Gala Oliver-Singh
“The Secret of change is to focus all your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new.”- Socrates. Many of us were conditioned to accept and live with situations in our lives that we wanted to change but felt we could not or did not know how to. By seeking out counseling support, you have taken the first step to respond and not react and change your emotional climate. I am Gala Oliver-Singh, and over the past 17 years I have had the privilege to witness numerous transformations occur when people just like you have taken the risk to have a different relationship with change by responding instead of reacting and be in trust instead of distrust with change. When we do our transformational work, we can experience the gifts of growth, joy, and opportunity that these changes are here to teach us. I decided to become a Licensed Professional Counselor when I was a client, doing my own transformational work. This profession has provided an opportunity for me to help other people do their transformational work and learn to tell and live new stories that reflect the positive choices and changes they want to experience in their lives presently. My goal in pursuing a Master’s degree in Counseling and Guidance from Louisiana Tech University was to use what I’ve learned in turmoil to actively bring others to a better position in their lives. I have worked in a variety of settings with many different client groups. I have a demonstrated passion for and commitment to educating and empowering individuals and groups that have been historically marginalized, stigmatized, and oppressed, specifically ethnic, and sexual minorities. I have facilitated personal growth support groups for LGBTQ (Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer) young adults and served as a mental health consultant addressing identity development and the coming out process at a Safe Zone Training. I have provided individual, family, and group mental health therapy for children, adolescents and adults in outpatient clinic and community settings; provided individual and family therapy, intervention and support services to parents and students as a school-based mental health therapist; and was responsible for counseling, educating and empowering battered women and their children to make choices that result in safe, independent and violence-free lives in my position as a domestic violence family counselor. My approach to healing, wellness, and mental health is client-centered, relational, and based on a flexible, collaborative approach. The goal of our counseling relationship will be to identify healthy new behaviors that you choose and to incorporate them into your life. I am here to help support, inspire, and motivate you to make those changes. Together, let’s create a healing, non-judgmental, safe environment to help you transform and live your best life. SPECIALTIES: • Ethnic and sexual identity issues (multicultural issues; LGBTQ issues) • Anxiety • Depression • Relationship issues • Youth development and adjustment (young adult counseling) Also experienced in: Parenting issues, Family conflicts, Coping with life changes, Career difficulties, Life purpose, Self-care Clinical approaches: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Family Systems Therapy Years of Experience: 17
Erika Williams
Hello. My name is Erika Williams. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Louisiana with over 10 years’ experience working in various setting with diverse populations. My approach is to form a therapeutic alliance with the client. Such a relationship is essential, as it is oftentimes the first setting in which the person shares intimate thoughts, beliefs, and emotions regarding the issues in question. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, low self-esteem and trauma. My counseling style encourages curiosity, creativity, and humility. I believe in promoting a safe environment that promotes empathy and nonjudgment. Honesty is also important as it is the foundation for healing and personal growth. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and client-centered therapy. It is my desire to help you reach you full potential as a human being and to assist others in finding the beauty within. Courage is a virtue when we choose to do good, especially when that is most difficult. Courage is moral strength in the face of danger. Courage gives you the ability to put aside fear of failure and take the first steps. Demonstrating courage is reaching out for help! I look forward to working with you!
Donna Smith
I have been a therapist for 35 years in most cases in medical and psychiatric settings. Fortunately, I have continued to express compassion and to be committed to helping others who struggle with various types of stress and psychological challenges to include: Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, Other Specified traumas such as; stressful experiences resulting from childhood traumatic issues and stressful experiences and/or exposure to physical or emotional pain including abuse ,neglect or family conflict, and/or tragic events, Depression, Anxiety, occupational stress and stress secondary to medical problems.
Dr. Craig Anderson
I am a doctoral level psychologist with 20 years of experience as a therapist. I provide therapy for individuals afflicted with presenting problems to include depression, anxiety, self-esteem, anger, substance use, relationship and adjustment related issues. I utilize a number of individualized therapy approaches to include humanistic, cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic techniques to relieve distress, strengthen resilience and promote improved welfare and functioning ability. My aim is to assist recovery and improved functioning and wellness using effective, supportive, directive and collaborative interventions to respond to your challenges and recovery goals. I look forward to assisting you in your journey to maximize health, foster growth and enhance your quality of life.
Michelle Rutherford
It can be incredibly difficult to admit that you need help even though life is continually presenting bigger and scarier obstacles to overcome. You have already made an amazingly brave decision to seek counseling services and should be proud of yourself for taking that first step. I’m Michelle and it is my goal to provide you with a safe and warm environment where we can begin to cultivate a strong and authentic therapeutic relationship. I practice from an eclectic approach of evidence-based practices, adjusting each approach to your specific needs. My counseling style is relaxed, direct, and compassionate.
Jaime Darda
I am licensed in Louisiana with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & bipolar disorder. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Collette Jones
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
Laura Poirier
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Louisiana with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I am recently retired from a full-time schedule and am taking clients part time. If my availability doesn’t fit with your needs, let me know and I’ll do my best to assist you. 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.
Dr. Raven Dunlap
I am licensed in Louisiana with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, social skills, intimacy related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! As a counselor, my mission is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Through therapy, I strive to help clients identify and work through the underlying issues that are causing them distress and to develop the skills they need to live a more fulfilling and satisfying life. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and I work closely with clients to understand their unique needs and goals. I draw on a variety of evidence-based techniques, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, and psychodynamic therapy, to tailor treatment to each client's specific needs. My ultimate goal is to help clients develop greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and a sense of empowerment. I believe that every individual has the potential for growth and healing, and I am committed to supporting clients on their journey toward greater well-being and fulfillment.
Jeannine Vinson
I am licensed in Kentucky, Louisiana and Washington with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
How to find a therapist for counseling in Cotton Valley
Finding the best therapist close by in Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley. 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 Cotton Valley, 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 Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley, elsewhere in Webster, 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 Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Cotton Valley, 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 Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley 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 71018 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 Cotton Valley counselor?
Before seeing your Cotton Valley 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. Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley, 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.
Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley, 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 Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley:
71018