This is Melissa Childers-White's avatar and link to their profile

Melissa Childers-White

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! My name is Melissa Childers-White. I am very excited about the opportunity to collaborate with you on BetterHelp as you seek life changes. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. Regarding my educational background, I was a Philosophy major at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, with minors in Psychology and Spanish. I also studied abroad for a semester each in Spain and in Denmark, and traveled in over 30 countries around the world - which has really helped me connect with other cultures, peoples and ways of life. My Masters in Counseling Psychology is from Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas, and included a counseling internship in medical, sex and cancer counseling. My goal in counseling will be to support you with empathy and without judgment to help you get to a place where you feel better, and to assist you in the solving of your challenges. We will focus on your inherent capacity to create your own growth and thrive and will develop a plan of action to meet your goals. My therapeutic approach is a holistic one where I blend elements from different approaches and tailor counseling according to each client’s unique needs. Tools like Socratic questioning, focusing on one's self talk Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can help you clarify your thinking, its origins, assumptions and then develop possible alternative viewpoints to provide forward movement. I feel that live sessions are a much better tool than text or chat for moving forward on issues. Together we will keep taking one step at a time, at a pace that you choose. I generally check messages on BetterHelp a few times a day between 10 am and 6 pm each day, Monday through Friday, (not on weekends). 10 -6 (CT) is also the time I have available for sessions. My toolbox for helping people has also benefited from a career path that has expanded outside of the traditional mental health pathway - helping me build problem-solving and communication skills and an out-of-the-box approach to thinking across a variety of fields. After a number of recent years spent pursuing a dream of mine to design and create art and run my own art studio - a very creative and intriguing endeavor that I will continue doing after hours - I felt strongly called to make more of a contribution to others again through counseling. I looked forward to returning to providing a compassionate ear, thoughtful feedback, and skills for patients to move forward in their lives. I’m fascinated to find that working with my local city government collaborating with others to tackle community issues, other volunteering in my community and children’s schools, my previous pursuit of art, my philosophy studies, my experience in travel/study abroad and my beginning to meditate as a college student all contribute to the thought processes I derive from my counseling foundation. I thoroughly enjoy the online platform for counseling and have found it to work well for my patients. My strengths are in the areas of Mindfulness, meditation, stress, anxiety, emotions, asserting healthy boundaries, self-talk and CBT, medical illness issues, sex and intimacy, cancer counseling, coping strategies, relationship/ divorce issues, motivation, self-confidence, depression, grief/loss, finding deeper issues at play, healthy lifestyle creation, life changes, positive psychology, communication skills, and coping strategies. My invitation to each patient to engage their brain to work with mine offers a synergy that patients appreciate and find helpful in their efforts to take responsibility for and improve their own mental health. I applaud your courage in reaching out for help with your current struggle and would love to be that counselor with whom you find a connection to help you create a more fulfilling and happier life. It would be an honor and a pleasure to work with you. Melissa Childers-White, M.A., L.P.C.

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Dr. Albert Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Counselor License Type(s): Ph.D.,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteem
28 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am Dr. Al Smith, and I am happy to share some information about me and my views of the counseling process. One of my passions in life is helping people find hope even in the most difficult situations. I have been working as a therapist for over twenty-five years, and I have been blessed to work with many individuals, couples, and families. You may have struggled with this decision to reach out for help, and I take that decision seriously and with a great deal of respect. I use a variety of approaches in my work as a therapist, and we will find the approach that is the best fit for you and the issues you are facing. I have a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy and my doctorate degree in psychology, and I am a licensed therapist in the state of Texas. I would be honored to work with you and help you find hope, healing, and solutions for whatever you are facing.

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Susana (Susie) Hernandez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I assist adults and teens from various backgrounds to realize their fullest potential in life through the development of healthy relationships with both their family and community. My counseling approach is simple: I focus on the therapeutic relationship between counselor and client first – trust is the connection that will open the doors to a deeper state of healing. I am convinced that, for most people, a sense of belonging is foundational to psychological well-being and I aim to support my clients in discovering their identity so they know that they belong. I believe that when we know our identity, we are able to experience acceptance, integration, and wholeness. Some of my clients struggle with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and addictions. I also work with families to improve communication and connection. I believe that combining the client's faith and spirituality into their mental health counseling will help their recovery process. When I am not in session with clients, I can be found with my family at a nearby park or gym or in the kitchen cooking something yummy.

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Deborah Anderson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Counselor License Type(s): LISW,LCSW
AddictionsGriefAnger managementSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! My name is Deborah Anderson and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Texas. I am also a Licensed Independent Social worker (LISW) in Ohio, my home state. I have worked with people challenged by substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, grief and loss. My approach is solution focused, I want to work collaboratively with clients to identify ways to work through the things that have been barriers to their having a fulfilling life. I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral therapy to help clients restructure the life beliefs that have hindered them from reaching their identified potential. When working with clients I want to meet them where they are and work with them to determine not only where they want to go in life, but also by what mode they would like to get there. I feel that I'm a visitor on a journey my client has invited me to experience with them. Specialties Addiction Depression Anxiety Also experienced in: anger management, grief and loss, trauma, family matters, child protective service involvement, self esteem, forgiveness, coaching, caregiver fatigue. Clinical Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, motivational interviewing, client centerd therapy Years of experience: 12

This is Debra Iversen's avatar and link to their profile

Debra Iversen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Master's level trained clinician with an MSW from the Columbia University School of Social Work. Over the last 30 years, I have worked at both Inpatient and Outpatient Behavioral Health settings with a variety of population and client concerns. I have an easy going, client centered approach and enjoy helping people meet their goals.

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Dr. James Florence

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Relationship issuesAnger managementCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Texas with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, anger management, coping with life changes, & executive and professional coaching. 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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Lynne Roland

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Family conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficulties
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Texas with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, 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 Erica McGeisey's avatar and link to their profile

Erica McGeisey

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Texas with 4 years of professional work experience. My focus of therapy include helping clients with stress, anxiety and depression, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, sexual identity and orientation, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is James Ritchie's avatar and link to their profile

James Ritchie

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello, Thank you for visiting my profile and wanting to make changes in your life! I am so glad that you are here! My name is James Ritchie and I am a full-time Counselor located in the San Antonio, TX & Atkins, TX areas. I counsel using my private practice "Just Real Counseling Services, PLLC". The reason behind “Just Real Counseling” is I saw too many bios of other counselors talking about potentially taking the first steps. You already have taken that first step and I hope to be able to take the next step with you! I use an approach that includes goal setting (my personal favorite) where we collaborate on goals from the very first session! I will always be real with you each and every session! I am no teacher, but I do give homework. Usually, the goals are small things to be mindful of as you continue your week until the next time we meet. You will get my full real authentic self and I hope you are ready to begin this journey with me. I am licensed in Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, substance use / abuse, career coaching & career difficulties. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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

Kathryn Holguin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in California and Texas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Lake City

Finding the best therapist close by in Lake City can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services in Lake City 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 Lake City. 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 Lake City, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Lake City 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 Lake City or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Lake City area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Lake City 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 Lake City, elsewhere in San Patricio, or in the greater state of Texas.

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 Lake City 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 Lake City 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 Lake City 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 Lake City 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 a BetterHelp therapist 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). 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 Lake City online therapy platform verified?

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

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Lake City 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 Lake City helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

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

BetterHelp's verified Lake City therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

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

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Lake City therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

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

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Lake City 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.

Lake City 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 Lake City 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 Lake City 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 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 78368 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Lake City counselor?

Before seeing your Lake City therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Lake City.

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 Lake City 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 Lake City 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 Lake City, 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.

Lake City 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 Lake City, 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 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 Lake City.

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

78368

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