This is Patricia Howard's avatar and link to their profile

Patricia Howard

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Bellefonte
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LPC, ILP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
20 years of experience

My name is Patricia Howard. My friends and family call me "Ms. Pat". I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and an Independent Licensed Practitioner. I have a private practice in Mena, Arkansas. I have been married for over 50 years and have 5 grandchildren and 3 great grands. Spending time with my family is what I like to do best. I have a specialization in Technology-Assisted Counseling. In Arkansas we are required to have this specialization in order to provide teletherapy services. I also have a certification in Animal Assisted Therapy. Dogs are a big part of my personal life, and in my practice, I use them to help people to feel calm and to reduce their anxiety and depression symptoms. I teach people how to "appropriately manipulate" to get their needs met. I help people to learn the difference between aggressive and assertive behaviors. I have been counseling for over 20 years. Counting my years of teaching and counseling, I have been helping children and their families solve problems for about 27 years. My counseling approach is "Cognitive Behavioral Therapy", which means I help you to change any unhealthy, maladaptive thoughts to healthy rational thinking. I help people to understand that they have enough personal power, within themselves, to solve their own problems. They just need to believe in themselves and have faith that their decisions can and will work out in the end. I believe having faith in something outside of ourselves is essential for coping with life's challenges. It makes no difference to me what religious beliefs you have, because to me all people have immense value. If you feel like you might benefit from counseling sessions with me, please check my schedule to see what days I have available for counseling and schedule a session so we can get started on helping you to feel much better.

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Ashley Wilson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Bellefonte
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
6 years of experience

Ashley Wilson, is a Chicago native who graduated from Arkansas State University with a Education Specialist Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, who has a passion for helping others reach total wellness. Ashley is a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with families, couples, and individuals, through support and counseling, effectively address personal life challenges. She works with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, disruptive behaviors, relationship challenges, self-esteem, and trauma. Under a person-centered approach, her modalities used in treatment may include, CBT, REBT, family therapy and mindfulness-based interventions. Ashley’s goal is to help adults reach their highest potential and to help families live more harmonious and happier lives together.

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Dr. Wallace "Dent" Gitchel

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Bellefonte
Counselor License Type(s): PhD, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a therapist in Arkansas with over 25 years experience in mental health as a clinician and educator. I also have thirty years of meditation experience and am a certified teacher of mindfulness and compassion meditation, as well as the author of Pursuing Purpose: A Guide to Finding Meaning Through Meditation. I have worked with clients on a wide variety of issues, including stress management, depression anxiety, emotional and psychotic disorders, relationships, sexuality, shame, hopelessness and histories of trauma and abuse. My therapy approach is compassion-oriented, and I strive to help my clients find more purpose, self-compassion and meaning in their lives. I approach my clients with warmth and acceptance. The therapeutic bond is very sacred to me and I strive to show up with honesty, integrity and authenticity. I believe very much in autonomy and the capacity to heal and will do everything in my power to assist you with your goals, and to provide you with tools to integrate into your life. I applaud you in your courage to take this important step toward a more meaningful life and look very forward to assisting you on this important journey.

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Lakesha Stidum

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Bellefonte
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW, CCM
Parenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
8 years of experience

Hello, I've been providing individual therapy since 2014. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing with clients to help in reaching goals. I've mostly worked with clients who experience Depression and Anxiety. I received a Bachelor's degree at Arkansas State University and Master's degree at the University of Arkansas Little Rock. I'm currently licensed in Arkansas and Texas. I look forward to working with you.

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Dr. Vaughn DeCoster

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Bellefonte
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesCompassion fatigue
31 years of experience

We all lead busy, complex lives and often are very hard on ourselves… actually, we're doing “the best we can do” with what life throws at us. Takes courage to seek help, to actively move towards a more satisfying, meaningful, and happier life... wonderful that you’re considering this first step. I am a licensed doctoral-level social worker with 30+ years of clinical experience, helping people grow from life’s challenges like stress, anxiety, relationship problems, trauma, & intimacy related issues. I’m here to support you in your journey, recognizing your unique situation, needs, and abilities. Over the years as a therapist and university professor, I’ve acquired a lot of helpful tools that target feelings, thoughts, and behaviors, some even involving photography. I believe, though, you’re the “expert” on your life, therapy is a creative, collaborative endeavor, experimenting with different strategies until we find what works. Knowing that time is precious, I’m more engaged than some therapists, truly dedicated to providing you compassionate support to foster healing, build strength, and enhance resiliency. I will adapt our sessions and plans to meet your needs using evidence-based approaches. Let’s chat and see what we can accomplish together.

This is Jonathan "David" Teague's avatar and link to their profile

Jonathan "David" Teague

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Bellefonte
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemADHD
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Dr. Andrew Mendonsa

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Bellefonte
Stress, AnxietyLGBTIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
21 years of experience

Your Authentic Self, Your Strongest Self: Therapy Tailored in a Safe, Supportive Space Hello! I'm Dr. Andrew Mendonsa, a clinical psychologist and therapist with 20+ years of experience helping folks like you navigate life's complexities and embrace their true potential and authentic self. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ individuals, those struggling with problematic sexual behavior, kink/alt lifestyle/polyamory-focused issues, and anyone seeking a male therapist's perspective. My journey through the worlds of mental health and addiction – from community mental health and marginalized groups, to the criminal justice system, to high wealth clients and corporate boardrooms – has equipped me with a deep understanding of the challenges clients, especially men and those from specialized populations, face today. I've helped countless individuals overcome shame, guilt, depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and the unique pressures of modern life. As an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist, I offer a safe and judgment-free space to explore your identity, gender, relationships, sexual expression, and sexuality. Whether you're questioning, coming out, or navigating the unique stressors of the LGBTQIA+, kink, alt-pop, or straight communities, I'm here to support you on your journey! For those grappling with problematic sexual behavior that is causing issues with your work, relationships, finance, or other areas, I provide a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to recovery. I will not tell you to stop what you are doing or else, instead we will identify what is motivating your behavior and desire to change. Knowing these, we can then develop a tailored treatment plan and achievable goals. Together, we'll address the underlying issues, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and rebuild a fulfilling life free from shame, guilt, and compulsive behaviors. My extensive background working with high-achieving individuals in business and academia makes me uniquely equipped to understand the pressures of professional life. If you're struggling with work-related stress, burnout, or career transitions, I can offer practical strategies for success and well-being. I have owned, sold, and managed companies and worked in high levels within the public sector. My approach to therapy is collaborative, goal-oriented, and results-driven. I believe therapy should be a catalyst for change, not a lifelong commitment. Think of it like a tune-up for your mind – we'll get you back on track and running smoothly. You wouldn't leave your car in the shop forever, would you? So why force yourself into a lifetime of therapy? I invite you to visit my website, www.AndrewMendonsa.com, to learn more about me and my approach. Let's work together to build a life that is authentic, fulfilling, and true to you.

This is Rochelle Johnson's avatar and link to their profile

Rochelle Johnson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Bellefonte
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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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Ashley Freece

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Bellefonte
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in both Arkansas and Texas with 8 years of professional work experience in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I've worked with chronic mental illness as well as people going through life adjustments. No matter your goal in seeking therapy, I believe in supporting you through finding your best therapeutic tools. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will ensure our interactions and treatment goals align with your unique needs. Making changes to facilitate a healthier, better rounded or more fulfilling life takes courage and hard work. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Pedro  Ricardo Gonzalez's avatar and link to their profile

Pedro Ricardo Gonzalez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Bellefonte
Counselor License Type(s): LPC-S,RPT-S,TBRI_Practitioner
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
22 years of experience

Hello, I am Pedro Ricardo Gonzalez, Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas and Colorado. I am bilingual (Spanish) and have a passion for working with people. I believe that every human is capable of self-discovery, change and growth. I collaborate with clients to create reasonable, attainable goals for positive life change. My academic credentials are supported by 20+ years of clinical and youth advocacy experiences in higher education, non-profit community-based programs, inpatient residential care settings and private practice. I work with all ages, from very young children through older adults. My extensive experience allows me to work successfully with a diverse array of clients. I am comfortable with people from a wide variety of racial, cultural and religious backgrounds. I recognize that each person’s situation is unique. In order to meet your needs, I use holistic, traditional, and integrative approaches. Let's work together and help you reach your fullest potential!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Bellefonte

Finding the best therapist close by in Bellefonte 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 Bellefonte 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 Bellefonte. 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 Bellefonte, 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 Bellefonte region and in the state of Arkansas. 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 Bellefonte 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 Bellefonte 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 Bellefonte 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 Bellefonte, elsewhere in Boone, or in the greater state of Arkansas. 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 Bellefonte 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 Bellefonte 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 Bellefonte 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 Bellefonte may not take health insurance, some in the state of Arkansas 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 Arkansas 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 Bellefonte online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Bellefonte, Arkansas 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 Bellefonte 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 Bellefonte 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 Bellefonte 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 Bellefonte?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Bellefonte 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 Bellefonte 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 Bellefonte 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 AR, 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 72601 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 Bellefonte counselor?

Before seeing your Bellefonte 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. Bellefonte 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 Bellefonte 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 Bellefonte 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 Bellefonte, Arkansas 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.

Bellefonte 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 Bellefonte, Arkansas

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 Bellefonte 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 Bellefonte.

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

72601

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