Athens is known as the black eyed pea capital. There are definitely a lot of black eyed peas grown in the area. Southerners will tell you that black eyed peas are good luck when eaten on New Year’s Day. There are a lot of theories about what lies behind this tradition, but they all revolve around the Civil War and the freeing of the slaves.

While it can be debated whether or not black eyed peas are good luck, it is certain that luck will be on your side if you need help with mental or emotional strife. Athens-area counselors are available at all times to offer you assistance to improve your life, although it may take work rather than luck.

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Maja Steele

Offering therapy in TX
License: LPC-S, LCDC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in the state of Texas. I have over 10 years experience working in a variety of settings, including but not limited to inpatient psychiatric hospitals and outpatient therapy. My specialties are codependency and addictions related issues. My goal is to help each person be free of any addiction whether it be to drugs, alcohol, gambling, shopping or pornography. I have helped many couples work through these issues which were destroying their relationships with others. My counseling style is client centered and respectful. My approach is warm and interactive and tailored to fit each client's current issue. I do not believe in a cookie cutter approach and believe each person's experience in life (negative and positive) affect our rational and irrational beliefs about the world and sometimes these can be identified and positively changed if possible. I commend each client's willingness to take the courage to find a more fulling life which is built upon their individual purpose in life. If you are ready to take that step, please let me know how I can support you in these positive steps. My goal is to provide the support you need to live the life you want. Sometimes change can be painful but it need not be debilitating. Sometimes finding a supportive counselor is necessary to work through these life changes. I look forward to working with you!

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Rebecca Wedel

Offering therapy in TX
License: LCSW
AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who believes that to have a successful outcome in therapy, the client and therapist must first build a strong rapport. Once that foundation is laid, I will use one of several therapeutic modalities, depending on the issue at hand. These modalities may include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, and Psychotherapy. An Integrated approach can be utilized as well. I have my Master's in Social Work, the advanced clinical License for LCSW, and recently I achieved the goal of becoming a Certified Dementia Specialist. I have worked in many modalities. Individual Therapy, Medical/Surgical, High-Risk pregnancy and miscarriages, Inpatient Psychiatric help, and Rehab. My husband and I have moved 11 times, so each job was a new learning adventure, and the stress of moving and helping children adjust something I well understand. Some of my strengths are being a good listener, caring, sensitive, and energetic. Not only do I have the necessary credentials, experience, and hours to be licensed, but I also has a lifetime of experience and wisdom to draw from, which is invaluable! Lately, I have been working with caregivers that are taking care of their elderly parents and their children, while trying to have a life. It's a tough job! There are other areas that are prevalent now: such as your expectations of yourself: For example, "All my friends are married and having kids and I'm not, I feel alone". Another common one is, "my kids have left home....I have lost my identity, what do I do". Lastly, a big one is " my family/friends do not approve/understand of my partner/career choice/lifestyle/choice". Each one of these have taken prominence in our culture in the last 15 years and it can be difficult to navigate. I have heard people say that, "Your perception is your reality". What if you don't even know what that perception is? That's where we can work together. Personally I love yoga, digging in my yard, mindfulness, and University of Kentucky Basketball! 2 of my 3 kids went to UK. So Go Big Blue! Please let me know any questions or concerns and I would be happy to help. Best Regards Rebecca

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Mason (Trae) Sweatt

Offering therapy in TX
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
7 years of experience

Trae Sweatt, MA, LPC has worked in churches for 16 years and has counseled clients for over 7 years. His experiences in working with clients and churches have provided opportunities to work through difficult circumstances as well as lead through change. Trae's counseling and pastoral background has been centered around students (8-18 years of age) as well as individuals and couples. Trae has a heart to see each client work through their past and current circumstances in order to realize their purpose and potential.

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Karen Evanson

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementADHD
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Oklahoma with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and focus (ADHD). I am also a certified Hypnotherapist. 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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Kassandra Tirres

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuse
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 4 years of professional work experience. I have spent the majority of this time working with teens and adults who struggle with addictions. Prior to my experience in addictions I worked with children and pre-teens who fell under the umbrella of Autism spectrum disorder. I have experience helping clients through various life stressors and have also provided family and couples counseling. I believe in treating all my clients with the utmost respect and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I understand that taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am looking forward to guiding you through this process and helping you get the most that you can from this experience!

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Beverly Brin

Offering therapy in TX
Relationship issuesGriefParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, depression and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, and finding new meaning in life. Working with clients, I strive to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Each client is an expert on their own life. My job is to try to view whatever my clients are struggling with through THEIR eyes so we can find solutions that work for them. 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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Rhonda Osei-Bonsu

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
7 years of experience

I commend you for your interest in exploring the opportunities that counseling has to offer. Life is full of joys and disappointments, successes and setbacks. Most of life’s issues can be managed personally, with family or friends, or with the assistance of churches, schools, or other supportive institutions. Other times, however, individuals and families have found it helpful to seek the assistance of trained and experienced professionals. While the extent and nature of my interventions may vary, I strongly believe that all people possess the personal strength and the means to improve their own lives if provided with the necessary guidance and support. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I consider it my calling and my duty to assist others in finding or regaining the tools necessary to function independently again. I believe that our behavior, emotions, and thoughts are all intertwined, but that we are largely guided by our perceptions of ourselves, others, and our world. I also believe in a holistic approach to growth and healing that takes into consideration our relationships, social and cultural issues, our physical state, and our faith and spirituality. My faith provides a foundation for my life and for the work I do, and I welcome the exploration of one’s spiritual journey as a component of the counseling process. Since individuals and their problems are unique and diverse, the interventions and approaches designed to address them should be equally so. My practice is based largely on cognitive-behavioral therapy but employs a broad range of additional techniques including homework assignments, group work, suggested readings, activities, and identifying ways to expand your own support network. I work with clients on a broad variety of issues. Your unique situation will be explored during a standard intake assessment, and I will be happy to make a referral should we both agree that it is in your best interest. All appointments will be arranged directly between client and counselor and are typically scheduled for forty-five minutes each but may vary as needed. Appointments are to be respected and kept. A notice of cancellation should be given more than twenty-four hours prior to the scheduled time. I have earned a bachelor’s degree (BS) in Psychology from Regent University in Virginia Beach, Virginia and a master’s degree (MA) in Professional Counseling from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia. My graduate studies have included Individual Counseling, Psychopathology, Career Counseling, Marriage and Family Counseling, Group Counseling, Counseling Children and Their Families, Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment, and Diagnosis and Treatment of Addictive Behaviors. I also hold a Mental Health/Substance Abuse Prevention Certificate from Eastfield College in Dallas, Texas. My most extensive “field experience” has been pastoral counseling, school setting, and suicide prevention. My counseling experience is largely focused on issues of trauma, depression, anxiety, life purpose, identity, and spirituality. I have conducted counseling with individuals, couples, families, and groups across a wide variety of settings. I have also worked with people of different ages, gender, race, ethnicity, income levels, religious beliefs, and backgrounds embracing each individual’s uniqueness. I will not refuse my services for any of these reasons. Your confidentiality is important to me and is crucial to the counseling process. I will carefully protect any information you provide to me or that I collect or produce on your behalf. All information provided within the context of counseling, including the intake process, whether verbal, written, or otherwise recorded, will remain locked and will not be shared with anyone without your written consent. Exceptions to confidentiality are limited to the following: in cases of imminent harm to the client or others; when information pertains to the abuse or neglect of a child, elderly person, or otherwise vulnerable person; or under court order. Should you, for any reason, find yourself dissatisfied with the counseling process, I ask that you bring this to my attention immediately. Your concerns will be handled seriously and, ideally, within the counseling relationship. Thank you for choosing Rhonda Osei-Bonsu, LPC for your counseling services. This disclosure was designed to give you information about your time in therapy.

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Thomas Birchfield

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with over 12 years of experience working with clients as they navigate life's challenges including changes in health, relationship issues, work stress, and caregiving. The majority of my work has centered around health psychology and helping clients achieve their personal goals for health and wellness. My therapeutic approach is grounded in cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and solution-focused therapy. But I believe in tailoring the therapy experience to the unique needs and goals of each client. Research shows that the most critical component of successful therapy is the strength of the therapeutic relationship. I therefore endeavor, first and foremost, to develop a positive, collaborative relationship where you feel understood and confident that we are moving in a direction that meets your needs. Just by taking these first few steps to get connected with support, you are already doing a lot to get you closer to where you want to be. Great job!

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Adrianna White

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & bipolar disorder. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Deva Roy

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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.

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How to find counseling in Athens

Finding the best therapist close by in Athens 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 Athens. 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 Athens, 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens, elsewhere in Henderson, or in the greater state of Texas.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens may not take health insurance, some in the state of Texas 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 Texas 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 Athens, Texas 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 TX, 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 75751 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens, Texas 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.

Athens 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 Athens.

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

75751, 75752

Popular cities near Athens, TX

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