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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Dr. Scott Butler

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: Ph.D, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

Hi, thanks for taking some time to get to know me. I am Dr. Scott Butler. I am licensed in Louisiana and Arkansas as a Licensed Professional Counselor. I earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology from LSU and a Master’s and Ph.D. in mental health counseling from the University of New Orleans. I've been offering counseling for over 30 years. I was married for 30 years and have three daughters; one is an attorney, one is a licensed professional counselor, working on her Ph.D. and my youngest is a junior in college. I have worked in many different mental health settings including hospitals, crisis intervention hotlines, non-profit organizations, as a preferred provider for local and state agencies and over 20 years in adoption and foster care work. I have been deemed an expert witness in criminal and civil cases and have authored one novel, king cake baby. I use a cognitive-behavioral theoretical approach to counseling which is a goal-oriented treatment that takes a hands-on, practical approach to problem-solving. I generally do 45 minute sessions. If interested in working with me, please provide your full name and an emergency contact name and number as this is required to facilitate professional counseling. Life can be difficult, right? Sometimes, despite our best intentions, we simply need someone to help guide us to a better place. I am a trained listener. I take in the information you provide and turn it back to you in a step by step approach to help you move beyond what brought you to me. Beginning this process with the right counselor helps you get better, faster. I hope to be that counselor.

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Dr. Warren Roby

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: MS,PhD,LPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am an educator who firmly believes that counseling is a learning experience. It involves processing information and making decisions based upon it. My goal is to get clients into a frame of mind that promotes positive change. I assist them in writing the next chapter of their life story. I draw on my training in linguistics and languages to help people find the right words to describe their issues, express their dreams, and formulate realistic plans. My international work and travel experiences have enriched my life and they equip me to deal with clients from diverse backgrounds and to prepare those who are embarking on an overseas posting. I have a passion for career issues: burnout, co-worker conflict, anxiety about downsizing, involuntary termination, etc. My 35 years in higher education (six universities) make me familiar with options for those who wish to retool for another line of work.

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Jennifer Nelson

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

I am licensed in Arkansas, Massachusetts, and Oregon with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, family conflicts, 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 issues that challenge you. I often use the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solutions Focused approaches to help my clients work their way out of what is distressing them. I also use Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to help my clients with history of trauma when they desire more focused work to overcome challenges. I find the CBT, Solutions Focused, and CPT approaches to be very effective, because you will begin to recognize what is going through your mind and how it affects your feelings and way that you react/respond to every day situations. I strongly believe “change your thoughts, change your life,” and using these approaches can help a person to recognize how self-defeating thought patterns can hinder their growth. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, and you can be proud of yourself for taking that step! I am a supportive cheerleader to my clients and care about your success. I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals!

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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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Ashley Freece

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in both Arkansas and Texas with 9 years of professional work experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence & depression. I enjoy helping clients work on developing coping skills that equip them to navigate life changes, mood instability or communication issues. I've worked with chronic mental illness as well as people going through life adjustments. No matter your goal in seeking therapy, I believe in supporting you through finding your best therapeutic tools. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will ensure our interactions and treatment goals align with your unique needs. Making changes to facilitate a healthier, better rounded or more fulfilling life takes courage and hard work. I am here to support you in that process.

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Rachel Stephens

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Tennessee with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. Currently, I am available to see clients weekend’s only (preferably mornings).

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Dominique White

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas with 9 years of professional work experience, specifically working with traditional and non-traditional college students with disabilities ranging from ADHD, learning disabilities, and mental health struggles. I have experience helping clients navigate stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story. I simply serve as a partner and guide to help you see through the shattered glass that we all sometimes look at our experiences through. I believe that you have many strengths that will assist you in navigating things that challenge you, but perhaps you don’t recognize that power within yourself. Taking the first step to seeking guidance that will help you live to your fullest potential is scary, but you’re brave enough to take that leap anyway…to do it afraid. I am here to support you in that journey.

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Erin Porter

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida, New Jersey, Maryland, Arkansas, Washington and South Carolina with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBT-related issues, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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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Vanessa Smith

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

Hello, My name is Vanessa Smith LPC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Louisiana. I have over 10 years of experience working with mental health. I have worked with clients from various backgrounds and concerns. I have worked with individuals addressing concerns of depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting, anger, substance abuse, life changes (loss of job, loss of family member, etc.…). Also, I have experience working with returning citizens. I would describe my style of therapy as warm and interactive. I believe in being person-centered and humanistic. I believe the client is the expert on his or her life. I prefer to assist the client by guiding and assisting through inner knowing, interpersonal changes, and healing. My overall goal is to assist people in working towards fulfillment of their maximum potential, healing, and gaining a new perspective on life.

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Tamika Johnson

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
14 years of experience

I want to thank you for taking that first courageous step in the journey of healing, acknowledging that you want support. There are many challenges that we face throughout life and there are times when it can seem overwhelming. As a Helping Hands Professional, I would be honored to walk with you through navigation of your life experiences. Patience and being kind with yourself as you work toward your healing is key to this process. Celebration of every step forward and learning from every step you may take back are significant in reclaiming your strength. Growing pains, although uncomfortable, are necessary to break through to your next level. Guidance along the way is not weakness. My name is Tamika M. Johnson, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have worked in the field of mental health for many years and have worked with people who presented with many life challenges. I believe in the mind, spirt, and body connection and that everyone deserves to experience enriched and fulfilled lives. Although many may feel underserving of a life of enrichment, they can reach out like you have and get a better footing on what’s necessary to enjoy life again. We will work together to get there. I believe that each person is unique and will work with you to explore meaningful goals through self-awareness, with the understanding that it can be a difficult journey. My goal is to remain patient with you, respect your uniqueness, and invest in your emotional wellness. I provide person centered support that consists of exploring your strengths, attributes and desires for a better life. My areas of specialties include, but are not limited to: Acute, Chronic and Complex traumas, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders, Suicidality, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Body Image, Anxiety, Depression, Borderline Personality, Histrionic and Dependency Disorders. I use many counseling approaches that are specific to individual needs and preferences, such as Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Person Centered approaches, Christian Counseling, and Trauma Informed Approaches. The counseling experience begins with developing a safe and consistent rapport that allows the counselor and client the space to grow into a healthy therapeutic alliance. Therapy can be challenging. However, having a safe environment to talk about and process life's difficulties is so very important. I am excited in working with you to help you experience the great things that life has to offer you. Let us Work Together to make it happen!

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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