Therapy can help you manage the challenges life brings, but barriers like a lack of available providers or transportation issues can make finding in-person treatment difficult. If you’re in or around Huntsville, Mobile, or Birmingham, AL, it may be beneficial to consider an online therapy platform like BetterHelp. 

A licensed therapist can help you with many of life’s challenges. If you’re concerned about family conflict, distressed about the challenges of addiction, or coping with the symptoms of mood disorders, teletherapy can help. When you develop a therapeutic relationship with a counselor online, you can work toward your goals from the comfort of your home at a time that suits your schedule. This convenience can enhance the ability of many patients to get care. 

If you’re a student at Auburn University worried about your future, a busy professional looking to avoid burnout, or a parent constantly anxious about your child, a BetterHelp therapist can help you through healing. Whether you live in a rural area or reside in a big city like Birmingham, therapists are available in your area. If you’re looking for a therapist, AL has many providers available for state-wide access to care. Connect with one of the professionals below to take the next step.

 

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Jameron Gatson

Offering therapy in Alabama
License: MA,LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
12 years of experience

A clinician designed for children, families, and couples in need of brief therapy & support, yet with results parents can measure. We welcome families in need of support with parenting, life cycle family challenges, child anger management, respect for parents/authority, life purpose, marriage, and more. I join families and teens rather quickly due to my age, cultural diversity, personality, and style. A licensed clinician that is very familiar with all family related challenges. I am also a U.S. Army Iraq War Veteran, still serving as a Commissioned Officer, and offer additional services for Veterans and their families. Compass II Life is different by design, with the families foundation in mind. Log on to www.compassiilife.com to see more of the services offered by Deon Gatson and Compass II Life Services.

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Paul Moffett

Offering therapy in Alabama
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
35 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor with over 35 years experience in inpatient, outpatient, residential, and private practice settings. I work with a wide variety clients: including family military/civilian , individual, marital/couples, and group therapy. I work with multiple issues including: depression, anxiety disorders, behavioral/conduct/ oppositional-defiant D/O , impulse control issues, PTSD. I have master's level certification as a addictions counselor allowing the opportunity to work with clients having addiction issues, co-occuring disorders impacting all areas of their life. I have worked for many years with a diverse population from adolescences, adults, and geriatric. My counseling approach is to create an extremely safe and supportive environment for each client to trust and feel safe enough to do the emotional work needed for the healing process to begin. My therapeutic style is cognitive/behavioral, client centered, and reality based to meet the specific needs of each client. I'm looking forward to meeting and working wi counseling approach is to create an extremely safe and supportive environment for each client to trust and feel safe enough to do the emotional work needed for the healing process to begin. My therapeutic style is cognitive/behavioral, client centered, and reality based to meet the specific needs of each client. I'm looking forward to meeting and working with you. Sincerely, Paul Moffett LPC, MAC

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Melisa Ford

Offering therapy in Alabama
License: LPC- AL and GA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
12 years of experience

I am a Professional Counselor licensed in Alabama and Georgia, with over 10 years of experience working as a mental health, substance abuse and behavioral counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, substance abuse, emotional disturbances, OCD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is eclectic. I do not believe in a one size fits all treatment approach. I believe in treating all clients/potential clients with the dignity and respect that we all deserve. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, solution-focused and person centered counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I commend you for even considering counseling services. This is a major step to making the changes you want to see in your life. I can't promise you it will be easy, but it will definitely be worth it. I look forward to working with you!

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Carleen Gates

Offering therapy in Alabama
License: LMSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 11 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have provided case management services, group therapy sessions, individual therapy sessions, therapy at school, and tele-health services. Additionally, I have even served as an in-home therapist providing mental health services in the home. I have worked with clients from a broad range of concerns including: trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, family dynamic distresses, poor communication styles, and emotional abuse. My counseling technique is very caring, encouraging, and client centered. I am very candid and direct when providing therapy. I take pride in demonstrating compassion and being sensitive and thoughtful of the needs of others. More than anything, I strongly believe in treating everyone with respect and dignity. It takes a great deal of courage to seek professional help and even more courage to implement change. I applaud you for taking the first step. I would love the opportunity to begin this journey with you in taking the next steps to begin living a more rewarding and self-empowered lifestyle. It would be an honor to help guide you along the way. I look forward to working with you.

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Angela Whitlock

Offering therapy in Alabama
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I am a licensed independent clinical social worker in Alabama with over 10 years of experience working with young adults, military families and the LGBTQ+ community. I earned a Master of Social Work degree from Alabama A&M University. I work with individuals experiencing a wide range of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship issues. I genuinely want to know and understand you. I will listen to your story with respect and empathy. While validating your feelings and experiences, I am committed to providing a warm, comfortable, and non-judgmental atmosphere. My counseling style is warm, interactive, holistic, and supportive. The client controls the pace and focus of our work. My approach combines person-centered, cognitive behavioral therapies, and motivational interviewing modalities. Realizing that no two people are alike, I tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet the client's unique and specific needs. We all experience challenging moments in our lives. It takes great courage to ask for help during these times. This is where counseling begins. I honor your bravery and your decision to find your joy and live your truth. I am available and dedicated to helping you live your best life. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Carmela Drake

Offering therapy in Alabama
License: PhD, LPC-S,NCC
AddictionsParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am a Certified Adolescent Alcohol and Drug Professional (CAADP), and a Certified Compulsive Gambling Counselor, level III (ACGC-III) in the state of Alabama. I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Alabama. I have worked in the field of addictions and mental health for over 20 years. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect and compassion. I provide a nonjudgmental zone and exercise the use of “person-first” language. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral and client-centered therapeutic approaches. I make use of motivational interviewing in most of my session, but am also well versed in other therapeutic styles of facilitating counseling sessions. My specialty area is co-occurring disorders with adolescents and young adults. I have since broadened my scope to focus on the mental health needs of student-athletes with emphasis on transitioning from high school competition to intercollegiate sports as well as the impact of transitioning to life after competition. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am glad that you have taken the first step and look forward as you continue to move forward in your recovery/healing process.

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Vanessa Martz

Offering therapy in Alabama
License: MS, LPC-S
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
28 years of experience

I'm an older female counselor. I have a motherly way about me, according to my clients. I have had a very diversified career in science, the military, and in higher education. I'm a veteran, the widowed spouse of a veteran, the mother of a disabled veteran, and the daughter of a WWII veteran who suffered with PTSD. I am a mother, both by birth and adoption, to five children. I have fostered 26 children over 33 yrs. I am a Christian and I am a licensed pastor and provide pastoral services. I have experienced violence and loss and have a deep empathy for those who have experienced these things. I have done a lot of grief work myself and with my clients. I have remarried and have dealt with blended family issues. My life experience has increased both my empathy and my understanding, and has allowed for my spiritual growth. I will challenge your spirituality at some point in our process. If you are not wanting to look at your spiritual beliefs, another therapist would be a better match for you. Humans are often helpless, but never hopeless. I have found that a combination of varied therapeutic methods works for me and my clients. I use a good deal of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy combined with Grief Resolution Therapy, but I do not limit myself to certain methods and I expand to meet my client's needs. The majority of my clients feel they have received help, or have acheived some growth in therapy. My therapeutic goal is not to force a change on my client, but to enable my client to feel at peace with the choices they make each moment they live on this earth. In addition I hope to help my clients embrace the joy of living. Van Martz, LPC

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Dr. Shari Barfield

Offering therapy in Alabama
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
22 years of experience

Hi! My name is Dr. Shari Barfield, but most people call me Dr. Shari. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama and Tennessee, with almost 20 years of professional work experience. I earned a doctorate in human services and have a masters in clinical mental health counseling. I hold the National Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and Human Services-Board Certified Practitioner credentials. 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. My role is to help you identify your strengths and challenges, and collaboratively create goals to help you in taking steps needed to find a more fulfilling and happier life. I am here to support you in your journey

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Anna Shinn

Offering therapy in Alabama
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am a nationally certified counselor and am licensed as a professional counselor in Alabama with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, motivation, self esteem, couple's conflicts, confidence, substance use, and severe mental illnesses. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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 Sutton

Offering therapy in Alabama
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

It can be difficult opening up to people and asking for help. I want to applaud you for taking this first big step towards accomplishing the goals that you have for your mental health. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I have worked in this field for 6 years. I received my Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from University of North Alabama. My approach to treatment is like we are taking a road trip. You are driving and decide where we're headed, how we get there, and where we stop along the way. I sit beside you and hold the road map and make suggestions. If the car breaks down, I don't fix it for you, but help you to figure out the tools you need to address the issue yourself. While I might not have all the answers I am willing to go on this journey with you to help you become the version of yourself that you want to be.

How can a counselor support you?

Therapists can practice many types of counseling, from marriage and family therapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). They may also assist you with symptoms of depression, stress, or anxiety.

Therapists may help you set and achieve career goals, work on current issues you may be facing, or address your past. Over 2,972,142 people live in AL, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for local licensed professionals may help you find mental health support for personal growth, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health concerns. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek support from one of BetterHelp's licensed providers above.  

The mental health field can include psychiatric medication management, online therapy, marriage counseling, couples therapy, clinical social work, licensed counseling, and other mental health services in person and online. Seeing a licensed provider can help you navigate mental health conditions and life circumstances through mindfulness and other specialized techniques.

Please note that a BetterHelp therapist does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor?

People reach out for mental health support for a variety of reasons. Many individuals work with a counselor for general life advice, while others may attend therapy for a specific concern. Whether you live in a large city or a smaller county, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

The mental health therapists in Alabama support clients with varying issues through therapy, such as:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression or depressive conditions
  • Adjustment issues
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma
  • Relationship conflicts and concerns

Finding a therapist that takes new clients in online therapy can be the first step in finding a treatment plan that works for you. Your therapist can provide a safe space for you to focus on self-care and well-being.

If you're interested in speaking to one of the therapists above or being matched with a counselor in 24 to 48 hours, consider signing up for BetterHelp. BetterHelp has over 35,000 providers, including those listed above.

Emergency services to contact in a crisis

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

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some of the most commonly asked questions about therapy can be found in the section below.

How much does a therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $60 to $90 per session, charged monthly in a lump sum. You can also take advantage of this pricing on one of BetterHelp's sister platforms, like ReGain for couples or TeenCounseling for teens aged 13 to 19.

Many therapists may be upfront about their pricing and whether or not they take health insurance from the beginning. Additionally, some in your area may offer a sliding scale plan to allow those with lower incomes to pay less for therapy. However, services online can often save individuals a few hundred dollars per month.

When should I get a therapist in Alabama?

Mental health services and mental health providers may help you navigate various concerns. 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 advice. A counselor may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Mental health issues don't always present as a crisis. Many professionals provide talk therapy and support for life transitions, skills learning, relationship problems, or life coaching. Online therapy sessions can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.

Does insurance cover the cost of therapy?

Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.

Is online therapy the safe option?

Online therapy through BetterHelp and its sister platforms is safe. Therapists are licensed, experienced, and vetted before being contracted with the platform. If you experience any concerns with your therapist, you change your counselor through the platform or app at any time.

In today's fast-paced society, mental well-being has become a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Amid the daily challenges and stressors that can overwhelm even the most resilient individuals, seeking professional guidance often offers a path to clarity and balance. The journey toward improved emotional health involves understanding personal triggers, embracing self-compassion, and developing effective coping strategies. While self-help books and online resources provide valuable information, nothing compares to the personalized support offered by a qualified mental health professional. One-on-one sessions with experienced experts can help uncover the underlying issues contributing to anxiety, depression, or other emotional hurdles. With a careful and empathetic approach, these professionals tailor their advice to suit individual needs, ensuring that each person receives strategies that work best for their unique circumstances. Whether through cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, or other innovative methods, the aim is to foster resilience and empower individuals to take control of their inner lives. For those living in bustling urban centers, engaging in face-to-face sessions in a welcoming environment can be particularly beneficial. Access to a caring clinician provides not only a safe space to explore difficult emotions but also builds a support network essential for long-term recovery. The process encourages self-reflection and greater insight into behavioral patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. While the journey can be challenging at times, the rewards include enhanced emotional stability, improved interpersonal relationships, and a renewed sense of self-worth. In one notable case, the guidance provided by a highly trained therapist proved instrumental in navigating a tumultuous period. Through structured sessions and tailored interventions, the individual learned to identify stressors and develop healthier responses to adversity. This experience underscored the transformative impact that dedicated support can have on one's overall quality of life. In a region like Texas, community-based initiatives and accessible mental health programs further reinforce the value of professional help. These efforts emphasize early intervention, preventive care, and continuous support, ensuring that more people are equipped to face life's inevitable challenges. Ultimately, investing in mental well-being is an act of self-care that yields lifelong benefits. By embracing professional support, individuals can unlock new levels of emotional resilience and discover pathways to a brighter, more balanced future. Each step taken toward healing represents a commitment to personal growth, enabling a life filled with renewed optimism and strength. Embracing this transformative journey consistently paves the way for deeper understanding, lasting peace, and meaningful personal progress.
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