Emporia, Virginia sits along the Meherrin River and was born when the two smaller towns of Hicksford and Belfield joined to become one. Perhaps Emporia is aptly named as it continues to be an enchanting stop along the route to beautiful beaches on the Virginia coast. Emporia was recently ranked among the top five cities for retail sales per capita. While leisure and hospitality are staples of Emporia’s culture, it seems impossible to relax and enjoy when your mental wellness is lacking.

You don’t have to miss out on a stroll among the lovely shops or a jaunt across the glistening beach sands. You can put your bad days behind you when you make the effort to match up with a treatment specialist in the Emporia area. With a bit of help, you can again see the beauty in the people and land that surrounds you.

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Dorothy Charest

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Emporia
Counselor License Type(s): MS, LPC, LMHC, NCC, CSOTP, CAADC, ICAADC, CCTP,
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesAnger managementDepression
18 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor through the Virginia Board of Counseling and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor through the Florida Department of Health. I have over 18 years experience working with individuals affected by a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse. I am also a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor through the Virginia Board of Counseling and a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor through the Virginia Certification Board. Additionally, I am Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider through the Virginia Board of Psychology and have provided treatment for individuals with sexually compulsive behaviors for over 11 years. I graduated from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia in 2003 and continue to remain current in the field though professional training and workshops and have achieved certification as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I utilize various treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral, schema therapy, humanistic, and solution-focused brief therapy and believe that treatment should be tailored to the individual client in a non-judgmental and safe environment. Treatment can be both challenging and rewarding and I commend you for taking that first step and entrusting me to take that journey with you. Specialties: Mood disorders Anxiety Substance use disorders Trauma Anger management Sexually compulsive disorders

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Rasheede Hicks

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Emporia
Counselor License Type(s): LCMHC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

My name is Ms. Rasheede Hicks, M.Ed., Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, C-Grief Counselor, Anger Management-Certified with 20+ years of Mental Health Experience. My background is prior military, single mother of 2 adult children, divorcee, and driven. I’m a passionate about learning treatment modalities, interventions, and ideas, motivations, etc. so that I may be more effective in my endeavor to help those seeking therapy. What differentiates me as a provider? My experiences, past and present. My passion and drive. My tolerance and understanding. My ability to identify/discern what my clients are seeking and need. My overall care philosophy and objective for my clients is that: Everyone has a hidden gift. My objective for my clients is to help them with building up their inner strength so that they may be able to identify their gift. Knowing that you have a gift and learning what to do with that gift is key to understanding your purpose in this world. I find working with young adults, middle age adults, older adults, and those in between to be thoroughly rewarding. My experience as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor includes helping those in need of learning effective coping skills to deal with issues such as : problems in the workplace, relationship issues, educational stressors (anxiety), depression, women issues, relationship issues, and life changing dilemmas. I must add that I also enjoy teaching effective parenting skills and anger management skills. My approach is holistic. If people have imbalances such as physical, emotional, or spiritual in their lives, it can negatively affect their overall well-being. I’m also a big believer in Mindfulness and the “Art of Focusing on the Here and Now” and learning how to move forward in your journey. It is my goal to meet my clients where they are in life and grow from there. Any therapeutic approach utilized is highly individualized for the unique needs of each of my clients. I am also trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Grief Counseling, and Anger Management.

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Lisa Kilgore

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Emporia
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I love to camp, read and spend time with my family and friends. I have been married for 35 years and have 2 sons. I have one granddaughter with whom I love spending time. I am an animal lover with 5 dogs and 2 cats. I started on my journey in 2004. I have always been fascinated by the human mind. I decided to return to school after both my boys were grown. I graduated in 2007 with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Hollins University. I worked as a preschool teacher for several years then decided I wanted to help those who suffered from depression, anxiety and other behavioral/personality disorders. I graduated with a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty University in 2014. I completed my internship at LewisGale Behavioral Health and worked there for several years. While working at LewisGale I decided to open my own practice closer to my home. There is an urgent need for counselors in my area. My main modalities of treatment are mindfulness, CBT and solution focused therapy. With this focus I have seen growth and stability with my clients. We all have the tools for good mental health. We just need someone to help us discover them. I have found from personal experience that when you have a purpose in life you can achieve anything you put your mind to. My passion is to help those with issues of anxiety, depression and behavioral problems achieve wholeness and happiness through counseling. My counseling style is pretty laid back. I have been described as supportive, caring, and compassionate, with a pretty good sense of humor. I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles. I'm here to help you sort through the things that are difficult right now, and offer you a safe place to be open and honest without fear of judgment. You have taken the first and most important step by reaching out for help. Should you feel in need of urgent help or that you are in crisis at any time during our work together; please call 1-800-273-TALK 24 hours a day; or 911. This forum does not provide any type of emergency services, so I want to be sure you know who to contact if you need immediate help.

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Alesha Perkins

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Emporia
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,CCM
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia and North Carolina. I've been working in this field for over 20 years with over 15 years of experience in providing individual and family therapy. I have worked in a variety of settings and provided therapy to children, adults and geriatric populations. I have worked with clients dealing with a wide range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, divorce, career challenges, substance abuse, medical diagnoses, etc. I enjoy connecting with people and helping them to make changes to meet the goals they have set for themselves. My counseling style is nonjudgmental and empathetic. I want clients to feel empowered to lead and know they have the autonomy to make the decisions they choose with no judgment. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, motivational interviewing and solution-focused counseling. I'm easygoing and authentic which makes it easy for clients to freely talk to me. I'm glad that you have decided to start this journey towards being a better you. I'm here to guide you on this journey and look forward to working with you!

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Stephen Luteran

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Emporia
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, 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. 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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Joyce Bolender

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Emporia
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, coping with life changes and the aging process. My approach to therapy is based on the individual needs of each client. I use an eclectic style based upon the identified needs. My style is a good fit for all ages of adults with a lot of experience working in the older adult population. 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. My communication style is calm, personable and comforting.

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Debra Welpe

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Emporia
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionADHD
22 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. 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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Angela Walloga

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Emporia
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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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Kathryn DeFiore

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Emporia
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Connecticut with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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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Lynly Curtis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA, Emporia
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Maryland with over a decade of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, life changes, trauma and relationships. I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you maximize them. I am here to offer a safe place to explore and express yourself without fear of judgement. My therapy style is warm and understanding. We can incorporate your faith as much or as little as you would like to. I believe everyone deserves to be treated with respect, compassion, and empathy. I like to incorporate aspects from multiple therapeutic approaches primarily CBT, EMDR, Client Centered Approach, and IFS. I also believe your treatment should be custom tailored to your specific needs and we will work together to achieve just that. Seeking help is the most important and probably most difficult step to take but you did it and you are not alone.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Emporia

Finding the best therapist close by in Emporia 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 Emporia 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 Emporia. 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 Emporia, 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 Emporia region and in the state of Virginia. 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 Emporia 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 Emporia 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 Emporia 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 Emporia, elsewhere in Emporia (city), or in the greater state of Virginia. 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 Emporia 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 Emporia 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 Emporia 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 Emporia may not take health insurance, some in the state of Virginia 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 Virginia 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 Emporia online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Emporia, Virginia 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 Emporia 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 Emporia 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 Emporia 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 Emporia?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Emporia 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 Emporia 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 Emporia 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 VA, 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 23847 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 Emporia counselor?

Before seeing your Emporia 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. Emporia 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 Emporia 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 Emporia 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 Emporia, Virginia 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.

Emporia 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 Emporia, Virginia

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of Emporia 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 Emporia.

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

23847

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