Muscle Shoals is a city in Alabama that is located along the Tennessee River. This area is known as “The Shoals” and is home to the Tennessee Valley Authority and “Muscle Shoals Music.” The town itself is a bustling center that is a family-friendly place to live, play and work. Though Muscle Shoals is known for its community and family-based atmosphere, there are still those in need of mental health support.

Muscle Shoals-area mental health professionals are able to help you maintain your mental and emotional health. Don’t be afraid to reach out if you are dealing with anything that might be taking a toll on your health.

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Barbara Leigh

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Muscle Shoals
Counselor License Type(s): M.S.Ed., LPC-S, NCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersSelf esteemCoping with life changes
36 years of experience

With over 30 years of experience as a therapist, I offer a seasoned combination of wisdom, current relevance and flexible interventions. I have seen trends come and go in the fields of psychology and counseling, so I like to identify your particular needs and tailor treatment modalities to your unique circumstances and expectations. I enjoy helping people discover their true needs/desires and pursuing their dreams, potential and meeting their life goals. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression. trauma and neurodiversity (autism, ADHD, traumatic brain injury, etc.). I enjoy working with individuals of all age and work mostly with longer-term clients who are interested in lasting, life growth work. I own an autism consulting business and am a Certified Autism Specialist, a Board Certified Telemental Health Provider, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Clinical Supervisor (for AL). I have worked in multiple settings - inpatient, outpatient, day treatment, residential, in-home, private practice and, of course, virtual. My pioneering work with online counseling in the 90s (pre-Google!) was featured on Oprah's network and in Glamour Magazine, so I come to you with the highest of standards in the field. I typically use cognitive-behavioral therapy, skills-building from dialectical-behavioral therapy and neuroeducation (teaching about how your mind-body chemicals spur your feelings which lead to thoughts, behaviors and habits). I believe that people change when they're ready - my goal is to help you get ready to change and then to support you through change. You know you can't directly change others, but you CAN change yourself - and by doing so, you help change the world for the better, one step at a time. And it all starts with you! Let's create a treatment plan that is both realistic and challenging for you - one that involves a precise balance of safety and risk, comfort and courage. My clients say I'm easy and fun to work with because of the combination of my personality, professional and personal experience...and thus I use a balanced combination of compassion, reality and humor. Change is hard enough - why not make it fun, meaningful and enjoy the journey? I look forward to working with you! Ready? Set....Grow!!

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Natalie Alexander

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Muscle Shoals
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and, former Case Manager at Sequel Youth and Family Services, a privately owned Individual & Family Services company, which offers treatment options and programs for people with behavioral, and emotional, challenges. I earned my Master's holder in Counseling Psychology from Liberty University, VA. To sail through life's challenges, and cope with one's struggles, I offer diverse solution focused strategies. Proficient in Person-centered therapy, Choice Theory, Brief therapy, and other models like Cognitive Behavioral therapy, I empower clients to resolve issues between families / spouses / parent and children, either in an individual or group therapy setting. While at Sequel Youth, I worked with teens, mentoring and rehabilitating them through psycho-educational groups, basic living skills groups, alongside assisting in their psychiatric and medical care. I employed Peer-Group-Dynamics therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, and various counseling techniques to help them cope with abuse, grief and depression. I provide testing and assessment for ADHD. I am also a part of various local community groups and organizations like ALCA to aid harmonious living in society. I am a proficient communicator in English, French, and Spanish, and I run my private practice 'Healing Grace Counseling Services' in Huntsville, Alabama

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Carrie Mega

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Muscle Shoals
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionADHD
16 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama with over 16 years of experience. I have experience working with adults, adolescents, and children as well as couples and families. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting problems, and ADHD. I have also helped many people who have experienced trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is laid back and interactive as I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused counseling. I will tailor your treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. My approach is to help individuals achieve their goals by identifying their strengths and what coping skills can be the most beneficial. I work very hard to ensure that every person feels safe and comfortable in each session. Counseling continues to have a stigma that doesn't allow everyone to feel free to talk about their thoughts and feelings. My hope is that you can feel empowered and more in control of your situation. You have taken the first step in becoming a healthier and happier person and I look forward to helping you in anyway I can!

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Felecia Price

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Muscle Shoals
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW,PIP,MA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and Private Independent Practitioner (PIP) with over 10 years of experience in depression, anxiety, substance abuse issues, end of life, and grief counseling. I have worked in hospital settings, nursing facilities, and hospice care during my career. I have experience with clients from various populations and mental health concerns and I believe in meeting the client where they are. My counseling approach is client centered. The treatment plan is client driven and I act as facilitator to help them achieve their goals. I believe that people should be treated with respect and compassion in an environment that promotes active listening and empathy . Clients should feel supported without labels and judgement. I would be happy to assist you on your path of well-being.

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Renita Harrigan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Muscle Shoals
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Alabama with 18 years of professional work experience assisting families of various backgrounds. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, communication mishaps, relationship issues, & family / work conflicts. I work with clients from adolescent to senior age to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Claudia Mayes

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Muscle Shoals
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
15 years of experience

I am a licensed Therapist in the State of Alabama with over 15 years of professional work experience in the US and Europe. 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 so proud of you for getting started!

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Chris Johns

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Muscle Shoals
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
27 years of experience

Take the First Step Toward a Happier, More Fulfilling Life. Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress or anxiety? Struggling to navigate relationship challenges, heal from past trauma, or cope with grief and loss? You’re not alone, and seeking support is a courageous first step toward meaningful change. With over 27 years of professional experience as a licensed therapist, I have had the privilege of helping countless individuals and couples rediscover hope, resilience, and clarity in their lives. I specialize in: Stress and Anxiety: Find tools to manage overwhelming thoughts and regain a sense of calm. Relationship Issues: Strengthen connections, improve communication, and resolve conflicts. Trauma and Abuse: Heal emotional wounds in a safe, compassionate space. Grief and Loss: Navigate life’s most difficult transitions with understanding and support. In my practice, I focus on creating a warm, judgment-free environment where you can share your thoughts and feelings openly. Together, we will work to identify your goals and develop practical strategies to empower you on your journey toward personal growth and emotional well-being. You Deserve a Life of Fulfillment and Peace. Let’s Begin Together. If you’re ready to take the next step, I’m here to help. Reach out today to schedule a consultation.

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Porschia Fisher

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Muscle Shoals
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & parenting issues. 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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Leashia Moody-Miller

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Muscle Shoals
Counselor License Type(s): LPC-S,CCM,LPC after name
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
28 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Nicole Jasmine Johnson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Muscle Shoals
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,MA,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issues
20 years of experience

I am a seasoned therapist with over 15 years of experience providing therapeutic services across various settings. My practice is deeply rooted in text and narrative therapy, allowing me to employ the Patterns and Pathways model to help my clients navigate their challenges effectively. As a solution-focused therapist, I emphasize a strength-based approach, believing that every problem has a solution that can relieve or correct stressors, hurt, and damage. With my assistance, clients identify their own strengths, resilience, and resources to improve any situation causing distress. I have extensive experience working with clients dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), medical illness and injury counseling, military and civilian sexual trauma, and veteran and caregiver-related stressors. I am a non-conventional therapist—easy to talk to and very down to earth. I am ready to be your sounding board and guide you toward a healthier and happier future. While my primary focus is on text therapy, I also accept video and telephone clients upon request and coordination.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Muscle Shoals

Finding the best therapist close by in Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals. 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 Muscle Shoals, 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 Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals, elsewhere in Colbert, 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 Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Muscle Shoals, 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 Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals 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 35661 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 Muscle Shoals counselor?

Before seeing your Muscle Shoals 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. Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals, 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.

Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals, 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 Muscle Shoals 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 Muscle Shoals.

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

35661, 35662

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