This is Dr. Magna Porterfield's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Magna Porterfield

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Heath
Counselor License Type(s): Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am a psychologist who is licensed in both the states of Alabama and Georgia and I have had the opportunity to work in the field of psychology for several years. I have worked in the both university settings (as a teacher and counselor) as well as in private practice. I have also had the opportunity to travel and share my knowledge through lectures and workshops. I have the most experience in helping people who struggle with unipolar (but NOT bipolar) depression and anxiety. I also have a considerable amount of experience in working with individuals who have problems with managing stress and managing their emotions. I do not work with issues such as eating disorders, addictions, relationship problems or sexuality concerns. My counseling style is warm, but also straightforward and honest. I consider myself to be a kind person. and I truly desire to help those who are hurting. In my work with people, I do not spend much time processing the past (i.e., childhood experiences, past trauma, etc.). I believe that true healing comes when individuals take active steps in the therapy process and focus on what they can do in their "present" situation to address their challenges. In my work with clients, I focus on helping them understand how their thoughts impact their emotions and their behavior - principles from the field of cognitive behavior therapy. I also look at the impact of lifestyle habits - diet, rest, exercise, etc. - on mental/emotional health. In addition, I sometimes utilize concepts and strategies from the area of positive psychology, which helps people identify and enhance their strengths (as opposed to merely focusing on people's weaknesses "abnormalities," so to speak). Do you need a helping hand? I would love to be that "hand" and help you make those changes. Working with me will take commitment and will require you to not be just a "passive participant," so to speak, in your healing and recovery. If you are willing to do your part, I am here for you and would love to work with you. All it takes is that first step and you can make that step today!

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Rebecca Moerbe

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Heath
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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Gwendolyn Downing

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Heath
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
41 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama, with 36 years experience. I worked in a public agency for several years and have been in private practice for 17 years. I have helped individuals who have been referred through Self-referral, Employee Assistance Programs, and family court systems. I have had the privilege of helping people with Depression and Anxiety, Chemical and Process Addictions, Trauma and abuse issues, Family and Life issues, as well as other challenging situations. I utilize several therapeutic strategies, including Motivational Interviewing, Emotionally-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-focused Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy. The strategies utilized are determined by the unique needs of the person with whom I am interacting. I believe each person is unique and presents with unique needs and unique strengths for addressing the identified concerns. My focus is on people, not labels or statistics. I make it my practice to encourage and elevate people to be the success they were meant to be. It requires courage and commitment to reach out for help, and I would be honored to be part of your journey. I look forward to working with you!

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La-Shieka Brooks

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Heath
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
5 years of experience

Hello! My name is La-Shieka and I am a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) experienced in working with children, adolescents, adults and families for over five years. I've primarily worked in an inpatient psychiatric and behavioral environment and through the years I have learned that sometimes all it takes is a safe space and safe person to get you through a tough situation. My therapy style is client-centered (it's all about YOU) and holistic with some humor sprinkled in. I believe a person is more than just the decisions that they have made or the events that have happened to them. Therapy is one of the hardest decisions a person can choose to do. There will be tears, moments of silence, serious conversations, laughter and moments of relief. You just have to trust the process and trust that WE are in this TOGETHER! I can’t wait to meet you and see you down this journey!!

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Julie Mouton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Heath
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Relationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficulties
12 years of experience

Hi my name is Julie Mouton,LCSW. I have been working as a therapist for 12 years. I have experience working with clients with many different types of challenges. My approach is client centered. I appreciate the honor it is to help clients to heal and work towards their goals in life. I enjoy helping people to work through their problems so they can have more peace and joy in their lives. I am passionate about my work and love making a difference in the lives of my clients on their path to emotional health and wellbeing.

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Amy White

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Heath
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Hi there! My name is Amy White and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the states of Florida, Texas, Mississippi, and Alabama. I have over 4 years of private clinical work experience and over 10 years of field experience. I aim to help clients reduce experiences related to stress, anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, and a variety of other mental health concerns. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. In our sessions we'll work towards meeting goals by utilizing specific strategies that work best for you. My approach is very individualistic and client-centered. We’ll work to "reshape" thoughts in a way that promotes your mental health and happiness. I’ll help you develop specific skills to be able to overcome the challenges that you are currently facing. I would love to be on the journey with you to find the happiest and healthiest you! I look forward to working with you.

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Ruth Racz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Heath
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesCareer difficultiesBipolar disorderDepression
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama who has spent 12 years working with individuals with a variety of mental illness diagnoses including psychotic disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship and family issues, and co-occurring conditions. I received my Master's Degree from Troy University in 2011 and have been working at the same company full-time since then. I have been married for 27 years, and we have 3 boys (24, 21, and 9). I like for our interactions to be conversational and will use reality therapy, cognitive behavioral approaches, and mindfulness. In this space, you are free to be who you are and talk about what is important to you. There will be no judgment, and I urge you to be real and talk about whatever you want. You are taking the first steps to a better life, and I am glad to be here for it.

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Sarah Gilbert

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Heath
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
18 years of experience

I have over 17 years of experience practicing Social Work in the State of Alabama. Using a person-centered approach and cognitive behavioral therapy, let me help you during whatever season in your life you may be in. We will work together at your own pace, to solve whatever challenges you may face. And if the challenges cannot be solved, we will come up with a plan to increase coping skills to make life easier. You are not alone. My goal is to provide you with a safe space to talk about whatever it is you need.

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Mary O'Dell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Heath
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Life is full of change and we all need help at times. I am a clinical social work professional, licensed in Alabama, with 3 years of professional work experience and over 10 years of experience helping those dealing with substance use and mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression. I offer a safe space for individuals who are looking to develop healthy coping skills, and build confidence and self-esteem. My therapy style is warm, genuine, and unbiased. My hope is to provide a welcoming space, free of judgment, where one can find help and begin their healing journey. I believe that you have many strengths that will assist you in facing life and its many challenges. You are the expert of your own story. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Bertrille Hookfin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Heath
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW-BACS
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
18 years of experience

I have 18 years of experience providing therapy for all ages from 5 years- old to adults. I have worked providing therapy for children and adults with special needs. I provide an eclectic approach to therapy. I believe in 'starting where the client is." The essential goal of therapy is similar to a Carl Rogers quote stating acceptance of who we are can lead to change. I look forward to traveling the journey of acceptance with you.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Heath

Finding the best therapist close by in Heath 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 Heath 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 Heath. 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 Heath, 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 Heath 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 Heath 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 Heath 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 Heath 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 Heath, elsewhere in Covington, 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 Heath 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 Heath 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 Heath 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 Heath 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 Heath online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Heath, 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 Heath 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 Heath 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 Heath 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 Heath?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Heath 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 Heath 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 Heath 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 36421 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 Heath counselor?

Before seeing your Heath 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. Heath 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 Heath 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 Heath 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 Heath, 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.

Heath 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 Heath, 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 Heath 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 Heath.

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

36421

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