Dr. Magna Porterfield
I am a psychologist who is licensed in both the states of Alabama and Georgia and I have had the opportunity to work in the field of psychology for several years. I have worked in the both university settings (as a teacher and counselor) as well as in private practice. I have also had the opportunity to travel and share my knowledge through lectures and workshops. I have the most experience in helping people who struggle with unipolar (but NOT bipolar) depression and anxiety. I also have a considerable amount of experience in working with individuals who have problems with managing stress and managing their emotions. I do not work with issues such as eating disorders, addictions, relationship problems or sexuality concerns. My counseling style is warm, but also straightforward and honest. I consider myself to be a kind person. and I truly desire to help those who are hurting. In my work with people, I do not spend much time processing the past (i.e., childhood experiences, past trauma, etc.). I believe that true healing comes when individuals take active steps in the therapy process and focus on what they can do in their "present" situation to address their challenges. In my work with clients, I focus on helping them understand how their thoughts impact their emotions and their behavior - principles from the field of cognitive behavior therapy. I also look at the impact of lifestyle habits - diet, rest, exercise, etc. - on mental/emotional health. In addition, I sometimes utilize concepts and strategies from the area of positive psychology, which helps people identify and enhance their strengths (as opposed to merely focusing on people's weaknesses "abnormalities," so to speak). Do you need a helping hand? I would love to be that "hand" and help you make those changes. Working with me will take commitment and will require you to not be just a "passive participant," so to speak, in your healing and recovery. If you are willing to do your part, I am here for you and would love to work with you. All it takes is that first step and you can make that step today!
Morgan Clary
Hi there! My name is Morgan Clary and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA. Originally hailing from Los Angeles, Ca I know how it is to move across the country and figure life out. I graduated with my Bachelor of Arts from Spelman College in Atlanta and obtained my Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from Georgia School of Professional Psychology formally Argosy University, Atlanta. I have 8 years of experience working in a multitude of settings from Private Practice to Medical Hospital settings as well as Mental Health facilities. I have worked with teens, different ethnic groups, individuals, couples and families to provide a therapeutic services. While in the private practice setting, I have conducted group therapy sessions for those struggling with issues related to Domestic Violence, Anger Management and Alcohol and Drug. My specialties would include women's issues, relational issues, depression and anxiety, bipolar and Attention Deficit disorders and grief and loss among other struggles and illnesses. While I see the value of all therapeutic approaches and incorporate aspects of each into the therapeutic process in an integrative approach when necessary to benefit my clients, my approach is primarily Cognitive Behavioral and Client Centered. My goal as the therapist, is to have compassion and respect for my clients in a nonjudgmental manner while working to identify negative thoughts and behaviors. I strive to build a strong connection and relationship with each client in an effort to tailor each experience to your specific needs. Whether you are seeking individual growth or striving for resolution in couples counseling, we can work together. Although I am a therapist, ultimately I plan to be your partner in this journey to your best life. I commend you for taking the first step which is identifying an area where you could use a little help and reaching out. Sometimes we need a helping hand to achieve the life we desire and I'd like to be that hand for you! My availability is limited to afternoon hours beginning at 5:30pm Monday- Thursday.
Antoinette Gooden
Hello, Welcome to the Better Help Community. My name is Antoinette, and I am a licensed professional counselor in Colorado, Georgia, Kentucky, Missouri, Kansas, South Dakota, and Virginia. I have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I have worked with individuals experiencing a variety of issues including grief and loss, depression, anxiety, marital concerns, women issues, workplace stressors, family conflict, and issues related to military families. I would describe my approach as goal-oriented, and client-centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). Both modalities are hands-on, practical approaches to problem-solving. CBT treatment usually involves efforts to change thinking patterns and or behaviors. The goals are to change patterns of thinking or behavior that are behind difficult situations, and so change the way one feels. This helps people identify unhelpful ways of thinking as they learn better ways of coping with life's stressors. It would be my privilege to become a partner in your journey while helping you to figure out your goals. I will provide a supportive and understanding environment that offers a clear direction with specific strategies to assist with your current stressors. I look forward to helping/serving you!
Phyllis Sanders
Hello, Thank you for viewing my profile. I would be honored to work with you! I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience working as a counselor and life coach. I am licensed in Georgia and have worked with individuals from various backgrounds with a variety of concerns. I have assisted individuals in addressing issues including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, women's issues, work challenges, stage of life issues and grief/loss (to name a few). My counseling approach is collaborative, compassionate , empathic and warm. I believe everyone should be heard from a non-judgmental perspective and treated with respect. I utilize strategies that include: cognitive behavioral, client-centered, solution-focused, psychodynamic and motivational interviewing counseling. We will work together to address your specific concerns and create a customized solution focused plan. I commend you for deciding to pursue counseling. It takes courage to decide to make positive life changes. I would love the opportunity to assist you in moving forward to create the the change you desire. I look forward to working with you!
Dr. Jessie Yearta
I was a hairdresser in Atlanta for 20 years listening to client’s problems while working to make their outside beautiful. I often wondered how I could help with their inner self/beauty. Then my daughter started college and she talked me into going with her. I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Mercer University in 1997. A few years later I finished my Masters of Arts in Psychology from Argosy University, and then completed my Ph.D. from Northcentral in 2011. I am an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) in Atlanta Georgia. I worked in a private hospital for addiction and psych patients for almost 25 years. I also worked in private practice two days a week; 10 of those years. I recently retired. Presently I work on Thursdays at Georgia Recovery Centers with mandated clients. I use CBT, DBT, Client Centered, Mindfulness and Positive Therapy in an eclectic approach to therapy. I am a warm and supportive therapist but will help you tackle your struggles head on with a certain amount of tenacity. Together we will prioritize; establishing goals and the steps it will take to get through your struggles. We will work as a team to help you find a place of inner peace, contentment and accomplishment that you so truly deserve. I am looking forward to our journey together! Jessie Yearta LPC, Ph.D.
Dr. Michael Mitchell
Thank you for sharing information about yourself. I'm pleased and honored that you reached out for help. I am Dr. MICHAEL MITCHELL, a licensed therapist. You can read more about my background, education, experience, and counseling approach by clicking on my name on this page. To help us get started, can you please tell me what brought you here? Just write a few short sentences about the challenges you're experiencing or what you would like to talk about and we will go from there. My mission is to promote a positive and humane treatment for individuals, couples and families to reach their highest level of functioning in response to feelings of frustration, loss, pain, powerlessness and lack of hope. Through the use of humanistic/brief solution focused therapy and cognitive behavioral techniques, I will work to help facilitate growth, change and practical solutions in an effort to break the cycle of ineffective behaviors that interfere with positive life coping skills. Whether you have a relationship problem, depression, stress, substance abuse or job concern, together we can help to put it behind you. As a confidential professional I work with adults and youth who, due to mental, physical disabilities or complex medical conditions, need assistance in developing the kinds of everyday skills that facilitate improvement in functioning more independent at home, school or work. I use cognitive/behavioral exercises with caring and compassion. I have extensive experience helping clients recover from: Marital conflict, Health and Age-Related conditions, Anxiety, Depression and Grief; Sexual problems, Substance abuse issues, parenting and Family related concerns. I have also worked with other areas of life adjustments such as: career challenges, stress., occupational concerns and grief, trauma and emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. My mission is to promote positive and humane treatment to allow for individual's, couples and families to reach their highest level of functioning in response to feelings of frustration, loss, pain, powerlessness and lack of hope. Through the use of humanistic/brief solution focused therapy and cognitive behavioral techniques, I will work to help facilitate growth, change and practical solutions in an effort to break the cycle of ineffective behaviors which interfere with positive life coping skills. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Sharon Williamson
I am a licensed professional counselor in the State of Georgia. I have over 15-years of experience working in the field of counseling. My treatment modality lies firmly rooted in CBT, client centered, and solution focused. I believe all individuals have the strength and tools to overcome any challenge in their life. As a professional counselor I take pride in guiding individuals to help achieve this outcome. I completed my undergraduate degree from the University of South Florida in Tampa Florida. I completed my graduate degree from Argosy University. I have a wide array of experiences., working with individuals, adolescents and families. I welcome the opportunity to work with you to achieve your goals.
Kara Hicks
I am licensed in Georgia with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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.
Laurice Jordan
I am licensed in Georgia with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Ruskee Porterfield
As a therapist, my passion lies in guiding individuals toward their therapeutic goals and supporting them on their unique healing journeys. I believe that every person has the capacity to love and nurture all parts of themselves, and my role is to provide a safe and encouraging space for this growth. Together, we will explore the intricacies of their experiences, helping them to embrace their strengths and vulnerabilities alike. Through tailored interventions and compassionate listening, I aim to empower clients to cultivate self-acceptance and resilience, ultimately enabling them to thrive in their personal and emotional development.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Ila
Finding the best therapist close by in Ila 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 Ila 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 Ila. 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 Ila, 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 Ila region and in the state of Georgia. 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 Ila 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 Ila 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 Ila 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 Ila, elsewhere in Madison, or in the greater state of Georgia. 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 Ila 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 Ila 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 Ila 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 Ila may not take health insurance, some in the state of Georgia 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 Georgia 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 Ila online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Ila, Georgia 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 Ila 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 Ila 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 Ila 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 Ila?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Ila 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 Ila 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 Ila 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 GA, 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 30633 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 Ila counselor?
Before seeing your Ila 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. Ila 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 Ila 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 Ila 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 Ila, Georgia 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.
Ila 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 Ila, Georgia
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 Ila 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Ila:
30530, 30633, 30647