This is Randall Weeks's avatar and link to their profile

Randall Weeks

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Algoma
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,BC-TMH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
23 years of experience

Life's journey can be exciting and fulfilling, as well as difficult and challenging. The path to wholeness is strewn with beautiful flowers and thorny weeds. As we take steps toward becoming an authentic, healthy person, we would do well to sometimes call on trustworthy helpers for their wisdom, knowledge, guidance, and support in facing formidable moments in our growth process. As a Licensed Professional Counselor for over twenty years, I seek to help my clients become empowered to successfully navigate through life's twists and turns. My experience and training have equipped me to assist clients in areas such as depression, anxiety, relationships, parenting, LGBTQ concerns, communication, grief, spirituality, infidelity, stress, and more. Through a mindful approach that is compassionate, respectful, non-judgmental, and well-informed, I partner with my clients to help them define and reach the goals they have for healthy living. Whether one is dealing with an issue such as the loss of a loved one, or seeking to develop a plan to build a life of integrity and joy, my clients' values and beliefs are always honored. No one person has all the answers. Your life is just that—yours. A good therapist will help their clients examine their wants, needs, and desires, including the possible outcomes, both positive and negative. A good therapist will sometimes challenge and question their clients’ thoughts and plans. But a good therapist will respect their clients’ autonomy and never impose their own values on their clients. Every person can have a life of healthy purpose, meaning, and fulfillment. My goal is to create a safe space within which my clients can change their lives in way that will lead to the most authentic and complete life possible.

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Paula Allen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Algoma
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,BC-TMH,CMHT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
6 years of experience

First of all, let me thank you for stepping out and seeking assistance for your emotional and mental health needs! It is okay not to be okay, and it is okay to see help. You may not be aware, but according to John Hopkin's Medical, approximately 26% of adults over the age of 18 suffer from a diagnosable mental health condition-that is 1 out of every 4 people. You are not alone in your struggle! My approach to therapy is eclectic and I make every effort to fit the therapeutic intervention to the individual. My primary theoretical orientation is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, but I also utilize Person Centered and Solution Focused Therapy. I have engaged in extension training in trauma and hold a certification in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). I have been trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and hold a National Counselor Certification (NCC). I see each person as an individual, not someone with a mental illness and will treat you as such. I truly believe that we have all had times in our lives where we felt broken, hurt, lost or alone. My goal is to assist each of the individuals that I have the opportunity to work with in navigating their way to happiness and healing as well as creating a brighter future for themselves. I offer both 30 and 45 minute sessions with a variety of days and times available! I look forward to meeting and working along side you!

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Sherita Dobbins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Algoma
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefBipolar disorderDepression
14 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Mississippi with over 13 years of experience working with children and families. I earned a Master of Science degree in Social Work specializing in Clinical Evidenced-Based Interpersonal Practice from the University of Tennessee. I am currently pursuing an Educational Specialist degree specializing in Play Therapy from the University of Mississippi. I have extensive training in trauma, child abuse, sexual abuse, and grief-related issues. I have experience in working in mental health, inpatient, outpatient, and school settings, in addition to working in a home hospice program. Additionally, I have experience providing individual, group, and family therapy. I have supported and worked with patients and families dealing with depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief/loss, Bipolar, adjustment issues, trauma, abuse, relationship issues, and crisis. My counseling style is client-centered focused, warm with empathy and compassion, yet direct, open, and honest. I am very dedicated to treating everyone with dignity and respect. Still, most importantly, I pride myself on meeting my clients where they are with support, being non-judgmental, and being sensitive to their needs. My approach includes an eclectic approach using various techniques in counseling sessions. I have training and experience in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Behavior Modification, and Person-Centered. I am dedicated to supporting the personal growth and healing that help create changes. Thank you for taking the time to review my profile, as I look forward to assisting and supporting you on your healing journey.

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Tomecia Payton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Algoma
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT,Psychometrician
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementADHD
28 years of experience

I am by no means a typical therapist. I'm what some clients have referred to as an in-your-face kind of therapist. It is my philosophy that if we are going to spend time working on improving upon yourself; then let's improve upon yourself! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Mississippi and Alabama for the last 25 years. I have worked for community mental health agencies, the Department of Corrections, The University of Michigan Research Department, the University of Alabama consultant in the area of psychometry, and the Department of Education for the State of Mississippi. I obtained a B. S. degree from William Carey University in 1996, I obtained a master’s degree in Community Counseling from Mississippi State University, and I also completed my ED. S, at Mississippi State University in the year 2000. Since then, I have obtained a certification as a certified psychometrist which allows me to do psychometrics with children. I am currently working to complete my Ph.D. at Mississippi State University. My focus has always been on the youth and the functioning of family development. I would say I specialize in any extreme, odd, or unusual behaviors in children. As a therapist, I believe our quality of life is directly related to the quality of our relationships and the ability to maintain relationships. The most important relationship that I like to focus on is the relationship with oneself. I am a Gestalt therapist by nature and believe that in a therapy session you must focus on the whole person. Gestalt therapy is a form of psychotherapy that is centered on increasing a person's awareness, freedom, and self-direction. It's a form of therapy that focuses on the present moment rather than past experiences. Gestalt Therapy helps the client identify problematic pattern behavior in session, reflect on how their experiences thus far in life have shaped these patterns, and challenge clients to discuss possible solutions or ways to experience the problem in a new way. Through mindfulness practice, I help clients be more aware of their actions and the consequences that follow. Now let’s get to work!

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LaDonna Day

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Algoma
GriefSelf esteem
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss & 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. You have made the first step in seeking help. Allow me the opportunity to assist you in navigating the current stressor(s) in your life. My primary modality of treatment is CBT - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness.

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Aletha Nelson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Algoma
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementCoping with life changesADHD
7 years of experience

Hello! My name is Aletha A. Nelson. I am a licensed professional counselor in Louisiana. I have been a licensed counselor for 7 years. I have worked with a range of individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, stress related issues, self-esteem, and life transitions- just to name a few! I received a Master of Science in Rehab Counseling from University of North Texas. Therapy is an inviting place where every single part of you is welcome, even the parts that are uncomfortable to share. As a therapist, I am honored that you chose this process as your vehicle to healing. Therapy will be difficult sometimes and at others the most enjoyable part of your week. As your therapist. I welcome these opposing states and embrace them. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process between the therapist, individuals, families, groups, and organizations. I can help you identify goals and potential solutions to difficulties which cause emotional turmoil; seek to improve communication and coping skills; strengthen self-esteem; promote behavior change and have optimal mental health. I will tailor your treatment plan based on your needs and goals and move at a pace that is best suited for you. My approach is client-centered, always, with other modalities I use depending on the presenting issues, such as, cognitive behavioral, solution focused and psychodynamic.

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Lecretia Clark

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Algoma
Stress, AnxietyGriefCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee and Mississippi with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, career difficulties, & depression. 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.

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Rachel Lahasky

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Algoma
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Anna Mercante

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

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the States of Louisiana and Mississippi. I specialize in providing therapy to those with chronic medical illnesses, substance use disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders and those struggling with life transitions. I received my Bachelors in Psychology from Creighton University and my Masters of Social Work from Louisiana State University. Prior to entering private practice I have served as a clinical director for a behavioral health hospital, an addictions therapist, medical social worker, and a community mental health professional. Therapy is an opportunity for you to learn about yourself and to achieve personal growth. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, the treatment modalities I use are tailored to your individualized needs. I am here to help you work through your difficulties and to support you in achieving your personal goals. Everyone has a reason for seeking therapy, it could be to share your thoughts and feelings with a safe and non-judgmental person or to find solutions to the issues in your life.

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Sylvia Cope Duncan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Algoma
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Algoma

Finding the best therapist close by in Algoma 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 Algoma 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 Algoma. 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 Algoma, 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 Algoma region and in the state of Mississippi. 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 Algoma 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 Algoma 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 Algoma 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 Algoma, elsewhere in Pontotoc, or in the greater state of Mississippi. 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 Algoma 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 Algoma 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 Algoma 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 Algoma may not take health insurance, some in the state of Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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 Algoma online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Algoma, Mississippi 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 Algoma 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 Algoma 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 Algoma 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 Algoma?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Algoma 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 Algoma 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 Algoma 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 MS, 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 38820 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 Algoma counselor?

Before seeing your Algoma 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. Algoma 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 Algoma 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 Algoma 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 Algoma, Mississippi 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.

Algoma 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 Algoma, Mississippi

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of Algoma 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 Algoma.

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

38820, 38863

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