This is Debra Shelton's avatar and link to their profile

Debra Shelton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Florence
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,MHSP,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
21 years of experience

Welcome! It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take those first steps towards change - I’m glad you are here. The courage you are now using to seek help can lead to great rewards and I would be honored to work with you. I’m a licensed therapist with 20 years of experience and have been providing services for Betterhelp for the past 5 years. Regardless of your situation, (whether you just feel stuck or are trying to manage some big challenges in your life) counseling can be helpful and rewarding. My approach combines principles of different therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavior therapy and humanistic counseling. In plain English, that means I believe you have the answers within you and we can work together to uncover them and to find solutions. I work with you to understand how your challenges developed, but I also help you learn new problem solving skills that you can apply to future challenges. We may look into the past sometimes in order to help you gain insight into your challenges and we will try on some new perspectives and new behaviors in an effort to bring about positive changes in your life. Together, we will determine the goals you want to achieve and from there we will collaborate on how to tackle each of them. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you.

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Dr. Lashanda Baylor

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Florence
Counselor License Type(s): DPC, LPC,LCMHT
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
18 years of experience

Hello! My name is Dr. Lashanda Baylor and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in Mississippi. I am also a Doctor of Professional Counseling.I have been providing Behavioral Therapy for a wide array of issues and populations for 20 years. I would describe my approach as goal oriented, and client centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). Both modalities are hands-on, practical approaches to problem-solving. I believe in treating everyone with respect and dignity. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Vanessa Cox

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Florence
Counselor License Type(s): MSW, LCSW, CMAT
AddictionsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) with over 30 years of experience and licensed in Alabama, Georgia, Louisianna, Mississippi and North Carolina. My approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Thns to food, sex and relationshierapy, Motivational Interverviewing, some aspects of Dialectibal Behavioral Therapy and Reality Orientation while working with people with chemical depeddictiops. I am a certified Eye Movement Desensesitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist and have worked with victims of trauma and PTSD for a number of years. As a certied Multi-addiction Therapist (CMAT), I've worked with clients who are unsure of their sexual identity and /or have sexual compulsivity. I also work with clients ages 15 to 75 who have anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trichotiillomania and unresolved family of orgin issues. I am a compassionate person who listens intently to what is said as well as to what is not said. It is my belief that no one's feelings are good, bad, right or wrong. Since I view a therapeutic relationship as teamwork, it is very important to me that my relationship with a client is therapeutic; it is just as important to me that our relationship is trustworthy. My ultimate goal for therapy is for the patient to gain an optimal level of functioning.I am Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) with over 30 years of experience and licensed in Alabama, Georgia, Louisianna, Mississippi and North Carolina. My approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Thns to food, sex and relationshierapy, Motivational Interverviewing, some aspects of Dialectibal Behavioral Therapy and Reality Orientation while working with people with chemical depeddictiops. I am a certified Eye Movement Desensesitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist and have worked with victims of trauma and PTSD for a number of years. As a certied Multi-addiction Therapist (CMAT), I've worked with clients who are unsure of their sexual identity and /or have sexual compulsivity. I also work with clients ages 15 to 75 who have anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trichotiillomania and unresolved family of orgin issues. I am a compassionate person who listens intently to what is said as well as to what is not said. It is my belief that no one's feelings are good, bad, right or wrong. Since I view a therapeutic relationship as teamwork, it is very important to me that my relationship with a client is therapeutic; it is just as important to me that our relationship is trustworthy. My ultimate goal for therapy is for the patient to gain an optimal level of functioning.

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Lisa Moore

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Florence
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

I am Lisa Moore, MSW/LCSW. I am a licensed certified/clinical social worker in the state of Mississippi and Alabama. I have over 30 years of experience serving the needs of individuals, families, and communities. I am a well-rounded person who is open to innovative ideas and strategies that consist of evidence-based practices. I am understanding, compassionate, and empathetic. I believe everyone has strengths and we as a team can find those strengths and build from there. I work with clients who are having challenges with depression, anxiety, anger, grief and loss, negative thinking, problem-solving, decision-making, parenting concerns/issues, just to name a few. My therapeutic approach is eclectic, primarily using Client Centered Therapy/Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Strength Perspective Approach. I meet clients where they are and stand as a change agent for the better. My goal is to empower clients to be the best version they can be while providing a supportive and safe space. Nobody can share a client's story better than the client. I am here to actively listen, engage, and provide therapy to assist in your healing process. I believe proactive steps in mental health are just as important as physical steps. You can do it! Take the first step towards a better tomorrow. I want you to not just survive but thrive for a better quality of life. Moving Forward: Relax, Refresh and Reset...

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LaDonna Barner

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Florence
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Dru Crenshaw

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Florence
AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Mississippi with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients to cope with substance abuse addictions, trauma and abuse, anxiety, grief and loss, & parenting issues. I have been able to use my skills in different settings such as a mental health institution, an addiction treatment center, foster care and adoption agencies, and an adolescent group home. I am passionate about bringing hope and healing to individuals and families. I am certified in Trust-Based Relational Intervention®, and I was a certified Mental Health First Aid Instructor for 2 years. I utilize a client-centered and strengths based approach to therapy. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques to include, cognitive-behavioral, psycho-educational, trauma-informed, attachment theory, mindfulness, and story engagement. I am fascinated and deeply moved by each individual’s story from beginning to end. I enjoy “connecting the dots” to how our past experiences affect our mental, emotional, physical, social and spiritual behaviors, both healthy and unhealthy. Everyone has a story, and I would love to assist you in telling yours. My availability for sessions is usually between 9AM-1PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

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Heather Simmons

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Florence
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
DepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a mental health counselor licensed in Louisiana with over 5 years of experience working as a LPC. I worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, behavior issues and ADHD. I would have to describe my counseling style as being warm and passionate. I love to provide great counseling skills which includes being patience, a good listener, being knowledgeable, and having/showing empathy . I believe in treating anyone with respect, providing unconditional positive regards and demonstrating high fidelity services. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, interpersonal, group and cognitive therapy, I feel as a counselor my duty is to ensure and use counseling methods to help people manage and overcome mental and emotional issues.

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Tokikie Williamson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Florence
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Mississippi with 6+ years of mental health experience. My experience comes from assisting adults and older adults learn how to effectively cope with unexpected life changes, stress, depression, anxiety, trauma and abuse, self- esteem/confidence issues, & other varying types and severities of mental illness. I work with my clients whether in individual, family, or group setting to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I strive to meet you where you are while empowering you to do what is needed to make the changes you want to see. I believe collaborative practice is best practice so I collaborate with you at your pace to achieve your goals. My therapeutic approaches are: motivational interviewing (MI), strengths-based, solution-focused, problem solving, task centered, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and acceptance therapy. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am so proud of you for getting started!

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Dr. Maxine Campbell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Florence
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoachingADHD
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, depression, & executive and professional coaching. 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.

This is David Hopkins's avatar and link to their profile

David Hopkins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Florence
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefAnger managementDepression
7 years of experience

I have been working in the mental field since 2006, and as a Licensed Professional Counselor since 2016. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger, and 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. 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 Florence

Finding the best therapist close by in Florence 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 Florence 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 Florence. 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 Florence, 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 Florence 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 Florence 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 Florence 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 Florence 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 Florence, elsewhere in Rankin, 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 Florence 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 Florence 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 Florence 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 Florence 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 Florence online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Florence, 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 Florence 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 Florence 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 Florence 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 Florence?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Florence 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 Florence 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 Florence 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 39218 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 Florence counselor?

Before seeing your Florence 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. Florence 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 Florence 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 Florence 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 Florence, 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.

Florence 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 Florence, 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 Florence 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 Florence.

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

39073, 39218

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