Lauren Oates
Hello, my name is Lauren. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and a Licensed Professional Art Therapist (LPAT) in Kentucky. I also am nationally board certified in Art Therapy (ATR-BC). I have spent the past few years working for a non-profit community mental health organization providing therapy for people and families in need. My approach to therapy is very person-centered and adaptable. I am a professional therapist, but you are the expert when it comes to your own life, and it is important that therapy be tailored based on each client's goals and needs in order to be as effective as possible. I am interested in helping people in a way that utilizes their unique strengths rather than focusing only on a diagnosis. The goal is to achieve a positive, healthy state, which does include overcoming difficulties, but is more than that. I am also able to provide art therapy for those who are interested. Art therapy can be useful in cases where it is difficult to express something, or for figuring out how one feels about something. Additionally, the act of making art can be enjoyable and therapeutic in itself. I believe that mental health is just one more part of overall health, and that seeking mental health care should be regarded as similar to receiving any other kind of health care. Every person experiences times when extra help would be valuable, but not everyone seeks out that help. If you are considering therapy, even if you are hesitant, I encourage you to get in touch so that I can help you move in the direction of overall wellness.
Dr. Janet Dean
Hello, I am Dr. Janet Dean, a Licensed Psychologist in the state of Kentucky. I have over 20 years of experience in counseling and psychotherapy, working with people at many different places in life and with many different concerns. My training was at The Ohio State University. Clients would tell you that I am easy to relate to and quite supportive, even when we are dealing with hard issues. My general therapeutic approach is cognitive-behavioral therapy within a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients. While I am able to serve individuals with just about any personal or psychological issue, my practice tends to be with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, life changes, faith, relational issues, and sexual identity and sexual addiction concerns. In addition to being a therapist, I am a college professor, teaching psychology to undergraduate students and training graduate students who want to become counselors themselves. Part of my academic work includes research centering on sexual identity and faith, counselor self-care, and the connections between faith and mental health. My research team and I have published numerous articles and a book, and we travel throughout the country presenting our work and training people to provide better care. My hope for my clients is that they find freedom, peace, and joy by becoming comfortable with who they are, building strong relationships with others, and finding their place in life. It would be an honor to walk with you in your journey.
LaWanda McCants
I graduated from the University of Kentucky with a Masters in Counseling Psychology with a focus in Gender and Women's Studies along with intersectionality and creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ people. As a Black Queer Woman, I feel it's important to meet people where they are based on identity as related to mental health needs. I have experience working with concerns such as depression, anxiety, life changes, and attachment issues. I also have experience with teens, adults, couples, and queer People of Color. You are the driver in your process while I am here to help navigate. I'm excited to go on the journey with you. Please know that I have a private practice schedule alongside this schedule. Certain days are indicated for BetterHelp clients and could be subject to change. Thanks for your understanding.
Dr. Melinda Mays
Hello! I am Dr. Mendy Mays. I am a generalist therapist, licensed in Kentucky, with 15 years experience in providing individual services. Before that I served as a middle school counselor for 12 years. Through the years I have gained experience in working with life issues, communication problems, and mood disorders, among other things. I have specific training in grief counseling and trauma. I currently also teach in a master's level counseling program that prepares students for state licensure. This keeps me up to date on best practices. Also, after spending most of my life in rural areas, I am very aware of the challenges and cultural issues that often occur surrounding mental health issues in that atmosphere. I like for therapy to be a collaboration. I see my role of therapist as being a partner and facilitator in the client's journey to wellness and fulfillment. I like to use the analogy that I am like a hardware store. I have tools and information for people to successfully do the work needed. I strive to make therapy a safe, no judgment zone. The approaches I most often use are cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused and narrative therapy. However I have experience with many theoretical approaches and have lots of "tools in my tool bag" to tailor treatment for a specific client's needs. Change can be difficult and I realize the courage it takes for a client to enter therapy. The first step toward a better life is often the hardest. If your are ready, I look forward to taking that step with you and supporting you on your journey.
Sherry Morgan
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in the state of Kentucky. I have over 20 years of experience working with military and civilian families. I specialize in working with children ages 5 yrs. to 17 yrs. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD many of these clients have also experienced physical and/or emotional traumas. I treat everyone with dignity and respect as testament to my willingness to also provide Christian based therapy. My therapeutic approach combines motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral, culturally sensitive, reality-based processes. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling happier life and to take steps towards change. If you are ready to take steps toward change, I am willing to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Dr. LeAnn Bruce
I am licensed in Kentucky with 25 years of professional clinical social work experience across many settings. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & depression. I have experience working with Military and Veterans and their families and understand their unique needs. My goal is 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.
Ruth Darland
I am licensed in Washington and Kentucky with 8 years of professional work experience. I believe if you change you brain, you can change your life. Mental health disorders effect the way our brain produces different types of chemicals and we often have to retrain the pathways our brain takes in order to change our behaviors and situations. I also believe in letting people make their own choices, because you are the expert on your life! I take a motivational interviewing approach. You tell me what you want to do or where you want to go and I will help you figure out the different routes and options to achieve your goals by using proven scientific methods. My methods usually involve cognitive behavioral therapy with a large variety of interventions depending on your preferences and personality. I especially like using a psychoeducation approach with people who are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, bipolar, or coping with addictions because you deserve to know why you feel the way you do and how you can change it. I have a wide range of experience working with varying age groups, cultural backgrounds, and religious beliefs. I have a license in Mental Health Counseling and Supervision. I have been a college Professor for 6 years, teaching counseling classes and working with college students. I have experience working with children and youth at a crisis stabilization unit, public schools, and private schools. I spent several years working with substance abuse and addictions. I really enjoy investing in people by inspiring them with hope and equipping them with the tools to change. You have already begun changing your life from the moment you signed up. I would love to be on your team as you continue your journey.
Swan Roberts
My name is Swan Roberts, and I am a licensed therapist, clinical social worker. I have several years of therapy experience. Before becoming a therapist, I was in the U.S. army for 3 years as a medic, 68w. I decided to become a therapist because I have always enjoyed helping people, and when I was getting out of the army, I had my own therapist to help me through that transition, which inspired me to follow this career path. I look forward to helping you on this healing journey. I have experience utilizing IFS, EMDR, and CBT with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues.
Troy Johnson
Welcome! Are you ready for a truly transformative therapy experience? I’m Troy—a therapist who “gets it.” In a world often shaped by heteronormative expectations and conservative viewpoints, I offer a refreshingly affirming and queer-centric approach to therapy. Rooted in inclusivity and guided by a socially conscious, non-religious framework, I specialize in helping clients find authenticity and empowerment. Whether you're navigating personal challenges, exploring your identity, or working through systemic barriers, my practice is a space where you can feel safe, valued, and understood. What I Offer: I work with individuals seeking clarity, growth, and empowerment. My areas of focus include: Exploring and affirming queer identities Addressing anxiety, depression, and life transitions Supporting polyamorous relationships and alternative lifestyles Gender Dysphoria Assessments and Letters of Support for gender-affirming surgery (available through my private practice) My Approach on BetterHelp: I use BetterHelp as a way to meet new clients and introduce myself in a safe, no-commitment environment. It’s an opportunity for us to see if we’re a good match for longer-term work together. My focus here is short-term, goal-oriented care, typically lasting anywhere from 2 to 6 sessions. I don’t provide long-term care on BetterHelp because my availability on this platform is limited; I only accept new BetterHelp clients once or twice a year. If we both agree that continued work together would be beneficial, I’ll help transition you to my private practice, where we can develop a personalized, in-depth approach tailored to your needs. Transition to Private Practice: For long-term therapy, I offer comprehensive services in my private practice, including: Flexible cash rates comparable to subscription costs Insurance options, including United/Optum, BCBS, and Aetna A limited number of discounted session rates for those who qualify Access to my full therapy schedule for greater flexibility To learn more about my private practice, visit www.queertalktherapy.com. About Me: Beyond my professional expertise, I bring warmth, understanding, and a deep commitment to creating a space where you can feel truly seen and heard. My clients describe me as approachable, insightful, and someone who genuinely "gets it." Whether you're working through a challenging time or simply looking to better understand yourself, I’m here to guide you with empathy and evidence-based strategies. Let’s work together to make meaningful, lasting change. I look forward to connecting with you!
Tabitha Ramos
Are you struggling with anxiety, sadness, or relationship problems? Life can present us with challenges that impact our ability to cope. There are times when we need support or assistance with processing these events, our thoughts and feelings, or help with making difficult life decisions. I provide counseling and therapy in a warm, caring, safe, non-judgmental space. I am connected both through my education and through my own therapy journey. I view myself as your partner on your therapy journey to help you find wholeness and healing. I offer live video, telephonic, and live chat appointments. Weekend and evening hours available. I am licensed in Kentucky, and have over 25 years of experience in the field of social work with over three years of experience in counseling. Reach out to me today so we can begin your journey towards healing.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Watterson Park
Finding the best therapist close by in Watterson 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 Watterson 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 Watterson 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 Watterson 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 Watterson Park region and in the state of Kentucky. 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 Watterson 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 Watterson 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 Watterson 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 Watterson Park, elsewhere in Jefferson, or in the greater state of Kentucky. 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 Watterson 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 Watterson 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 Watterson 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 Watterson Park may not take health insurance, some in the state of Kentucky 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 Kentucky 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 Watterson Park online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Watterson Park, Kentucky 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 Watterson 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 Watterson 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 Watterson 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 Watterson Park?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Watterson 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 Watterson 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 Watterson 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 KY, 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 40218 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 Watterson Park counselor?
Before seeing your Watterson 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. Watterson 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 Watterson 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 Watterson 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 Watterson Park, Kentucky 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.
Watterson 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 Watterson Park, Kentucky
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 Watterson 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:
- 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 Watterson Park:
40213, 40218, 40231