Athens is known as the black eyed pea capital. There are definitely a lot of black eyed peas grown in the area. Southerners will tell you that black eyed peas are good luck when eaten on New Year’s Day. There are a lot of theories about what lies behind this tradition, but they all revolve around the Civil War and the freeing of the slaves.

While it can be debated whether or not black eyed peas are good luck, it is certain that luck will be on your side if you need help with mental or emotional strife. Athens-area counselors are available at all times to offer you assistance to improve your life, although it may take work rather than luck.

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Melakee Nicholson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): LPC, MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

For many of us, myself included, counseling often becomes a process that refuses to come full circle. We are seeking help, but that help seems to elude us and we struggle finding the right fit or the right method that might provide the direction we need. I was inspired to pursue counseling as a career by my desperate need for help along my life path, and my desire to provide that guidance and compassion to others, in a clear and consistent way. I want my clients to know that although I may not have experienced exactly what you are going through, I want to be able to provide you with the power to gain some peace, and wade through that difficulty with you. You are not a problem to be solved, nor do your life issues define you. I hope to be a safe place for you, and a reminder that we all struggle and need support. I want to work alongside you to find the best way to get you to the place you want to be, using the training, knowledge, and skills I have developed to provide you encouragement and insight. Education: M.A., Professional Counseling, Liberty University. M.A., Human Services-Marriage & Family Therapy, Liberty University. B.S. Environmental Policy & Biology, Western Maryland University.

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Dr. Robert Hanser

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): Ph.D., LCP-SA, LAC-CCS
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesAnger management
25 years of experience

I am a counselor licensed in Louisiana and Texas with over 20 years of experience working with individuals who present with a wide variety of challenges. In particular, I have specialized experience working with substance abuse, family violence, abuse, trauma, anger, and veteran’s issues. I have also worked with numerous police officers and police families. I have worked with people who also find themselves lost and/or at a standstill in life; in particular, those who are searching for meaning in their existence. My approach to counseling goes from being person-centered (while means using quite a bit of reflective listening) to more directive feedback, depending on what the individual requests. I do work that includes delving into the subconscious as well as typical cognitive-behavioral work. First and foremost, I will tailor my approach to your requested desires and needs. My primary objective is to help people obtain the total quality life that they seek in a manner that provides specific and concrete feedback and options. It is my ethical duty to remain nonjudgmental and to make my client’s welfare my paramount concern. If it seems like this information has the potential to be helpful, the please do feel free to contact me. I look forward to working together in the future.

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Dr. Ofori Asante

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): PhD,LPC-S,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

Hi, my name is Ofori Asante and I am a licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I specialize in helping others figure out the causes of their frustrations, anger, anxiety and lack of resources in dealing with their problems. I worked as a mental health technician in a behavioral hospital and a refugee resettlement agency after my first degree. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. I have also earned a Master’s in Counseling and Sociology from Texas A&M University – Commerce. I have been a licensed professional counselor for the past 10 years and my clinical background includes work with college students, children, adolescents, and families. I am a nationally certified counselor and a member of the Texas Counseling Association (TCA). My areas of interest include leadership, conference presentations on diverse issues among college students and their families, multicultural and diversity issues. My primary research interest includes marital satisfaction in intercultural couples. I have vast experience working with those who suffer from chronic mental illness including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety. I also have a wealth of experience working with those struggling with self-esteem, phobias, self-worth, poor relationships, and grief. I was the Truax Scholarship recipient in 2005 and the outstanding master’s level student in the department of Counseling Texas A&M University -Commerce in 2003 and 2005 year. I am a counselor supervisor for the state of Texas when it comes to license professional counseling training from 2010 to present. Married with two beautiful children, I am also involved in my church and teach Sunday school and lead prayers. I provide marital counseling and am also available to the clients specifically looking for biblical counseling. I completed my doctoral education in Texas A&M University – Commerce looking at Marital Satisfaction among Filipino Americans and European Americans in intercultural Marriages. I work with people of all race but focus on people of African descent and those in intercultural relationships with Africans in general.

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Carien Myburgh

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

My counseling philosophy is that life is short; so, the faster change can be achieved, the more time can be spend being free of negative emotions and believes, past traumas and hurts, and any guilt or shame that may be weighing you down. That does not mean that we will not slow down should we reach any of those hurts that needs to be approached gently and with patience. A bit about my history: I was born and raised in South Africa, where I obtained an Honors Degree in Psychology in 1986. The United States gave me the opportunity to further my studies in the field I am so passionate about, and I completed my Master’s degree in Counseling at Dallas Baptist University in 2012. Since then, I've been practicing as a Licensed Professional Counselor. Due to licensing requirements, I may unfortunately only provide counseling to people residing in Texas.

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Steven Gaddis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger management
20 years of experience

Greetings! I am a counselor, currently licensed in California and Texas, with approximately 20 years of experience. My experiences include working with individuals to address topics such as anger management, relationship issues, alcohol and other drug related concerns, personal development, and mood disturbances. I have also worked with criminal justice involved individuals. My style primarily utilizes a Cognitive Behavioral perspectives with an understanding that the connection and trust between counselor and client is paramount in an effective and productive partnership. I believe that by working to create a safe and authentic environment the stage is best prepared for creating healthy change and movement towards ones goals. Although the specific methods utilized will be based on individual details and interactions, my interactions are personalized and focused on an individual's strengths. I typically review incoming messages at least twice a day, at least once in the AM and once in the PM. I appreciate you and your interest in counseling as an opportunity to create or maintain the life you envision. I hope to have the opportunity to partner with you in your next steps and I look forward to hearing from and working with you.

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LaNesha Creeks

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Athens
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 8 years of professional work experience as a therapist and I am trained in EMDR. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Feel free to review my calendar and select a time that works for you. I am available for evening and weekend sessions but my schedule includes daytime in June and July. I recommend booking your next session as soon as possible because preferred times cannot be reserved. Be blessed.

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Kodie Henscheid

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Athens
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Jane Byers

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Athens
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Brianne Swack

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Athens
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I am familiar working with all age groups as well as all different kinds of backgrounds. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Rutanya Simon

Clinical therapist offering therapy in TX, Athens
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Oklahoma. I have provided therapy for a diverse population of clients over the past nine years. I worked within the court system for three years where I was able to aid people in their recovery process while dealing with life changes and any mental health issues. The last five years I have worked with families to provide a better quality of life in spite of mental health or disparaging circumstances. I have experience with depression, stress, anxiety, anger management, self-esteem, addiction and trauma. I pride myself on being judgement free and providing an atmosphere which is open and safe. My therapeutic approach is conversational, solution-focused and holistic. We will focus on behaviors which are counter productive to desired results and I will aid the you in finding prosocial activities which can promote healthier habits leading to a better life. I will allow you to be the expert of your life while providing support and helping to maintain focus on the goals we determine you would like to meet during the therapeutic relationship. I look forward to being a part of your journey to becoming your best self!!!

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Athens

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

Therapists in Athens, Texas 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 TX, 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 75752 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 Athens counselor?

Before seeing your Athens 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. Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens, Texas 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.

Athens 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 Athens, Texas

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 Athens 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 Athens.

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

75751, 75752

Popular cities near Athens, TX

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