This is Samantha Whelan's avatar and link to their profile

Samantha Whelan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Lester
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteem
14 years of experience

Hello! My name is Samantha Whelan and I am an LPC currently licensed in Oklahoma, Alabama, and New Hampshire with 12 years of professional experience. I decided to take a sabbatical to raise my two children while continuing to keep up with professional development thru continuing education. During these years the ups and downs of everyday life with family, kids, and friends gave me more insight into personal life struggles than I could have acquired by only reading a textbook or sitting in my office. I consider it one of the greatest honors of my life to be able to help people who may be experiencing a personal, family, or relational challenge by providing support, practical feedback, skills-sets and tools that I have acquired in my many years of conducting group and individual psychotherapy sessions. The majority of my professional counseling career was spent prior to the birth of my children. This period of intense focus on my development as a counselor provided me with the chance to develop the capacity to exhibit sympathy and accurate empathy when working with some of society's most challenging circumstances. During this critical time of professional growth, I had the distinct honor to work with people struggling with the grip of addiction and mental health challenges. Because of the bio-psycho-social nature of the disease of addiction, I was challenged to become competent in addressing a myriad of my clients social, emotional, spiritual, physical, legal, familial, and financial issues caused by the trauma of unhealthy habits and poor decision making. It was during these early years that I developed my own personal style of counseling and psychotherapy. This style of therapy is deeply rooted in the discipline of cognitive behavioral therapy, behavioral theory, motivational interviewing, and client centered therapy . These styles allow both you and I to work together during our therapy sessions. I would also like to mention that I myself have been where you are. I have sought out counseling as well and as a counselor myself I had very high standards. I feel like this experience also gave me such great insight into what it felt like to be "on the other side of the desk" and I truly knew how it felt to be heard and validated and I hope that I can make my clients feel the same way. It is my belief that most individuals fall somewhere along a continuum of change. Many times a person’s lack of awareness of where they might be placed on this continuum is a starting point for our counseling sessions. Change doesn't happen overnight. But, my hope for you is that we can find out what you would like to improve and find out what types of behavior change need to happen in order for you to accomplish your personal growth goals in a safe, confidential setting. Always remember your agenda is my agenda. I look forward to working with you!

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Jessica "Jessie" Meyer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Lester
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,AADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor and drug and alcohol counselor in Alabama with over 10 years of experience working as a mental health therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationship issues, and addiction. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution focused, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Elizabeth Allred

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Lester
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTDepression
6 years of experience

My name is Elizabeth Allred. I am from Birmingham, AL. I received a Bachelors in Social Work from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and a Masters in Social work from the University of Southern California. I have experience in working with individuals with chronic health conditions such as HIV or ESRD, anxiety and/or depression, and the LGBTQ+ Community. I utilize motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and client centered therapy.

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Dr. Carol R Crowson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Lester
Counselor License Type(s): Ed.D, LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience

I am a therapist with over 30 years of experience helping others achieve improved mental health. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and geriatric clients in a variety of settings. I obtained a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice, as well a a Master's of Education degree in Counseling and Guidance from the University of Montevallo, in Montevallo, Alabama. l later completed my Doctor of Education degree at Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. I believe in not giving up on clients, and equally important, not allowing clients to give up on themselves. I utilize motivational interviewing to identity and enhance the strength of my client while exploring ways in which those strengths can move my client toward improved health and happiness. I am very excited about the prospect of working with you and hope to hear from you soon~

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Ian Rivera

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Lester
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,MCAP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has been in providing therapeutic services to clients for over 6 years. I have worked addressing a wide range of clients issues; addiction, anxiety, depression, and life changes just to name a few. I meet each of my clients where they are at in their walk of life. I work to individualize a plan of action to help you make changes to live a fulfilling life. My approach’s include motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral, and client centered. Change is difficult, but very important in order to progress and overcome various life challenges. I am here to guide you through the difficult times in order to be the best you.

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Fani Chifchieva

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Lester
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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Dr. Tami Long

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Lester
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor with years of experience in the profession and I specialize in supporting adults and older teens. With an extensive background in employee assistance, I offer mental health counseling for depression, anxiety, stress management, relationship concerns, trauma, and more. I am dedicated to enhancing client well-being by providing quality mental health support for the whole person. I believe in a strengths based approach where counseling focuses on identifying and nurturing your inherent capabilities, talents, and resources within to achieve personal growth, and thrive. We will work together to foster personal resilience, self-efficacy, and a positive mindset. I am trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Processing (EMDR), Gottman Couples Counseling (Level 3), and I am a Board Certified Coach (BCC). Let me support you in your journey towards improved mental health and emotional well-being.

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Bryan Miller

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Lester
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesAnger managementADHD
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship 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 believe that my role is to provide support and guidance through empathy, genuineness and unconditional positive regard, while ensuring that you maintain agency over your life. As your therapist, I am tasked with guiding you to find the path of insight, resolution, reduction and maintenance . It is my hope that you will invite me into your world, that I may learn more about you and your challenges to better assist you. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Dr. Valerie Zeiger

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Lester
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with compassion fatigue and burnout, stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. As an empathetic therapist, who integrates forward-facing therapy (FFT), my goal is to help you uncover your true potential & lead a life that is meaningful. While we can't change difficult situations, or past, we can work together to understand & resolve challenges in your life with an integrative approach. Together, we unearth patterns or perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling, meaningful life. I look forward to helping you heal in an approach tailored for you. I teach clients how to use simple self-regulation to interrupt the body's response & return to comfort.

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William Grall

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Lester
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

Perhaps the reason you are reading this right now is because you feel like your life is out of control, unmanageable, or just plain "stuck?" Maybe you feel like you are in a nightmare every day and you just cannot seem to wake up? Your marriage, your relationships, your work, your finances, your home, your children, your everything feels like it is all crumbling to pieces and possibly you are even losing yourself in the process! No matter how hard you try, you feel hopeless and helpless, and like you cannot get a grip on it all. Please know that you are not alone in this struggle. A crisis is anything that comes up in your life that you do not have a support network great enough to overcome. Seeking help outside of yourself is the first step toward gaining a different perspective that will give you what you need to regain your footing and get your life back on the right path. This path of "bold, relentless, love" is a journey of discerning and discovering what is best for both you and others and then doing that thing with ZERO expectations. I would be honored if you would choose me to be a part of your support network to overcome your crisis through learning how to love both you and others well. I am licensed in Alabama and Mississippi with 10 years of professional work experience. I have empowering, evidence-based principles that I have used for years to help clients with stress and anxiety, marital problems, addictions, trauma and abuse, and bipolar disorder. 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 love yourself and others boldly and to take the first steps towards discovering what it means to go "all-in" on life. Please reach out asap so that I can support & empower you in that journey so that your crises will fade away as you learn to navigate the river of life.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Lester

Finding the best therapist close by in Lester 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 Lester 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 Lester. 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 Lester, 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 Lester 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 Lester 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 Lester 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 Lester 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 Lester, 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 Lester 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 Lester 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 Lester 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 Lester 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 Lester online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Lester, 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 Lester 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 Lester 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 Lester 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 Lester?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Lester 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 Lester 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 Lester 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 35647 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 Lester counselor?

Before seeing your Lester 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. Lester 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 Lester 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 Lester 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 Lester, 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.

Lester 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 Lester, 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 Lester 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 Lester.

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

35647

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