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Paula Freeman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Akron
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW,PIP
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
8 years of experience

Hello. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Alabama. I have been a Social Worker for over 26 years and have worked in child welfare, residential treatment, and mental health. I have also had the opportunity to provide bereavement services as a volunteer with Hospice. My professional experience has included working with children, teens, and adults in individual and group settings. I have also provided supervision, consultation, training, and coaching to other Social Workers and professionals. My counseling style is empathic and client-centered. I believe in treating everyone with sensitivity, respect, and compassion. I am not here to judge or label. I believe we all have challenges in our lives and sometimes need help getting through those challenges. I like to begin where you are and collaborate with you to tailor my approaches and plan that will best meet your needs. My counseling approach and strategies combine dialectical behavior, cognitive behavior, solution-focused, and person-centered therapies. Additionally, I like to provide psychoeducation as a tool for you to gain knowledge and power in meeting your goals. It takes courage to seek support for life’s challenges and changes. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and assist you in the journey.

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Gina Helms

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Akron
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
4 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in Alabama. I have worked with clients with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, OCD, panic disorder, social phobia, body image issues, addictions and co-occurring mental health disorders, PTSD, and victims of abuse and exploitation. My counseling style is based on unconditional positive regard. I believe every client deserves a compassionate, non-judgmental environment to share their difficulties. I employ a number of techniques and modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, somatic and mindfulness techniques, and trauma-focussed therapy. All treatment is tailored to meet the individual need of each client. My goal is to help each client achieve a healthier, happier, and more rewarding life. It would be my privilege to work with you!

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Dr. Ronny Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Akron
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

My name is Dr. Ronny T. Smith. Through a person-centered approach, I thrive in assisting people address their areas of concern. I have 15 years of experience in the counseling profession. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of Alabama. I am also board certified by The National Board for Certified Counselors (NCC). I also hold a Doctoral Degree of Public Health. I have had the honor of working with adults who have had difficulties with life's stressors dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, and other concerns. Utilizing a combination of theoretical approaches, including, cognitive-behavioral and reality therapies, I collaborate with you to meet you where you are. I specialize in the following areas, however, this list is not exhaustive, if you have a question please reach out. Anxiety (social, generalized) Bipolar & Depressive & Other Mood Disturbances Adjustment Issues Trauma & Stress Related Concerns Anger/ Control Concerns I look forward to potentially working with you and thank you for considering me. Dr. Ronny T. Smith, DrPH, LPC, NCC

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Christopher Pope

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Akron
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

Hi there! I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with 22 years of professional experience working as a mental health clinician in many areas throughout the field of mental health counseling, therapy, and other human services-related fields. I am currently licensed and/or have been licensed in Mississippi, Tennessee, Alabama, and North Carolina. My fundamental approach is through the lens of existential philosophy with a solution-focused approach and a strong emphasis on values as a driving factor with respect to our daily behaviors and decision-making processes. Therefore, I consider a holistic approach to life challenges and maladaptive behaviors when considering the various modalities at my disposal including acceptance and commitment therapy, existential therapy, narrative therapy, reality therapy, family systems therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, positive psychology, sports psychology, industrial psychology, and holistic/whole body/wellness therapy approaches. I have experience in helping clients/couples with relationship issues, communication, establishing and maintaining deep connection & intimacy, finding purpose & meaning, teaching mindfulness skills, teaching coping skills for depression & anxiety, teaching stress reduction techniques, improving motivation, self-esteem, self-confidence, self-esteem, and self-worth. I partner (I'm not the expert on your life; You are!) with my clients to create an open and safe environment to hold a space for you where thoughts, emotions, issues, challenges, and problems can be shared without fear of judgment. I simply help you to regain agency over your life, and help you become more autonomous & empowered in order for you to make solid choices and decisions. In doing that, you are able to live into the answers to the questions regarding the various challenges you face in life. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling joyful life and to take the first steps towards meaningful change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey, instilling that autonomy in you so you are confident in your own ability to face life and its many challenges. I can say without knowing you that I believe in you because we are all human, and I believe we are all capable of positive change and creating the life we value and envision. Life is about the journey, not the destination. We never stop learning. Life is also the teacher. It has a lot to teach us, and there is always much to learn. Each day is a gift and another chance to do that very thing. So I want you to start this day with hope and a belief in yourself. As long as you have a willingness to make changes, and a commitment to the process and of doing the work that needs to be done, you will find success. Best of luck to you on this journey, and many blessings in the coming days.

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Hannah Strength

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Akron
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I have been working in field for 3 years and am licensed in Alabama. I want you to know that you are not alone in this. I want to provide a safe place for you to lift some of this emotional weight off your shoulders. You have the power, and you have the strength. I am here to guide you to your own discovery. I offer therapy to adults & teens. I have a team-mindset which assists the counseling collaboration process. Life can be overwhelming without the right tools, and I want to help you discover those.I enjoy hearing each individuals personal experience. You have something to say, and I want to hear your story. I am excited for your journey, and the path you choose to take from here. If I am lucky enough to hear your experience, I hope to work as a team to provide quality counseling to assist in whatever future you choose.

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Heather Sims

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Akron
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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!

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Tiffany Reaves

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Akron
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama, Iowa, and Massachusetts and have been in practice for over 18 years. I specialize in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I have extensive experience with childhood victims of physical and sexual abuse/neglect. I approach therapy from a trauma informed perspective. I utilize an open and nonjudgmental method when providing treatment. I'm here to provide a safe space for you to explore your emotions and offer guidance and support to you on your journey toward self-improvement and wellness. 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! Let's work on achieving your goals together!

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Whitney Shelton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Akron
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 12 years of professional work experience in the mental health field. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, grief and loss, anger management, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I am passionate about helping individuals reach their maximum potential while facilitating change in their lives. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Let me help you create a new reality that gives meaning to your life.

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Ja’meka Caffie

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Akron
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 16+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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. 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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Tara Cochran Grall

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Akron
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
19 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama and Mississippi with 20 years of working in mental health. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will provide uniqueness to your 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!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Akron

Finding the best therapist close by in Akron 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 Akron 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 Akron. 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 Akron, 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 clinical psychologist 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 Akron region and in the state of Alabama. 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 counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Akron 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 therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Akron therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Akron 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 Akron, elsewhere in Hale, or in the greater state of Alabama. 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 Akron 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 Akron 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 Akron 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 psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Akron may not take health insurance, some in the state of Alabama 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 Alabama you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Akron online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Akron, Alabama 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 in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Akron psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists 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 Akron 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.

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.

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 therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Akron provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Akron?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Akron 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 and therapists 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 Akron 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 Akron 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 AL, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 35441 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 in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Akron counselor?

Before seeing your Akron therapist, 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. Akron therapists here 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 why you're attending therapy.

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 Akron 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 Akron 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.

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. A psychologist 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 psychologist in Akron, Alabama 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.

Akron 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 therapists 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 Akron, Alabama

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of Akron therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy 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.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Akron.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Akron:

35441

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