Therapy and other wellness services can provide a supportive environment for taking the first steps toward improving one's mental health. In Arkansas, counseling services can be challenging to find due to barriers like a lack of available mental health care providers or transportation challenges. If you’re looking for a therapist, AR has many telehealth services available.

With an online therapy platform like BetterHelp, you can work with a qualified, licensed mental health professional from the comfort of your home at a time that works for you. While BetterHelp does not offer group therapy at this time, the therapists on the platform use various approaches to individual therapy, including reprocessing therapy, eye movement desensitization, and person-centered therapy. An online therapist can help you with various life challenges, from treating anxiety to learning how to begin healing relationships, using a collaborative, holistic approach that meets your unique needs.

Whether you need support navigating relationship challenges or learning to have more self-compassion, online therapy can help. Reach out to a mental health professional licensed to provide treatment in Arkansas below to get started.

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Tia Jackson

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LCSW,MBA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
27 years of experience

Greetings, my name is Tia Kyles Jackson and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience working with children, youth and adults to help them deal with difficult, life changing events and mental health issues. I am dedicated to providing professional services that will improve the mental and emotional health and well being of individuals, by providing a boost in self-esteem, additional coping skills, or just another perspective on life. I promise to listen to you and use your life experiences to promote growth and development. I received my Bachelor's of Science in Psychology from Southern University, my Master's of Science in Social Work (MSSW) from the University of Tennessee, and my Master's of Business Administration with a concentration in health care management from the University of Phoenix. I am currently licensed in Tennessee, Mississippi and Arkansas. Over the last 25 years I have provided individual, group and family therapy in various settings. In my practice I not only listen with my ears, but I believe empathic listening comes from the heart.

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Laura Hall

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
11 years of experience

Hello! My name is Laura and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arkansas. I have been working in the field of mental health for more than 10 years. I have experience working with individuals experiencing a variety of issues, such as addiction, depression and anxiety, stress-related issues, communication challenges, family conflict, bipolar, first episode psychosis and many more. I have worked in the school, community mental health, hospital, and private practice settings. My choice to work in this field comes from the belief that we all benefit from having someone listen, understand, and accept exactly where we are and offer the support necessary to improve the quality of life. With the outbreak of COVID-19 I became more concerned for people that were shut-in and not able to seek help in traditional settings. That is when I pursued my specialization for technology-assisted counseling. I believe in making goals that are realistic and personal to your values and lifestyle. I was able to pursue my passion to help people along their journey at Henderson State University where I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I would describe myself as open-minded and down-to-earth. I often times use a lot of examples to make my ideas into more practical and relatable. I have a great deal of respect for every walk of life and respect everyone’s journey. I appreciate the variety of cultures and have a great respect for a person’s right to hold their own values. I am known for creating a safe and welcomed space. This is your time to confront your goals. I am here to assist you in your mental health goals. I provide CBT, solution-focused, reality therapy, and person-centered strategies as my methodology. I am mostly available for live chat, but have some availability for live phone/video sessions on alternating weekends. You will have to get with me to see when those weekends are available. I am very responsive to messaging as I check my messages a MINIMUM of twice daily and respond when I can. I look forward to working with you!

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Briana Cunningham

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in Arkansas with over 20 years of experience. I have worked with clients on a range of issues including anxiety, relationship issues and depression. I also have helped with Physical, Emotional, and Sexual trauma. I believe that it is important to provide a safe environment of respect, compassion, and empathy to facilitate change. I use a combination of general systems theory and Cognitive Behavioral approaches and other interventions to aid in meeting whatever needs you may have. It can be hard to take the first step, but I am here to help whenever you are ready to move towards healing. I look forward to working with you.

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Deborah Bledsoe

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: MS,LPC,LADAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
17 years of experience

Hello . My name is Deborah Bledsoe and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a specialty in Drug and Alcohol and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I graduated from the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, Arkansas in 1999. I have gone on to further my education and knowledge with Rehabilitation Counseling at University of Arkansas Little Rock and I am also a certified tobacco interventionist. I work with individuals and families with a wide range of concerns, including mood disorders, depression, substance abuse, trauma-informed care, family relations problems, communication, anger management, life changes and compassion fatigue. I come from an eclectic approach to counseling, but by the client’s presenting concerns, motivation and goals, the therapies that could be used are client centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, narrative therapy psychodynamic therapy, solution focused therapy and trauma-informed care. I am a counselor of color, with over twenty years in counseling, substance abuse and mental health. I would be a good match for someone seeking an older and mature counselor. Life as we have once known has dramatically changed, which has brought struggles and overwhelming challenges to face daily. I would like to help you provide solutions to these challenges that you face. If you make the first step to seek help, I will walk with you. If you are willing to put the work in you will see a much healthier you. I look forward to being a part of your journey to a fulfilled life.

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Jamie Daugherty

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas, and I have been practicing for over 8 years now, working in outpatient, day treatment and inpatient acute care settings. I have worked with clients with a variety of needs including managing anxiety and depression, addressing loss and significant life changes, traumatic experiences and general daily life stressors. I have experience working with self-esteem and confidence building and working to have a better outlook on daily life. My counseling style is relaxed and solutions focused. I believe that everyone that has taken the first step to enter into counseling deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and to feel that their voice is heard and their needs are being addressed. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client centered and solution focused therapy to identify where each client is when they enter counseling and to meet them there to begin the process of change and growth. 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 encourage you along the way. I look forward to working with you!

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Andrea Foerster

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Hello and welcome to my profile! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Missouri and have been helping individuals seek life solutions for over 10 years. I enjoy helping clients work on a variety of issues but am especially passionate about helping women overcome issues related to anxiety and life changes (relationship, motherhood, menopause, etc). Methods that I have found particularly effective for clients in therapy include but are not limited to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Exposure and Response Prevention. For couples and relationship therapy I draw from the Gottman Method to guide the progression. Each client is unique and therapy is planned around the client’s needs and goals. I feel that trust in the therapeutic relationship is the basis for our work together and we will start out investing time to build that relationship. I am hopeful that through a strong therapeutic alliance and evidence-based methods we can make excellent progress toward your goals. Let’s work together to find joy and value in your life that you never thought possible!

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Dr. Vaughn DeCoster

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesCompassion fatigue
31 years of experience

We all lead busy, complex lives and often are very hard on ourselves… actually, we're doing “the best we can do” with what life throws at us. Takes courage to seek help, to actively move towards a more satisfying, meaningful, and happier life... wonderful that you’re considering this first step. I am a licensed doctoral-level social worker with 30+ years of clinical experience, helping people grow from life’s challenges like stress, anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, & intimacy related issues. I’m here to support you in your journey, recognizing your unique situation, needs, and abilities. Over the years as a therapist and university professor, I’ve acquired a lot of helpful tools that target feelings, thoughts, and behaviors, some even involving photography. I believe, though, you’re the “expert” on your life, therapy is a creative, collaborative endeavor, experimenting with different strategies until we find what works. Knowing that time is precious, I’m more engaged than some therapists, truly dedicated to providing you compassionate support to foster healing, build strength, and enhance resiliency. I will adapt our sessions and plans to meet your needs using evidence-based approaches. Let’s chat and see what we can accomplish together.

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Kennethya Smith-Johnson

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Christopher Lankford

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker in Arkansas and Missouri with over 5 years of professional work experience. I earned my master’s degree in social work from the University of New England in December of 2018. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression, and trauma. As a clinical social worker, I believe in the dignity and worth of each person and I provide a safe, compassionate, and empathetic environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I am passionate about working with people to help them learn skills they can use to manage their issues and live more satisfying lives. I use evidenced-based therapies to help my clients develop skills to accept their thoughts, feelings, and experiences and to learn more helpful ways to respond to them. 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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Joanne Thomas

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas and in Illinois with extensive experience working with caregivers of all ages and backgrounds, grief and loss, stress, anxiety, depression, motivation, self esteem, confidence and coping with life changes. 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.

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 1,970,374 people live in AR, 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 Arkansas 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 Arkansas?

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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