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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Lisa Kennedy

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger management
18 years of experience

I’ve been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) for the past 18 years and have worked in many different types of community services such as Geropsych, Hospice, Inpatient Psych and now working with Domestic Violence survivors and their alleged offenders - adults and children through the military. I’m also trained as a Forensic Child Interviewer. I’m well versed in personality disorders and mood disorders, along with aging and marital/couple issues. I consider myself a Behavioral Therapist and use Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) as the main mode of therapy, but also use Mindfulness, Solutions Focused Therapy and Strength Base Therapy. I work full time in private practice and am consistent in responding to each and every person that messages me 5 days a week. I absolutely love what I do and I look forward to meeting you, working with you and supporting you through the process of positive changes in your life!

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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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Jamie Daugherty

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas, and I have been practicing for over 8 years now, working in outpatient, day treatment and inpatient acute care settings. I have worked with clients with a variety of needs including managing anxiety and depression, addressing loss and significant life changes, traumatic experiences and general daily life stressors. I have experience working with self-esteem and confidence building and working to have a better outlook on daily life. My counseling style is relaxed and solutions focused. I believe that everyone that has taken the first step to enter into counseling deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and to feel that their voice is heard and their needs are being addressed. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client centered and solution focused therapy to identify where each client is when they enter counseling and to meet them there to begin the process of change and growth. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and encourage you along the way. I look forward to working with you!

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Brian Adams

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: M.S.,LPC
Stress, AnxietyDepression
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas with over 9 years of counseling experience and 20+ years of mental health experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, psychosis, attention, substance abuse, and trauma. My counseling style is gentle and non-directive while assisting clients to develop their own paths to positive changes in their lives. I will not chastise or talk down to clients; however, I will challenge their irrational thoughts and inconsistencies, but in a non-confrontational manner that does not leave the client thinking he or she is attacked. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client centered, humanistic, and rational-emotive therapy to facilitate self-awareness so the client is empowered to change. I believe treating a person is more important than treating a diagnosis which allows me to listen to the client’s subjective concerns. The majority of people will work towards better emotional health, but often they do not know how to do that. If you are ready to begin a journey to feeling better about yourself and life, I am ready to guide and support you.

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Robert "Scotty" Smittle

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: MS,LPC
LGBTRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Thank you so much for giving me your consideration when it comes to your mental health. I know it can be a lot to think about trusting someone with all of the thoughts and feelings! Let me take a minute to introduce myself. My name is Scotty, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Arkansas. I've been doing this for 15 years and have experience with adults and children, individuals, couples, and families. I also have experience with adults and children with special needs. I take a cognitive-behavioral and person-centered approach, and can implement a faith-based perspective as well, if that's what you're looking for. My primary focus throughout the therapy process is person-to-person connection. If we don't have that, we won't make progress, and progress is why we're here! I look forward to meeting you. Talk to you soon.

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Barbara Reed

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

I am licensed in Indiana with 12 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 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.

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Linda Lay

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseCoping with life changesADHD
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas and Texas with 17 years of professional work serving multiple populations. In my practice I focus on working with those who are experiencing stress, anxiety, response to trauma and abuse, & people wo are overwhelmed with life events of all descriptions. Common issues I help with are low self esteem, overly people pleasing and lack of confidence. Many of my clients are being inundated with things coming from several directions - family, work, social, health, etc. Therapy with me generally begins with helping 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. We identify what is creating the greatest problem in currently. I want to get the pressure off as soon as possible. From there I help the client priortize their problems, explore for solutions and build a plan to improve their life.

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Danielle Patterson

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas with 13 years of professional work experience. I work with teens and adults who have had difficult life experiences, trauma, depression, anxiety, in addition to self-esteem, body image, and substance use issues. I primarily utilize skills from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, as well as EMDR. My counseling education is from John Brown University in Siloam Springs, Arkansas. 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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Carrie Reed

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & depression as well as other various mental health aspects. 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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Braeghtyn McAleese

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionADHD
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, coping with grief and loss, & 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 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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