This is Drauzin Kern's avatar and link to their profile

Drauzin Kern

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Duson
Counselor License Type(s): MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
35 years of experience

My name is Drauzin Kern and I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker. Over the past thirty 36 years, I have been fortunate to have worked closely with clients over a broad range of challenges including depression, coping with grief and loss, LGBTQIA+ related concerns, relationship issues, compassion fatigue and managing life-changes. I completed my graduate studies at Columbia University School of Social Work in New York in 1988 and I practiced psychotherapy in New York, California and Louisiana. My husband Nick and I currently make our home in South Louisiana, USA, along with a wonderful cat named Willis. Being a therapist is my life’s work. My intention is to meet every client with respect, understanding, compassion and without judgement. My theoretical approach incorporates Humanistic and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, and I work collaboratively with every client to develop a treatment plan that will best address their needs. I have great admiration for every person that chooses the path of vulnerability when entering therapy. Vulnerability, according to Brene Brown, is STRENGTH. But it can take great courage to embrace our vulnerable humanity, but when we do, we are already on the path of transformation and joy. Vulnerability allows us to "speak our truth," and the TRUTH always sets us free. Best wishes!

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Shona Dyche

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Duson
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,NCC,NCSC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
14 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and a National Certified School Counselor. I have experience working as a psychotherapist and a school guidance counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including but not limited to depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and academic and career counseling. I see counseling as a process in which the you, the client and I, the counselor having come to understand and trust one another work as a team. We will work to explore and define present problem situations and develop future goals for an improved life. We will work in systematic fashion toward realizing those goals. I will tailor your treatment plan to meet your individual needs. It takes courage to seek change and a happier life. If you are ready to take the that step, I am here to help you. I look forward to working with you.

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Angelle Escousse

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Duson
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
25 years of experience

I received my Master’s degree in Social Work in 1994. Since that time, I have had opportunities to work with adults, children, and families in a variety of settings. Though I have experience with many mental health issues, I would consider my specialties as mood disorders, trauma, relational issues and parenting. My experience has taught me the importance of flexibility when working with a client and their unique circumstances. Treatment techniques and strategies will vary depending on the needs presented. Through the years, my basic core philosophy towards therapy has been strengthened through successes I have witnessed. This philosophy is based on my strong belief that we, as humans, do the best that we can with the circumstances we are given, and that we have the ability to grow and make positive changes. As a therapist, I strive to provide a safe and caring environment, filled with acceptance and empathy, providing guidance and honest feedback to assist in the change process.

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Dr. Carol Jannik

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Duson
Counselor License Type(s): PhD ,MED,LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
35 years of experience

Greetings. As a therapist, I prefer to talk about you rather than me, but I understand you need to know about me to make a decision regarding choosing a therapist. I am an older therapist with extensive experience in most areas of therapy. I worked for schools, counseling agencies, mental healthcare agencies, had a private practice for over 20 years and in the hospital setting providing counseling to individuals in various departments including OB, Pain Management, Grief and Loss, Emergency, inpatient and most often in an outpatient setting (PHP and IOP). I work closely with psychiatrists in prescribing medications and reporting efficacy. Although I do not prescribe medication, I am familiar with the latest medications as well as the older medications used in therapy. I am also familiar with co-morbidity issues and dual diagnoses (medical as well as mental illnesses and their interactions). In my private practice, I worked with children and adolescents in foster care as well as living with their families, family issues, adoptions, adjustments, ADD/ADHD, and educational and learning issues. I also worked with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and psychosis. I thoroughly enjoy what I do and have prepared myself educationally (I have a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology) and I avail myself of every opportunity to improve my skills and meet additional certification requirements (I am a certified trauma counselor as well as a certified telehealth professional). I espouse christian beliefs as well as respecting any faith as it pertains to the benefits of therapy. In addition to being licensed by the Louisiana LPC Board, I am also designated as a supervisor to counsel trainees. I firmly believe in promoting the counseling profession and am committed to training competent future counselors for licensure. I tailor my therapy to the individual's needs and form treatment plans accordingly. Most often, I use a cognitive behavioral approach sprinkled with didactic and rational emotional therapies. If I cannot provide the necessary help and assistance, I have no trouble acknowledging such and referring a patient to someone who can. Thank you for taking the time to familiarize yourself with my qualifications and experience. If you feel I can be of further assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact me.

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Shandrieka Vallare

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Duson
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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Brianne Phillips

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Duson
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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Patricia (Patty) Earl

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Duson
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGrief
27 years of experience

I am a LPC for 27 years and a board certified dance movement therapist. I am also a registered nurse and a certified yoga instructor. I have worked with children and adults offering trauma and grief therapy. As a movement therapist, I offer the opportunity to experience bodily felt emotions by teaching mindfulness. I use systems family theory as well as Jungian and object relations. Currently, I am working with eating disordered and addiction patients. I feel I am centered and grounded in my approach with clients. I listen and respond thoughtfully.

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This is Runiqa Baker's avatar and link to their profile

Runiqa Baker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Duson
Trauma and abuseParenting issuesADHD
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana with 8 years of professional work experience, the last four years being with functional family issues. I utilize an integrative approach that combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, and Existential Therapy. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues (significant others and/or family relationships), family conflicts (including co-parenting), trauma and abuse, addiction, & parenting issues including assistance with parenting skills for children aged 0-18. Besides working with adults, I also have experience working with children that have disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Anger Management. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I also work with my clients to set short term and long term goals that focus on maintaining the change and support they desire. 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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This is Emily Tilley's avatar and link to their profile

Emily Tilley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Duson
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoaching
12 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Louisiana with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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. I am here to support you in that process. I generally check messages here a few times per day Tuesday – Friday and respond as quickly as I can. I do appreciate your patience when it takes a bit longer at times, as I may be tending to other clients or professional/personal responsibilities.

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This is Juanita Perry-Hoffman's avatar and link to their profile

Juanita Perry-Hoffman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in LA, Duson
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
40 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I also have experience working with depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Duson

Finding the best therapist close by in Duson 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 Duson 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 Duson. 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 Duson, 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 Duson 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 Duson 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 Duson 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 Duson 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 Duson, elsewhere in Lafayette, 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 Duson 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 Duson 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 Duson 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 Duson 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 Duson online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Duson, 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 Duson 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 Duson 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 Duson 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 Duson?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Duson 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 Duson 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 Duson 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 70529 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 Duson counselor?

Before seeing your Duson 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. Duson 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 Duson 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 Duson 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 Duson, 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.

Duson 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 Duson, 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 Duson 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 Duson.

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

70529

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