels genuine, supportive, and judgment free. I value helping clients better understand themselves, build healthier coping skills, and feel more confident navigating the challenges they face both internally and in their daily lives.

Psychologist Samantha McKnight providing different types of therapy in Knoxville

Samantha McKnight

Clinician
License Type(s): TN LPC-MHSP 7521
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years offering treatment

Are you feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about your path forward? You don’t have to face it alone. With years of experience and training, I offer compassionate support to help you navigate through life’s toughest challenges. Whether you’re dealing with relationship issues, stress, trauma, or the weight of grief and loss, I am here to listen and guide you toward healing. I also specialize in supporting individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, family conflict, body image, self-esteem, substance abuse, and domestic violence. Together, we’ll work to create a safe space where you can heal, grow, and rediscover your strength. My name is Samantha McKnight, and I am a master ’s-level clinician with a LPC-MHSP license. I have been working in the mental health field for seven years. I provide a safe, supportive and non-judgmental environment for my clients. I believe in working as a team and allowing clients to set the pace throughout treatment. Regardless of what you are facing, you don’t have to face it alone. In a safe, supportive space, we will work collaboratively to help you heal and find clarity. Together, we’ll explore your challenges and work toward meaningful change. It’s okay to ask for help—let’s take the first step toward a brighter, more balanced future. Reach out today.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Knoxville, Tennessee

Finding a therapist near you in Knoxville, 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' average copay is $23 per session. 

You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in 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 Knoxville.

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' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

Is online therapy effective?

Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.

How quickly can I start therapy?

You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy discreet?

Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.

Find a Therapist in Knoxville, Tennessee

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Knoxville and the surrounding TN area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

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