Candace Johnson
“Life is like a coin, you can spend it on anything you choose, however you can only spend it once, therefore make the most out of it.”- Candace M. Johnson Greetings, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 9 to 10 years’ experience within the mental health field. I hold a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Psychology, acquired from North Carolina Agriculture and Technical State University. Upon the completion of my undergraduate studies, I obtained my Master of Arts Degree in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University, Atlanta (formerly known as the Georgia Professional School of Psychology). I've received rigorous training through my psychiatric practicum at Emory Decatur Hospital/Atlanta, GA. My training consists of completing psychiatric assessments with the medical and mental health population, crisis intervention within an emergency room setting, conducting psychoeducational groups, and the development of ethical and effective clinical skills. My professional experience includes counseling individuals within an acute inpatient psychiatric setting, in person and telephonic crisis intervention, coordination of behavioral health services and conducting extensive psychological assessments to determine an individual’s level of safety. I have worked/counseled the following populations: Children and Adolescents, Young Adults, General Adults. My main theory of choice is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. However, I tailor my therapeutic techniques, based off the individual’s presenting signs and symptoms. I also believe in establishing a genuine professional/therapeutic relationship with the individual, because that is the most effective way to see change within the individual. Areas of Special Expertise: Stress Management Career Counseling Psychotic Disorders Care Giver Support
Chelsea Edwards
Hi there! My name is Chelsea, and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist licensed in both the states of Georgia and Connecticut. Ever since I was a little girl I can remember always wanting to help others. I was fortunate enough to grow up in a loving home with two caring and supportive parents that always encouraged me no matter what. I have always been so thankful for this, and have a passion for giving others the same support and encouragement that I was able to have throughout my life. I got into this field because I wanted to give back! While pursuing my Bachelors degree in Psychology, my love for Marriage and Family therapy was formed after learning more about individuals, couples, and family systems. I went on to pursue a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, and through my trainings there, I found that this field not only focused on helping individuals, but also focused a lot on an individuals background, the many systems that they are apart of, and the way that these systems can help shape them into the person they are today. I strongly believe that effective therapy includes understanding the world that the individuals you work with are apart of! My earliest experiences in the field consist of working in group home environments with troubled youth and adolescents ages 14-22 presenting with diagnoses like depression, anxiety, A.D.H.D., and also showed some early signs of certain personality disorders like bipolar and borderline, PTSD. I have also worked with youth that have experienced past sexual abuse and physical abuse/neglect by their caregivers. I additionally have 3 years of in home therapy experience working with both youth and families in crisis. I have had opportunity to work with adults ages 18+ in an outpatient setting, as well as in the communities, and in their homes. The adult population that I served presented with issues like anxiety, depression, substance abuse, homelessness, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. My counseling style can be described as warm, interactive, and innovative. My favorite part about the work that I do is being able to watch the individuals that I serve make positive changes right before my eyes! I am a huge encourager, motivator, and especially passionate about supporting individuals through life stage transitions. I am friendly, open, and provide a non-judgmental space. I believe my strongest qualities are patience, empathy, and understanding. I also believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines techniques from models like Strategic, Structural, and Solution Focused therapy, however I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling, happier lifestyle and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to hearing from you soon! -Chelsea
Suzie Amacker
When individuals are experiencing challenges and confusion in their lives they often seek counseling with a trained professional. Most end up feeling that they wish they had looked for help sooner. It is become something that people are now proud to say “my therapist”. It means that you want to better understand yourself and your situation and that you are not afraid to ask for help. I have been told that I put clients at ease with my way of accepting all situations as life challenges. I have worked with individuals, parents, children and couples for over 20 years as a teacher, therapist and personal coach. I have a wealth of experience to bring to my work and I love helping people find solutions and insight into their lives. I’m confident that together we can work to equip you with the tools to face and overcome your challenges. Whether you are struggling with life transitions, retirement, aging, anxiety, or relationship issues, it is important that you know you don’t have to be alone in this journey. As a therapist I value: -the healing power of the therapeutic relationship -a safe and encouraging atmosphere -respect for the individual If you are ready to work toward what you really want, I’m ready when you are! Suzie Amacker, LPC, NCC Associations: Licensed Professional Counselor of Georgia Positive Discipline certification Certified Daring Way and Rising Strong Certified Hypnotherapist Certified Mindfulness facilitator
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!
Dr. Kristin Tugman
I am licensed in Georgia with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Jill Hendricks
I am licensed in Georgia with 33 years of professional work experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, professional & personal relationship issues, trauma, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I so respect that and am here to support you in that process.
Stephanie Hardeman
I am licensed in Georgia with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, suicidal ideations, self-harming behaviors, stress and anxiety, anger management, self esteem and impulsivity. I work with my clients to create an open, laid back and relaxed environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, but primarily children and adolescents.
Rachael Lustfeldt
I am licensed in Georgia with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, depression, & 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.
Samantha Hodges
I'm a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of Georgia, psychological skills trainer, and wellness coach. I work with adult (18+) individuals experiencing various mental health, relationship, and career challenges, role and life transitions, and various other issues. My education includes a Bachelor's of Arts in Communication from the University of Kentucky and a Master's of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the Georgia School of Professional Psychology. My specialized training includes compassion based cognitive therapy (CBCT), trauma informed mindful cognitive behavior therapy (TI-MCBT), SMART recovery, grief/bereavement counseling, end of life counseling, assertiveness and boundaries, self-esteem and confidence, conflict resolution, communication, and many other teachable and trainable skills that aid you in transformation and empowering you to take good care of yourself. With every situation comes the choice for self-growth, development, and healing. These times of transition or particularly difficult times may seem intense and unmanageable, but with the proper support many of these situations can become the beacon of change to a new version of yourself and a new stage in your life. There can be no guarantees in therapy, however, with willingness, commitment, and consistency - improvement, growth, and healing are possible. My goal is to empower you to make the choice of how you want to see yourself and your life and help you gain the knowledge, coping skills, and self-awareness needed to define, create, and maintain change. Counseling can help you to discover yourself in new ways and learn healthy ways of coping. Through a strengths based approach, I can help you realize and lean into your strengths while strengthening any areas of improvement you wish to address. I'm committed to creating a safe environment for you to express yourself and examine your thoughts and beliefs, process your emotions, and will partner with you as you work your way to a more healed and meaningful life. I offer interpersonal, person-centered therapy, and trauma-informed, culturally sensitive care. Depending on the unique needs of my clients, I may utilize techniques and interventions from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectic behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), narrative therapy, somatic (body based) therapies, mindfulness, existentialism, and spirituality (if welcome).
Wendy Fritz
I am licensed in Georgia with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, anger management, improving motivation, self esteem, and self-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.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Shady Dale
Finding the best therapist close by in Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale. 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 Shady Dale, 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 Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale, elsewhere in Jasper, 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 Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Shady Dale, 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 Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale 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 31085 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 Shady Dale counselor?
Before seeing your Shady Dale 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. Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale, 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.
Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale, 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 Shady Dale 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 Shady Dale:
31085