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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Veronica Kasprzak Bratcher

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LPC,CMHC
Trauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

I am a professional counselor licensed in Arkansas, Oklahoma and Utah with over 9 years of experience working as a therapist and an additional 10 years as a social worker and family advocate. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, adoption and foster care, blended families, trauma and grief. I am trained in EMDR which is a highly effective treatment for trauma. I specialize in helping clients working through abuse and/or trauma including complex grief and loss of a child. I approach counseling as an interactive conversation where you are the expert of your experience and I am your coach to help address areas that aren't working the way you need them to and strengthen the tools that have helped you come this far. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, in a non-judgmental space. We are all doing the best we can and sometimes we need some help or another approach to make the progress we are wanting to see. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, attachment, and trauma informed counseling. Our work together will be specific to where you are in your progress and your specific goals. Making changes is brave and can feel uncomfortable, especially in the beginning. Yet staying the same is often already uncomfortable and often why we reach out to change. Let's do this together! I look forward to working with you!

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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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Kennethya Smith-Johnson

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

I am licensed in Iowa with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Leslie Salmon

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
27 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas and Illinois with over 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, grief, stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Dr. James Guinee

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Relationship issuesGriefAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas with 30 years of professional work experience. I have spent most of my career in university counseling centers, but for the last few years have added providing consultation and therapy to nursing staff at a local hospital, providing therapy to hospital staff through their EAP, and most recently through Better Help. I especially help clients with depression and anxiety (from irrational beliefs and over-thinking), relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, religious conflict, nightmares and dream interpretation, anger management, & low self-esteem. For the past 25 years or so I have provided couples therapy as well as premarital counseling. I specialize in relationship issues, and can work with people individually or as a couple. I will work very hard to help you improve your relationship, but I will also be very direct with you so that we can reduce the size of your blind spot. I have limited success with couples who are dealing with infidelity, and do not have the training or experience to help couples with physical intimacy issues. I believe that the best therapy comes from collaborating together, where I listen and give feedback, and where I provide a place where people can feel safe and be absolutely honest. I am personable, very chill, and do not push people. I have a high rate of success and I love what I do. I check messages throughout the day, so I am particularly good at getting back to people in a very short amount of time. Reach out to me and I we’ll take a first step and see how it goes. John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

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LaJoya McDonald

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee, Arkansas, Texas, and Missouri with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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. 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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Stacie Armstrong

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas and Texas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, bipolar disorder, & 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.

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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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Jason Bowers

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: MTS,MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker licensed in Missouri and Michigan with over 7 years of experience working as a psychotherapist . I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and PTSD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, trauma-informed, and solution-focused treatment modalities . I also have a masters degree in theological studies and offer Christian counseling for those who prefer a faith-based approach. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. 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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Dawn Mumaw

Offering therapy in Arkansas
AddictionsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

I am licensed as a Clinical Social Worker and Substance Abuse Counselor in Wisconsin with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, confidence, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My therapy style is laid back and I tend to bring a bit of humor into discussions. I've been told I am patient, understanding and insightful. I will typically respond to messages or inquiries within 24 hours. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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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