Reaching an opportunity can be a challenge. Sometimes, opportunity comes at you before you're prepared. Other times, you are too depressed or anxious to face life’s problems. In a situation like that, a counselor based in Decatur can help you. 

Decatur’s motto is “The City of Opportunity.” If you live here, you can reach your opportunities, but you need to realize that sometimes it’s okay to admit if you can’t do it yourself. A counselor based in Decatur works by telling you what you can do to reach your goals and cope with your doubts. 

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Cheryl Jones

Offering therapy in AL
License: LICSW,PIP,CAADP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Seeking therapy for yourself, your child, or your loved ones is not always easy. I believe, however, that it is a sign of strength and courage. As your therapist, I will strive to connect with you — being honest and non-judgmental as we work together. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) in Alabama with years of experience working with youth, adults and families with a wide range of concerns including relationship issues, parenting problems, depression, career challenges, trauma/abuse, anger control and self-esteem. My counseling style is compassionate and non-judgmental. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, client-centered, motivational interviewing and strengths-based techniques tailored to meet the client's individual needs. I will work with you to create a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. If you are ready to be on your way to making yourself the best person you can be, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Samantha Whelan

Offering therapy in AL
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteem
14 years of experience

Hello! My name is Samantha Whelan and I am an LPC currently licensed in Oklahoma, Alabama, and New Hampshire with 12 years of professional experience. I decided to take a sabbatical to raise my two children while continuing to keep up with professional development thru continuing education. During these years the ups and downs of everyday life with family, kids, and friends gave me more insight into personal life struggles than I could have acquired by only reading a textbook or sitting in my office. I consider it one of the greatest honors of my life to be able to help people who may be experiencing a personal, family, or relational challenge by providing support, practical feedback, skills-sets and tools that I have acquired in my many years of conducting group and individual psychotherapy sessions. The majority of my professional counseling career was spent prior to the birth of my children. This period of intense focus on my development as a counselor provided me with the chance to develop the capacity to exhibit sympathy and accurate empathy when working with some of society's most challenging circumstances. During this critical time of professional growth, I had the distinct honor to work with people struggling with the grip of addiction and mental health challenges. Because of the bio-psycho-social nature of the disease of addiction, I was challenged to become competent in addressing a myriad of my clients social, emotional, spiritual, physical, legal, familial, and financial issues caused by the trauma of unhealthy habits and poor decision making. It was during these early years that I developed my own personal style of counseling and psychotherapy. This style of therapy is deeply rooted in the discipline of cognitive behavioral therapy, behavioral theory, motivational interviewing, and client centered therapy . These styles allow both you and I to work together during our therapy sessions. I would also like to mention that I myself have been where you are. I have sought out counseling as well and as a counselor myself I had very high standards. I feel like this experience also gave me such great insight into what it felt like to be "on the other side of the desk" and I truly knew how it felt to be heard and validated and I hope that I can make my clients feel the same way. It is my belief that most individuals fall somewhere along a continuum of change. Many times a person’s lack of awareness of where they might be placed on this continuum is a starting point for our counseling sessions. Change doesn't happen overnight. But, my hope for you is that we can find out what you would like to improve and find out what types of behavior change need to happen in order for you to accomplish your personal growth goals in a safe, confidential setting. Always remember your agenda is my agenda. I look forward to working with you!

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Carol Williams

Offering therapy in AL
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of Alabama, Arkansas and Tennessee. I have been a therapist for 20 years , working with individual , couples and family. My main focus at this time is working with individuals. My therapy approach is based on Client Centered Therapy as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I also enjoy including Mindfulness activities to reduce stress and anxiety. During my years as a Counselor I have had the opportunity to learn and grow both on a professional level and personal level. I have grown as much from my interactions with clients as I have from educational experiences. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing life transitions which often can lead to feelings of depression and anxiety. I enjoy helping individuals find their life path that leads to passion and purpose. I can relate, as I have experienced many life transitions, and although difficult, finding the right path feels wonderful! Too often we are interested in making changes, but just don't know how to begin. The desire for change is healthy, but can be overwhelming, sometimes leading to feelings of anxiety, depression and loneliness. My job is to listen to your feelings, concerns and stressors. Not only will I listen, but I will actively collaborate with you to help you determine the changes that will lead to you feeling more fulfilled and happy. Whether you are having difficulties dealing with grief issues, feeling unfulfilled in your work or family life, or find that you just aren't coping well you are not alone. I would love to help you recover you passions and joy.

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La-Shieka Brooks

Offering therapy in AL
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
5 years of experience

Hello! My name is La-Shieka and I am a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) experienced in working with children, adolescents, adults and families for over five years. I've primarily worked in an inpatient psychiatric and behavioral environment and through the years I have learned that sometimes all it takes is a safe space and safe person to get you through a tough situation. My therapy style is client-centered (it's all about YOU) and holistic with some humor sprinkled in. I believe a person is more than just the decisions that they have made or the events that have happened to them. Therapy is one of the hardest decisions a person can choose to do. There will be tears, moments of silence, serious conversations, laughter and moments of relief. You just have to trust the process and trust that WE are in this TOGETHER! I can’t wait to meet you and see you down this journey!!

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Ian Rivera

Offering therapy in AL
License: LCSW,MCAP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has been in providing therapeutic services to clients for over 6 years. I have worked addressing a wide range of clients issues; addiction, anxiety, depression, and life changes just to name a few. I meet each of my clients where they are at in their walk of life. I work to individualize a plan of action to help you make changes to live a fulfilling life. My approach’s include motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral, and client centered. Change is difficult, but very important in order to progress and overcome various life challenges. I am here to guide you through the difficult times in order to be the best you.

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Amber Jones

Offering therapy in AL
License: MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesADHD
3 years of experience

Hello, I am Amber Jones, LPC. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Alabama. I have worked in mental health for over 15 years. I have been a counselor for 4 years. During this time, I worked primarily with children and adolescents. I provided Telehealth services to adults and adolescents. Prior to receiving my counseling degree, I worked as substance abuse prevention specialist for over 10 years. I am currently working on my PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision. My therapeutic approach is primarily person centered with cognitive behavioral approaches. With the person centered approach, you are the expert in your life and I assist you in processing your experiences and emotions in life.

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Jason Scrivner

Offering therapy in AL
Trauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with over 15 years of clinical work experience and well over 20 years in the human services field in general. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Mechelle Frazier

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Alabama a state in the Southern region of the United States with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & 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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Jacqueline McGrew

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionADHD
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Marci Blanda

Offering therapy in AL
Stress, AnxietyAddictions
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Alabama. I have 6+ years of experience providing mental and behavioral health counseling to adolescents, adults and seniors. I work with a variety of issues including: anxiety, stress management, mental illness, substance use, compassion fatigue, depression, relationships, health and wellness, and trauma. I value the holistic wellness approach. I believe “well” is connected to the whole person. Mind, Body, and Spirit. I work to meet you where you are and explore your goals you would like to achieve. It takes courage to start a therapeutic journey, I am glad you’re here! I will be here to empower you along the way.

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How to find counseling in Decatur

Finding the best therapist close by in Decatur 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Decatur. 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 Decatur, 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. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Decatur or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. 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 Decatur area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find 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 Decatur, elsewhere in Morgan, or in the greater state of Alabama.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Decatur area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Decatur 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 Decatur 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 Decatur may not take health insurance, some in the state of Alabama may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Alabama you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Decatur, Alabama 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a 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, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Decatur 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 Decatur helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Decatur 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:

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 Decatur 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?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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.

A psychologist 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 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 Decatur 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 lot of people in AL, providers 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 35609 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Decatur counselor?

Before seeing your 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. 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 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. A Decatur 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 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 Decatur, Alabama 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.

Decatur 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?

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

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 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 Decatur.

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

35601, 35602, 35603, 35609, 35699

Popular cities near Decatur, AL

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