Your mental state can be a struggle when it comes to achieving wellness. Stress, anxiety, self-doubts, and other challenges can bring you down. One way you can fix this is by talking to a counselor. A counselor based in Knoxville can help you maintain peace of mind when the challenges seem too strong. 

Knoxville is known for being the spot to go if you want to explore the Smokey Mountains. However, if you want to climb your own mental mountain, and reach the top, a counselor can help you improve your mental state and allow you to scale your mountain no matter its height.

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Lisa May

Offering therapy in TN
License: LPC-MHSP
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

Hello, my name is Lisa May. First thing to know about me is I am a very down to earth but a professional counselor and will take your issue serious. I have been working in and around the field of therapy since 2002 and before that I worked in Social Work since 1996. I am originally from Kentucky where I had my own private practice for a couple of years before moving to Tennessee. I have worked with a variety of different issues such as grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction just to name a few, however those are the issues I feel I work best with and have the most experience with. I love what I do and will probably do this until I retire. I enjoy becoming part of a person's journey to healing and watch as they grow into a brighter and better future for themselves and their loved ones. If you are interested in knowing more about me please click on my name above your message. I look forward to working with you.

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Kim Padula

Offering therapy in TN
License: LCSW,MSSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

I have been licensed and practicing since 1995. I studied psychology as an undergraduate at Vanderbilt University. I got my masters in Clinical Social Work with the intention of becoming a therapist. I have a strength based perspective and believe it is important to recognize strengths as well as vulnerabilities. We are all imperfect and we are all survivors. I think the benefits of therapy are perspective, accountability, support and growth. Hopefully, therapy goes beyond insight and self awareness to include a sense of choice in how we respond to the challenges of life. My techniques are grounded in well established and proven approaches and the process is very much a team effort. At the outset we'll review your history focusing on the experiences and relationships that have affected you. We'll identify your objectives and map out a plan and focus for our work which we'll review and maybe revise periodically. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me.

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Elizabeth Dick

Offering therapy in TN
License: LCSW,MDiv
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
3 years of experience

Hello. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who has worked for years with clients who are experiencing life transitions and changes, grief, loss, anxiety, depression, and crises in meaning. I have also worked with clients with infertility, bipolar disorder, and spirituality issues. My style is warm and open to all that you bring to our work together. I believe strongly that each of us holds the solutions we seek on our journey. I welcome the opportunity to accompany you on your search. My approach includes combining narrative, internal family systems, solution focused, client-centered and cognitive behavioural therapies to best suit the dialog between us. It takes great courage and hope to reach out for answers. Congratulations on taking steps that can lead to change in your life. I look forward to working together with you!

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Melissa Herb (she/her)

Offering therapy in TN
License: LCSW
Trauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

My education, 20 years of experience, and license is in clinical social work. As your therapist, I help you to practice the skills related to hope, compassion, and solution focused thinking. If you're feeling lost, and desire help finding the map back to you, then music, art, poetry, and writing can ignite feeling, motivation, and drive. Once the fuel is identified we will use it to help power your ability to heal. Utilizing your resources is key to feeling hopeful. It is very cool to realize your own potential and that what you needed to move forward, you already have. May therapy allow for the revealing of your grit and ability to endure. As you become aware of this energy that is yours, you can begin to use it for yourself right now. What if you use your own power to continue forward and perhaps even discover a new path for healing? All humans know loss. It feels amazing to find hope and to feel found. Your favorite music, art, pets, food, people make you feel alive and connected. Healing is finding that again. Healing is hoping, and having the courage to love and to forgive again. It starts with loving yourself. It can start with our first conversation. I want to help ignite your potential. Oh and of course love is never a mistake. How would it feel to start loving yourself more? Let's talk about reclaiming a future that you're excited about.

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Autumn Altamirano

Offering therapy in TN
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

Hello! My name is Autumn and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 9 years of experience providing therapy services. I have worked in a wide range of therapeutic settings including: private practice, outpatient, and school-based. I work with clients affected by depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, lack of motivation, life transitions, family conflicts, and relationship challenges. I was born and raised in Orange County, California, and currently reside in Nashville, Tennessee. I received an undergraduate degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California. I use a client-centered approach. This means that I begin where you are and view you as the experts on your life. It also means that you determine the direction and depth of therapy. I primarily use evidenced-based techniques, including: cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy. However, based on your needs/presenting problems, I may also incorporate attachment-based therapy and psychodynamic therapy. I would describe my style as warm, real, and supportive. For me, the therapeutic relationship is important. I want you to not only feel comfortable with me but also to trust me. Therapy requires one to be vulnerable, which doesn’t happen if there isn’t a good rapport and therapeutic alliance. Collaboration is also important. Together we will work on establishing goals and steps for you to help overcome your current problems. Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy playing soccer, watching sports, reading, cooking, spending time with my husband and children, and traveling to new places. Thank you for taking the time to learn about me! I look forward to helping you in any way I can!

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Dr. Tara Harvey

Offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
15 years of experience

Tara Harvey is an LPC-MHSP licensed in Tennessee, with 15 years of experience. Educational experience comes from the University of Tennessee, Lindsey Wilson College, and Berea College. Tara’s career has led her to a variety of mental health settings where she has practiced and taught in the therapeutic arena. Tara believes that through therapy, the mind, body, and spirit can be balanced and the difficulties of the past, present, and future can be managed. Using a variety of therapeutic techniques, including but not limited to, CBT, DBT, Positive Psychology, and Person Centered therapy, Tara will work with you to find the therapeutic approach that best fits your needs and addresses your concerns. She specializes in adult and teen issues, interpersonal violence, trauma, anxiety, depression, addictions, PTSD, personal life transitions, and men transitioning from incarceration.  Change begins from within and through the journey of therapy one can become their best self. Come see what that might look like for you! As Ghandi said “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

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Juli Johnson

Offering therapy in TN
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee with 7 1/2 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, anger management, & bipolar disorder. 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.

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Kenya Liddell

Offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas, Mississippi, and Tennessee with over 23 years of mental health work and over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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Julia "Julie" Rotella

Offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementCoachingADHD
33 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Tennessee and have held my licensure for 28 years. I have 33 years of professional work experience in both the public and private sector. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & executive and professional coaching. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I believe compassion and self-compassion are critical components to creating a sense of wellness. I consider myself a Mindfulness Based Therapist and feel this is the best approach to letting go of the past as well as any fears or worries about the future as we strive to fully integrate ourselves within the present. It's really as simple as recognizing where you are at currently and then taking it one goal at a time to get to a place of wholeness and wellness. I am certified in Mindfulness and Well-Being Specialization through Rice University , and I hold a certification in Post Graduate Trauma Treatment awarded by the University of Tennessee, College of Social Work. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and vulnerability so be proud for getting started! Would love to start collaborating with you and to be a part of your journey!

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Amalia Jones

Offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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How to find counseling in Knoxville

Finding the best therapist close by in Knoxville 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 Knoxville. 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 Knoxville, 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville, elsewhere in Knox, 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 Knoxville area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Knoxville 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville, 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville 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 37902 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville, 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.

Knoxville 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 Knoxville.

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

37901, 37902, 37909, 37912, 37914, 37915, 37916, 37917, 37918, 37919, 37920, 37921, 37922, 37923, 37924, 37927, 37928, 37929, 37930, 37933, 37939, 37940, 37950, 37995, 37996, 37997, 37998

Popular cities near Knoxville, TN

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