This is Shirley Watkins's avatar and link to their profile

Shirley Watkins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Leslie
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementDepression
10 years of experience

Hello, my name is Shirley and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Georgia. I have been working in the mental health fields for about eight years. I have worked with individuals who experience a variety of issues to include depression, anxiety, stress, anger, grief and many more. I chose to work in this area because I believe that those who need support and understanding should be heard as they strive to better themselves. I attended GCSU where I received my undergraduate degree in Psychology and my Masters from Troy University majoring in Counseling and Education. The client approach I like to use is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness. CBT helps you to replace negative and unproductive thought patterns with more realistic ones. Mindfulness coupled with CBT will help you better understand and manage your thoughts and emotions in order to achieve relief from distress. I would describe myself as an individual who is open-minded and caring. I believe it is important to find healthy coping skills that will work for you. It would be an honor to work with you on this journey to help you accomplish your goals.

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Karyl Baker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Leslie
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Hello! My name is Karyl, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Georgia. I recognize the courage it takes to reach out for help with personal matters. It would be my privilege to walk with you as you navigate through life's challenges. I have experience working with adults struggling with various issues such as depression, anxiety, obsessions/compulsions, post-traumatic stress, substance abuse, mania, hoarding, and dissociation related to traumatic events. I have worked with people of various backgrounds, sexual orientations, genders, religions, and cultures. I care about what is difficult in your life and want to help with finding relief. My counseling style is warm, attentive and non-judgmental. I work from a psychodynamic perspective which means I understand how past and current stressors can affect responses to stressful situations. I also utilize cognitive therapy which is a way to discover how thoughts affect feelings and behaviors. I have experience working with those struggling with past trauma and abuse and am trauma informed in my counseling. I would love working with you and look forward to meeting you.

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Jerry Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Leslie
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
38 years of experience

Hello and welcome to my profile! I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Georgia for almost 30 years (since 1993) working in all areas of Mental Health. I’ve worked with foster-care families as well as with families who had children with various developmental disabilities. In addition, I have worked with geriatric clients residing in Assisted Living Facilities. In between these two populations, I have also worked in psychiatric hospitals, acute Mental Health outpatient facilities, Alcohol and Drug outpatient facilities as well as both jails and penitentiaries with clients who had both addictions and mental health issues ranging from Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia and Major Depressive Disorders, just to name a few. I have extensive experience working with clients with both relationship and self-esteem issues, along with being an Adjunct Professor of Psychology for twelve years. My approach to therapy is always “Client-Centered” which means that I meet you where you are and assist you in identifying your stuck points and your goals that YOU want to accomplish with therapy. Remember, this is your life and not mine, therefore only you know what is best for you! As your therapist, my role is simple and yet complex – to hold up a mirror and allow you to identify both your needs and wants and assist you in developing the best course of action for you to take with the least amount of resistance. By the way, I do give homework assignments and completion is critical to your therapeutic progress. Come – take my hand and let us walk and talk together for a little while, because there is indeed a bright and shiny light at the end of your tunnel!

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Darius Entesary

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Leslie
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

I AM A PROFESSIONAL COUNSELOR LICENSED IN STATE OF GEORGIA WITH OVER 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE. I HAVE WORKED WITH CLIENTS WITH WIDE RANGE OF CONCERNS INCLUDING DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, ANGER, RELATIONSHIPS, CAREER CHALLENGES AND MID LIFE TRANSITIONS. I HAVE ALSO WORKED WITH MANY CLIENTS WHO HAD EXPERIENCED PHYSICAL, SEXUAL AND EMOTIONAL TRAUMAS. MY PASSION IS TO HELP INDIVIDUALS AND COUPLES TO CONTINUE TO IMPROVE THE QUALITIES OF THEIR LIVES AND RELATIONSHIPS AND HENCE LIVE THEIR LIVES WITH MORE ENERGY. JOY, AND FULFILLMENT. MY COUNSELING/THERAPY STYLE IS FOUNDED ON THE HUMANISTIC THEORY WHOSE MAIN PRINCIPLE IS UNCONDITIONAL POSITIVE REGARDS TO EACH AND EVERY CLIENT WHO IS SEEKING HELP. I AM AN ECLECTIC COUNSELOR USING CT, CBT, DBT, EXISTENTIAL AND MINDFULNESS TECHNIQUES IN MY COUNSELING AND THERAPY. IT TAKES COURAGE TO SEE A MORE FULFILLING AND HAPPIER LIFE AND TO TAKE THE FIRST STEPS TOWARDS CHANGE. IF YOU ARE READY TO TAKE THAT STEP, I AM HERE TO SUPPORT AND TO EMPOWER YOU. I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO WORKING WITH YOU.

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Ange Williams

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Leslie
Counselor License Type(s): MSW
GriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
21 years of experience

I am a bilingual licensed clinical social worker with a Masters’ in Social Work with a focus in mental health. I have 21 years of experience working with veteran, geriatric, adolescence, patients with mental illness and, drug / alcohol abuse. Additionally, I am fluent in French Creole and English. If you are a referral through EAP I apologize in advance, due to a contractual agreement to avoid conflict of interest, I am unable to see clients who are referred through EAP. Thank you in advance for your consideration concerning this matter.

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Judith (Judy) Hamilton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Leslie
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
24 years of experience

I am a graduate of the University of South Carolina College of Social Work. I believe in the Social Work Code of Ethics regarding treating clients as individuals with dignity and respect. I have 20+ years of experience specializing in PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar I and II, Adjustment Disorder, Bereavement, and psychotic disorders. Former employment includes chief counselor for Specialized Mental Health Treatment Unit for Georgia Department of Corrections. for 7+ years, Hospice, and Correctional Mental Health for County Detention Centers. I am currently also employed with the Department of Veterans Affairs at a Community Based Outpatient Clinic. My counseling style is strengths-based, open, warm, and client centered. I believe in walking side-by-side with my clients vs leading them; you know how you learn and grow best and I'm here to help provide guidance towards your goals. Everyone deserves to be treated with fairness, equity, compassion, and care. You are the expert on you. My goal is to assist you in becoming the best you that you can be. Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Whole Health, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy: CPT, and PE.

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Dr. Lateshia Woodley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Leslie
Trauma and abuseParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, parenting issues, career difficulties, & 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. 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 Amisha McMillan's avatar and link to their profile

Amisha McMillan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Leslie
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteem
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & anger management. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Ebonny Mills's avatar and link to their profile

Ebonny Mills

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Leslie
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, substance abuse issues and coping with addictions, anger management, self-esteem, and confidence. 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 Chattrelle Gillyard-Rice's avatar and link to their profile

Chattrelle Gillyard-Rice

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Leslie
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, & career difficulties. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Leslie

Finding the best therapist close by in Leslie 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 Leslie 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 Leslie. 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 Leslie, 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 Leslie 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 Leslie 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 Leslie 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 Leslie 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 Leslie, elsewhere in Sumter, 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 Leslie 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 Leslie 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 Leslie 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 Leslie 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 Leslie online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Leslie, 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 Leslie 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 Leslie 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 Leslie 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 Leslie?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Leslie 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 Leslie 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 Leslie 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 31764 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 Leslie counselor?

Before seeing your Leslie 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. Leslie 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 Leslie 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 Leslie 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 Leslie, 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.

Leslie 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 Leslie, Georgia

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 Leslie 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 Leslie.

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

31764

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