You may have worked hard in your life to put yourself in the most strategic of positions to find success, security, and happiness. Bristol, Virginia is a town that knows all about strategic positions. It’s located in the center of a five-state area, providing access to Tennessee, West Virginia, Kentucky, and North Carolina.

Bristol and its surrounding area is home to many qualified mental health counselors who can help you in those times when you feel like you’ve lost your way, when you’re having a tough time getting back into that perfect position in life. Please don't hesitate to reach out to one today.

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Jessica Zike

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Bristol
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficulties
25 years of experience

Not Accepting New Clients at this Time. My name is Jessica and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia and Maryland with 20 years' experience in many states on the East Coast. My Masters in Social Work is from Boston University and I love assisting others to make changes and improve their lives. I am currently accepting clients who are looking for messaging or live typing (chat) sessions. I check messages and respond intermittently from 9 AM - 2:30 PM Monday - Friday and have availability for live chat sessions between 10:00 AM-2:30 PM Monday-Friday. We can use about an hour a week through detailed email check-ins (about an hour a week of reading and writing) or a 45-minute weekly live session and a few briefer email check-ins. I have worked with individuals through brief and long-term therapy. I have special expertise in stress reduction, anxiety, career issues, and addiction recovery. It is important to me to really get to know the person I am working with and adapt my counseling style to meet your needs. I like to set practical goals to help you make changes in your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that solve problems. I try to provide resources and worksheets so you can continue to focus on your growth outside of messaging or live sessions. It is hard to make this first step and I commend you and hope to work with you. Take care of yourself, Jessica Zike, LCSW

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Brittany Fleischer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Bristol
Counselor License Type(s): MAEd. LPCC-S
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and have been providing counseling services for 11 years in both face to face and virtual platforms. During my time I have been able to assist many individuals struggling with a wide variety of struggles including depression, anxiety, low self esteem, severe and persistent mental health symptoms, relational and family concerns, and substance abuse issues. My approach to counseling in each and every session is one that is focused on meeting the individual where they are. I am focused on making this process warm and comforting for you as I understand that the concerns being brought to the sessions are ones causing great discomfort. The theoretical approaches I utilize are Person Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Behavioral Therapy. Again, all of this is just saying that together we will begin processing through the concerns being presented and identify ways in which you can begin working through them. I understand that it takes a great deal of courage for one to reach out and ask for help and I commend you on taking this step. I am so blessed that you are choosing to allow me to be apart of this journey with you and am looking forward to meeting you. At this time I am able to provide services via the chat sessions, phone sessions and messages. I respond in the chat Tuesday through Saturday checking in several times per day.

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Elizabeth Craun

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Bristol
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,MA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and have been counseling since 2014. I graduated from Ashland Theological Seminary with a Masters of Arts Degree in Clinical Counseling. I further specialized in additional training in trauma counseling through trainings with PESI. I have worked with clients struggling with stress and anxiety, depression, parenting challenges and coping with life challenges. I have worked in various settings, including correctional facilities, residential facilities and outpatient clinics. I utilize a Client Centered Approach to counseling; this means that we work together to help accomplish goals. You are the expert on your own life so that means I will not tell you what to do but work with you to find solutions that work in your life and with your unique situation. I meet my clients where they are at on their journey in life and it is a privilege to accompany you on your journey. In addition to the Client Centered Approach I also utilize Cognitive Behavioral Techniques and Existentialism, or making meaning. Reaching out for help is a very brave thing to do and everyone needs additional support at different times in life. Seeking a qualified counselor may be the first step towards living the authentic, meaningful life you want to live. I look forward to hearing from you!

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John "David" Reid

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Bristol
AddictionsDepression
17 years of experience

Hello! My profile says John, but I prefer to go by my middle name, David. I am a licensed therapist in Virginia and Indiana with 17 years of professional work experience. I have extensive experience working with clients with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. As a veteran and former first responder, I also understand the unique life experiences of those populations, and greatly enjoy serving those who serve their community and nation. I am comfortable supporting the style of communication that works best for you, but I'm a firm believer in at least occasional video sessions. Being connected to people is vitally important to our mental wellness, even if it's over a video link. I do ask all my clients to participate in a video session early during our work together, and at least periodically after that. I believe that YOU are the expert on you! I am here to listen, guide, explore, support, and empower you on your "wellness expedition". I'm proud of you for starting this journey, because it takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life, and to take the first steps towards a change.

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Ellen Goodloe

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Bristol
Relationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
27 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Virginia and Colorado with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping clients with relationship issues, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I am experienced with the military and veteran population and have helped many people dealing with trauma and abuse. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion regardless of the issues, and believe we are all unique and have unique gifts. Sometimes when we are feeling really down on ourselves, it's hard to see them and we begin to believe our negative self-talk. Using a variety of techniques 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 and help you grow. I look forward to working with you!

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Vanessa Okechukwu

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Bristol
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW-C
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I earned my Master in Social Work from University of Maryland, School of Social Work, Baltimore, MD in 2010. I also earned my Bachelors of Arts in Information System from University of Maryland Baltimore County, Baltimore MD in 2003. I have Licensed Certified Social Worker - Clinical (LCSW-C) in MD, Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in DC, Personal Trainer License and Health Coach License. I am a member of National Association of Social Work and American Council on Exercise. For more than 10 years, I have been using humanistic, person-center, strength-focused therapy, motivational Interviews, crisis and brief Intervention to assess, plan, implement and evaluate individual, family or group in diverse therapy environment. I believe in treating all persons with respect, compassion and thoughtful of the person’s background. Also, I am commented to helping people to live life to their fullest potential because we all have one life to leave and we deserve to be in pace with ourselves. Looking forward to working with you!

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Glinda O'Neill

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Bristol
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia 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 in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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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Melissa Miller

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Bristol
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida, Oregon, Nevada and Virginia with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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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Mary Owen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Bristol
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama and Virginia with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, depression and loneliness, self esteem, and trauma and abuse. I also work with couples to repair trust, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional intimacy with each other. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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!

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Deanna Bibby

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Bristol
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I completed my EMDR therapist training in September 2020 and completed my Accelerated Resolution Therapy training in July 2023. 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 Bristol

Finding the best therapist close by in Bristol 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 Bristol 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 Bristol. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Bristol, 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Bristol region and in the state of Virginia. 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 Bristol 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 Bristol 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 Bristol area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Bristol, elsewhere in Bristol (city), or in the greater state of Virginia. 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 Bristol 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 Bristol 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 Bristol 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 Bristol may not take health insurance, some in the state of Virginia 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 Virginia you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Bristol online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Bristol, Virginia 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 Bristol 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 professional, including the therapists in Bristol 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 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 today.

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

BetterHelp's verified 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 is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used 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 - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this 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 Bristol 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 Bristol?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Bristol 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.

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 Bristol 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 Bristol 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 VA, 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 24201 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 Bristol counselor?

Before seeing your Bristol therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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 or feel unsure about what to talk about. Bristol 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.

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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Bristol 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 with a Bristol 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 Bristol, Virginia 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.

Bristol has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions 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 Bristol, Virginia

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 Bristol 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 Bristol.

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

24201, 24202, 24203, 24205, 24209

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