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.
Denise King
I am licensed in Tennessee with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
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!
Monica Jha
Hi, I’m Monica, a licensed therapist and emotional clarity coach offering online therapy across Tennessee. For over a decade, I’ve supported adults navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, family dynamics, trauma, emotional overwhelm, identity shifts, and life transitions. If you’ve been feeling stuck, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Therapy offers a space to explore what’s underneath the surface and create meaningful change from the inside out. My approach is holistic, integrative, and trauma-informed. That means we won’t only focus on fixing problems, we're going to explore your experiences with compassion and curiosity, supporting your mind, body, and emotional world. Depending on your needs and comfort level, I may draw from tools like mindfulness, somatic practices, CBT, Brainspotting, or inner child work to help you reconnect with yourself and feel more grounded. At the heart of my work is the belief that every challenge holds a deeper invitation to know yourself more fully, to relate more intentionally, and to live in alignment with what matters most to you. Together, we’ll create a safe, supportive space where you can process what’s been weighing on you, build emotional clarity, and begin living with more confidence, calm, and connection. If you’re ready to begin this next chapter of your healing, I’d be honored to walk with you. I currently have morning sessions available.
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!
Katherine Cook
As a licensed therapist in Texas, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients address challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions with compassionate, faith-informed guidance. I am particularly dedicated to supporting women, young adults, and individuals seeking to develop deeper self-understanding and resilience. My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based practices with a Christian perspective, creating a supportive environment where clients can explore personal growth, heal from past experiences, and develop healthier coping strategies. I understand the unique struggles related to social anxiety, workplace stress, relationship dynamics, and personal identity. I am committed to walking alongside my clients, offering empathetic support as they work through difficult emotions, build self-love, and discover meaningful pathways forward. My goal is to help you develop stronger communication skills, overcome barriers, and create a more fulfilling life aligned with your values and potential.
Dr. Edward Varner
As a licensed therapist in Tennessee, I bring over 30 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate depression, relationship dynamics, trauma recovery, and personal growth. I specialize in working with men, veterans, first responders, and individuals managing mood disorders, offering a compassionate and understanding approach. My therapeutic style is rooted in Christian values and a conservative perspective, creating a safe space for clients seeking aligned counseling. I focus on holistic healing, addressing challenges like communication difficulties, body image concerns, sexual assault recovery, and multicultural experiences. My approach emphasizes self-love, healthy coping strategies, and rebuilding personal resilience. I am committed to walking alongside clients through their unique journeys, offering professional guidance with empathy and respect. Whether you're dealing with posttraumatic stress, family dynamics, or personal transformation, I'm here to support your path toward healing and growth.
Judith Bookman
I am Judy Bookman, licensed in Tennessee with over 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, career difficulties, executive coaching, & coping with life changes. I have special interests in working with individuals who are facing medical challenges, such as ostomies, amputations, and life-threatening diagnoses; and with people whose size is atypical. I also prefer to work with individuals over age 35. 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. For most of us, there is more right with us than there is wrong. 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, and sometimes guide you in that journey. My mantra is, "For something to change, you have to do something different." I tend to be direct, but not directive, in my work. I also believe that most therapeutic work is done outside the counseling session, through homework and tracking emotions and behaviors. My commitment is to work with you in my best professional capacity to promote your growth and healing.
Leigh Ann Whitus
I am so glad you are here and considering taking the first step in your therapeutic journey. Beginning therapy can feel intimidating, and my goal is to create a welcoming, supportive space where you can openly discuss life's challenges and feel comfortable being your authentic self. I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California and currently practice as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I believe therapy is most effective when it is a collaborative process, and I am committed to helping you feel supported, empowered, and encouraged as you work toward your personal goals and growth. I offer compassionate, individualized therapy for trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and family stressors. I use CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches. Christian counseling is available upon request, and I provide culturally sensitive care to clients from diverse backgrounds. During our first session, we will explore what brings you to therapy, discuss your concerns, and begin identifying goals for our work together. My aim is to create a supportive, collaborative environment where you feel heard and understood.
Mitchell McDonald
I am licensed in Tennessee and Oregon with 6 years of professional work experience in Mental Health Therapy. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, managing their emotions and setting boundaries in relationships. I have experience working with youth and adults. I believe in treating everyone with respect and that all people have the capacity for good. I have experience with a variety of different treatment modalities and will tailor my approach for each individual client. I am excited to work with you!
Sara Gatlin
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!
Kenneth O'Hearn
I am licensed in Tennessee with three years of professional therapy experience, but my work helping people in crisis began long before that. Before becoming a therapist, I spent 25 years as a board-certified paramedic, responding to emergencies where trauma, addiction, and mental health struggles were often at the forefront. I also served 10 years in the USAF, where I witnessed firsthand the toll that high-stress environments take on the mind and body. I have experience helping clients navigate addiction recovery, trauma, abuse, anger management, and bipolar disorder, as well as working with those struggling with depression. I believe that you are the expert of your own story and that within you are strengths you may not even realize yet—strengths that will help you overcome life’s challenges. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I know how hard it can be to reach out, but you don’t have to do this alone. I am here to support and walk alongside you in your healing journey.
Harmon Southerland
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.
Jennifer Wilmore
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!
Brie Vogt
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples, and families navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, life transitions, parenting stress, communication difficulties, trauma, and feelings of being stuck or overwhelmed. I have experience working in community mental health, school-based settings, and private practice with adolescents, adults, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds. My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical. I believe therapy should be a space where you feel heard, respected, and challenged to grow at a pace that feels manageable. I work from a relationship-focused and systems perspective while integrating evidence-based approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), motivational interviewing, and solution-focused interventions. Rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach, I tailor treatment to your goals, strengths, and individual needs. Whether you are working through relationship stress, struggling with anxiety, adjusting to life changes, or trying to break patterns that no longer serve you, therapy can help create clarity and movement forward. Reaching out can feel difficult, but you do not have to figure it out alone. I look forward to supporting you in building meaningful and lasting change.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Oak Ridge, Tennessee
Finding a therapist near you in Oak Ridge, 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 Oak Ridge.
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 Oak Ridge, Tennessee
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Oak Ridge and the surrounding TN area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.