Valerie Keller Gates
I am a licensed professional counselor in Oklahoma. I received a Bachelor of Science from Southern Nazarene University in Family Studies and Gerontology and a Masters of Human Relations with the emphasis of Licensed Professional Counseling from The University of Oklahoma. I have experience with adults, families, and groups. I have worked with those struggling with mild to severe mental illness as well as those individuals who are struggling with issues including depression, grief & loss, abuse/neglect, addictions with dual diagnosis, behavioral problems, bipolar, and parenting problems. I adapt my counseling style to each individual. However, within my experience, I have noticed that clients are more adaptable to me utilizing a counseling style of a client-focused approach. I believe that it is important to meet the client where they currently are in their journey of life and work from that point. I am a very transparent-honest-caring individual in my day to day life and I bring that trait to each session with the belief that in doing so, the client feels more at ease with being honest as issues and challenges are being processed. I believe everyone deserves respect and compassion as well as the opportunity to have added support when needed. My approach/style combines cognitive-behavioral and client-centered….just to name a few. A client’s treatment plan and the direction of the sessions will be tailored to meet the individual needs. "Whenever you find yourself doubting how far you can go, just remember how far you have come".
Kimberlee Thomas
Hello, and Welcome! I enjoy assisting people discover new ways of thinking about and experiencing their life issues, and feeling better maybe even joyous! I am a good listener and will take the time to make sure you are heard. My experience is diverse, and have worked with clients from ages 2 through 103 with a variety of problems ranging from trauma, career, family, parenting (children, grandchildren, and adult children), severe mental illness, marital, depression and anxiety, drug and alcohol, sexual life, medical issues, aging and caring for aging, end of life, and grief and loss, for a sampling. In our world today, narcissistic abuse is becoming a prevailing issue and I have taken time the last 6 years to study, learn and apply treatment methods to help in recovery from this. My background includes both individual and group counseling, in office setting, private homes, Group Home, Nursing Home, Inpatient Psychiatric Unit, Community Mental Health including groups with Federal Probation and Parole and Drug and Alcohol, Native American Health, Foster Care Families, Employee Assistance Program, and four years of solid online counseling. I have been in the behavioral health profession for thirty years and my educational background includes a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology, a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology with Developmental Emphasis and Sociology Minor), and an Associates of Science Degree in Psychology. My focus is holistic, and on the here and now, and how past experiences and future hopes and plans or fears, affect it. If willing, I teach my clients to utilize mindfulness techniques, deep breathing and meditation, their own spirituality, social realm, thought life, and health goals. I use cognitive behavioral techniques, Rational Emotive Techniques, Transactional Analysis, EMDR, Inventories, among others in a pragmatic fashion. Together, we will find ways to develop strengths and use them to achieve life goals that keeps in mind weaker areas. Your goals will be our focus in sessions and I will give you help to clarify them as needed. It is my hope that you leave each session feeling as if you have gained something in working toward your well-being and goals, and that you will feel comfortable in letting me now how I am doing. I look forward to working with you. I am available 7:45am-4:15pm CDT, Monday through Friday. Kimberlee
Brittany Hill
I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Oklahoma. My education includes a masters degree in Social Work from the University of Oklahoma; which influenced my holistic approach to therapy. I have worked with individual's, families and couples in addressing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting challenges, career challenges, trauma and more. My therapy style is warm, direct, empowering and interactive. I believe in treating all people with respect, compassion, and equality. My approach often combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, humanistic therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy and cognitive processing therapy. Specific therapy models utilized will depend on needs and be individualized to address your particular goals. I believe it requires great courage and strength to take the first step towards making life lasting change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you though this healing journey. I look forward to working with you!
Jehalin Anandam
Hi my name is Jehalin, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist with 13 years of experience working with adults, children, adolescents, and families from various walks of life. I have experience with helping people who are experiencing various hardships in life and difficulty adjusting, as well as people experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem, mood disorders, etc. I am known for being a good listener, caring, accepting, and compassionate, regardless of the challenges one might be experiencing. The therapeutic approaches I use is cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused, client centered, play therapy, reality therapy, mindfulness, and more. My desire is to help you achieve your goals by providing a safe, authentic, and compassionate clinical setting with an individualized therapy experience. Please let me know how I may assist.
Rilda Smith
As a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist in Oklahoma for over 20 years, I have a systemic perspective on the issues clients bring to therapy. I understand that your difficulties exist in relationship to your larger circle of family, friends and colleagues. Clients appreciate this perspective because it seems like I “get it” differently than someone who doesn't view people systemically. Some of the specific struggles I treat are coping with all types of grief and loss (not just death), managing life transitions, anxiety/stress, caregiver issues, sleep struggles, communication, anger management, money/financial issues, self-esteem and experiencing compassion fatigue and burnout. A particular passion of mine is working with Third Culture Kids (TCKs), especially helping them transition to living in the United States. I have walked alongside TCKs and Adult TCKs for many years and have extensive experience in this therapeutic area. Ultimately, I believe, you are the expert on your story and you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming the things that challenge you! I hope to be someone who can help you along the way! Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, and I am proud of you for getting started.
Shannon Bentley-Stewart
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts & trauma and abuse. 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! My available live sessions are only on Saturdays and Sundays. However, I will be able to message back and forth with you during the week.
Karlynn McCarrell
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, depression, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Yoonhee Kang
I am licensed in Marriage and Family Therapy in Oklahoma with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder and more severe mental illness such as schizophrenia and personality disorders along with couples and family issues. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Tessica Taylor
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 5 years of professional work experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have also been a certified School Counselor for 10 years, working with children from PK-12 in a public school setting. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & 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.
David Holden
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, & anger management. I also have experience working with 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. 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.
Bernard Ashlock
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kansas with over 20 years of experience. I have worked with clients who have concerns with depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, relationships, parenting, and careers. My work experience includes a Staff Position at a Crisis Stabilization Hospital & Clinic, Private Practice and Medical Hospital. I have experience working with senior adults, adults, adolescents and children in group and individual settings. Prior experience also includes an Adjunct Professor at two different colleges. I also recently became certified as Clinical Trauma Professional. I believe everyone has the answers to their own issues. It is deep within them and sometimes is covered up with scars and pain. We will take this journey together and find your potential answers. This is done through personal reflection and guidance. Our Objective is to help you find solutions to life’s challenges.
Jennifer Howell
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 3 years of professional work experience. I believe that you are the expert of your own journey and that you have many strengths that together, we can discover in order to assist you in overcoming challenges in life. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process and build a solid foundation of peace and joy.
Nathan Ladd
Hello. I am Nathan Ladd, a therapist (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), and I believe that there is hope! I don’t know what brought you here today, but I’m sure that it is a really hard time for you. You may be feeling scared, sad, uneasy, tense, or just hopeless. It might feel like things will never get better. I want to assure you that things can get better. There is hope and healing and I would like to accompany you on your journey. Looking for help can be hard, scary and difficult. You might not be sure what to expect or how this can help. This is normal and I have helped many people in the same place that you are. I offer a safe place where you can receive someone to listen to you, be with you, and join with you on your journey to healing and peace. It might not seem like it, but things can and will get better. I have six years of therapeutic experience and I have worked hard to become the therapist that I am today. I believe that everyone has the potential to grow and improve. We can always continue to find new ways to flourish and live our best life. What I offer is someone who will accompany you on your journey and offer continuous hope. I also help to hold you accountable to your own values and goals. My expertise includes trauma work, substance use, and valued living. These are things that I am passionate about and I believe clients that I have worked with have had success in these areas and more. I would love to work with you and join with you on your journey!
Naomi Watts
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, 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. 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.
Matthew Spencer
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with 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!
How to find a therapist for counseling in Ames
Finding the best therapist close by in Ames can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services with therapists in Ames that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Ames. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Ames, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.
It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses for therapists. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Ames region and in the state of Oklahoma. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
A mental health professional working through their own in-person therapy practice in Ames or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.
There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Ames area offering:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Ames, elsewhere in Major, or in the greater state of Oklahoma. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Ames area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Ames therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Ames due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:
- Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
- Counseling with therapists: $100-300
- Therapy with a clinician: $100
While many psychologists in Ames may not take health insurance, some in the state of Oklahoma may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Oklahoma you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).
Read more about this cost of therapy question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
How is a licensed therapist on this Ames online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Ames, Oklahoma working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. Therapists have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, therapists here all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing.
Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Ames psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
Read more about this therapist license question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?
BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Ames above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client for in person sessions.
Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.
Read more about this therapy tips question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.
Our specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Behavior therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Talk therapy
- Depression therapy
- Anxiety disorders counselor
- Stress therapy
- Eating disorder therapist
- Grief therapy
- Attachment therapy
- Relationship therapy
- Children, adolescents, and teen therapy
- Addiction (substance abuse) therapy
- Divorce therapy
- Trauma or PTSD therapy
- Bipolar disorder therapy
- Psychodynamic treatment with a counselor
- Career counseling
- Alcohol use disorders therapist
- OCD counselor
- ADHD therapy
- Mood disorders therapy
- Sex addiction therapist
- Complex trauma therapy
- Life transition therapy
You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Ames provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists.
Read more about this psychotherapist question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Ames?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.
Therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Ames therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.
Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.
With a lot of people in OK, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 73718 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists around or in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
Read more about this family therapy question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Ames counselor?
Before seeing your therapist near you, prep for your session by reading to understand the process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Ames therapists near you may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn how to best help and support you.
Read more about this first therapy session question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine?
Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Ames licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find with a Ames counselor can be dependent on your process.
People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.
Read more about this do I need therapy question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.
Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?
Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. An experienced clinician can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based licensed clinician in Ames, Oklahoma can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.
Ames has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.
Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?
The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.
Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Ames, Oklahoma
To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.
Take some time today to learn more about the team of Ames therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to BetterHelp or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.
If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Psychologist therapy services offered to clients in the below Oklahoma zip codes by BetterHelp therapists in Ames at an affordable cost:
73718
Start therapy with a therapist Ames provides to your location.
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