Depression can be a debilitating disease that not only affects your mind but can also destroy your entire life if it is not treated. Isolating yourself, constant fatigue, feeling sad or lost, and sleeping more than usual are just some of the symptoms that can wreak havoc on your daily life. 

The town of Athens has been home to 18 famous sports stars such as Dick Coffman, Andy Nelson, and Pryor Williams so the community is fond of sports of any kind. When you have depression, you lost interest in things that you used to enjoy such as sports, but it is important to stay active to fight depression. Talk to a therapist in Athens about treatment today. 

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Rebecca Moerbe

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

Hello! My name is Rebecca and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have provided mental health support to people for over 15 years. I have worked with all ages in a variety of settings from homes to hospitals. I have focused on working with people facing challenges due to change- either health, relationships, or mental health. I have experience working with challenges including depression, grief, adjustment, life transitions, caregiver stress, and trauma. My counseling style is warm, encouraging, honest, and respectful, with a dash of humor. I like to adjust my therapy approach according to what best serves my client, often this holistic style combines attachment based/emotionally focused with rational-emotive work. I want to help empower you in reaching your goal and better understand yourself and your world. I encourage you to be honest and approach your counseling experience with curiosity. I respect the courage and vulnerability it takes to lean into a discovery process about ourselves. I look forward to working with you!

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Meredith Tessier

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
10 years of experience

Hello! I have a Master's of Science in General Mental Health Counseling and am a Licensed Professional Counselor. Through the years, I have had a wide variety of clientele as I provide counseling for individuals in all age groups and life circumstances. I am passionate about working with the most vulnerable of populations. Much of my experience has been centered around serving those who are suffering from anxiety, depression, sexual trauma, physical and emotional abuse, life transitions, grief, and death and dying. My belief is that everyone needs someone that can help ease the difficulties life throws our way. Chances are, if you are seeking counseling that you are having or have had some difficult times in your life. It takes strength and courage to seek out a counselor. Then, it takes honesty, commitment, and vulnerability to move forward in the counseling process. This can be welcomed by some and leave others feeling scared or overwhelmed. Wherever you fall on the spectrum, I encourage you to give it a go and see what you do for yourself in the end. No matter where you are in life, growth and change are possible. Together we will work to figure out solutions to the problems you are experiencing. I will tailor a treatment plan to fit your specific needs, and together we will work through the situational, behavioral, and emotional circumstances in your life. I desire to help you grow to better understand yourself and to develop workable approaches for tackling the problems in your life. I really look forward to working with you and helping you to grow and accomplish your goals!

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Brittany Stevens

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
5 years of experience

Hello! My name is Brittany Stevens and I am from Alabama. I have lived in Alabama my entire life and attended the University of Alabama for my graduate program in social work. I currently have an LICSW (Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker) to practice social work. During my career in social work, I have been involved in helping people navigate a variety of issues. I have worked in child trauma, adult trauma, depression, anxiety, family/couples issues, parental issues, addiction, domestic violence, infertility, LGBTQ among many others. My treatment style may vary depending on the intake assessment that is completed with any one individual or family. I find cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, motivational interviewing, and trauma focused therapy beneficial in helping others overcome their struggles. I am also certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I look forward to working with you and helping you live a better quality of life that you deserve!

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Lawrence Baker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

My name is Lawrence Baker, Jr., and I have worked in social services since 1994, and have been a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2005. During that time I have worked with a variety of populations including veterans and their families, individuals with depression and anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse issues, psychotic disorders, and adjustment disorders. The bulk of my experience has been individual, family, and group therapy sessions. I am committed to helping people to overcome experiences and learn how to live a fulfilling and meaning life. I am a kind and compassionate listener and enjoy working with people from all backgrounds. My therapy approach is conversational and interactive. Everyone has the right to be heard and treated with dignity, kindness, and respect.

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Mary Weston

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW 4856C
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
10 years of experience

Greetings, my name is Mary Dawn Weston, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of Alabama. I am absolutely passionate about this field and working with clients to enhance their lives by reducing stress and negative outcomes. We will work together pursuing resolution to your identified needs by utilizing evidence-based therapies such as CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, and other modalities. My pledge is to always start where you are with confidence, clarity, and compassion. With 11 years' experience in the field plus a lifetime of diverse personal experience, I would be honored to help aid with issues, resources, or any mental health concerns you may have. My specialties include PTSD, Anxiety, Addiction, Co-Dependency, Domestic Violence, Marital/Relationship issues, Phobias, and Anger Management. Thank you for your time and consideration in building a trusting and effective partnership. ~Mary Dawn

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Fani Chifchieva

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): LPC, NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteem
8 years of experience

My name is Fani Chifchieva. I hold LPC license in Alabama and NCC credentials. I have over 7 years of therapeutic experience, working in different settings and with different age groups, which has made me quick to adapt to each client and situation and to provide the best care and options. I use variety of therapeutic approaches that will best fit each client and develop specific coping skills for that person. My therapeutic approach is CBT( Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and Solution- Focused Therapy. I also use Grief Therapy, Art Therapy and Person- Centered Therapy. My goal is to provide safe environment where clients will feel comfortable on working through their personal difficulties and helping them achieve their goals. I am looking forward on connecting with clients and being able to provide the best care!

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Amanda Frederick

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW, LSCSW,CRAADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker licensed in Missouri with over 20 years of experience working as a therapist, leading and directing behavioral health clinics and specialty programs. I have provided comprehensive counseling and case management services for a full spectrum of mental health needs including depression and anxiety, substance use disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, relationship concerns, parenting and child issues, career challenges, transition and change, resiliency, stress management, sleep hygiene, and health concerns. I have been successful in developing therapeutic relationships with people from a wide range of backgrounds, using culturally competent counseling techniques. I use a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches tailored to meet your unique needs, including cognitive behavior therapy, exposure therapies, and motivational interviewing. It takes courage to seek a happier, healthier and more fulfilled version of yourself, and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that next step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Christopher Gosa

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Athens
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefAnger managementDepression
15 years of experience

I am Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Alabama with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients of all ages with depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, anger management, and other DSM-5 mental health diagnoses. 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.

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Amanda Dulaney

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Athens
GriefCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss of a loved one, life changes, as well as motivation and self esteem. 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.

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Crystal Lewis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Athens
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have great experience in teen counseling. 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 therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. 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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How to find a therapist for counseling in Athens

Finding the best therapist close by in Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens. 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 Athens, 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens, elsewhere in Limestone, 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Athens, 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 35613 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 Athens counselor?

Before seeing your Athens 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. Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens, 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.

Athens 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 Athens, Alabama

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 Athens 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 Athens.

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

35611, 35612, 35613

Popular cities near Athens, AL

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