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 Tianna Burroughs (she/her)'s avatar and link to their profile

Tianna Burroughs (she/her)

Offering therapy in TN
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
6 years of experience

Hello! If you are exploring Better Help, it is likely you are going through something really challenging and I am proud of you for taking the brave step of seeking help. When looking for a therapist, it's important to find one whose style and experience feels right for you. The relationship and comfort level between the client and therapist can make or break your therapy experience. I want this to be a comforting and safe space for you to share your feelings. I would like to share a little about myself to help you decide if I might be a good match for you. My name is Tianna and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my undergraduate degree in Human Development/Family Studies and Master's degree in Social Work from Indiana University in 2009. I have worked in a variety of clinical settings including: home-based, schools, youth shelters, residential programs, and inpatient psychiatric hospitalization. I have years of experience working with individuals of all ages and a wide array of challenges. Some of these challenges include depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, divorce, parenting struggles and crisis stabilization. Growing up in an impoverished area of northern Indiana, I experienced or witnessed many of these issues first hand, which helps me have a greater sense of understanding and empathy for my clients and this is also what lead me down my career path. My style is warm, compassionate and nonjudgmental but I am also honest and direct with my clients. I believe my clients are the experts on their lives and determine the direction and depth of therapy. Using strength-based and solution focused approaches, I hope to draw out a deeper understanding of the challenges my clients face while guiding them to find the solutions by building on the skills, knowledge and abilities they often don't know they have. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to assist clients in learning how their thoughts influence their feelings and behaviors often keeping them from achieving the progress they hope for. I also believe in the benefits of mindfulness and breathing exercises to help with regulating emotions. I value the feedback from my clients and encourage them to let me know if something we are doing is not working for them. On a personal level, I took several years off to stay home with my twins and also raise my teenage niece. We have moved frequently due to my husband's career who also works in mental health. In addition to Indiana we have lived in Texas and Tennessee. I enjoy outdoor adventures, yoga and interior design in my free time.

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Carla Murray

Offering therapy in TN
License: LPC-MHSP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP) with over 12 years in experience. I specialize in helping clients to overcome daily life concerns, including physical, mental, and emotional abuse, anxiety, anger, depression, coping with grief, family issues, conflict resolution, midlife changes/crisis, low self esteem, and self care, so that they can once again live purposeful and joy-filled lives. Having overcome life-altering losses or stressors of my own, I have given the tools to help others do the same. My approach to counseling is meeting the client where he/she is, being open, honest and compassion.I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Brief Focused Solution Therapy, and Mindfulness/Meditation. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Carol Williams

Offering therapy in TN
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of Alabama, Arkansas and Tennessee. I have been a therapist for 20 years , working with individual , couples and family. My main focus at this time is working with individuals. My therapy approach is based on Client Centered Therapy as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I also enjoy including Mindfulness activities to reduce stress and anxiety. During my years as a Counselor I have had the opportunity to learn and grow both on a professional level and personal level. I have grown as much from my interactions with clients as I have from educational experiences. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing life transitions which often can lead to feelings of depression and anxiety. I enjoy helping individuals find their life path that leads to passion and purpose. I can relate, as I have experienced many life transitions, and although difficult, finding the right path feels wonderful! Too often we are interested in making changes, but just don't know how to begin. The desire for change is healthy, but can be overwhelming, sometimes leading to feelings of anxiety, depression and loneliness. My job is to listen to your feelings, concerns and stressors. Not only will I listen, but I will actively collaborate with you to help you determine the changes that will lead to you feeling more fulfilled and happy. Whether you are having difficulties dealing with grief issues, feeling unfulfilled in your work or family life, or find that you just aren't coping well you are not alone. I would love to help you recover you passions and joy.

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Mary Hamm

Offering therapy in TN
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
14 years of experience

Hello! My name is Mary and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Tennessee where I have been practicing for more than 12 years. Through my career, I have the honor and privilege of serving individuals of all ages navigate various life challenges and gain the self-awareness and confidence to be their best. I believe life is a journey with many ups and downs and twists and turns. I specialize in helping others who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and/or mood, postpartum, and eating disorders. These are often brought on by major life events, parenting difficulties, career challenges, weight struggles, or general lack of life direction. I encourage mindfulness and coach my clients to focus on the here and now and what they can control in order to create a better tomorrow. I use an eclectic model approach which is flexible, multifaceted and client-driven therapy. I believe each client is unique and I strive to tailor my approach to ensure the most effective methods available to address the client's individual needs. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, trauma-focused therapy and have extensive training in yoga for mood/trauma/addiction, ADHD and addiction. Happiness and fulfillment is not reserved only for some. We all have a special place in this world and are meant to shine. If you are experiencing a setback, it would be my pleasure to get to know you and help you gain control of what is holding you back.

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Kristin Money

Offering therapy in TN
License: M. Ed.,NCC,LPC-MHSP
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hello! My name is Kristin and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (with Mental Health Service Provider designation) in the state of Tennessee. I received my Master of Education degree, specializing in Mental Health Counseling, in 2013. My personal background consists of surviving domestic violence and narcissistic abuse. I have been providing individual counseling since 2012, with an empathic and validating focus on the individual. I am LGBTQIA+ and Gender Accepting and Affirming. I enjoy working with people from different backgrounds and perspectives. I do not provide counseling from a Christian based perspective. I have been trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and many trauma informed techniques, which I pull from to create an eclectic therapy experience. Former clients have told me that I really listen, and am highly sensitive to their concerns, which are the highest compliments that I have ever received. I find joy in assisting my clients with alleviating trauma symptoms, recognizing harmful family patterns and uncovering individual strengths. My "niche" is working with neurodivergent people who have experienced narcissistic abuse to help them cultivate a sense of self and create inner safety. Therapy is at your pace since proper healing is not on a timeline. We will work together to uncover deep rooted trauma, staying sensitive to your healing needs. Per state licensing regulations, I am only able to practice in the state of Tennessee, with residents who physically reside in the state of Tennessee. This means that if you are on vacation in another state, we cannot begin counseling services until you are physically back in the state of Tennessee. BetterHelp is not a crisis platform or replacement for crisis services. For Crisis in Tennessee: call 855-274-7471 or text “TN” to 741-741. If you are in need of housing and other immediate assistance, please reach out to your local county department for social services, or other community resources. Please keep this in mind when choosing me as your therapist.

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Aaron Free

Offering therapy in TN
License: MS,LPC-MHSP
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
7 years of experience

I specialize in SAFE EMDR, a mind/body approach to healing. Through this modality, I will assist you in getting to the root of your concerns and engage your body’s natural inclination to heal. I also specialize in Present Moment Awareness. This is a type of mindfulness that assists in noticing the fullness of the present.

This is Kristen Kakanis's avatar and link to their profile

Kristen Kakanis

Offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf 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, anger management, & 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. 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.

This is Kristi Gilliam's avatar and link to their profile

Kristi Gilliam

Offering therapy in TN
Relationship issuesSleeping disordersSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
10 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical therapist inVirginia, Tennessee and Idaho with 10 years of professional work experience. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Cynthia Cochran

Offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Colorado, Florida, Missouri and Tennessee with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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!

This is Lakshmie Napagoda's avatar and link to their profile

Lakshmie Napagoda

Offering therapy in TN
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping adult clients with stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, PTSD, coping with grief and loss, and anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I am EMDR trained, CBT and DBT certified. 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! I look forward to meeting you and working with you.

How to find 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 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 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. 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 Oak Ridge 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 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 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)

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 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 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 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 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 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 or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

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:

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?

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 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 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 37830 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 Oak Ridge 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 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 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 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?

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 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 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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