In search of a licensed therapist? Fort Smith, AR is home to plenty—and with BetterHelp, you can look beyond Sebastian County and find the therapist that’s right for you. 

With BetterHelp, you’re not limited to the mental health professionals in the river valley—we network with therapists across Arkansas, meaning you can connect with a clinician who specializes in your area of need and offers the counseling style you prefer.

No matter what you’re dealing with—whether it’s a mental illness like depression or anxiety, a behavioral health issue like an addiction or eating disorder, or the aftermath of a traumatic experience—BetterHelp can match you with a therapist who is equipped to offer the evidence-based mental health care you need.

Our network includes licensed professional counselors (LPC) and licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT) trained in a number of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), psychodynamic therapy, and more. 

Through BetterHelp, you can access these counseling services from the comfort of home, or anywhere with an internet connection. In weekly sessions with your therapist, you can uncover the root of your struggles and develop actionable strategies for working through them. You’ll also benefit from group therapy, in-platform journaling and therapy homework, and educational webinars, helping you get the most out of your mental health investment.

Life isn’t easy—but with the skills and insight learned in therapy, you can gain the ability to deal with whatever’s around the corner. Get started today to match with a therapist and discover why thousands of Arkansans trust BetterHelp to deliver the mental health care needed to thrive.

This is Betina Bolin's avatar and link to their profile

Betina Bolin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Fort Smith
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
15 years of experience

I have over 14 years of combined therapy experience at the professional level and believe in the profession that I am licensed in which is social work. I believe in a client-centered perspective and derive my approaches from a variety of treatment modalities. Cognitive behavioral is a significant framework that I utilize but I believe that other approaches are also effective as sessions need to be tailored to the unique needs of the individual or clientele being served. I believe in true empathy, truly trying to understand my clients' perspectives and their insight into their lives. Each person I have counseled over the years and will be counseling have inherent worth, dignity and I believe in their abilities to improve in areas of self-direction and self-efficacy. Therapy is all about the client who is reading this right now, the therapist is simply a conduit to improve a person's ability to reorganize their life, to improve their internal locus of control, to help a client engage in goal-oriented behavior and be conscientious of the choices one is making in life on a regular basis. Cognitive behavioral methods consider irrational thought paradigms and help to counteract these cognitions or thoughts with more rational, counterbalancing, self-esteem enhancing thoughts and help a person to see the connections between thoughts, feelings, and behavior.

This is Shontrice Hansen's avatar and link to their profile

Shontrice Hansen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Fort Smith
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
14 years of experience

I am an LPC with over 10 years of counseling experience. I enjoy working with clients of all ages who need help navigating this obstacle we call life. I have experience working in individual and family therapy, through struggles of depression, anxiety, anger, behavior problems, grief, stress, relational conflicts, and traumatic events. I am flexible with office hours, to meet the needs of my clients as best as possible. With training in various therapeutic approaches, I am able to build a plan for my client based on their particular needs including use of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), Strength Based, and Motivational Interviewing. I'm passionate about helping people find freedom and growth, mending areas that you feel broken in. I strive to teach clients how to live in true vulnerability where they feel accepted and can grow in their relationships. You and your mental health are worth it, it would be my privilege to assist you in the process of understanding more about yourself and taking steps towards healing.

This is Marlo Floyd's avatar and link to their profile

Marlo Floyd

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Fort Smith
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,CCM,LADC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
21 years of experience

Hello, my name is Marlo. I have been in the field for over 15 years and have been blessed with the opportunity to work with numerous populations. In today’s tumultuous times, poverty, increase stress, family & relationship problems, and personal self-adjustment/esteem issues cause many to have a demanding and unhappy life. I use a holistic combination of talk therapy, spiritual/energy work, mindfulness techniques, humor, and a commonsense approach. With an emphasis on spiritual and physical healing. Allow me to help you in your time of need. I come from a compassionate, non-judgmental, strengths-based perspective in my clinical practice and life. I can help you learn life skills, change undesired habits, and identify alternate healthy thinking patterns so that you can decrease your anxiety & depression while increasing your self-esteem and quality of life. Through the work we do together you can expect to achieve self-confidence, forgiveness, peace, inner harmony, and healthier relationships. I specialize in working with individuals that have been affected with mood disorders, anger problems, trauma, low self-esteem, and substance abuse. I counsel from a Spiritual/Christian perspective, as well as respectfully work with a client's source of inspiration. Allow me to join you on your journey of enlightenment and healing.

This is Jameshia Braxton's avatar and link to their profile

Jameshia Braxton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Fort Smith
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

Greetings to you!! I am so excited and happy that you have reached out to me for help. I am Jameshia, a licensed therapist in the state of Arkansas. I am a LCSW who has practiced therapy for over 13 years. I have worked in outpatient and day treatment settings with various populations. Throughout my career, I have provided individual, family, and group therapy. I have a variety of clinical approaches that I utilize that include, but not limited to; Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and etc. As we work together and build rapport, I may also incorporate homework assignments, reframing, and a host of other skills/techniques to assist the needs of my client(s). It is also important to note that I am willing to adapt to the needs of the individual, couple, and or family whom I may be serving. Being open and honest about your needs is key to having success throughout the therapeutic process. I believe in meeting people where they are and being a source of empowerment for positive change. I know that therapy is a process and takes courage to trust a stranger. However, YOU have already made the first step! I am here and ready to start the therapeutic process of healing whenever you are ready. ~ Stay Encouraged, Be Well!! Jameshia

This is Andrea Foerster's avatar and link to their profile

Andrea Foerster

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Fort Smith
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Hello and welcome to my profile! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Missouri and have been helping individuals seek life solutions for over 10 years. I enjoy helping clients work on a variety of issues but am especially passionate about helping women overcome issues related to anxiety and life changes (relationship, motherhood, menopause, etc). Methods that I have found particularly effective for clients in therapy include but are not limited to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Exposure and Response Prevention. For couples and relationship therapy I draw from the Gottman Method to guide the progression. Each client is unique and therapy is planned around the client’s needs and goals. I feel that trust in the therapeutic relationship is the basis for our work together and we will start out investing time to build that relationship. I am hopeful that through a strong therapeutic alliance and evidence-based methods we can make excellent progress toward your goals. Let’s work together to find joy and value in your life that you never thought possible!

This is Michelle Kveum's avatar and link to their profile

Michelle Kveum

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Fort Smith
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
16 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, lgbt-related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Leslie Salmon's avatar and link to their profile

Leslie Salmon

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Fort Smith
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Arkansas and Illinois with over 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, grief, stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is VaKendall Long 's avatar and link to their profile

VaKendall Long

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Fort Smith
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 19 years of experience in the social work field. I have over 12 years of experience providing counseling and mental health services. I have extensive knowledge working with individuals who have experienced some type of trauma or mental health crisis; specifically, individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, and anger issues. I enjoy working with a diverse clientele; I enjoy helping people in general navigate through life challenges. My theoretical orientation in therapy is Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Solution Focused Therapy. My counseling style is very laid back; I launch from a strength perspective; always exploring the strengths of the individual. I believe in work life balance. Some of my self-care activities include tennis, exercise, travel, prayer, music, and spending time with family & friends.

This is LaTasha Green's avatar and link to their profile

LaTasha Green

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Fort Smith
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Central Florida. I specialize in the assessment and treatment of serious mental illness and substance use disorders. I have experience working within the conceptual framework of the recovery model in addition to experience working with individuals from various socio-economic, cultural, ethnic, and educational backgrounds. I am trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, CBT-P, and Chronic Disease Self-Management.

This is Erin Porter's avatar and link to their profile

Erin Porter

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AR, Fort Smith
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida, New Jersey, Maryland, Arkansas, Washington and South Carolina with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBT-related issues, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Fort Smith

Finding the best therapist close by in Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith. 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 Fort Smith, 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith, elsewhere in Sebastian, 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Fort Smith, 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 72916 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 Fort Smith counselor?

Before seeing your Fort Smith 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. Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith, 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.

Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith, 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 Fort Smith 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 Fort Smith.

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

72901, 72902, 72903, 72904, 72905, 72906, 72908, 72913, 72914, 72916, 72917, 72918, 72919, 72923

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist