Emporia, Virginia sits along the Meherrin River and was born when the two smaller towns of Hicksford and Belfield joined to become one. Perhaps Emporia is aptly named as it continues to be an enchanting stop along the route to beautiful beaches on the Virginia coast. Emporia was recently ranked among the top five cities for retail sales per capita. While leisure and hospitality are staples of Emporia’s culture, it seems impossible to relax and enjoy when your mental wellness is lacking.

You don’t have to miss out on a stroll among the lovely shops or a jaunt across the glistening beach sands. You can put your bad days behind you when you make the effort to match up with a treatment specialist in the Emporia area. With a bit of help, you can again see the beauty in the people and land that surrounds you.

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Rebecca Gillis

Offering therapy in VA
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
4 years of experience

I am a warm and accepting counselor licensed in Virginia with over 4 years of experience working as a child, adolescent, and early adult counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I have a passion for working with those who are feeling lost or unsure of themselves. I believe deeply in working together to develop a sacred and healing place that is needed for growth and transformation to happen. My counseling style is accepting, nonjudgmental, and interactive. I believe all change begins with curiosity and taking a first step. I strive to create space for healing, connection, and courage. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic counseling, and wellness model, which means I work hard to facilitate a process that will accomplish your goals by focusing on strengths and sources of resilience. I believe in creating a therapeutic counseling relationship that promotes unconditional positive regard and acceptance. My goal is that you will feel safe to entrust our relationship to hold your stories and this will enable you to take the risks needed for growth and self-exploration moving forward. It's not easy to change and seek help. It takes strength to demand more out of life and to move yourself to this place. If you are ready to stop going with the flow and take charge of your of your journey. I am here to guide, support, challenge, and empower you. I look forward to working with you soon!

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Shawna Morrison-Flood

Offering therapy in VA
License: LCSW,MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in the state of Virginia. I have worked as a clinician for over 9 years. I have worked with adults, children, and families. I received my undergraduate degree in Social Work in 2005 and my graduate degree in social in 2007. I started as a social worker at the local Department of Social Services (DSS) as a Child Protective Services (CPS) as an Assessment/Investigator. I then went on to pursue my clinical licensure in social work. I have been afforded the opportunity to work with individuals with various backgrounds. I have worked with clients with mental health diagnosis such as; Bipolar, Depression, Anxiety, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Disruptive Dysregulation Mood Disorder, Mood Disorders, etc. My counseling style is welcoming, sincere, and engaging. As a clinician, I meet my clients where they are in that moment to get a clear understanding of what their needs are and what they want to accomplish in reaching their treatment goals. I treat my clients with respect, self-determination, and can empathize with them wherever they are in the therapeutic process. My approach includes an eclectic style which includes; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Family Centered Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, etc., because each client is unique in their own way and one modality make not work for some or the use of more than one modality may work for others. It is very hard to admit that anyone may have a mental illness and reach out for help. I admire those who do to face their adversities and want to live a happy and healthier life. I am in this profession for a reason and that is to help individuals overcome whatever obstacles they may have. I encourage positivity and life altering changes. I look forward to working with you through your journey of positive change.

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Russell Williams

Offering therapy in VA
License: LCSW,Ed.S.
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

Hello. I am Russell Williams, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Virginia. I have worked in various positions in mental health services for more that two decades, including providing therapy and counseling services for the past eight years. My experience has been with individuals of all ages experiencing any number of mental health issues. I have a great deal of experience in helping individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma, along with significant experience in the treatment of many other mental and behavioral health concerns. I believe that we are each experts on ourselves, knowing more about self than anyone else, however often needing someone to provide alternative perspectives to help us keep moving forward. To this purpose, I seek partnership and understanding in order to develop a therapeutic relationship built on trust. I truly believe that we are all capable of growth and change. My clinical approach is eclectic with a purpose, heavily influenced by trauma-focused, client-centered, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and solution-focused views. Taking the initial step to seek the assistance of a licensed provider is very brave. I applaud you for your bravery. It would be my honor and privilege to utilize my knowledge and experience to assist you in your journey through the therapeutic process.

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Melissa Klemkosky

Offering therapy in VA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

My name is Melissa and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida, Virginia and DC. I received my Master's degree in Social Work from University of South Florida. I have extensive experience working with a wide range of individuals and problems, including substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, difficulty with life transitions, stress management, and grief. I also have professional and personal experience with military and law enforcement cultures. I use a variety of evidence-based approaches. My approach is individualized and based on the needs of each person. I treat everyone with respect, dignity, and am nonjudgmental. I believe we all have the answers on how we can live our best life and therapy is a way for us to tap into those answers. I take a collaborative approach with your treatment, as you are the expert on your life. I look forward to working with you!

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Ruth Ann Talley

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSleeping disordersSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 14 years of professional work experience. I have worked as a medical social worker, a geriatric social worker and for the past six years have worked directly with military members addressing their issues to include depression, anxiety, chronic life stressors, insomnia and trauma. I’ve interacted with people from all walks of life and believe that with your participation, together, we can help you manage your current situations to a better outcome.

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Esther Dubique

Offering therapy in VA
License: LCSW,DSL
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I enjoy seeing people do well. Life can be challenging and navigating turbulent times, daunting. It seems like our world is in a state of unrest-are you questioning who you are, and where you belong. Coping with it all is no easy task. Whatever the source of your unrest, be it emotional distress, anxiety, employment/relationship issues, and trauma/tragedy, I can help. I approach counseling from a Christian perspective. I believe the word of God has many remedies for improved quality of life. Let's collaborate creative strategies to turn your life experiences into purpose. You are where you are, and I am glad that you have chosen to seek support. Your well-being and growth will be my top priority; thus, I will challenge faulty beliefs, and give honest compassionate feedback to empower you into positive behavioral changes.

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Caroline “Carly” Barrows-Compton

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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. 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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Pamela Crepps

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigueADHD
20 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with life changes, & compassion fatigue. 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!

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Christen Moseley

Offering therapy in VA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
4 years of experience

Welcome! I’m so glad you’re taking this opportunity to commit yourself to growth and development. Reaching out for help takes an immense amount of courage and strength. I applaud you! Breathe easy, the hardest part is over. Because therapists walk alongside you as you navigate life, sometimes at your lowest point, it’s important to take time to find a therapist who fits you best. Let me start by telling you a little bit about myself. I graduated with my M.A. in Counseling in 2015. Since graduation, I have become a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Tennessee. I have worked mainly in community mental health settings. Recently, I have been working with addiction in an outpatient facility. In my career, I have worked with clients on several presenting issues. Specifically: trauma, PTSD, comorbid conditions, anxiety, depression, domestic abuse/violence, relationship/family topics, self-worth/esteem, and life change issues. I am passionate about working with domestic abuse survivors as they work to reclaim their true selves once again. My therapeutic approach can best be defined as eclectic. As mentioned earlier, every therapeutic relationship is unique and requires a different set of tools. I ascribe to a person-centered, humanistic, holistic approach to wellness. I aim to guide you towards your goals through an attentive and accepting atmosphere. I think of myself as a ‘directive, non-directive’ therapist. I will follow where you lead while offering thoughtful challenges and suggestions along the way. Awareness and mindfulness practices are also a large part of my approach professionally, as well as personally. Simply put, you cannot change what you cannot see. Being part of your journey towards healing and wellness is an honor. Because vulnerability can often feel scary, creating a warm and caring environment is my number one goal. I appreciate and respect your willingness to commit to your health and well-being. If this sounds like a good fit for you, I look forward to starting our journey together. Remember, you are not alone!

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Elizabeth Kate Griles

Offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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How to find counseling in Emporia

Finding the best therapist close by in Emporia 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 Emporia. 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 Emporia, 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 Emporia 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 Emporia 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 Emporia, elsewhere in Emporia (city), or in the greater state of Virginia.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Emporia 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 Emporia 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 Emporia 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 BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Virginia 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 Emporia, 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. 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 Emporia 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 Emporia 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 Emporia 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 Emporia 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 Emporia 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 VA, 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 23847 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 Emporia 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 Emporia 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 Emporia, 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.

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

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

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

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

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

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

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

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

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

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

23847

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