Therapy and other wellness services can provide a supportive environment for taking the first steps toward improving one's mental health. In Arkansas, counseling services can be challenging to find due to barriers like a lack of available mental health care providers or transportation challenges. If you’re looking for a therapist, AR has many telehealth services available.

With an online therapy platform like BetterHelp, you can work with a qualified, licensed mental health professional from the comfort of your home at a time that works for you. While BetterHelp does not offer group therapy at this time, the therapists on the platform use various approaches to individual therapy, including reprocessing therapy, eye movement desensitization, and person-centered therapy. An online therapist can help you with various life challenges, from treating anxiety to learning how to begin healing relationships, using a collaborative, holistic approach that meets your unique needs.

Whether you need support navigating relationship challenges or learning to have more self-compassion, online therapy can help. Reach out to a mental health professional licensed to provide treatment in Arkansas below to get started.

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Linda McNellis

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

Hello: My name is Linda McNellis. I am a mental health professional driven to help others overcome personal obstacles with twenty-seven years’ experience. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) I value each person's unique personality and individual situations that prompt them to seek professional services. I am committed to assist individuals reach their full potential. I have a significant amount of experience working with person coping with loss/grief, depression, anxiety and traumatic stress. Other areas of expertise include: family/relationship issues and self-esteem problems. My counseling style is to communicate with empathy and compassion respecting the integrity of each individual using empowerment to encourage change. The therapeutic techniques used in my practice include cognitive behavioral/dialectical therapy, person centered and stage of development theory. When appropriate I also include aspects of Carl Jung's work integrating spirituality which helps in understanding the deeper aspects of one self. If you are ready for change I am here to help without judgment and with unconditional positive regard. I look forward to working with you.

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Tia Jackson

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LCSW,MBA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
27 years of experience

Greetings, my name is Tia Kyles Jackson and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience working with children, youth and adults to help them deal with difficult, life changing events and mental health issues. I am dedicated to providing professional services that will improve the mental and emotional health and well being of individuals, by providing a boost in self-esteem, additional coping skills, or just another perspective on life. I promise to listen to you and use your life experiences to promote growth and development. I received my Bachelor's of Science in Psychology from Southern University, my Master's of Science in Social Work (MSSW) from the University of Tennessee, and my Master's of Business Administration with a concentration in health care management from the University of Phoenix. I am currently licensed in Tennessee, Mississippi and Arkansas. Over the last 25 years I have provided individual, group and family therapy in various settings. In my practice I not only listen with my ears, but I believe empathic listening comes from the heart.

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Treva Ross-Sanders

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: MRC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
25 years of experience

I am a Professional Counselor licensed in Arkansas and have worked for over twenty five years in counseling and case management with adults and families. My license specialization is in Rehabilitation Counseling. I have worked with adults and families with a variety of clinical issues ranging from Dual-Diagnosis with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, career and job adjustment counseling, relationships issues, parenting, and other issues. My therapeutic approach is of warm acceptance, unconditional positive regard as I utilize my skills in Person Centered and Cognitive Behavior Therapy and most recently Cognitive Processing Therapy. I believe in facilitating growth and change through support then working with you to identify, explore, process, and implement new or refined skills to manage thoughts/feelings/emotions/behaviors. I believe that initiating the first step to change is through counseling and facilitating this change involves taking a journey. A journey of self introspection and exploration along with safety and support is what I believe I can do along with you.

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Dr. Jina Lewallen

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: PhD,MA,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
15 years of experience

Welcome to Better Help, Now that you have decided to seek support for the challenges you are experiencing, I am happy to be a supportive part of your journey. I am an LCSW, licensed in Arkansas and Texas and have over 15 years of clinical practice and 10 years of teaching Social Work. My specialty area is working with older adults whether individually, couples or families in areas of life transitions, depression, anxiety, dementia, capacity, life planning, and end of life planning. I also have experience working with diverse challenges in all age groups including depression, anxiety, mood and personality disorders as well as dual diagnosis comorbidities. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities including, CBT, DBT Motivational Interviewing, Narrative and Mindfulness as well as Problem and Solution Focus work and Client-Centered environment. My approach to therapies are collaborative as I believe working together results in best outcomes for you. Therapy can be difficult but well worth the time and effort. I look forward to meeting and working with you.

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Sabrina Lewis

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: MA,LPC,CRC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have 8 years of combined experience and education in the mental health/counseling field with specialized education and training in trauma and rehabilitation. I use a client centered approach with cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy approaches to help clients navigate through life’s most challenging circumstances. It takes courage and strength to ask for help and I appreciate you trusting me to guide you through your healing process.

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Linda Lay

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseCoping with life changesADHD
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas and Texas with 17 years of professional work serving multiple populations. In my practice I focus on working with those who are experiencing stress, anxiety, response to trauma and abuse, & people wo are overwhelmed with life events of all descriptions. Common issues I help with are low self esteem, overly people pleasing and lack of confidence. Many of my clients are being inundated with things coming from several directions - family, work, social, health, etc. Therapy with me generally begins with helping 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. We identify what is creating the greatest problem in currently. I want to get the pressure off as soon as possible. From there I help the client priortize their problems, explore for solutions and build a plan to improve their life.

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Amber White

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hello, welcome! My counseling style focus is lifestyle management, anxiety and depression. I have been counseling for 8 years with a focus on Individual, family, military and stress recovery. I offer a therapeutic alliance philosophy and support guidance with recommendations and treatment planning for tracking goals and outcomes. I enjoy sharing knowledge, resources, and skill building content. As well as this app features offer developmental options and prompts for process for a better counseling experience. I request that you share your first and last name, email address, previous counseling history, diagnosis, and have a complete profile. I will refer for topics that I do not specialize in. I enjoy working with clients of all cultures and backgrounds. I have a deep appreciation for culture and take pride in considerations of cultural influences and take pride in remaining non-judgmental. I am able to recognize a large variety of spiritual practices and world views.

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Justin Laffoon

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGrief
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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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Kimberly Brown

Offering therapy in Arkansas
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, sleeping disorders, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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. 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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Heather Simmons

Offering therapy in Arkansas
License: LPC
DepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a mental health counselor licensed in Louisiana with over 5 years of experience working as a LPC. I worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, behavior issues and ADHD. I would have to describe my counseling style as being warm and passionate. I love to provide great counseling skills which includes being patience, a good listener, being knowledgeable, and having/showing empathy . I believe in treating anyone with respect, providing unconditional positive regards and demonstrating high fidelity services. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, interpersonal, group and cognitive therapy, I feel as a counselor my duty is to ensure and use counseling methods to help people manage and overcome mental and emotional issues.

How can a counselor support you?

Therapists can practice many types of counseling, from marriage and family therapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). They may also assist you with symptoms of depression, stress, or anxiety.

Therapists may help you set and achieve career goals, work on current issues you may be facing, or address your past. Over 1,970,374 people live in AR, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for local licensed professionals may help you find mental health support for personal growth, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health concerns. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek support from one of BetterHelp's licensed providers above.  

The mental health field can include psychiatric medication management, online therapy, marriage counseling, couples therapy, clinical social work, licensed counseling, and other mental health services in person and online. Seeing a licensed provider can help you navigate mental health conditions and life circumstances through mindfulness and other specialized techniques.

Please note that a BetterHelp therapist does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor?

People reach out for mental health support for a variety of reasons. Many individuals work with a counselor for general life advice, while others may attend therapy for a specific concern. Whether you live in a large city or a smaller county, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

The mental health therapists in Arkansas support clients with varying issues through therapy, such as:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression or depressive conditions
  • Adjustment issues
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma
  • Relationship conflicts and concerns

Finding a therapist that takes new clients in online therapy can be the first step in finding a treatment plan that works for you. Your therapist can provide a safe space for you to focus on self-care and well-being.

If you're interested in speaking to one of the therapists above or being matched with a counselor in 24 to 48 hours, consider signing up for BetterHelp. BetterHelp has over 35,000 providers, including those listed above.

Emergency services to contact in a crisis

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use the BetterHelp site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some of the most commonly asked questions about therapy can be found in the section below.

How much does a therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $60 to $90 per session, charged monthly in a lump sum. You can also take advantage of this pricing on one of BetterHelp's sister platforms, like ReGain for couples or TeenCounseling for teens aged 13 to 19.

Many therapists may be upfront about their pricing and whether or not they take health insurance from the beginning. Additionally, some in your area may offer a sliding scale plan to allow those with lower incomes to pay less for therapy. However, services online can often save individuals a few hundred dollars per month.

When should I get a therapist in Arkansas?

Mental health services and mental health providers may help you navigate various concerns. You do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy; You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Mental health issues don't always present as a crisis. Many professionals provide talk therapy and support for life transitions, skills learning, relationship problems, or life coaching. Online therapy sessions can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.

Does insurance cover the cost of therapy?

Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.

Is online therapy the safe option?

Online therapy through BetterHelp and its sister platforms is safe. Therapists are licensed, experienced, and vetted before being contracted with the platform. If you experience any concerns with your therapist, you change your counselor through the platform or app at any time.

In today's fast-paced society, mental well-being has become a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Amid the daily challenges and stressors that can overwhelm even the most resilient individuals, seeking professional guidance often offers a path to clarity and balance. The journey toward improved emotional health involves understanding personal triggers, embracing self-compassion, and developing effective coping strategies. While self-help books and online resources provide valuable information, nothing compares to the personalized support offered by a qualified mental health professional. One-on-one sessions with experienced experts can help uncover the underlying issues contributing to anxiety, depression, or other emotional hurdles. With a careful and empathetic approach, these professionals tailor their advice to suit individual needs, ensuring that each person receives strategies that work best for their unique circumstances. Whether through cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, or other innovative methods, the aim is to foster resilience and empower individuals to take control of their inner lives. For those living in bustling urban centers, engaging in face-to-face sessions in a welcoming environment can be particularly beneficial. Access to a caring clinician provides not only a safe space to explore difficult emotions but also builds a support network essential for long-term recovery. The process encourages self-reflection and greater insight into behavioral patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. While the journey can be challenging at times, the rewards include enhanced emotional stability, improved interpersonal relationships, and a renewed sense of self-worth. In one notable case, the guidance provided by a highly trained therapist proved instrumental in navigating a tumultuous period. Through structured sessions and tailored interventions, the individual learned to identify stressors and develop healthier responses to adversity. This experience underscored the transformative impact that dedicated support can have on one's overall quality of life. In a region like Texas, community-based initiatives and accessible mental health programs further reinforce the value of professional help. These efforts emphasize early intervention, preventive care, and continuous support, ensuring that more people are equipped to face life's inevitable challenges. Ultimately, investing in mental well-being is an act of self-care that yields lifelong benefits. By embracing professional support, individuals can unlock new levels of emotional resilience and discover pathways to a brighter, more balanced future. Each step taken toward healing represents a commitment to personal growth, enabling a life filled with renewed optimism and strength. Embracing this transformative journey consistently paves the way for deeper understanding, lasting peace, and meaningful personal progress.
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