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.

This is Linda McNellis's avatar and link to their profile

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.

This is Shannon Caraway's avatar and link to their profile

Shannon Caraway

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

After spending 18 years in education, I began my career in mental health as a case manager and admissions coordinator. After 3 years, I obtained my masters in social work and began working as a therapist. I have experience in geriatric and adult in-patient psych, as well as outpatient, day treatment, and school-based services. My youngest client has been 3 years of age while my oldest has been 99. I love working with people and feel as though I've always connected well with all ages.

This is Sabrina Lewis's avatar and link to their profile

Sabrina Lewis

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: MA,LPC,CRC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have 8 years of combined experience and education in the mental health/counseling field with specialized education and training in trauma and rehabilitation. I use a client centered approach with cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy approaches to help clients navigate through life’s most challenging circumstances. It takes courage and strength to ask for help and I appreciate you trusting me to guide you through your healing process.

This is Toni Bailey's avatar and link to their profile

Toni Bailey

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

Hi, My name is Toni Bailey. I strive to help individuals with authentic emotional awareness and healing with personalized treatment. I am a licensed professional counselor and therapist who has been providing mental health services directly to people for over 9 years. Counting my work in the the mental health field 3 years prior to earning my Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, I have directly helped people in this profession for more than 12 years. I have worked successfully with clients of all ages, who presented with a wide range of challenges, including the emotions related to stress, family and relational issues, trauma and abuse, career difficulties, caregiver stressors, grief and coping with life changes. As a person-centered therapist, I meet you wherever you are in your personal journey with compassion and unconditional support (no judgment) to assist in addressing the effects of stressors, to improve communication, and strengthen effective strategies to better cope with obstacles to mindfulness and joyful living. I approach therapy with warmth and flexible support and an eclectic style that blends evidence-based strategies, including cognitive behavioral, emotionally-focused, solution-focused, strength-based therapies with Existential, Jungian-influenced theories for a more holistic approach to therapy. Dream analysis for problem-solving is a particular passion. Since the therapeutic alliance between counselor and client is the strongest factor in success, I collaborate with you to tailor sessions to your specific needs and to create treatment goals to address your unique circumstances. I will consider adding or adapting my schedule to accommodate special needs where possible. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards effective coping and positive change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.

This is Deborah Boye's avatar and link to their profile

Deborah Boye

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas and Nebraska with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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!

This is Pamela Gray's avatar and link to their profile

Pamela Gray

Offering therapy in Arkansas
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia, Tennessee and Arkansas with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients coping with addictions, LGBT-related issues, trauma and abuse & 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 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!

This is Ashley Freece's avatar and link to their profile

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.

This is Bradley (Brad) Hays's avatar and link to their profile

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.

This is Catherine Pettus's avatar and link to their profile

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!

This is Gretchen Graham's avatar and link to their profile

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.
Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist