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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Dr. Magna Porterfield

Offering therapy in Alabama
License: Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am a psychologist who is licensed in both the states of Alabama and Georgia and I have had the opportunity to work in the field of psychology for several years. I have worked in the both university settings (as a teacher and counselor) as well as in private practice. I have also had the opportunity to travel and share my knowledge through lectures and workshops. I have the most experience in helping people who struggle with unipolar (but NOT bipolar) depression and anxiety. I also have a considerable amount of experience in working with individuals who have problems with managing stress and managing their emotions. I do not work with issues such as eating disorders, addictions, relationship problems or sexuality concerns. My counseling style is warm, but also straightforward and honest. I consider myself to be a kind person. and I truly desire to help those who are hurting. In my work with people, I do not spend much time processing the past (i.e., childhood experiences, past trauma, etc.). I believe that true healing comes when individuals take active steps in the therapy process and focus on what they can do in their "present" situation to address their challenges. In my work with clients, I focus on helping them understand how their thoughts impact their emotions and their behavior - principles from the field of cognitive behavior therapy. I also look at the impact of lifestyle habits - diet, rest, exercise, etc. - on mental/emotional health. In addition, I sometimes utilize concepts and strategies from the area of positive psychology, which helps people identify and enhance their strengths (as opposed to merely focusing on people's weaknesses "abnormalities," so to speak). Do you need a helping hand? I would love to be that "hand" and help you make those changes. Working with me will take commitment and will require you to not be just a "passive participant," so to speak, in your healing and recovery. If you are willing to do your part, I am here for you and would love to work with you. All it takes is that first step and you can make that step today!

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Dr. Sonya McCurdy

Offering therapy in Alabama
License: LICSW, PIP,MPH MDiv
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with 17 years of experience working with patients who have various mental health diagnosis. I have specialty experience with anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and personality disorder. I use a client centered approach when working with clients, along with CBT, DBT and MI techniques. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. My expertise is not limited to the aforementioned specialties and I would love to help anyone who needs mental health counseling. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. If for any reason I am unable to serve a client, I can refer them to a therapist that better meets his/her needs. Feel free to view my Psychology Today profile as well as my personal website, https://restorationfaithbasedcounseling.org/, for additional information about me and my therapeutic approach. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower 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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Jason Scrivner

Offering therapy in Alabama
Trauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
18 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with nearly 20 years of clinical work experience and close to 25 years in the human services field in general. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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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Dr. Stephen Bell

Offering therapy in Alabama
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionADHD
23 years of experience

I am a clinical psychologist licensed in Alabama, practicing for 20 years. I have been in academic and research circles with numerous publications. I have worked in both hospital and private settings. As I am later in my career, I have concluded that the best part of being a psychologist is the people. I have extensive experience in depressive disorders, anxiety including OCD, general stress, identity issues, and general self-development. I have also worked with grief over loss, including divorce. I am an advocate for therapy and believe it is a brave, strong step. I admire you for exploring online therapy, which was in many cases a life saver during COVID and still a very helpful and legitimate approach in these busy times. I hope we can begin getting to know each other and working together soon.

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Heather Sims

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

I am licensed in Alabama with 3 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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Teresa Utley

Offering therapy in Alabama
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, & intimacy related issues. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Dr. Robinette Muse

Offering therapy in Alabama
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
28 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. 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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Brittney Fortson

Offering therapy in Alabama
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesSelf esteem
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Michael McGraw

Offering therapy in Alabama
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Alabama and Virginia. I help clients with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship and family issues, recovery from trauma, and self-care. I will collaborate with you to identify your internal strengths and help you connect with the resources you need to move forward on your unique path.

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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