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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Jameshia Braxton

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

Greetings to you!! I am so excited and happy that you have reached out to me for help. I am Jameshia, a licensed therapist in the state of Arkansas. I am a LCSW who has practiced therapy for over 13 years. I have worked in outpatient and day treatment settings with various populations. Throughout my career, I have provided individual, family, and group therapy. I have a variety of clinical approaches that I utilize that include, but not limited to; Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and etc. As we work together and build rapport, I may also incorporate homework assignments, reframing, and a host of other skills/techniques to assist the needs of my client(s). It is also important to note that I am willing to adapt to the needs of the individual, couple, and or family whom I may be serving. Being open and honest about your needs is key to having success throughout the therapeutic process. I believe in meeting people where they are and being a source of empowerment for positive change. I know that therapy is a process and takes courage to trust a stranger. However, YOU have already made the first step! I am here and ready to start the therapeutic process of healing whenever you are ready. ~ Stay Encouraged, Be Well!! Jameshia

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Debra Pittman

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LCSW
Trauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorder
15 years of experience

Hi, I'm Debra "Debbie" Pittman. I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) in Arkansas. I have been compassionately and non-judgmentally working to assist others with making positive changes to their lives for 15 years. I have worked with people challenged by depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and other life changing circumstances. My counseling style is warm, holistic and supportive. I strive to help educate, strengthen and empower others, so they are more confident in living their life to the fullest. I meet you where you are, listen to learn where you want to go and work with you to assist you to work out a road map to get there. I then also walk with you to help you along your journey. As no two people are alike, we tailor your plan to your unique and specific need. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life. Taking the first steps towards change can be scary. If you are ready to take that step, it would be my honor to assist, support and empower you along your path.

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Dr. Wallace "Dent" Gitchel

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: PhD, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a therapist in Arkansas with over 25 years experience in mental health as a clinician and educator. I also have thirty years of meditation experience and am a certified teacher of mindfulness and compassion meditation, as well as the author of Pursuing Purpose: A Guide to Finding Meaning Through Meditation. I have worked with clients on a wide variety of issues, including stress management, depression anxiety, emotional and psychotic disorders, relationships, sexuality, shame, hopelessness and histories of trauma and abuse. My therapy approach is compassion-oriented, and I strive to help my clients find more purpose, self-compassion and meaning in their lives. I approach my clients with warmth and acceptance. The therapeutic bond is very sacred to me and I strive to show up with honesty, integrity and authenticity. I believe very much in autonomy and the capacity to heal and will do everything in my power to assist you with your goals, and to provide you with tools to integrate into your life. I applaud you in your courage to take this important step toward a more meaningful life and look very forward to assisting you on this important journey.

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Aungelique Sledge

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas and Louisiana with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. Please feel free to take a look at my personal calendar/schedule to book an appointment that is of most convenient for you. At this time currently, I primarily work only on Mondays & Wednesdays (some limited appointments on Fridays).

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Bennisha McKinney

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepression
6 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist in Arkansas and Oklahoma with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & 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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DaLisha Smith

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

I am licensed in Arkansas professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Catherine Pettus

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Arkansas with 13 years of experience. I have worked with diverse populations, ranging from children to clients 65 years and older. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, anger management, coping with grief and loss, caregiver burnout, and relationship issues. I have helped clients who have experienced emotional, sexual, and physical abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I truly believe it is important to be where my clients are and to be patient in their therapy journey. I will always treat my clients with respect, dignity, and compassion. I avoid any stigmatizing labels. I advocate for my clients and their needs. I strive for integrity and honesty while helping my clients through their journey. My approach combines cognitive- behavioral, solutions- focused therapy, and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I understand that our sessions are your stories and experiences. It takes courage, strength, and perseverance to overcome struggles in life. I would love to help you through these struggles and to help you find the inner strength you are seeking. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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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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Je'riel Harvey

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & bipolar disorder. Finding the right therapist is of the utmost importance and in working with someone, it's important to feel heard, respected, and understood and to feel confident that that person has the expertise and skills to help you. I invite you to meet with me to see if I am the right therapist for you. I provide effective high-quality therapy by approaching your needs from multiple angles; this means that you will develop greater awareness of your struggles and yourself while being provided with direct and practical guidance to see improvements in your life. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am firm believer that with the right support and tools clients can find healing and meet their personal goals. My counseling focus is on utilizing client's resilience and inner strengths, identifying harmful belief systems and thought patterns, and implementing evidence based techniques suited to the client's needs. 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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Gretchen Graham

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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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