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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Johnnie Ezell

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LPC,LADAC,MAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am a licensed Professional Counselor, licensed both in Arkansas and Missouri. I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, licensed in Arkansas. I am a Master Addiction Counselor certified on a national level. I have been working with Depression, Anxiety, Addiction issues for over forty years. I work with individuals in a collaborative manner. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and elements of Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy to find what works best with each person. My responsibility is to encourage each person to self evaluate their values, beliefs and behaviors in an effort to help them find a path to a more enjoyable life. Each person is different and one size does not fit all. To ask for help takes a great of courage. It is the greatest gift we can give another, is to ask for and receive help. I look forward to working with each person not only for the gift, but for the opportunity to learn a different view of life

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Diane Williams

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

I am a licensed professional counselor in Arkansas with over 5 years of experience working in the following settings: outpatient, residential, Christian base, and private practice. I have worked with various populations with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and parenting problems. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe that everyone has a voice no matter how big or small without fear of being stifled. Thus, I will respect and provide compassion throughout the therapeutic process. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution focus, dialectical, and client center therapy. It takes courage to make the first step toward change and I will be there to empower and support you I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Deandriea Bass-Carrigan

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: PhD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Are you ready? Ready to take back control of your thoughts, feelings, and emotions. If your answer is yes, you have come to the right place. I am a licensed professional counselor. I have over 10 years of experience providing career counseling and over 5 years of experience working with clients experiencing various concerns related to anxiety, burnout, stress, depression, and other disorders. Our thoughts, feelings, and emotions are like fluids. Our levels can be high or dangerously low. One of my favorite quotes is "you can't pour from an empty cup!" My goal is to help you identify ways to refill your cup so you may continue building yourself and others! I believe in allowing my clients to play an active role in the therapy process from the beginning. My therapy methods are driven by concepts; concepts that are tailored to you, the client. So, you have made it this far, don't turn back. Call me today! Come find your new happy place!

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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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Lakesha Stidum

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LCSW, CCM
Parenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
8 years of experience

Hello, I've been providing individual therapy since 2014. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing with clients to help in reaching goals. I've mostly worked with clients who experience Depression and Anxiety. I received a Bachelor's degree at Arkansas State University and Master's degree at the University of Arkansas Little Rock. I'm currently licensed in Arkansas, California, and Texas. I look forward to working with you.

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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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Leigh Maxwell

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas with 10 years of professional work experience and an additional 4 years doing therapeutic interventions in various settings. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, LGBTQIA+ related 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. My personal therapeutic style is eclectic with a focus on the client. I am experienced in a multitude of modalities and draw from these to meet a person where they are. I am honest and empathetic with all folks I work with. It is my goal to treat all persons with dignity, respect, and understanding while encouraging them to look introspectively and re-evaluate their perceptions and ideas about the world around 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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Ginger Blacksmith

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe there is hope and positive change possible for each individual and family. Through faith-based counseling, I strive to empower clients to find the Peace of Mind, knowing that many individual and family burdens can be relieved through the collaborative relationship with a trained coach or counselor.

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Jonathan "David" Teague

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemADHD
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Melissa Hewitt

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, career difficulties, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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!

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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