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Karen Medlock

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Benton
Counselor License Type(s): MTS, MSSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesDepression
27 years of experience

My name is Karen Medlock. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Texas and Louisiana. I have two Masters' Degrees, one in Social Work and one in Theology. I take a holistic approach with my clients. I have worked with all age groups, from three years old all the way in the eighties. Yes, I have been around awhile. I have teaching certifications in Michigan and taught Kindergarten through twelfth grade. The experiences I had as a teacher were tremendous and very helpful in my therapeutic relationships with adolescents and teenagers. I enjoy working with all age groups and totally enjoy diversity in culture, race and sexual orientation. I ran and did sexual offender treatment with male adult offenders at Norton Correctional Center in Norton, Kansas, which gave me a great magnitude of skills in addiction treatment, running groups and providing psycho-social classes in multitudes of topics. I would have to say working with inmates in state prisons is very rewarding for me because I can now view them as people with problems from the past that have never been dealt with for the most part. Also, I have much experience in helping people work through trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, including the severe panic attacks that occur. I have worked extensively with grief and loss. I am very excited to be a part of Better Help because it is a way for people who need help to access me at various times via text, phone or video. It is a good medium for all those who are a bit shy to meet in person (or aren't ready) or have tight schedules. I am very excited to work with you! I am quite a laid-back therapist, and always respond to where you are in your life-path. We all are on personal life journeys...let's use this time to explore and traverse new worlds and paths! I will help you develop your strengths and accompany you on your journey.

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Roxanne Stegall

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Benton
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,MSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hi there! My name is Roxanne Stegall and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over eight years experience working in the mental healthcare field. My past work experience in both the medical and mental healthcare settings have prepared me to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds. I earned my Masters of Social Work Degree from Louisiana State University where I completed two internships, one was a local non-profit family-counseling center and the other was a state run outpatient-counseling center. After graduation, I was hired as the lead therapist at a private inpatient mental health facility where I worked with a multidisciplinary team and provided individual, family, and group counseling to both adolescents and adults. After making a move to a new city, I became a medical social worker for a children's hospital where I primarily worked with children and their families who were facing a life altering medical diagnosis. Past clients have described my demeanor as warm, empathetic, and approachable. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment for each client to explore any life challenge they may be facing such as difficulties with stress/anxiety, feelings of depression, grief, chronic illness, life transitions, and/or relationship conflicts. I enjoy working alongside my clients to develop goals and objectives to address these life challenges. My approach to therapy is a holistic one. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches when working with clients, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, as well as strengths-based and mindfulness-based techniques. Whether this is your first time seeking counseling services or you are a returning client, engaging in therapy takes courage and humility. My personal goal as a therapist is for my clients to feel a greater sense of life-balance, self-confidence, and self-awareness that will empower them to address future life challenges that may arise. If you are ready to take the first steps towards a change, I look forward to working with you and supporting you through the journey!

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Dallas McGlinn

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Benton
Counselor License Type(s): MA, MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

I have had a lot of unique life experiences that provide me with the ability to provide an empathic ear without judgment. I have always loved studying the human condition and social issues. I received my first Master’s Degree in Sociology, and my second is a Master of Social Work. I have done a lot of community outreach work with a wide variety of populations, as a professional and as a volunteer. I provide counseling services for people from all walks of life. I design my treatment plans so that they are unique for each individual. I can help you to process emotions that can be overwhelming, adjust to change, work through grief, find the ability to forgive so you can heal, analyze your past to see how it affects your present, manage anger, anxiety and stress, or set new goals to create positive life changes. All people are worthy of love and respect, and this includes YOU. Some of my specialties are: boundaries, financial counseling, grief, anxiety, career change, goal setting and mindfulness. I use a variety of interventions, some of which may include: psychoanalysis, cognitive behavior therapy, solution-focused therapies, narrative therapies, journaling, mindfulness, or other interventions as appropriate. My goal is to help you to find your peace in life, whatever that may be.

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Leah Pace

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Benton
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
8 years of experience

Welcome! I know it is a big decision to engage in therapy and I’m excited to help guide you while you achieve your goals. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and graduated with my MSW from Stephen F. Austin State University in Texas. I have worked as a Social Worker for 16 years in a variety of behavioral health settings including outpatient settings (clinic and community based), inpatient setting (behavioral health hospital), school based, group therapy, crisis intervention, long term care facilities for the aging, as well as case management. I believe in helping individuals and families improve their entire system and environment that surrounds them. The majority of my experience has been in helping clients overcome or cope with symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family issues, grief, and anger management. I also have experience assisting individuals cope with trauma and am trained in EMDR as well as TF-CBT. My style is caring, direct, and client centered. I want to help others achieve what they want in life. I am non-judgmental and believe that everyone can improve their quality of life and happiness, but some people require different routes to achieve this. Life is hard so it is okay to ask for some help to find our way! I look forward to working with you!

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Felicia Hensley-Whitaker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Benton
Counselor License Type(s): M. A.,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am a mental health professional living in Louisiana, but licensed as an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) in both Louisiana and Texas. I have approximately 25 years of experience working with clients of various ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds. I have worked with clients with a wide variety of concerns including: depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and phase of life issues (i.e. stress related to divorce, mid-life crisis, work/life balance, aging concerns, etc.) I have also worked with and been a part of a military family. My therapy style is very warm and relational. I believe that everyone has a right to seek their highest level of functioning and I am always happy to assist anyone with that goal in mind. My therapeutic approach is primarily client-centered with a strong influence of the cognitive behavioral approach. I will work with you in a manner that best meets your needs and moves you toward your personal goals. I look forward to working with you.

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Shandrieka Vallare

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Benton
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepression
17 years of experience

Shandrieka is an experienced License Clinical Social Worker licensed in Texas and Louisiana, graduate of Southern University at New Orleans. She enjoys spending time partaking in self-care activities such as: mediating, listening to smooth jazz and engaging with loved ones. Shandrieka is passionate about helping people overcome life's difficult challenges, assisting individuals with developing new insights. She has had the privilege of providing individual counseling to young children, adolescents, adults and geriatric populations in an inpatient setting as well as community- based. Utilizing various therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy and Behavioral Therapy. Shandrieka views behavioral health as the primary component of holistic health, resulting in healthy families, personal relationships and stronger communities.

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Shirley "Elizabeth" Loftin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Benton
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
40 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Louisiana with many years of experience. A partial list of the areas I have experience with includes anxiety, depression, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and LGBTQ2+ and grief. I believe that you are the expert of your own life and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. I look forward to getting to know you and to guide you in finding those strengths, as well as developing new ones. 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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Kourteni Henderson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Benton
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Elizabeth Nolen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Benton
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker in Louisiana with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I have many years of my career provided couples counseling working with couples to repair trust, improve communication and strengthen their emotional intimacy with each other. My style is supportive and interactive. I meet you where you're at with respect of your values and beliefs. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral, rational emotive and supportive therapy. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Susan Domingue's avatar and link to their profile

Susan Domingue

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Benton
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSleeping disordersDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, sleeping disorders, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Benton

Finding the best therapist close by in Benton 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 Benton 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 Benton. 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 Benton, 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 Benton 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 Benton 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 Benton 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 Benton 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 Benton, elsewhere in Bossier, 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 Benton 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 Benton 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 Benton 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 Benton 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 Benton online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Benton, 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 Benton 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 Benton 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 Benton 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 Benton?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Benton 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 Benton 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 Benton 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 71006 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 Benton counselor?

Before seeing your Benton 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. Benton 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 Benton 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 Benton 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 Benton, 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.

Benton 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 Benton, Louisiana

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 Benton 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 Benton.

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

71006

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