Melissa Mendez
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.
Shakera Jackson
Do you want to be well? Want to reclaim your life and live it like you’ve always dreamed? Perhaps you are haunted by debilitating fear that leaves you feeling stuck. Maybe the comparison trap have you feeling like you will never be good enough. You may have been impacted by a traumatic or terrible life event that you had no control over. I know the struggle is real! Life definitely has challenges, but I am confident that you can overcome life's adversities and win! As a therapist and wellness coach, I’m here to offer my professional guidance to help you create life on your terms. I’m here to help you move beyond surviving life to thriving in life. As a certified trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) clinician, I specialize in working with youth and families who have endured traumatic experiences. In my 13 years of experience working in the field of mental health, I know that it is possible to overcome the struggle of life’s adversities. Within you lies the power to achieve your dreams and your goals, thats why collaborating with you is most important. You are the expert about you and I rely on your input and feedback during the therapeutic process. You’ve already made such a brave and powerful move. I’m glad that you are here. I am proud of your courage to seek the help and support you need to be successful on your life’s journey. I look forward to being apart of that journey.
Theresa Smith
I have been a licensed professional therapist for 14 years I received my Masters degree from Oral Roberts University in 2008. I have vast experience with many behavioral, social and emotional issues. I started my career working with women who were victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. That transitioned into working with male victims and also perpetrators. This taught me how to help men with their emotional issues. Working in this field I came in contact many people who had substance abuse issues so I studied and pursued education and experience with alcohol and drug counseling. I worked in drug court and private substance abuse counseling for the last 9 years, In my practice I have gained experience helping people with depression, anxiety, trauma, abandonment, PTSD, grief, attachment, shame and anger issues. My approach is client centered therapy incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy, compassion therapy and motivational therapy. I am a Christian. If my clients want spiritual help I will utilize Biblical counseling and prayer. If it will help my patients recover I will utilize it. People who contact counselors for help want to feel safe and respected never shamed or marginalized. I believe they want to be listened to and understood. I treat everyone with compassion . I am looking forward to working with you and helping you discover healthier mental health and a happier life.
Nick Livingston
Hi, my name is Nick and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 6 years of experience working with adults, teens, and children. My approach to therapy is centered around meeting clients where they are and collaborating with them to discover their strengths and find answers to their questions. I believe that therapy should be a safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Therapy Modalities: My focus in therapy is on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Client-centered treatment modalities. These evidence-based therapies have proven effective in helping clients change their thought patterns, emotions, and behaviors to improve their overall well-being. For parents, I am trained in play therapy and Child Parent Relationship Therapy. Through these modalities, I teach parents how to connect with their child on a deeper level using play as a bridge. I have experience working with children with ADHD as well as other disorders. Medical Marijuana: I understand that medical marijuana and other medications can have a positive impact on a client's personal growth and positive change. As a non-judgmental counselor, I support clients who are exploring the use of medical marijuana and other medications in coordination with counseling and coping strategies. LGBTQ+ Mission: Oklahoma can be a difficult place, I want clients to know they have an ally in me. We will work to help you feel good about yourself and cope with the stress and anxiety of a hard world around you, Conclusion: Overall, I strive to create a comfortable and collaborative environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with a non-judgmental therapist. If you're looking for an LPC in Oklahoma, I would love to work with you and help you find your own path to successful change.
Lori Laub
Hello. My name is Lori Laub. I am Citizen Potawatomi Nation. I am an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) in the State of Oklahoma, having earned my Master's Degree from Oklahoma State University. My pronouns are she/her. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques, including client-centered therapies, CBT, DBT, ACT, Mindfulness (including trauma-informed mindfulness) and have some experience in art therapy. In our first session, we will talk about those types of therapies and mutually arrive at what might work best for you. I am an empathic and warm person. My patients generally find me very easy to talk to and above all, they feel safe. My passion is working with people who, for whatever reason, find themselves in the midst of change, or find themselves needing change, and I help them find their own strengths and inner resources to make those steps and live their best lives. I generally work with adults ages 18-60ish, but I especially love working with young adults, ages 18-35, helping them navigate the world, develop life skills, grow in confidence, spread their wings and fly! I look forward to meeting with you soon.
Mark Smalley
I am a licensed clinical social worker, a licensed drug and alcohol counselor, a certified Hypnotherapist, certified in EMDR (for trauma), and Acudetox (a type of acupuncture). As an holistic therapist, I believe in recognizing the client as a physical, mental, emotional, and spiritually being. I believe in using all the tools possible to help create change, including diet, meditation, motion, as well as thoughts and emotions . I believe that the human body and mind have a natural desire and ability to seek health and wellbeing. With 30 years of experience, I have worked with people from all walks of life on all manner of issues.
Karie Bailey
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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.
Nathan Ladd
Hello. I am Nathan Ladd, a therapist (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), and I believe that there is hope! I don’t know what brought you here today, but I’m sure that it is a really hard time for you. You may be feeling scared, sad, uneasy, tense, or just hopeless. It might feel like things will never get better. I want to assure you that things can get better. There is hope and healing and I would like to accompany you on your journey. Looking for help can be hard, scary and difficult. You might not be sure what to expect or how this can help. This is normal and I have helped many people in the same place that you are. I offer a safe place where you can receive someone to listen to you, be with you, and join with you on your journey to healing and peace. It might not seem like it, but things can and will get better. I have six years of therapeutic experience and I have worked hard to become the therapist that I am today. I believe that everyone has the potential to grow and improve. We can always continue to find new ways to flourish and live our best life. What I offer is someone who will accompany you on your journey and offer continuous hope. I also help to hold you accountable to your own values and goals. My expertise includes trauma work, substance use, and valued living. These are things that I am passionate about and I believe clients that I have worked with have had success in these areas and more. I would love to work with you and join with you on your journey!
LaDonna Hammond
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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!
Amy Dwerlkotte
I am licensed as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Oklahoma with 15 years of professional work experience. I have worked with lots of children, teens and adults as well. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self-esteem,, confidence and depression. 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 Valliant
Finding the best therapist close by in Valliant 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 Valliant 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 Valliant. 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 Valliant, 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 Valliant 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 Valliant 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 Valliant 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 Valliant 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 Valliant, elsewhere in McCurtain, 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 Valliant 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 Valliant 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 Valliant 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 Valliant 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 Valliant online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Valliant, 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 Valliant 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 Valliant 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 Valliant 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 Valliant?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Valliant 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 Valliant 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 Valliant 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 74764 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 Valliant counselor?
Before seeing your Valliant 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. Valliant 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 Valliant 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 Valliant 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 Valliant, 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.
Valliant 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 Valliant, 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 Valliant 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 Valliant:
74764