Passing through the town of Waynesboro, Mississippi, the Chickasawhay River flows. This big, beautiful river is over 210 miles long. So, before it reaches Waynesboro, it sees many places and people. What’s more, it takes a long time to reach it’s final destination - the Gulf of Mexico.

Life is like that, too. Sometimes, it takes us a long time to get from Point A to Point B, and we experience lots of different emotions and relationships along the way. Unfortunately, the flow of life isn’t always smooth sailing, especially when emotional and mental health challenges affect us. A Waynesboro-area counselor can provide you with a listening ear and helpful advise to make it through. Match with a licensed, confidential mental health professional near you today.

This is Janeka Collins's avatar and link to their profile

Janeka Collins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Waynesboro
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
13 years of experience

I have over 11 years of experience in psychotherapy. I have experience in clinical therapy and supervision. I take pride in helping clients reach their fullest potential and conquer obstacles and hurdles along the way. I have experience in working with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and much more. My counseling style is warm and inviting. I believe in the importance of treating each and every person with respect, dignity, sensitivity, and compassion. I don't believe in stigmatizing labels and passing judgment. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, and psychodynamic counseling. My plan is to tailor our conversation and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. The first step in therapy is acknowledging a problem or concern and wanting to become better with professional guidance and support. If you are ready to take that step then I am here to support and empower you every step of the way. I look forward to working with you!

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Ayla Ruffin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Waynesboro
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,NBCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years of experience working in mental health. I also have over 7 years experience in acute psychiatric care. I work with adults, children, adolescents and families to help them find wholeness for themselves and in relationships. I have worked with clients with a variety of diagnosis including depression, ADHD, OCD, oppositional defiant disorder, mood disorder, anxiety, personality disorder, psychosis, disruptive behavior disorder, bipolar, schizophrenia and substance abuse. I have received specialized training in mindfulness and trauma focused therapy. I was drawn to the helping profession through my love for relationships and helping others. I have a passion for helping others to improve the overall quality of their life. I am honored to work with families and individuals who have a desire or need for change. Helping others is a privilege and honor. My goals is to serve others and help them through life's challenges. Now, that you have made the first step. I am ready to begin this life changing experience with you. I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.

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Dr. Kristina Thompson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Waynesboro
Counselor License Type(s): PhD,LPC,CMHT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionADHD
11 years of experience

Hello! I am a licensed professional counselor and a certified mental health therapist in the state of Mississippi with 14 years of experience in the field of mental health with 11.5 of those years as a counselor/therapist. I have worked with every population of clients throughout my years of experience. I have diagnosed and treated various mental health issues, including depression, stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, anger management, ODD, and ADHD. Other areas of focus that I have addressed include adoption and foster care, attachment issues, Autism, personality issues, blended family issues, caregiver issues and stress, codependency, commitment issues, communication problems, intellectual disability, OCD, paranoia, DMDD, drug and alcohol addiction, and narcissism. In regards to my counseling style, I believe that the best way to form a therapeutic alliance is to build rapport with each of my client. Also, I am very open, sympathetic, empathetic, and non-judgmental. In my opinion, everyone needs someone to talk to because we all experience unexpected events that affect us negatively in life. The best way to overcome these unexpected events is to find positive coping mechanisms that help an individual to move forward without looking back continuously. Moreover, my clinical approaches include Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, and Narrative Therapy. I will utilize the most appropriate clinical approach with each of my clients based on his or her areas of need. Furthermore, being able to take the step to seek counseling is no small feat, and it shows that you are willing to change. I am here to support, direction, encourage, and motivate you to be a better you. Thank you for the opportunity to work with you!

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Mary Griffith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Waynesboro
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 15 years of experience working as a Behavioral Health Specialist. I have experience working with children and adults with emotional and behavior problems. I have worked with people who have intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as psychiatric and mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety. My counseling style is nonjudgmental, compassionate, interactive, and inviting. I believe in treating each client with dignity and respect. My approach combines Person-Centered Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy focusing on thoughts and behaviors, and the importance of being your true self in order to live your most fulfilling life. I will tailor each session and treatment plan to meet specific goals and needs. For most people, seeking counseling is a giant step and it takes a lot of courage. If you are ready to work on having a more meaningful life, I am here to support and encourage you. I look forward to working with you!

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Tina Johnson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Waynesboro
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
29 years of experience

Thank you for reviewing my profile to consider me for services. I have over 29 years experience working with intense clients from youth to developmentally disabled adult males. Currently, I specialize in women's issues regarding professional and personal relationships, finances, low self-esteem, domestic abuse, abuse/neglect with CPS, trauma, anger/stress management, parenting, anxiety, grief/loss, crisis intervention, and wellness. I am a Licensed Certified or Clinical Social Worker with a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Southern Mississippi. I am originally from San Francisco, CA. I have lived in different places through the course of my adult life. I have raised two children and I have been married. I am divorced. I am particularly skilled at active listening. I see each client as capable of growth and improvement. I believe in the power of encouragement and empowerment but also self-sufficiency as well as self-determination. Again thank you for considering me to help you along your journey and I look forward to working with you.

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Stephanie Cooley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Waynesboro
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
17 years of experience

I am licensed counselor with 19 years of professional work experience in the field of mental health. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma issues, relationship issues, interpersonal conflict, & family conflicts. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy as my approaches to counseling. I have worked with all age populations ranging from age 5 to 70 years old. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and your treatment 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 change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I truly look forward to working with you.

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Jonathan Winston

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Waynesboro
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Angeline Williams

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Waynesboro
Family conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemADHD
15 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor and certified mental health therapist in Mississippi with 15 years of professional work experience. I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in counseling. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, anger management, & 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.

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Amanda Stokes

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Waynesboro
Stress, AnxietyLGBTDepressionCoping 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 lgbtq+ related issues & 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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Kala Tamayo

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

I am licensed in Mississippi with 8 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Waynesboro

Finding the best therapist close by in Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro. 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 Waynesboro, 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 Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro, elsewhere in Wayne, 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 Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Waynesboro, 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 Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro 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 39367 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 Waynesboro counselor?

Before seeing your Waynesboro 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. Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro, 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.

Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro, 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 Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro.

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

39367

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