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Monica Cruz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Abita Springs
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,BACS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
16 years of experience

Greetings! If you are reading this then you have taken the first step towards creating your new and improved self. This is often very difficult and I commend you on your courage and resolve. The road to self-improvement is often a lifelong journey and many people run into difficulties of all sorts along the way. Do not be discouraged! You are not alone. My goal is to give you supportive help and solutions to the best of my ability. I am committed to listening to your personal situation and assisting you with formulating and implementing goals for you to achieve incremental improvement. Let's start by me telling you a little about myself. I am currently an LCSW with 11 years of experience helping a diverse range of people from many different cultural backgrounds. People have always described me as a good listener and problem solver. While working together I can assure you I will never judge. We are all in this together! People would also call me driven and compassionate. I am devoted to working with you to elevate your well-being and overall quality of life. I specialize in Behavioral Therapy utilizing a wide array of interventions and treatment plans. Together we will formulate a personalized plan for you and discuss the steps needed for you to enact that plan in portions that are manageable to you and your situation. I look forward to the opportunity of working with you!

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Linda Griffin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Abita Springs
Counselor License Type(s): NCC, NCCC,LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
24 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a certified LPC Supervisor with over 24 years of experience in providing counseling services. My earlier experience as a teacher, both secondary and post-secondary, laid the foundation for my passion for education, life-long learning, and the capacity for personal evolvement. In addition to the MA in Counseling, I hold an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and have served as director of Counseling Services as well as university Dean of Student Development. My experience in education has contributed to my belief in personal growth and development, and teaching self-efficacy skill building is a cornerstone of my counseling service. I borrow Baxter Magolda’s theory of self-authorship along the life span and apply it in my counseling. Her metaphor of riding a tandem bicycle is particularly applicable to my practice. My interpretation is that the client is the driver of the counseling experience. They steer and dictate the direction for the session. As the second rider, I provide appropriate information, energy, encouragement, and guidance. My primary modalities for therapy are cognitive-behavioral, client centered, reality therapy, and motivational interviewing. However, I appreciate the client’s integrity and I adapt my techniques according to their needs. I have worked with individuals with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, anger management challenges, relationship conflict, career exploration, eating disorders, self-esteem, grief and loss, panic disorder, sexual orientation and gender identity, and academic skill building. In general, my role as a counselor is to assist the client in conceptualizing the concern, defining objectives for change, and identifying appropriate interventions. I look forward to meeting you, listening to you, and assisting you in defining goals to achieve self-authorship in your life.

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Brianne Phillips

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Abita Springs
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LSCSW,RPT-S
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Brianne Phillips. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Kansas, Missouri, North Dakota, and Louisiana, and hold the credential of a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor. Over the past 17 years, I have spent my time as a social worker in various settings: in schools, in private practice, in a hospital, with youth in foster care, and with survivors of domestic violence. Even though the settings were all different, one thing stayed the same. Our success and challenges are influenced by our lived experiences and our perceptions of these experiences. I have helped people cope with change, parenting challenges, relationship stressors and conflicts, trauma, and managing the everyday stressors that go along with life in general. When I’m working with clients, I genuinely want to get to know you. Starting sessions with a new therapist can seem a bit intimidating. Making sure you feel heard and valued is important to me. I want you to know you’ve got someone in your corner. For me, learning about the different parts of your life is important as we embark on this journey. As a social worker, I believe in taking a holistic approach to therapy; looking at the big picture rather than one tiny segment. Once we see where you fit into the big picture and how your perceptions and experiences have shaped your behavior, we can begin to challenge your thought processes to change your thinking and/or past behaviors. We all know the saying, “If you continue to do the same thing, you’ll continue to get the same result.” I am confident that as a team, you and I can take on the challenges you’re facing, so you can try new ideas and begin to see positive results.

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Megan Beecham

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Abita Springs
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 3 years of experience working with clients with dual diagnoses including depression, anxiety, personality disorders, substance abuse disorders, schizoaffective disorder, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Throughout my experience I have worked with clients in the group and individual therapy setting providing counseling related to family of origin issues, depression, substance use, grief/loss, loneliness, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, and emptiness related to finding purpose. Prior to going back to school for counseling, I worked with clients and their partners with HIV/AIDS. I provide counseling through a person-centered perspective. I think it is important to let each client be the expert of their life, and recognize the personal strengths that are important in forming new ways to tackle ongoing issues that are holding each client back from finding and choosing to live their best, most fulfilled, lives. I think it is important for clients not only to participate in therapy, but also to participate in experiential modalities to recognize what will be helpful to work through experiences in the here and now. I want to meet each client where they are in their process toward change and fulfillment. Thank you for choosing to let me work with you while finding fulfillment.

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Collette Jones

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Abita Springs
Stress, AnxietySelf esteem
5 years of experience

Hello! I am Collette L. Jones, a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Louisiana with five years of invaluable professional experience. Excitingly, I am newly licensed in Arizona, expanding my commitment to guiding individuals on their journey toward improved mental well-being and personal growth. Professional Background: With a solid foundation in counseling and dual licensure in Louisiana and Arizona, I specialize in addressing stress, anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. Over the past five years, I have had the privilege of guiding clients through challenges, fostering positive change, and witnessing the transformative power of self-discovery. My Approach: In my practice, I prioritize creating a welcoming and non-judgmental space where clients feel free to express their thoughts and emotions. I understand the courage it takes to seek a more fulfilling and happier life. Together, we embark on a journey of self-exploration, and I am here to provide unwavering support and empowerment. Areas of Expertise: Stress and Anxiety Management Motivation Enhancement Self-Esteem and Confidence Building Philosophy: I believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and positive change. My goal is to help individuals tap into their inner strength, overcome challenges, and achieve a more balanced and satisfying life. Your Journey Starts Here: Taking the first steps towards change requires courage, and I am here to stand by you throughout your transformative journey. Let's work together to build a foundation for a life filled with fulfillment and happiness. If you are ready to invest in your well-being and embark on a path of self-discovery, I am here to support you every step of the way. Reach out, and let's begin this journey together. Warm regards, Collette L. Jones, M.A. LPC

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Teresa Taylor

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Abita Springs
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
5 years of experience

I became a counselor because I feel passionate in helping individual's find peace and harmony in their lives among their daily struggles. In this day and age, mental health self-care should be viewed equally as taking care of one's physical self-care, and I believe in taking care of mind, body and spirit. I believe it takes courage and strength to seek professional health in this world of judgement and darkness. "Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light". -Brene Brown I approach therapy by utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy. My goal is to help you connect and understand how your thoughts, actions, and behaviors cause stress, anxiety, and depression. Being human, we all face life’s challenges, trials, and tribulations leaving us with emotional turmoil. Together, we can develop goals to aid you to achieve your desired outcomes to live a life of meaning and purpose. I have worked with a diversity of adult and couples with diverse backgrounds struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, bipolar, anger issues, grief, and interpersonal conflict. I would consider it a privilege to be a part of your journey as you travel down the road to healing. “God is our refuge, our strength, and our ever-present help in trouble”. Psalms 46:1

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Christen Johnson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Abita Springs
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana with 10+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe 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.

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Jason Fanguy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Abita Springs
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
7 years of experience

I provide therapy services to residents of Louisiana and Colorado for a multitude of presenting concerns/issues. I incorporate basic and advanced tenets of wellness, coping, behavioral nutrition and behavior change into the counseling process, facilitating the life-changing and transformative process that empowers clients on their journey to better mental and physical health and thus, a better quality of life. I'm a solution-focused practitioner and will work to facilitate your healing and change process the moment we begin working together.

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Sherile Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Abita Springs
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with various issues including stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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. Satisfied people do not change and it takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and joyful life. I am here to support & empower you in that process.

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Dr. Mark Taliancich

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Abita Springs
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteem
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Louisiana with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I see counseling as a process in which you, the client, and I, the counselor, having come to understand and trust one another, work as a team to explore and define present problem situations, develop future goals for an improved life and work in a systematic fashion toward realizing those goals. 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, and I'm here to support you in that process.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Abita Springs

Finding the best therapist close by in Abita Springs 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 Abita Springs 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 Abita Springs. 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 Abita Springs, 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 Abita Springs region and in the state of Louisiana. 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 Abita Springs 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 Abita Springs 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 Abita Springs 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 Abita Springs, elsewhere in St. Tammany, or in the greater state of Louisiana. 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 Abita Springs 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 Abita Springs 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 Abita Springs 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 Abita Springs may not take health insurance, some in the state of Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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 Abita Springs online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Abita Springs, Louisiana 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 Abita Springs 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 Abita Springs 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 Abita Springs 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 Abita Springs?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Abita Springs 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 Abita Springs 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 Abita Springs 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 LA, 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 70420 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 Abita Springs counselor?

Before seeing your Abita Springs 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. Abita Springs 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 Abita Springs 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 Abita Springs 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 Abita Springs, Louisiana 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.

Abita Springs 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 Abita Springs, Louisiana

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 Abita Springs 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 Abita Springs.

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

70420

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