This is David Routly's avatar and link to their profile

David Routly

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Oak Park
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
18 years of experience

I am an experienced and empathetic counselor, specializing in issues related to addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, anger management, relationship issues and the stressors and strains of life transitions. I have spent my career helping a wide variety of clients to overcome barriers to making changes in their lives and to achieve their recovery goals. I would love to work with you and find out how I can help!

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Sylvia Franklin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Oak Park
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,CRC,DDP
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, and Developmental Disabilities Professional who has worked in the counseling and social services field for 20+ years. I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Spelman College in 1997. I earned the distinction of graduating Summa Cum Laude with a Master of Arts degree in Counseling & Psychological Services from Clark Atlanta University in 2003. While at Clark Atlanta University, I served as President of the Honor Society. I have extensive experience providing a variety of counseling services such as doing individual and group sessions with families and children, career counseling, high school transitional rehabilitation counseling for with students with learning disabilities and I have provided counseling services through the Superior Court programs and detention centers In 2005, I served as a Disaster Mental Health specialist first responder immediately following Hurricane Katrina, where I travelled to Louisiana to provide mental health and guidance for those in need of crisis stabilization. My approach as a counselor, I like to work with people terms of the parts of the self. We are made up of several different elements that makes you who you are. Together, we identify the areas that you want to improve and go from there. I also approach treatment from a “How did I get here perspective?” We will take a look at all of the people places and things that led up to where you are now, figure out what your priorities are then create a plan. With your permission, I like to impart a bit of spirituality, not religion, as motivation. Spirituality is all of the things that feeds mind body and soul. It can be the things that give you a sense of purpose. (All of those approaches have big fancy names but we will talk about that later ????). I like to impart humor into my sessions. I am a firm believer that laughter and humor is therapeutic for the soul. Lastly, I like to think of myself as a people person. I enjoy helping people to reaching their fullest potential and finding inner peace. It brings me joy to help others become their “best self”. If you are looking for someone who is trustworthy, non-judgmental and a safe space to process things, then you have come to the right place.

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Audrey Burke-Wardlaw

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Oak Park
Counselor License Type(s): M.S.,LPC,CPCS
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
25 years of experience

Hello! My name is Audrey Burke-Wardlaw. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 25 years of experience. I have provided counseling support to a diverse population to include youth, individuals, groups and couples. With counseling experience that spans almost 3 decades, I have been able to help clients cope with an ever changing world. Areas that I have provided counseling support includes depression, anger, grief, trauma, anxiety, phobias, and self concept and self esteem. I have worked in the mental health clinical arena, outpatient community arena, hospital in-patient arena, and in the home. I utilize a myriad of techniques and approaches in the support of clients. The technique and/or approach that I use is driven by the needs of the individual. I do not use the "cookie cutter" approach to counseling with my clients because every person is different and what might work for one, will not work for another. I stay current with new and innovative counseling approaches to better serve my client. I utilize the life span approach that enables me to provide services for all age groups. I utilize a multi-cultural approach to providing counseling in order to meet needs of a diverse population. My counseling style includes trust, respect, and unconditional positive regard for every client no matter what their issue might be. I practice confidentiality and privacy to maintain an effective therapeutic relationship. I do not make assumptions when providing counseling but rather I depend on the client to express their issues from their point of view without judgement. The client is the expert when it comes to their life and each client is unique. I meet clients where they are with empathy and commitment. I look forward to working with you and remember, I am here for you!

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Shirnel Alleyne-Grant

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Oak Park
Counselor License Type(s): Masters
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

Hello!! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Georgia for the past 14 years. My professional experience began in mental health hospitals with children and young adults who were experiencing extreme trauma and eventually a Care Manager for managed care companies. I later opened a private practice called My Caring Counseling that allowed me to have a creative platform for my clients who needed a space to feel comfortable and safe to express themselves and heal. My experience is primarily with clients who are struggling with depression symptoms, life stressors, anxiety, coping with unexpected life changes, self esteem issues, interpersonal and relationship challenges and couples who are struggling with fertility issues. My theoretical orientation is an eclectic approach to healing and treatment. My techniques include motivational interviewing, a wholistic approach to include mindfulness techniques, movement-therapy to enhance the person’s cognitive, physical, mental and emotional wellbeing, solution-focus therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy. My style is very warm, caring and open, being attentive and listening closely to your needs. I believe we all have the power to heal ourselves and make the changes we seek within our lives and I am here to help you navigate through this process. As a therapist from a culturally diverse background I am committed to include all culturally diverse groups of young adults, older adults and couples. I completed a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion training to ensure my therapeutic approach is tailored appropriately and includes everyone. It is important to remain aware and sensitive to the needs of my clients. I am excited to be your therapist and help you navigate your life's journey.

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Desiree Cummings

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Oak Park
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Hi and welcome! Finding the right fit for your counselor is an important step in this journey of growth, and I'm grateful you've decided to take the time to learn more about me. Individual therapy is a collaborative effort between you and your therapist. The goal is to provide an open, supportive, and confidential environment for you to address the issues that are concerning you. Therapy often includes techniques to increase awareness and the capacity for self-observation, make adjustments, and develop insight and empathy. I have 12 years of experience in the mental health field across various settings. I specialize in helping men and women with issues of anxiety and depression. I also specialize in Christian Counseling. I feel the call and see the need for a safe place for Christians to be open and vulnerable about the issues they are facing. Many Christians hear wonderful sermons week after week, yet many still struggle with issues that prevent them from fully receiving the life and power in God's Word. My platform focuses on what I call Counsel-Coaching. I want to talk about the things you feel like you can't talk to anyone else about. I also want you to leave your 1st session transformed with a new focus. I believe, you, me, and the Holy Spirit can do that!

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Suelan Battiste

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Oak Park
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Georgia with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & career difficulties. 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 is admirable. I look forward to walking alongside you throughout this process

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Bethany Dollar

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Oak Park
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is licensed in the state of Georgia with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients for many years of all ages with a realm of mental health issues and diagnoses. Some of the issues I focus on within my many years of practice are stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I am extremely open minded regarding your own beliefs, background, and what contributes you to you believing you are a wonderful human being. I will always be here to reinforce your strengths, overcome your fears, and 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 through the therapeutic process.

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Vanessa Placeres

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Oak Park
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia and have 13 years of professional work experience in both community and school settings. I have a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Masters degrees in both Marriage and Family Therapy and School Counseling. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & depression. 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 counseling can take courage and I hope you feel empowered and proud of yourself! I look forward to getting to journey alongside you and learning and growing together.

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Alisha Ellis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Oak Park
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia and New York with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Dr. Harrison Davis's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Harrison Davis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Oak Park
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCoping with life changesCoaching
26 years of experience

I am licensed as a mental health counselor in Georgia with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, coping with life changes, & executive and professional coaching. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Oak Park

Finding the best therapist close by in Oak Park 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 Oak Park 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 Oak Park. 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 Oak Park, 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 Oak Park 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 Oak Park 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 Oak Park 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 Oak Park 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 Oak Park, elsewhere in Emanuel, 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 Oak Park 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 Oak Park 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 Oak Park 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 Oak Park 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 Oak Park online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Oak Park, 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 Oak Park 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 Oak Park 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 Oak Park 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 Oak Park?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Oak Park 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 Oak Park 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 Oak Park 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 30436 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 Oak Park counselor?

Before seeing your Oak Park 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. Oak Park 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 Oak Park 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 Oak Park 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 Oak Park, 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.

Oak Park 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 Oak Park, 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 Oak Park 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 Oak Park.

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

30436, 30471

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