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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Carleen Gates

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Muscle Shoals
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 11 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have provided case management services, group therapy sessions, individual therapy sessions, therapy at school, and tele-health services. Additionally, I have even served as an in-home therapist providing mental health services in the home. I have worked with clients from a broad range of concerns including: trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, family dynamic distresses, poor communication styles, and emotional abuse. My counseling technique is very caring, encouraging, and client centered. I am very candid and direct when providing therapy. I take pride in demonstrating compassion and being sensitive and thoughtful of the needs of others. More than anything, I strongly believe in treating everyone with respect and dignity. It takes a great deal of courage to seek professional help and even more courage to implement change. I applaud you for taking the first step. I would love the opportunity to begin this journey with you in taking the next steps to begin living a more rewarding and self-empowered lifestyle. It would be an honor to help guide you along the way. I look forward to working with you.

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Ernest Garrett, III

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Muscle Shoals
Counselor License Type(s): Ph.D., M.Phil.,,M.S.W., M.S.,,C-ASWCM, ACSW, C-SSWS, C-ACYFSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

My name is Ernest E. Garrett III, and I have 18 years of post-graduate MSW-level social work experience, within special education settings and the private practice setting. I am currently practicing full-time as a Deaf LCSW therapist/clinician in private practice, which is a dream come true, post-pandemic! I take pride in being able to communicate effectively with diverse clients from all walks of life. I received my M.S.W. degree from Gallaudet University, and I am licensed at the clinical level in Missouri, Wisconsin, the District of Columbia, Louisiana (Inactive Status), and Alabama, as well as pending applications for licensure status in a host of other states. I regard myself a specialist in the provision of culturally sensitive and competent clinical social work services; I offer such services in a culturally affirmative and linguistically accessible environment; I render services with and on behalf of vulnerable and oppressed populations in general and disability populations in particular.

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Julie Mouton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Muscle Shoals
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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Matthew Heard

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Muscle Shoals
Counselor License Type(s): Lpc, NCC ,MS, LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama and have been in private practice since 2013. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared in a relaxing setting without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Christina (Christy) Millard

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Muscle Shoals
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama with 8 years of professional work experience. My early work involved working in a family farm business. While I enjoyed it (and still do), I found myself wanting to go back to school and study counseling. So that's what I did--earning my master's degree in Counseling from the University of Montevallo. This was an excellent fit because for most of my life, I have been passionate about better understanding myself and others, and how this understanding can lead to a healthier, more fulfilled life. To this end, I have studied personality theory, career strategy, metal health interventions, and relationship skills. As a counselor, I have experience in helping clients effectively deal with stress, anxiety and depression, and improve their motivation, self-esteem and confidence. Additionally, I am passionate about helping clients discover their best career or make the most of the career they are in. I believe you are a unique individual, born with distinct strengths and challenges. As you grow, you encounter different people, situations and experiences. In response to these, you acquire beliefs and skills. Some of these skills and beliefs are helpful to you, while others are not. My desire is, first, to assist you in identifying what you want out of counseling. And next, to help you to pursue those life goals by effectively utilizing skills and beliefs that are helpful, while helping you change the beliefs and skills that are holding you back. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life is both exciting and scary. I am here to support you throughout this process.

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Dr. Stephen Bell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Muscle Shoals
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionADHD
23 years of experience

I am a clinical psychologist licensed in Alabama, practicing for 20 years. I have been in academic and research circles with numerous publications. I have worked in both hospital and private settings. As I am later in my career, I have concluded that the best part of being a psychologist is the people. I have extensive experience in depressive disorders, anxiety including OCD, general stress, identity issues, and general self-development. I have also worked with grief over loss, including divorce. I am an advocate for therapy and believe it is a brave, strong step. I admire you for exploring online therapy, which was in many cases a life saver during COVID and still a very helpful and legitimate approach in these busy times. I hope we can begin getting to know each other and working together soon.

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Christopher Gosa

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

I am Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Alabama with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients of all ages with depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, anger management, and other DSM-5 mental health diagnoses. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Andrew Thomas

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Muscle Shoals
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
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, relationship issues, family conflicts, & depression. I work with my clients 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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Marissa Copeland

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Muscle Shoals
Counselor License Type(s): MS,NCC,LPC
Anger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a Professional Counselor licensed in Louisiana and Alabama with just over 10 years of experience working as a mental health professional in both counseling and clinical settings. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, personality disorders, intellectual disabilities, behavioral challenges, relationship issues, ADHD and general adjustment issues. I also have a passion for intertwining self-esteem-building/empowerment into treatment across the board. I see counseling as a process in which you the client, and I, the counselor, having come to understand and trust one another, work as a team to explore and define your desired potential, barriers to reaching this potential, and methods to overcome identified barriers with the goal of developing and obtaining the best quality of life that is possible. I approach counseling from a person-centered/cognitive-behavioral perspective in that a person’s attitudes and perception of self as well as patterns of thoughts and actions are utilized as a major component of the therapeutic process. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral practices with person-centered approaches to intervention. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I pride myself on authenticity and enjoy providing a safe space for my clients to tap into their authentic selves, feelings and overall concerns. I look forward to working with you!

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Kianna McIntosh

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AL, Muscle Shoals
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesSelf esteemADHD
4 years of experience

I'm Kianna McIntosh, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and mental health therapist, with almost a decade of experience helping individuals THRIVE! I'm dedicated to helping individuals facing various challenges, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, women's issues, family dynamics, and low self-esteem.Navigating life’s complexities can feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with the unique challenges that come with neurodivergence and mental health struggles. I understand that each individual's journey is different, and I'm here to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings.

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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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of 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

Popular cities near Muscle Shoals, AL

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