This is Joey Ratcliff's avatar and link to their profile

Joey Ratcliff

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Chico
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,LMSW
Stress, AnxietyDepression
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist serving Chico

I have been an outpatient mental health practioner since 1998. I have mainly worked with adults with dual diagnosis and mostly in individual sessions. I am a white male, but I am very liberal and multicultural. I am married to an Asian American and live in Southeast Texas with a mainly Hispanic/Mexican American population. I also have several neighbors in the military. I have treated patients on an outpatient basis in clinics for depression, schizophrenia, anxiety, and also with a dual diagnosis involving an addiction. I have several methods for managing stress, anxiety, and anger. I also can do diagnostic impressions via psychosocial assessments and treatment plans. I began my practice in Louisiana in 1998 and I have been practicing in Texas since 2012. I began my practice after earning my degree in counselor education and receiving my LPC. I also hold degrees in psychology at the bachelors and masters level and in social work at the masters level. I speak and understand American English. My LPC Texas license number is 65372 and is currently active. And in June 2021, I passed my ASWB licensing exam in social work. I applied and should get my LMSW certificate in the mail by end of August 2021.

This is Dr. Bruce Buirkle's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Bruce Buirkle

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Chico
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience as a mental health therapist serving Chico

Each person’s story is unique and deserving of quality therapeutic support that fits their individualized needs. I welcome the opportunity to be a support to you on your journey. Counseling is a way to promote growth and healing as you explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in this nonjudgmental space where you can learn how to change in a productive way. My most frequently used approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which explores your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors which are all related. The process involves changing your thoughts your feelings and ultimately your behaviors. There are variants of this approach such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which focuses on mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and emotional regulation. These approaches are easily compatible with other approaches so the treatment can be very individualized, thus made for you. My Experience I have been married and divorced, suffered deaths in my family, and have had many wonderful life experiences and some incredibly difficult ones. In addition, I have worked with a wide variety of clients in a wide variety of situations. I believe you can benefit from my extensive life experiences and from my comprehensive training. My constant motivation is to use myself as a vehicle through which we can work together to resolve whatever it is you are trying to work through. Clinically, I have extensive experience going back over 20 years with a wide variety of clients. Some areas I have worked in include anger management, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and PTSD, both individually and in groups. Other areas include working with families, including children engaging in inappropriate or self-destructive behaviors. I enjoy working with couples for pre-marital, marital, and post-marital counseling. Issues here include conflict about money, parenting, sex, infidelity, in-laws, chronic health issues, infertility, gambling, substance abuse, emotional distance, and frequent conflict, including domestic violence. I have conducted groups for BIPP (Batterers’ Intervention Prevention Training) and worked individually with men who are violent towards women. I have experience helping with substance abuse recovery both individually and in groups. As a Certified Vocational Evaluator and with years of involvement in work-hardening facilities, pain management, and the Workers’ Compensation system. I have led groups and individual counseling for those with chronic pain to help them cope with the pain and the ripple effect throughout life. Although you can learn to live with a disability, it may impact your enjoyment of life, finances, marriage, and career prospects. Part of this process involved performing a vocational assessment to uncover transferable skills so as to recommend what type of work and/or training would be most advantageous for someone to continue to live and thrive while keeping in mind their skills and interests. Outside of my counseling work, I earned a Juris Doctorate in Law and am licensed as an attorney with significant experience as a Mediator, including divorce mediation. In my clinical role as a therapist, I can offer clinical consultations regarding issues related to custody agreements applying, creating, and appropriately following them. Additionally, domestic violence issues such as getting a restraining order, how to regain custody of your children, and many other family law issues. As legal issues sometimes arise, I am happy to give you legal advice but will not be your representing attorney outside of our counseling or consultation sessions. My Education I am currently licensed as a Professional Counselor (LPC #67092) and Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #201725). I am also certified as a National Certified Vocational Evaluator (002033) and hold certifications as a General Mediator and Divorce Mediator. I have a license as an Attorney in the State of Texas, I am proficient in Spanish, and am currently pursuing my doctorate in Clinical Psychology.

This is Dr. Karen Frederick's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Karen Frederick

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Chico
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist serving Chico

I am licensed in Texas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, 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 Jacqueline Miller's avatar and link to their profile

Jacqueline Miller

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Chico
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist serving Chico

I am bilingual Licensed Profesional Counselor in Texas with 20 + years of experience. I obtained my LPC license after finishing my master’s degree in counseling psychology in 2001. Subsequently, I completed a doctorate in the same field. Through out the years I have worked with youth and adults, LGBTQ+ and various cultures. My experience includes helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, family conflicts, parenting issues, grief, depression, trauma, adjustment and cultural difficulties. 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!

This is Jorge Rodriguez's avatar and link to their profile

Jorge Rodriguez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Chico
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemBipolar disorderCoping with life changes
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist serving Chico

I am licensed in Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & depression. 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.

This is Deidere Hollins's avatar and link to their profile

Deidere Hollins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Chico
Anger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist serving Chico

I am licensed in Mississippi with 12 years of professional work experience. I am also a Board Certified LPC Supervisor. I have experience in helping clients with anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and focus (ADHD). 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.

This is Hilda Denise Azani's avatar and link to their profile

Hilda Denise Azani

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Chico
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist serving Chico

I am licensed in Texas with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

This is Kathryn Miller's avatar and link to their profile

Kathryn Miller

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Chico
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist serving Chico

I am licensed in Texas with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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!

This is Regi Abraham's avatar and link to their profile

Regi Abraham

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Chico
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience as a mental health therapist serving Chico

I am a licensed clinical social worker with more than 30 years of experience working in various settings such as psychiatric hospitals, group homes, military sites, and in a group practice. My professional journey has taken me from the East Coast (New Jersey) to the West Coast (California), and the Midwest (Minnesota, Indiana). I received my MSW degree from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. My interests as a therapist are in working with individuals to address depression, anxiety and panic disorders, adjustment issues, stress including occupational, relationship stressors including family of origin, grief/loss, and codependency issues. In the last 7 years, I have experience working with military families. I also provide Christian counseling as and when requested. I offer nurturing, compassionate, and supportive counseling.

This is Nikki Easter's avatar and link to their profile

Nikki Easter

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Chico
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist serving Chico

I am licensed in Texas with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Chico

Finding the best therapist close by in Chico 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 with therapists in Chico 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 Chico. 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 with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Chico, 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 for therapists. 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 therapists able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Chico region and in the state of Texas. 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 Chico 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 Chico therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Chico area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Chico 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 Chico, elsewhere in Wise, or in the greater state of Texas. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

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 Chico 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 Chico therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Chico due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Chico may not take health insurance, some therapists 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 a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Texas you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists 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 Chico online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Chico, 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Chico 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 and therapists 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 Chico 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 while working with BetterHelp therapists. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Chico 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. Get matched with one of BetterHelp's therapists today.

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

BetterHelp's verified Chico 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.

Our therapists 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 Chico therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Chico?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Chico 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions in Chico therapy sessions.

Chico 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 Chico 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 Chico 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 TX, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 76431 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. 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 Chico counselor?

Before seeing your Chico 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. Chico therapists here 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 Chico.

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 Chico 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 Chico 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 Chico, 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.

Chico 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 Chico, Texas

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 Chico 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 Chico.

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

76431

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist