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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Linda McNellis

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

Hello: My name is Linda McNellis. I am a mental health professional driven to help others overcome personal obstacles with twenty-seven years’ experience. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) I value each person's unique personality and individual situations that prompt them to seek professional services. I am committed to assist individuals reach their full potential. I have a significant amount of experience working with person coping with loss/grief, depression, anxiety and traumatic stress. Other areas of expertise include: family/relationship issues and self-esteem problems. My counseling style is to communicate with empathy and compassion respecting the integrity of each individual using empowerment to encourage change. The therapeutic techniques used in my practice include cognitive behavioral/dialectical therapy, person centered and stage of development theory. When appropriate I also include aspects of Carl Jung's work integrating spirituality which helps in understanding the deeper aspects of one self. If you are ready for change I am here to help without judgment and with unconditional positive regard. I look forward to working with you.

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Keisha Wood

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

Hello and welcome to my page, my name is Keisha. I love helping people solve their problems and meet their goals. I would love the chance to get to know you and help you to be the best version of yourself that you can be. I am a LCSW—Licensed Certified Social Worker in Arkansas; I have a bachelors and masters degree in social work; I earned my Master’s Degree from the University of Tennessee in 2005. However, I have been working in the social work field since 2003. I have experience working in a variety of settings (outpatient, school-based, hospital, home health). I've helped children and families as well as adults of all ages. I began conducting online therapy in 2016. I fell in love with this new format of therapy! Outside of BetterHelp I have a private practice that I also run outside of my home. My counseling approach is warm, relaxed and individualized to best meet your needs. I prefer an interactive style to build on your existing strengths. I like to use a variety of evidenced-based approaches, focusing on education to ensure you have the tools and skills needed to help yourself. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and solution-focused counseling, and positive psychology. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am committed to approaching your presenting issue with dignity, respect, empathy, and without judgement. As my client, you will be supported but also challenged in order to develop insight and self-awareness into your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Therapy is not just about talking. It is also about learning positive strategies to help facilitate coping, enhance the ability to work through life’s struggles and challenges, and build resilience. Please be selective about the counselor/therapist you choose. It is an important choice and you need to feel comfortable with whomever you choose. Reaching out for help takes a lot of courage and you have already taken such an important first step. I am here to support you towards change and a happier life. I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals! Being a professional on this platform, it is my goal to contact you within at least 24 hours of receiving a message from you. However, there are times where a 25-72 hour window may be necessary such as the weekend (please note that the weekend takes place each Friday-Sunday so that messages received during this time will be addressed on Monday). Rest assured, I will always get back to you. In the meantime, I would like for you to familiarize yourself with my schedule of availability. There, you can schedule to contact me for a live chat session. If there is a day/time that is not available, but you would like to check to see if it may be available, but you would like to check to see if it may be available do not hesitate to reach out to me via your chat room. I'll let you know if scheduling that day/time is feasible. Also, keep in mind that this forum does not provide any type of emergency services. Therefore, if you or someone you know believes that you/they are in need of urgent assistance and/or that you/they are in crisis (i.e. suicidal/homicidal and/or attempts), please call 1-800-273-TALK (24 hours/day), dial 911 or visit your local emergency room. Looking forward to hearing from you! "Try to be a rainbow in someone else's cloud." Maya Angelou "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." Eleanor Roosevelt Some fun facts about me: I am happily married to my wonderful husband Brandon for almost 15 years! I have two dogs: two Bichon Frises. I have been to Scotland four times and got engaged there! It’s my favorite place on earth. I love ice cream!

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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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Michelle McHugh

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LCSW,PIP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
23 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW, PIP), licensed in Alabama and Arkansas. Over 20 years ago, I began my career after graduating from NYU School of Social Work with my MSW. Since then, I've worked in a variety of clinical settings - from inpatient addiction rehabs and inpatient psychiatric facilities to outpatient mental health clinics. I've developed specialities in the following areas: LGBTQIA concerns, Substance Use Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, Codependency, and shame reduction. I currently have 11+ years of active service in the Army National Guard as a Behavioral Health Officer and I have spent the past 8 years working with active Guard soldiers as well as military veterans from all branches. My counseling style is very collaborative, client-focused, and we will avoid stigmatizing language and labels. My approach can combine Cognitive-Behavioral Techniques (CBT), Mindfulness practices, 12-step recovery principles, with some Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) mixed in. I'm trained and certified in two evidence-based therapies for treating trauma/PTSD: Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and EMDR. The above approaches will be tailored to fit each client's unique needs. Let's work together to create meaningful and lasting changes in your life. Take that first courageous step and reach out to me today. I'm here and ready to work with you!

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Tosha Honey

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas by the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling and have 9 years of professional work experience. I am a nationally certified Trauma Focused - Cognitive Behavioral Therapist (TF-CBT) and am a Certified Sexual Offender Treatment Provider (CSOTP). I'm also a supervisor for new therapists entering the counseling field to ensure they are providing the best treatment to their clients. I have worked as a therapist in an agency setting since 2013, both as a school based therapist and as a therapist for an intensive day treatment program. I have worked with a broad range of mental health issues, including but not limited to, depression, stress and anxiety, adjustment disorders, trauma, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, problematic sexual behaviors, anger, and more. My theoretical orientation for counseling is predominantly person-centered; however, I use many techniques from a variety of theories based on client needs, including (but not limited to) cognitive behavioral, behavioral, reality, and Gestalt. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I believe forming a positive therapeutic relationship is one of the most important steps in the counseling experience. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I know that taking that first step to starting counseling can be difficult, so I applaud the courage you have to work towards positive changes in your life. I am here to support you, empower you, and to help you on the journey to becoming a more fulfilled and happier person.

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Angela Stevenson-Carr

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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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Bradley (Brad) Hays

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
28 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & anger management. 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. 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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Pedro Ricardo Gonzalez

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LPC-S,RPT-S,TBRI_Practitioner
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
22 years of experience

Hello, I am Pedro Ricardo Gonzalez, Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas and Colorado. I am bilingual (Spanish) and have a passion for working with people. I believe that every human is capable of self-discovery, change and growth. I collaborate with clients to create reasonable, attainable goals for positive life change. My academic credentials are supported by 20+ years of clinical and youth advocacy experiences in higher education, non-profit community-based programs, inpatient residential care settings and private practice. I work with all ages, from very young children through older adults. My extensive experience allows me to work successfully with a diverse array of clients. I am comfortable with people from a wide variety of racial, cultural and religious backgrounds. I recognize that each person’s situation is unique. In order to meet your needs, I use holistic, traditional, and integrative approaches. Let's work together and help you reach your fullest potential!

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Patricia Pardy

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LMHC,BC-TMH
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

I am a Mental Health Counselor, licensed in New York State, with over 16 years experience in the counseling field. I have had experience assisting clients with a wide range of concerns, such as, parenting issues, family/personal relationships, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, and anger management. It is my belief therapy should be tailored to the individual client's needs, therefore I often use a combination of therapeutic techniques and approaches when providing treatment. My main goal as a therapist is to ensure a safe and supportive environment in which my client can feel comfortable exploring their individual issues. The clients I have worked with would say I am a caring and empathetic therapist who strives to develop a relationship with her clients that will allow for honesty and maximize client growth. I look forward to working with you! Patricia Pardy, LMHC, BC-TMH

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Justin Laffoon

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGrief
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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.

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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