![Click here to view Laura Stevens's profile 1 This is Laura Stevens's avatar and link to their profile](https://d3ez4in977nymc.cloudfront.net/avatars/61d94533dad741bae35b4d8117bb2137.jpg)
Laura Stevens
Welcome! Thank you for reaching out and taking the first step in being vulnerable, and asking for help. You are definitely not alone. This is a safe space, so please feel free to share anything you’d like. I want to join you on this counseling journey to help you feel safe, heard, respected, and comfortable in sharing your story so that together we can help you succeed and feel better. I have a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Ball State University, and a professional counseling license in the state of Texas. I am originally from Ohio, but currently live in Clearwater, Florida with my husband and baby. Before we moved to Florida, we lived in Texas where I worked in several different locations, including a psychiatric hospital where I helped determine if people needed to be admitted or referred to outpatient counseling. Using my crisis counseling skills, I helped patients feel safe, respected, and accepted in sharing their stories of depression, anxiety, trauma, or addiction. I then worked at a private counseling practice working directly with adults and families in their homes as a mental health counselor. After they closed their doors, I worked at a non-profit mental health center using play therapy with children. After that I worked as a community-based counselor and case manager at a non-profit, certified community behavioral health center. I met with people in their homes or in the community listening to their stories, helping them work through their emotions to better make decisions for their lives. I then transitioned to a new unit at the same agency as a school-based counselor working with children at a local elementary school. I have the most experience working with people experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and low-motivation. I draw from a variety of counseling theories including person-centered counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and choice theory. It is my goal to create a safe, welcoming and caring space for you to feel free to be vulnerable in sharing your story so that we can work together in helping you succeed. It can be tough finding a counselor you feel comfortable with, so if at any time you think we’re not working well together, please do not hesitate to say so! I look forward to meeting you and joining you on your counseling journey!
![Click here to view Gabriela Rosas's profile 1 This is Gabriela Rosas's avatar and link to their profile](https://d3ez4in977nymc.cloudfront.net/avatars/5f2a8de8e60a1ca063ae4cc2cf36bfc4102656.jpg)
Gabriela Rosas
Hello, I am a licensed professional counselor licensed in Texas with over 9 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I have worked all ages, children, teenagers, and adults. My therapy style is relaxing and interactive, I like for the client to be empowered and guide the sessions. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in judgmental labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral therapy. I also use motivational interviewing techniques and solution-focused therapy. We can collaborate to create a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am looking forward to working with you and it takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, Remember you are not alone and I am here to support you through this journey.
![Click here to view Shalonda Scott's profile 1 This is Shalonda Scott's avatar and link to their profile](https://d3ez4in977nymc.cloudfront.net/avatars/53d046c9ec50e95c86724aadf839488b.jpg)
Shalonda Scott
Hello and welcome to Discovering Hope Counseling Services. My name is Shalonda Scott and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My ideal client is anyone that needs my services the most. I'm a big advocate for therapy and my goal is to make it accessible to as many as possible. I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to have a safe place and a listening ear. I received my bachelor's in social work from Stephen F. Austin State University in 2014 and my master's in mental health from The University of Texas at Arlington in 2015. Since deciding to go into private practice I have been focusing on life changes, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress management etc. I use various therapeutic modalities, tailored specifically to the client's needs. I work from a strengths-based approach which identifies any constraints that might be holding back an individual’s growth.
![Click here to view Patricia Donovan's profile 1 This is Patricia Donovan's avatar and link to their profile](https://d3ez4in977nymc.cloudfront.net/avatars/018a9e04c2565f4dce859c89711d16ae131225.jpg)
Patricia Donovan
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, in the state of Texas, with over 15 years of experience providing therapy. I have a Bachelor of Arts Degree focusing on psychology and sociology and a Master's Degree in Social Work, both through Indiana University. I offer strength based, solution focused therapy and I am dedicated to helping clients gain insight around their personal challenges by implementing a positive approach. My goal is to provide a safe environment for individuals to explore underlying origins to their problems. I believe understanding leads to to a greater responsibility, which ultimately provides freedom. I offer encouragement for clients to draw on their spiritual beliefs for comfort and support as they work through various issues. As a wife, mother of six and grandmother of many, I also bring much life experience to my therapy. I have been a part of various denominations over the years and am attracted to non-denominational congregations. As an individual, I have actively participated in my own healing journey by attending both individual and couple's therapy and I encourage our adult children to do the same as needed. Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I would be honored to partner with you in your own journey of growth and understanding, which can be very liberating.
![Click here to view Sheila Vaz's profile 1 This is Sheila Vaz's avatar and link to their profile](https://d3ez4in977nymc.cloudfront.net/avatars/dec2e92b1476195ccddf6bee0b614bd2.jpg)
Sheila Vaz
I am licensed in Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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.
![Click here to view Dana Benoist's profile 1 This is Dana Benoist's avatar and link to their profile](https://d3ez4in977nymc.cloudfront.net/avatars/7867d0b5c0c51416112f7eedc60884f0.jpg)
Dana Benoist
I am licensed in Texas with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I have worked with children, teens and adults in supporting their personal growth. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion as we all have our own unique journeys and life experiences. You are taking the first step by seeking help and I hope that I can be of support to you. It is admirable to make yourself a priority in your life.
![Click here to view Dr. Esther Ogunjimi's profile 1 This is Dr. Esther Ogunjimi's avatar and link to their profile](https://d3ez4in977nymc.cloudfront.net/avatars/47e243069a61304bde9fe6d50470e43095117.jpg)
Dr. Esther Ogunjimi
I am licensed in Texas with over 18 years of professional social work and some mental health-specific experience. I have experience helping clients with trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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. 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.
![Click here to view Whitney Wakeland's profile 1 This is Whitney Wakeland's avatar and link to their profile](https://d3ez4in977nymc.cloudfront.net/avatars/b77097740ee758e16ac3c0392083332e191214.jpg)
Whitney Wakeland
I am licensed in Texas with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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!
![Click here to view Felicia Jordan's profile 1 This is Felicia Jordan's avatar and link to their profile](https://d3ez4in977nymc.cloudfront.net/avatars/ac7b5868ee4d3fb4c34de22b4b651926231975.jpg)
Felicia Jordan
I am licensed in Texas with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
![Click here to view Hilda Moreno's profile 1 This is Hilda Moreno's avatar and link to their profile](https://d3ez4in977nymc.cloudfront.net/avatars/9bf65456b94fd010a66f25e5c08b99ca234222.jpg)
Hilda Moreno
I am licensed in Texas with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, 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 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 Meridian
Finding the best therapist close by in Meridian 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 in Meridian 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 Meridian. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Meridian, 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. 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 to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Meridian 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 Meridian 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 therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers 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 Meridian area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find Meridian therapists, have in mind what type of therapy 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 Meridian, elsewhere in Bosque, or in the greater state of Texas.
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 Meridian 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 Meridian therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Meridian due to a higher cost of living. 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 Meridian 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 sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.
How is a licensed therapist on this Meridian online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Meridian, 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. They 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, they 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 Meridian 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 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 therapist, including the therapists in Meridian 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 lead by a therapist in Meridian 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.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified Meridian 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.
Specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques 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 - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy 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 Meridian therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Meridian?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Meridian 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 are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.
Meridian 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 Meridian 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 Meridian 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 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 76665 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. 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 Meridian counselor?
Before seeing your Meridian therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy 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, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They 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 in Meridian.
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 therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice from a therapist. A Meridian 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 through therapy with a Meridian 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 Meridian, 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.
Meridian has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy 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 Meridian, 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 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 Meridian:
76665