Knoxville, TN, hosted the World’s Fair in 1982, which brought 11 million visitors to the city. The theme that year was “Energy Turns the World,” which is just as apt today as it was back then. If you’re having difficulty finding the mental energy to cope with life’s challenges, talking to a therapist in Knoxville, TN, can give you the support you need to achieve personal growth.

You have several choices for counseling services in Knoxville, but finding the right therapist can be challenging. Working with an in-office therapist can be a good option if you need intensive outpatient treatment. Just keep in mind that you may need to travel down Kingston Pike to find a therapist with an open appointment. Call the number on the back of your insurance card to determine if your policy covers your treatment. 

Another way to connect with a mental health professional without worrying about your insurance company is to use an online therapy platform like BetterHelp. BetterHelp is self-pay and does not take insurance; subscriptions range from $65 to $90 per week (billed every four weeks), which may be more affordable than in-person treatment. 

Whether online or in-person, a therapist can create a non-judgmental space where you can work on behavioral challenges using cognitive behavior therapy or other evidence-based practices. Whether you need help coping with the symptoms of things like anxiety and depression, behavioral issues, or the stress of everyday life, connect with a therapist serving Knoxville below.

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Kim Padula

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN, Knoxville
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,MSSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

I have been licensed and practicing since 1995. I studied psychology as an undergraduate at Vanderbilt University. I got my masters in Clinical Social Work with the intention of becoming a therapist. I have a strength based perspective and believe it is important to recognize strengths as well as vulnerabilities. We are all imperfect and we are all survivors. I think the benefits of therapy are perspective, accountability, support and growth. Hopefully, therapy goes beyond insight and self awareness to include a sense of choice in how we respond to the challenges of life. My techniques are grounded in well established and proven approaches and the process is very much a team effort. At the outset we'll review your history focusing on the experiences and relationships that have affected you. We'll identify your objectives and map out a plan and focus for our work which we'll review and maybe revise periodically. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me.

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Kristina Kerr

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN, Knoxville
Counselor License Type(s): LCP-MHSP, LPCC, NCC, MAC, CCTP, AS, C-DBT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

Hi, my name is Kristina Kerr. I received my Bachelor's in Psychology from Butler University and my Master's in Counseling from Trevecca University. I am a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor in TN and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in KY. I am also a Masters Addictions Counselor and a Clinically Certified Trauma Professional so I am very comfortable working with clients who have issues related to addiction and trauma or both. I have worked in the mental health field with a wide variety of clients and populations for the past 20 years. I enjoy providing individual counseling to people dealing with a wide variety of diagnoses from the DSM-5 such as Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, Substance Use Disorders, etc. as well as issues particular to the individual such as low self esteem, anger management, stress management/reduction, relationship issues, parenting struggles, and other issues that may come up during the therapeutic process. I view all my clients through the lens of the person centered concept of unconditional positive regard. This means I show unconditional positive acceptance and regard towards all my clients in the therapeutic process. I strive to provide a safe space for the individual to work through the issues they may be struggling with or symptoms they would like to get a better handle on related to a DSM diagnosis without judgement or fear of condemnation. I like to establish a therapeutic rapport by meeting the client wherever they are at and building a mutual relationship based on trust, openness, and respect. I utilize a variety of therapeutic evidence based concepts such as CBT, DBT (which I am certified in), Motivational Interviewing, Stages of Change, Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma Therapy, and general coping skills to address specific symptoms or issues that you may be struggling with. I use whatever concept(s) the client is comfortable with or feels works best for them. This includes incorporating different principles or concepts from the evidence based techniques listed above to fit the particular issues you may be struggling with at different points in the therapeutic process. Due to this, I feel I use more of an intergraded approach when it comes to doing therapy because my goal is to use the techniques or concepts that work best for the client to heal and grow as a person and achieve the outcome they want from engaging in therapy. I look forward to meeting you and working with you to help you reach the goals you would like to in therapy!

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Kara Fedore

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN, Knoxville
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

My name is Kara and I am so excited for the opportunity to work with you! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Tennessee. I have 7 years of experience working with a variety of individuals experiencing concerns such as substance abuse, depression, anxiety, self esteem, life changes and transitions, and relationship challenges. I have also worked with many people who have experienced domestic violence, trauma, and acute crisis. I use a wide variety of approaches with clients, all of which come down to being client centered. I tailor my approach to each person I work with, using primarily a combination of elements of EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I am always growing, learning, and adapting my approaches to be the best therapist that I can be. It has taken so much courage to even get to this point in your journey of self improvement and discovery, applaud yourself for that! The idea of going to therapy can be scary and it keeps a lot of people away. I like to think of going to therapy as a scheduled time in your week to invest in yourself - it doesn't mean that something is wrong with you. Rather, coming to therapy means something is RIGHT with you. You are taking control of your life, admitting that things could be going better, and making steps to achieve your goals. It's okay if you don't know where to start - we can figure it out together. I hope to walk with you and empower you on your new journey. I am looking forward to getting to know you!

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Courtney Bevins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN, Knoxville
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! If you do not see a day and time that fits your needs please let me know what days and times work best.

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Sheila Stoner

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN, Knoxville
GriefParenting issuesAnger managementCoping with life changesADHD
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, anger management, & coping with life changes. 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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Jessica Owen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN, Knoxville
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee and North Caroline with 8 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. You don't have to do this alone. I am here to support you in that process.

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Darla Greene

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN, Knoxville
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, & coping with life changes. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Elizabeth Harrison

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN, Knoxville
Relationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Vivian Windsor

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN, Knoxville
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, & 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.

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Dallas McGlinn

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TN, Knoxville
Counselor License Type(s): MA, MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

I have had a lot of unique life experiences that provide me with the ability to provide an empathic ear without judgment. I have always loved studying the human condition and social issues. I received my first Master’s Degree in Sociology, and my second is a Master of Social Work. I have done a lot of community outreach work with a wide variety of populations, as a professional and as a volunteer. I provide counseling services for people from all walks of life. I design my treatment plans so that they are unique for each individual. I can help you to process emotions that can be overwhelming, adjust to change, work through grief, find the ability to forgive so you can heal, analyze your past to see how it affects your present, manage anger, anxiety and stress, or set new goals to create positive life changes. All people are worthy of love and respect, and this includes YOU. Some of my specialties are: boundaries, financial counseling, grief, anxiety, career change, goal setting and mindfulness. I use a variety of interventions, some of which may include: psychoanalysis, cognitive behavior therapy, solution-focused therapies, narrative therapies, journaling, mindfulness, or other interventions as appropriate. My goal is to help you to find your peace in life, whatever that may be.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Knoxville

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

Therapists in Knoxville, Tennessee 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Knoxville 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville 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 TN, 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 37921 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 Knoxville counselor?

Before seeing your Knoxville 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. Knoxville 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville, Tennessee 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.

Knoxville 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 Knoxville, Tennessee

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 Knoxville 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 Knoxville.

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

37901, 37902, 37909, 37912, 37914, 37915, 37916, 37917, 37918, 37919, 37920, 37921, 37922, 37923, 37924, 37927, 37928, 37929, 37930, 37933, 37939, 37940, 37950, 37995, 37996, 37997, 37998

Popular cities near Knoxville, TN

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