This is Dr. Nicole Jones's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Nicole Jones

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Alligator
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,CCMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
20 years of experience

Hello, I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with multiple state licenses. I am a member of the America Psychological Association and the American Counseling Association. These organizations keep me abreast of the current trends and research to better support my clients. I have over 18 years of experience utilizing an array of skills and theoretical orientations, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Reality Therapy. I have worked extensively with clients who experience anxiety, depression, ADD, parenting and relationship issues as well as career counseling. My therapeutic style is attentive, supportive and empathetic. I do not ascribe to "labels" that may further alienate or stigmatize clients. I am an advocate for physical and mental health awareness and well being. I have many community resources to support your journey into a positive direction for your betterment specifically tailored to your individual and unique needs. I am glad that you are seeking support and I will work with you to empower you in learning new and effective ways to process life's challenges. I look forward to working with you. N. A. Jones, PhD

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Ashley Whitfield

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Alligator
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
11 years of experience

Hello! I want to commend you for reaching out for support; you have taken a major step toward finding satisfaction in your life. My name is Ashley and I am pleased to join you on this journey of growth and wellness. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia and Mississippi. I have 10 years of experience providing therapy services in many different settings including schools, clinics, and community agencies. I am a wife and mother of three awesome children. From personal experience, I understand how complex trauma and systemic disadvantage can affect families, generation after generation. I am happy to finally be in a position to help heal others and promote wellness in communities. I have dedicated my life to helping others overcome obstacles to find peace, joy, wellness, and fulfillment in life. My therapeutic approach is based in Adlerian/Individual Psychology, Behavioral Counseling, and Strategic Brief Counseling. What this means is that I will work with you to develop a healthy, holistic lifestyle by analyzing your current circumstances and developing more gratifying behavior patterns. I have worked with clients struggling through mood disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, attention deficit, and career/educational advancement. I would love the opportunity to assist with breaking down the barriers that are in your way!

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Dr. Linda Pendleton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Alligator
Counselor License Type(s): PhD,LCSW,MSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefAnger managementDepression
30 years of experience

Hello, I am Dr. Linda F. Pendleton, MSW, LCSW. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Mississippi. I earned my Master degree in Social Work at the University of Southern Mississippi and my Doctorate degree (PhD) in the Philosophy of Social Work. I began my training in 1990, under a well-known therapist and in 2011, I started my private practice. I have over 30 years of experience in the state of Mississippi. I provide psychotherapy to children, adolescents, young adults, couples, veterans and the geriatric community. I have extensive training in a range of modalities including, cognitive behavioral therapy, strength-based coaching, and family-therapy. I am an educator to graduate and doctorate students who are pursuing their goal of becoming therapists themselves. I am passionate about cooking and baking for my family and friends. I am an avid football fan and enjoy all music genres. I am zealous about exercising in doors and outside. I look forward to guiding you in a discovery of seeking your best life, one step at a time. ________________________________________ SPECIALTIES • Stress, Anxiety • Relationship issues • Self esteem • Career difficulties Also experienced in: LGBT, Family conflicts, Divorce, Grief , Intimacy-related issues , Eating disorders , Parenting issues , Anger management, Depression, Christian Counseling, Anxiety, Job related stress, Suicidal Ideations, Chronic issues Years of Experience: 30 ________________________________________ SERVICES OFFERED • MESSAGING • LIVE CHAT • PHONE • VIDEO ________________________________________ LICENSING LCSW- C2085

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Janet Hardy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Alligator
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I’m Janet Hardy (she/her). I provide telemental health counseling, or “online counseling,” to adults with a broad spectrum of concerns, including parenting, relationships, anxiety, depression, and trauma. I work with young adults, parents, and the LGBTQIA+ community. Human beings are complex creatures. When problems occur, it is often a combination of many factors such as environment, learned behaviors, values, biology, society, development, chemistry, culture, systems, and personal narrative. Therefore, addressing these problems requires an integrated approach that accounts for these various factors. Therapy begins with developing a strong therapeutic relationship in which the client can feel safe to explore their emotions and vulnerabilities. To facilitate this therapeutic relationship, I use a person-centered approach that emphasizes empathy, congruence, and unconditional positive regard for each client I work with. Therapy is most successful when the therapist and the client work together to help the client reach their goals. I look forward to working with you. *Please note that proof of identity and emergency contact information will be required before services can begin.

This is Dr. Sean Lenard's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Sean Lenard

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Alligator
Counselor License Type(s): DrPH,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
12 years of experience

I am a family and marriage therapist licensed in Indiana with over 10 years of experience working as a psychocounselor and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is interactive and sensitive to my clients needs. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, reality therapy, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and solution focused therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am well aware it takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to this important step, I am here and eager to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Susan Shaw

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Alligator
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

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

This is Darlene Kelly's avatar and link to their profile

Darlene Kelly

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Alligator
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSleeping disordersAnger managementDepression
23 years of experience

I am a family and marriage therapist with over 20 years of experience. I have experience in working with singles, married couples, teens and the elderly. I am here to help you, knowing that reaching out for help is not always easy. I am an open-ended listener who gives you the opportunity to express yourself in a nonjudgmental environment. I have helped many get through their trials and tribulations. My idea of therapy is not to erase what you've been through but, to offer an environment where you can express any and all experiences and voice how you can move forward. My goal is to help you grow in all aspects of life, it's not always easy being vulnerable which is why I offer my support and aid in all experiences that you have and will go through. I hope to meet you soon!

This is Kim Cooper's avatar and link to their profile

Kim Cooper

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Alligator
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGrief
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with more than 20 years of professional experience. I work with couples to repair trust, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional intimacy with each other. I am experienced in counseling family and loved one's of addicts. I also have experience working with coping with grief and loss. 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. 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.

This is Mary Bell's avatar and link to their profile

Mary Bell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Alligator
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Byron Taylor's avatar and link to their profile

Byron Taylor

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Alligator
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 6 years of professional work experience, primarily with children and adolescents. I'm open to working with adults as well! I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, 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. I have training in Cognitive and Dialetical Behavioral Therapies, Trauma-Focused care, LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and use of nerd/pop culture in therapy. 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Alligator

Finding the best therapist close by in Alligator 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 Alligator 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 Alligator. 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 Alligator, 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 Alligator 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 Alligator 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 Alligator 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 Alligator 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 Alligator, elsewhere in Bolivar, 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 Alligator 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 Alligator 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 Alligator 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 Alligator 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 Alligator online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Alligator, 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 Alligator 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 Alligator 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 Alligator 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 Alligator?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Alligator 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 Alligator 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 Alligator 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 38720 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 Alligator counselor?

Before seeing your Alligator 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. Alligator 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 Alligator 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 Alligator 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 Alligator, 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.

Alligator 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 Alligator, 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 Alligator 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 Alligator.

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

38720

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