Living a small town life means quiet days, friendly people, and a stressfree existence. But if you're struggling with mental wellness issues, enjoying all the peace and quiet of small-town life may be incredibly difficult to achieve.

If you're struggling with mental health issues, whether it be from relationship troubles, dealing with loss, coping with trauma, or mental illness, please don't hesitate to reach out to a Melissa-area mental health professional today. A qualified counselor or therapist can give you the support you need to deal with your issues and get back to enjoying all that a small town life has to offer.

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Deanna Rasnic

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

I have been a counselor for 20+ years. Counseling is a calling for me - a passion. I feel honored to come alongside those who are hurting, or who find themselves in a challenging place in their lives, and help them navigate through the difficulties that they face. I like to help my clients gain insight about themselves and others, assist them through the healing process, and then help them get back on track with their lives. I deal with the past issues as they affect the present, and I apply cognitive behavioral techniques to assist clients in facing and dealing with past hurts so they can heal and keep their past from hindering their progress in the present and future. As a therapist, I would describe myself as empathetic, non-judgmental, direct, honest, and practical. I offer my clients my genuine concern and empathy, combined with my direct thoughts, insights, and recommendations. I can offer you a safe place to sort through what is on your mind and heart. Many people carry a heavy load emotionally and fear letting their guard down with others. One of the benefits of therapy is that I am not in your every day life. I am not your friend or family member...I am your counselor. I am not here to judge you. I can help you cut through the noise and get to the root of what is truly troubling you and I can walk you through the steps necessary to bring about the change you desire to see in your life. Counseling Experience: -20+ years as a Counselor -Private practice for 10+ years (individual, marital, adolescent, & family counseling) Provided counseling services for individuals and families of all ages, while assisting with difficulties in areas like: marriage, divorce, blended family concerns, coparenting with an ex-spouse, recovering after a divorce, parenting children at various life stages, establishing healthy boundaries with others, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, spiritual concerns, decision making, addictions (self or others), and hurts from the past. -Served as counselor in a variety of agency settings for 13 years - I have extensive history and knowledge of the adoption process. I have worked with birth parents, adoptive couples and adopted children. I have provided counseling pre and post adoption placement, and helped families with all aspects of the adoption process. Licensure & Education: Licensed Professional Counselor – Issued by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors, 1999. LPC Supervisor – Issued by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors, 2007. Licensed Child Placing Administrator – Issued by the Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Services, 2008. Master of Arts: Marriage and Family Counseling - Southwestern Seminary/Ft. Worth, TX Master of Arts: Religious Education - Southwestern Seminary/Ft. Worth, TX Bachelor of Arts: Psychology - University of Louisiana at Monroe/Monroe, LA

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Jennifer Bussell

Offering therapy in TX
License: MA, LPC,
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
7 years of experience

In a non-judgemental, open, and safe atmosphere we work together on issues you are facing in your life at this time. Perhaps past experiences and trauma are interfering with your life today. Perhaps everything seemed fine up until now and suddenly stress in your home is happening and you don't know what to do. Situations and other people in our life can trigger a wide range of emotions including anger, frustration, deep sadness, uncontrollable anxiety, confusion, fear, and even numbness. Allow me to work with you on your journey from chaos and emotional turmoil to peace and happiness. Working together, we will discover what works best for you. Do you need to talk to someone who will listen and not judge you? Do you need some direction with what to do next? Do you need some coping skills for difficult situations? I have been counseling for over 7 years. It has been my honor to work with people, like you, who struggle at times to navigate day to day life, or are faced with changes, loss, or big decisions. I have worked in various agencies, a psychiatric hospital, and a program for teens and their families. I look forward to working with YOU!

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Dr. Chase McKinney

Offering therapy in TX
License: MA,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

Hello there and thank you for reaching out to BetterHelp. My name is Chase McKinney and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and Nationally Board Certified Counselor. I graduated from Dallas Theological Seminary with an MA in Counseling. I am also a Ph.D. Candidate in Counselor Education and Supervision at Regent University. I have 6 years of experience working with individuals, adolescents, and families in the areas of anxiety/stress, negative thoughts, hopelessness/helplessness, and family conflict in a variety of settings (private practice, homeless shelters, and residential treatment). You are a courageous individual for reaching out and seeking help in what is likely a deeply personal part of your life. I do not take this lightly and consider it an honor to partner with you as you craft this next chapter of your life. We all have stories that shape who we are and understanding the different parts of your own can help you work through the struggles you face. I look at you as a whole person, not as a circumstance. I sincerely look forward to working with you.

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Susan Lilly

Offering therapy in TX
License: PhD.,LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepression
25 years of experience

Hello, my name is Susan and I am a licensed professional counselor and board-approved counselor supervisor practicing in the State of Texas. I have over 25 years of experience working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship concerns, substance abuse, grief, and trauma. I worked for five years as the director of an employee assistance program providing training, consultation, brief counseling, and crisis intervention services. I served as the director of an adult outpatient substance abuse treatment program within the same agency for an additional five years. I joined with a colleague in 1994 to submit grants to a state agency to open a six-bed medical detox program for adults. The initial six-bed detox program grew into a non-profit agency with over 80 employees and 12 programs providing substance abuse prevention, intervention, and treatment services for adults and adolescents. I served as the clinical director for that organization for 12 years and as the executive director for 10 years. I left that organization in 2016 to pursue a doctorate in counselor education, and I anticipate completing the doctorate in the Fall of 2020. My approach to counseling is client-centered and strengths-based. I believe a supportive therapeutic relationship is important for developing trust, respect, and a safe environment for the counseling process. I focus on strengths and resources during the counseling process to help individuals develop clarity and a positive approach to making choices that lead to personal growth. I believe it is important to embrace what is going well in individuals' lives as well as addressing their concerns. This enhances the ability of individuals to develop the tools and skills needed to create a more harmonious and balanced life.

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Colana Bates

Offering therapy in TX
License: M.S.,LPC-S,LCDCI
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteem
12 years of experience

Hello there, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with over 10 years of experience in the field of mental health working with children, adolescents, and adults in different capacities. The clients I have worked with have presented with a wide range of concerns including ADHD, depression, anxiety, anger management, relationship issues, family conflicts, self-esteem issues, parenting problems, academic problems, and substance use. I have a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Master of Education in Student Affairs Counseling from Southern Arkansas University. My counseling style is non-judgmental, genuine, and optimistic. Above all, I truly love the work that I do and I will do what I can to be helpful, even if that means connecting a client with suitable resources or referrals. My thinking is: “I feel that if I’m not being helpful, I’m not fulfilling my purpose.” My counseling approach involves Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Positive Psychology, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing techniques. I think it’s great that you’ve chosen to take a step towards a better you and I would love to spend some time getting to understand more and discussing your counseling needs. Sincerely, Colana Bates, M.Ed, MS, LPC-S, LCDCI

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Nina Foster

Offering therapy in TX
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
12 years of experience

Hi there! Let me first congratulate you on taking the first steps to a better you! Whether this is your first time working with a counselor or you have in the past it’s always the perfect time to focus on you! You have what it takes but we all need that extra support and safe space. My background includes working with teens in residential settings as well as in the community with individuals and families. I graduated with a Masters in Counseling from University of Texas at San Antonio. I then worked in the correctional setting as a counselor and managed Mental Health Services where I worked in this setting for a total of 8 years. I truly enjoyed working with clients in this underserved population. I then continued my career in my current Director role for a non profit agency that provides Mental Health Services in residential for youth and young adults, outpatient setting and day treatment programs. In my role I miss the one on one aspect in working directly with clients which is why I look forward to assisting you get to a better place! I pride myself on providing a safe place free of judgment and criticism while focusing on respect, empathy, and genuineness. I meet you where you are at while giving a client centered and solution focused approach creating a safe environment for you. I look forward to working with you!

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Brittany Williams

Offering therapy in TX
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas and Colorado with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma, abuse, family conflicts, ADHD, and coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion, and that starts with meeting you where you are on life's journey and exploring how I can help you. 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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Jaleesa Dunn

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Abdias Gomez

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionADHD
19 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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!

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Brenda "Veronica" Garza

Offering therapy in TX
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with 9 years of professional work experience. I enjoy helping clients with stress and anxiety, life transitions, extensive childhood and early adulthood trauma, race and gender inequality challenges, lgbtq+ related issues, & coping with grief and loss. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will provide you with the support you need to feel confident in addressing your concerns in the moment. I plan to meet your unique and specific needs by using a collaborative approach. I support self-compassion, self-love, self-trust, self-respect, and self-worth. I enjoy teaching a client to make connections between unwanted experiences and regulating the nervous system so that they are not continuously hijacked by their range of challenging emotions. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, please know that I am here to support you and provide you with the guidance! I like to ask, are you happy living "a life" or would you prefer to "live your life"? Let's explore this together. I hope to connect with you soon! -Veronica

How to find counseling in Melissa

Finding the best therapist close by in Melissa 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 Melissa. 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 Melissa, 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 Melissa 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 Melissa 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 Melissa, elsewhere in Collin, 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 Melissa area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Melissa 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 Melissa 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 Melissa 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 Melissa, 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 Melissa 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 Melissa 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 Melissa 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 Melissa 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 Melissa 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 75454 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 Melissa 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 Melissa 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 Melissa, 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.

Melissa has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Melissa.

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

75409, 75454

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