Valerie Keller Gates
I am a licensed professional counselor in Oklahoma. I received a Bachelor of Science from Southern Nazarene University in Family Studies and Gerontology and a Masters of Human Relations with the emphasis of Licensed Professional Counseling from The University of Oklahoma. I have experience with adults, families, and groups. I have worked with those struggling with mild to severe mental illness as well as those individuals who are struggling with issues including depression, grief & loss, abuse/neglect, addictions with dual diagnosis, behavioral problems, bipolar, and parenting problems. I adapt my counseling style to each individual. However, within my experience, I have noticed that clients are more adaptable to me utilizing a counseling style of a client-focused approach. I believe that it is important to meet the client where they currently are in their journey of life and work from that point. I am a very transparent-honest-caring individual in my day to day life and I bring that trait to each session with the belief that in doing so, the client feels more at ease with being honest as issues and challenges are being processed. I believe everyone deserves respect and compassion as well as the opportunity to have added support when needed. My approach/style combines cognitive-behavioral and client-centered….just to name a few. A client’s treatment plan and the direction of the sessions will be tailored to meet the individual needs. "Whenever you find yourself doubting how far you can go, just remember how far you have come".
Deborah Tommey
As a licensed therapist (Licensed Professional Counselor), I obtained my Master of Counseling from Oklahoma State University/Tulsa, Oklahoma. My practice includes adults. I also offer extensive knowledge with the aging population, and care givers. I have been accomplished in facilitating support groups for various populations and numerous diagnoses, as well as training and education of other professionals regarding many Behavioral Health concerns. Specialties I offer, and am experienced and well trained in are anxiety, depression, grief/loss, dementia/cognitive impairment, trauma and stress-related disorders. Other areas of focus include sexuality, hoarding disorder and personality issues, as well as other Behavorial Health concerns. Although I recognize that all clients are unique individuals and different theories work differently with everyone, I work to assess clients and gain an understanding of what type of therapy will be most successful. Predominantly, I practice Person Centered and Solution Focused Therapy, and combine some Gestalt and Existential techniques as well. I start with an optimistic view of all clients, providing a positive, supportive, and comfortable atmosphere/conversation. I offer an empathic outlook, working to connect with you. I am hopeful my clients can feel autonomy, and I also ask, “what difference or change do you want to achieve”? I believe taking a look at your meaning in life can be insightful many times too. I also offer mindfulness techniques when appropriate, as I do credit holistic approaches important for us emotionally and physically. I prefer to work with adults aged 25 or older. Phone and video are astonishing ways to provide counseling sessions, however I am not so keen on live chat. I do use the messaging for in between sessions, if there is something of importance you want to share or let me know. I will do the same! I hope to facilitate and support you through this process and towards your goal in seeking therapy.
Michelle Parker
Hello, my name is Michelle Parker. I have been working in the behavioral health field for 13 years and counting. I am looking forward to assisting you with becoming mentally healthy. I have 2 master degrees in Addiction counseling and Professional counseling. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC). The benefits of receiving therapy with me are that you will develop more effective coping skills, heal pains from the past, enhance problem solving abilities, and feel stronger in the face of challenges.
Ashleigh Beechy
Hi! My name is Ashleigh. I am a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor. I hold licenses in the states of Ohio, Idaho, Nebraska, and Washington. I have several non-US state clients as well. I have over 18 years experience working with adults, adolescents, couples, and families. I have worked in private practice, crisis center, hospital and school settings. I have the most counseling experience in the areas of: depression, anxiety, couples therapy, LGBTQIA+, grief/loss, eating disorders/dysmorphia, family therapy and stress management. My style of counseling is diverse. I realize therapy is not "one size fits all" so I like to partner with my clients to use methods grounded in cognitive-behavioral, client centered, and solution-focused theories. I believe in providing a safe environment as a way to encourage open communication. I will use techniques and support to empower my clients to help themselves feel better, find hope, and reach goals. Here is some personal information about me: I have been married for 18 years and we have 2 children. I was born and raised in small town Ohio, but our family recently moved to SW Florida for my husband's career. I wanted to become a counselor after the positive experience I had in counseling during my college career. My counselor helped me overcome my anxiety and improve my health and refocus. Today I cope with stress through exercise, going to the beach, long showers, and talking openly with my spouse and closest friends. Even before Covid-19, I left my in-person practice and decided to enter the world of online counseling. I think it is a great option for those with busy schedules, lack of transportation, a transient life-style, no babysitting, or those who feel more comfortable emailing, texting, or chatting virtually. I would be honored to help you establish and reach your goals to create a healthier you! Contact me today so we can get started!
Sydney Pruett
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma, Missouri, & New Jersey, & Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Utah. I have 5+ years of experience in this field. I have experience in helping clients with depression and anxiety, trauma and abuse, and many other concerns. I most enjoy working with clients between the ages 18-35. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, regardless of background. Working with those who are from more marginalized populations and concerns related to these areas (2SLGBTQIA+ populations, women's issues, religious trauma, racism, physical health concerns or disabilities, etc.) is a passion of mine, but I am happy to work with those who are not part of these populations as well, if your needs meet my scope of practice. Please note that if you are outside of the age range or areas of knowledge that I work within, I may request that you switch to a different therapist. I will tailor our treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and vulnerability, and I am proud of you for getting started! *Please do not schedule a session with me until you have received your first message from me! Thank you!*
Kenya Boone
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with executive and professional coaching. 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.
Kristine Mayer
I am licensed in Oklahoma with over 30 years of professional work experience including both in patient and out patient organizations and adjunct professor locally. I have experience in helping clients with PTSD, trauma, coping with grief and loss, coping with geriatric/aging life changes & providing help with caregiver/hospice/end of life issues. I have background in geropsychology, first responder, medical worker issues, military/veterans issues and I do my best to 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! Non judgemental, flexible, comforting. Every part of life is worth living. Each day is a gift. Every person has value. "You have a right to be here and to sing your own song, whatever that may be." ~ Desiderata P.S. I am unable to accommodate video sessions; I am available for phone and live chat (typed).
Mireille Fonsa
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, depression , self esteem family conflicts, parenting issues, & anger management. 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.
Mark Dominguez
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I 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.
Malisa Hepner
I am licensed in Oklahoma with years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence and grief/loss. I like to refer to myself as a non-traditional therapist. That's because I'm not afraid to be honest about what I believe works. I teach from my perspective and point of view. I've built a brand for myself over the years of using my personal experience in healing CPTSD to guide my practice. What I do works.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Oakwood
Finding the best therapist close by in Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood. 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 Oakwood, 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood, elsewhere in Dewey, 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Oakwood, 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 73658 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 Oakwood counselor?
Before seeing your Oakwood 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. Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood 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 Oakwood, 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.
Oakwood 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 Oakwood, 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 Oakwood 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Oakwood:
73658