About 25 miles west of Knoxville, Tennessee, you will find the quaint little town of Oak Ridge. This town was the site of the Manhattan Project, which was the project between the Canadians, British, and Americans to develop the atomic bomb. Because of this, the town is nicknamed “The Atomic City.” However, it is a safe place to live and there is absolutely no danger of any kind of radioactivity anywhere in the town. 

Living in a small town can be a benefit for many, especially those who suffer from anxiety disorders like social anxiety. If just the thought of entering a crowded room makes you feel panicked, you need to talk to one of the dedicated counselors in the town of Oak Ridge. 

This is Elizabeth Jones's avatar and link to their profile

Elizabeth Jones

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, my name is Elizabeth, but everyone calls me Ellie. I have a master's degree in Social Work and Criminal Justice. I am a LCSW, licensed in KY and TN. My primary focus has been with people in addiction and people with a trauma history. I enjoy working with all populations and strongly believe that people have everything they need to change their situation and outlook within. In order to help others meet their treatment goals, I typically use strengths-based, cognitive behavioral therapy, client-centered approaches, and dialectical behavioral therapy. My experience with individuals and families has been in the residential setting, family therapy, group therapy, and individual therapy settings. I look forward to working with every client, as I know that they are worthy and deserving of any change they so desire.

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Amanda Burns

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN
Counselor License Type(s): EdS, LPC-MHSP
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

After completing my Masters of Arts and Education Specialist degrees at Tennessee Technological University, I spent 8 years in the Nashville area. I obtained my license through supervised clinical work with the Vanderbilt Community Mental Health Center. Our team provided individual, group, and family therapy within Nashville Metro Schools Special Education program for Emotionally Disturbed children and adolescents, plus we aided educators and families with development of behavior intervention plans and classroom intervention plans/support. During this time, I also worked in the Vanderbilt Community Health Center providing outpatient therapy to adolescents and adults. Since relocating my experience has focused on working with adults and adolescents, in both residential treatment, and the outpatient setting. For the past 8 years I have been self-employed as a sole proprietor of my own practice, located in a suite that includes a Psychiatrist, two psychiatric nurse practitioners, and another therapist. My training and experience has a wide range, and includes but isn’t limited to the following: Trauma issues, including sexual/physical abuse and PTSD, Grief and loss, Anger management, Crisis intervention, Depression and Anxiety, Parent training regarding behavioral issues, Coping with chronic illness; mental health and general health conditions, and Diagnosing mental health issues.

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Dr. Charnequa “Nena” Kennedy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN
Counselor License Type(s): LPC-MHSP,NCC,ACS
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changesCoachingADHD
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed professional and national board-certified counselor who has been a counseling professional for several years with experience in educational and clinical settings. I have additional years of experience in the non-profit sector, leadership development, and student success within higher education. I work with clients across the lifespan to address different issues that include and are not limited to depression and mood disorders, anxiety, stress, giftedness and performance, ADHD and learning/ behavioral issues, grief and loss, collegiate mental health, and adjustments/transitions. Additionally, I have worked with athletes and performers at different levels (law, medicine, arts/entertainment, business, leadership, and technology) to address clinical concerns and mental skills. My current areas of focus are clinical and, sport and performance. With my experience spanning settings for integrated behavioral health, private practice, and collegiate mental health, I also focus on assisting clients with concerns that disrupt wellness across domains (physical, emotional, professional/academic, spiritual, etc.). My approach to therapy is integrative, and my primary orientations are client-centered, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, strengths-based, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing. I strive to provide affirming services grounded in multiculturally proficient knowledge of multiple identities that support clients' personal growth. Beginning counseling is a courageous step towards being one's best self. My role in the therapeutic relationship is to walk alongside clients and facilitate that process by creating a safe, brave, and comfortable space that empowers clients. Developing therapeutic goals is a collaborative process focusing on a client's strengths and values for optimal functionality. I look forward to working with you as you begin your journey towards growth that aligns with areas of overall wellness and life satisfaction for you.

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Audra Tate-Kennedy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuse
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Tennessee with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I also have experience working with trauma and abuse. 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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Dana Townsend

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
19 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Tennessee with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Mychell Mitchell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN
AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Tennessee with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & career difficulties. 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.

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Julia Hanneken

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Tennessee with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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. 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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Deborah Kelly

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Welcome! I'm Deborah, and I'm thrilled to embark on this journey with you toward personal growth and fulfillment. As a mental health therapist, I bring a laid-back style and a genuine commitment to helping you uncover your strengths and achieve your goals. My approach to counseling is rooted in authenticity, compassion, and collaboration. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly. Whether you're facing challenges, seeking clarity, or striving to reach your full potential, I'm here to support and empower you every step of the way. With a deep respect for each individual's unique journey, I tailor my therapeutic techniques to meet your specific needs and preferences. Together, we'll work to identify barriers, cultivate resilience, and cultivate meaningful changes that align with your values and aspirations. Above all, my goal is to see everyone I work with thrive and live their most authentic lives. I'm here to listen, guide, and cheer you on as you navigate life's ups and downs, and I look forward to accompanying you on this transformative path. Let's embark on this journey together and unlock the incredible potential that lies within you.

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Kevin Bolton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Tennessee with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & depression. I specialize in working with clients on the autism spectrum and have training in working with people in the military. 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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Michael Gardner

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I have been an LCSW in Tennessee for 22 years. I have worked with adults and couples. Geriatric patients in long term care and homeless Veterans. Using Mindfulness,I have helped clients reduce stress and anxiety. By increasing coping skills, motivation, self esteem & confidence grows. I offer an environment of acceptance, understanding and compassion . Your psychotherapy sessions allow me to get to know you to create an individual intervention and offer viable options to facilitate change. Using Supportive Psychotherapy , healing happens .The first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Oak Ridge

Finding the best therapist close by in Oak Ridge 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 in Oak Ridge that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Oak Ridge. 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 Oak Ridge, 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 in the Oak Ridge region and in the state of Tennessee. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Oak Ridge or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Oak Ridge area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge, elsewhere in Anderson, or in the greater state of Tennessee.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge 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 a BetterHelp therapist 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). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this Oak Ridge online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Oak Ridge, 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 Oak Ridge psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional 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, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Oak Ridge 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:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Oak Ridge 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 in Oak Ridge?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Oak Ridge 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.

Oak Ridge therapists 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 Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in TN, therapists 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 37830 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Oak Ridge counselor?

Before seeing your Oak Ridge 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 while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Oak Ridge.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. A Oak Ridge 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 with a Oak Ridge counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Oak Ridge, 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.

Oak Ridge 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Oak Ridge, Tennessee

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 to customer service 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 Oak Ridge.

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

37830, 37831

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