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Melissa Mendez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OK, Miami
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
8 years of experience

Hello and Welcome, My name is Melissa and I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the states of Texas and Oklahoma although currently residing in Waco, TX. My experience in the mental health field has been focused primarily on working with families with young children and the specific challenges that face families, parents, and children. Since the beginning of the pandemic, I have been working to build my telehealth therapy practice. I have been providing EMDR therapy to treat trauma and other issues for the past three years and have seen the effectiveness of the treatment that is an evidence-based therapy for treatment of PTSD and additional mental health challenges including depression and anxiety. I work diligently to help my clients manage trauma responses, anxiety symptoms, depression symptoms, and relational challenges that are often present when dealing with a mental health struggle. I was led to the mental health field after completing my undergraduate degree at Texas A&M University in Nutritional Sciences. I have been working exclusively online since the beginning of the pandemic. I have continued to focus on identifying trauma responses and helping our nervous systems regulate after exposure to stress, adversity, and trauma. I have 8 years experience working with depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms and the courageous clients that are seeking help and hoping for a more peaceful way of living. My style as a therapist is typically warm but direct, collaborative, and mindful of your personal autonomy. I find myself using person-centered, attachment-informed, trauma-informed, and integrative treatment approaches to tailor your treatment plan to best meet your needs. I work best with individuals who are interested in self -reflection and developing a growth mindset. I utilize evidence-based treatments primarily including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), Circle of Security Parenting (COS-P), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). In my experience, each client has unique needs that dictate the length of therapy. I believe in both structure and flexibility in therapy. After reading all of that, I want you to know I'm a real person just like you who is trying to live a fulfilling, meaningful life. I do not believe that therapy is a quick fix for all that ails but I do believe that with time, effort, and consistency we can work together to tap in to your innate resources to move toward wellness. As a person who has been on both sides of the proverbial couch, I know that therapy can be a powerful and important part of the journey! I wish you all the best as you carefully search for and select a clinician. If you choose, I look forward to being a part of your journey.

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Mia Bush

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OK, Miami
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,LADC,SAP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I view my work as a therapist through a multicultural lens, and I customize my approach depending on the unique needs of every individual I work with. Many people have told me they’ve been frustrated by therapists in the past who sat quietly and provided very little feedback. In response, I’ve developed a forthright, solutions-oriented style of engaging with my clients that encourages them to set goals for themselves and empowers them to work toward them. I also have experience working with clients who prefer a softer, less structured approach, so I can customize the therapy experience to each person. I work well with people who want to channel negative experiences in a more positive direction. During my work in prison systems and in the military, I observed the many self-destructive behaviors that people use in an attempt to cope with difficult situations. I’ve helped people overcome a wide variety of addictive behaviors related to shopping, sex, substance abuse, eating disorders and more. I've also helped those who are experiencing the different stages of grief associated with loss. To change self-destructive behaviors, I believe that people must first change how they think. As a cognitive-behavioral therapist (CBT), I leverage the innate connections between a person’s thoughts, feelings, and actions to enact positive change. By encouraging my clients to question the truth of negative thoughts (such as “people are judging me” or “I’m such a failure”), I help them break out of painful patterns. I also help them focus on their strengths. Using positive psychology and motivational interviewing, I help my clients reframe their thoughts and view themselves in a more positive light. I encourage them to channel their anger, sadness, and other difficult emotions in a way that helps them overcome life’s challenges rather than becoming more deeply entrenched. I believe everyone has the strength to make positive changes. My goal is to help each person I work with cultivate the courage, resiliency, and potential that is already inside them.

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Kuma Kennedy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OK, Miami
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
16 years of experience

Hello, my name is Kuma Kennedy. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Oklahoma. I have been providing individual and couples therapy services to adults for over 15 years in a variety of settings. I have experience working in the fields of domestic violence and sexual assault, community mental health, and with Veterans. I work with individuals and couples struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship/communication difficulty, grief and loss, life transitions, and feelings of overwhelm and low self-worth. Together we will practice identifying and challenging unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to negative feelings, improve communication skills, process difficult experiences such as grief and loss and trauma, and improve feelings of low self-worth. As an EMDR trained, Person-Centered, Solution-Focused Therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I look forward to working with you to help you heal, obtain insight for personal growth, and become the best version of you.

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Juanita Evans

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OK, Miami
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
7 years of experience

I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor for 7 years. Since graduating with a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling, I have served diligently in schools, homes, Long Term Care Facilities, and other community-based programs. I have provided both Individual and Family Therapy for children, teens, adults, and seniors both inpatient and outpatient as well as telehealth and in person. Clearly there is no 'one size fits all' approach when it comes to therapy; therefore, I favor an Eclectic approach. This type of approach incorporates a variety of therapeutic principles that create an ideal treatment program to meet the specific needs of each client. I commit to being intentionally present while attentively listening with empathy to create an inviting, open, and non-judgmental therapeutic atmosphere throughout each session. My goal is to build a working relationship with you and view issues from your perspective; thus, allowing you to heal in your own way. I look forward to helping you maneuver through life, at your pace, one session at a time, and I am confident in helping you progress from simply surviving to thriving.

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Tatiana Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OK, Miami
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Oklahoma with about 13 years of professional work experience in mental health. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. 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. 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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Heather Fowler

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OK, Miami
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Oklahoma with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Sarah West

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OK, Miami
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Oklahoma with 10 years of professional counseling experience. I have over 20 years of professional client advocacy experience within the medical and community setting. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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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This is Carolyn Rainwater's avatar and link to their profile

Carolyn Rainwater

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OK, Miami
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Oklahoma with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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This is Shaunica Byrd's avatar and link to their profile

Shaunica Byrd

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OK, Miami
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in Oklahoma with 10 years of professional work experience and a master’s degree in Rehabilitation of Counseling. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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christine hamby

Clinical therapist offering therapy in OK, Miami
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

Hi there, my name is Christine. I am thrilled that you are here and reached out to Better Help. Please see my available slots and choose one that best suits you. If you find that you are wanting to hurt yourself, hurt others or have thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help to the proper authorities or the mental health lifeline at 988. Again, I am happy that you reached out and look forward to meeting you soon.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Miami

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

Therapists in Miami, Oklahoma 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 Miami 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 Miami 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 Miami 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 Miami?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Miami 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 Miami 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 Miami 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 OK, 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 74354 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 Miami counselor?

Before seeing your Miami 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. Miami 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 Miami 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 Miami 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 Miami, Oklahoma 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.

Miami 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 Miami, Oklahoma

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

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

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

74354, 74355

Popular cities near Miami, OK

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