Professional counseling with a therapist in Lafayette, LA, can help you define present problem situations and develop future goals. Therapy is different from life coaching as counseling services can help you manage the symptoms of mental health conditions, like eating disorders, anxiety, and depression, and learn how to manage a range of mental health challenges and life experiences, from physical abuse to low self-esteem.
If you’re looking for a therapist, you can make an appointment with a local independent practice or use an online therapy platform like BetterHelp. While BetterHelp therapists do not work with children or use play therapy in sessions, they are experienced with a range of treatment approaches for adults, including art therapy and commitment therapy.
Working with a professional in the mental health field can help you learn to manage life stressors and work toward an improved life. Connect with a Lafayette-based therapist below to get started.
Amanda Watson
Hello! My name is Amanda Watson, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor currently licensed in the District of Columbia and Louisiana. I have nearly 10 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have worked with people of all ages in a variety of settings including in the community, in client's homes, at schools, in more traditional offices, and online. My unique and varied experiences have helped me to develop a holistic understanding of clients' lives. I have immense respect for my clients, and I always approach counseling with warmth, without judgment, and with the goal of trying to understand each individual's unique reality. I am available to provide individual counseling to older adolescents and adults for a variety of issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, stress-management, trauma, and grief. I primarily approach counseling from a Cognitive-Behavioral perspective in that patterns of thoughts and actions are explored in order to better understand your emotions and problems and, ultimately, to develop solutions. I also draw from other theoretical orientations including Person-Centered and Narrative in the sense that I truly listen, I will approach you with unconditional positive regard, and I can help you make meaning of and re-write your personal story. I will tailor our conversations in a way that suits your needs. I hope to create an environment of trust, honesty, and empowerment to assist you in developing insight and fostering personal growth.
Dolores Cancino
Hello! If you are exploring Better Help, it is likely that you are struggling with something significant in your life. Finding the right person to help you through these challenges is very important. If you don't have a good relationship with your counselor, you won't make the progress you are hoping to achieve. I want to provide you with some information about me in order to help you decide if my experience and style is the right match for you. I have been a social worker for more years than I care to admit! (more than 20) and have experience working with people from all different backgrounds who are struggling with a wide variety of challenges. My experience began in the Family Services arena working with challenges related to Abuse and Neglect and Foster Care and Adoption. I then transitioned into Crisis Social Work in an Inpatient Hospital Setting serving those with Serious Mental Illness and their Families. A significant part of my career has been spent with the Active Duty Military and Veteran populations. I specialized as a Trauma Therapist and have been working with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, adoption and foster care challenges and challenges of Caregiving. The feedback I receive from clients and co-workers is that they find me to be caring and nonjudgmental, and they appreciate that I am honest and direct with them. You can expect me to walk with you through whatever difficulties you are facing and help you learn more about yourself and the way you interact with the world. Currently, I have availability late in the day (ET); I can interact with you in whatever manner you are most comfortable. I find it helpful to participate in video sessions so that we can get to know each other better. I am also available to you via phone and text if that is more comfortable for you. I check messages several times during the day and will get back with you. I know how hard it can be to find a counselor with whom you feel a connection. I would be honored to work with you through this stage of your life.
Gail Winsey
How about a conversation? I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has been servicing the mental health profession for more than 25 years. I see counseling as a process in which you the client, and I, the Therapist as having come to understand and trust one another, work as a team to explore and define present problem situations, develop future goals for an improved life, and work in a systematic fashion toward realizing those goals. I approach counseling from a Cognitive-Behavioral perspective in that patterns of thought and action are explored in order to better understand the clients’ problems and develop solutions. I work with clients in a variety of formats, including individually and as families. I meet with clients of all ages and backgrounds. Over the course of my career, I have developed a skill set directly relevant to providing direct clinical services to clients optimizing multi-modal therapies in conjunction with individual, couples, family, and group sessions. I have gained my experience by working in the following settings: residential treatment facilities, psychiatric hospitals, mental health rehabilitation agencies, and in the public and charter school systems. My hope is to continue servicing the community. I would like to be the catalyst that assists with mending feelings and allowing individuals to cope with their truth.
April Poolson
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Louisiana with over 15 years' experience working as a Mental Health Counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addictions, and symptoms of bipolar, borderline personality disorder and schizophrenia. I have also helped many people who have experienced trauma and abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion. My approach is solution focused, client centered, and strengths-based drawing heavily from cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy skills. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am also an Enneagram Coach. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Shane Lopez
Hello there! I'm Shane Lopez! I have over 6 years of experience in the field of counseling and mental health therapy. If you are seeing this, then I am glad you have taken the first steps towards seeking to improve your life and personal experience. I would be glad to help be a part of cooperative effort between the two of us. I have a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and am a Licensed Professional Counselor through the Louisiana LPC Board. My counseling style is an interactive blend of education and reframing to help you explore and understand your own values, assumptions, and ideals in a non-judgmental and open conversation.
Taralah Jeansonne
I see counseling as a progressive experience in which you, the client, and I, the LPC 6877, establish a confidential and trusting relationship in order to explore present situations. As a team, we will work together to establish goals and discern the best method to attain these goals. Ultimately, our work will be dedicated to addressing and improving functionality in life. I focus on clients experiencing depression, anxiety, after effects of trauma, and those in early recovery from alcohol or substance abuse disorders in a prison setting. I also have worked at a site that offered couples therapy, EAP, trauma therapy, behavioral therapy with juveniles and mindfulness therapy. I have worked with DBT, CBT and Behavioral therapy techniques with my clients. My style is warm and interactive and I am excited to work with you!
Dr. Ernesha Smith
My name is Ernesha, some call me Dr. Smith or Dr. E, but you can call me whatever feels comfortable for you!I enjoy supporting individuals experiencing difficult life transitions including (but not limited to) relationship challenges, divorce or a break-up, loss of a loved one, expanding your family, embarking on a new career or contemplating leaving an existing career, moving to a new place, etc. I work to support the client in their journey to creating a path toward healing, acceptance and self-discovery, with the ultimate goal of achieving optimal emotional well-being, as defined by the client. Together, we will develop strategies that will generate feelings of well-being and create a path toward emotional healing and personal growth. I work with clients to help them uncover thinking and behavioral patterns that create barriers to optimal emotional well-being. Together we can explore and identify these patterns, uncover underlying issues, and tend to the parts of yourself that require attention, in order to create lasting and transformational change. Therapy expands our individual capacity, so that we can show up fully and as our best selves, across all the roles that we take on throughout life. I welcome the opportunity to work with you to expand your capacity and assist you in doing the work toward becoming your best self. My clinical goal is to help them identify and utilize these resources and solutions in their interactions with others and inner self to create positive change in their quality of life and relationships. I acknowledge that every client is unique and deserves a safe, caring environment as they travel in their therapeutic journey. I prides herself on being relatable and making people feel at ease.
Deanna Williams
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience as a social worker and 5 years of experience in counseling. My focus has been working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, and stress related issues. I also have a strong background working with clients with substance use disorders and/or their caregivers/families as well as working with the elderly dealing with change of life issues, health issues, death, dying and grief and caregivers of the elderly. My focus of practice is building a strong rapport and foundation with my client to enable a trust and respect for each other. I believe in a client directed approach allowing my client to focus on what they feel they need to work on in their life. My goal is to be a guide for you to effectively learn needed coping skills utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. I look forward to building a therapeutic relationship with you working towards a healthier mental health state.
Elizabeth Nolen
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker in Louisiana with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I have many years of my career provided couples counseling working with couples to repair trust, improve communication and strengthen their emotional intimacy with each other. My style is supportive and interactive. I meet you where you're at with respect of your values and beliefs. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral, rational emotive and supportive therapy. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Dr. Alisha Diggs
Welcome to a space where your journey toward a brighter tomorrow begins! I bring 12 years of experience to our sessions. For me, counseling isn't just about problem-solving; it's a beautiful dance of understanding, trust, and growth. Together, we'll embark on a journey as partners, exploring your present challenges and crafting a vision for the life you deserve. In our sacred counseling space, your thoughts and feelings take center stage. I'm here to listen, support, and guide you through the twists and turns of your unique story with unwavering respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Every step of the way, your needs and goals will drive our conversations. Because let's face it, there's no one-size-fits-all solution to life's complexities! Whether you're grappling with stress, navigating relationships, or simply seeking a little extra motivation, consider me your dedicated ally. And if you're part of the LGBTQ+ or BIPOC community, know that this space is not only inclusive but celebratory of your identity. Your truth matters here. So, take that courageous step towards a brighter, happier tomorrow. I'll be here, cheering you on every step of the way. Together, let's unlock the potential for growth, healing, and joy in your life!
How to find a therapist for counseling in Lafayette
Finding the best therapist close by in Lafayette 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 Lafayette 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 Lafayette. 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 Lafayette, 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 Lafayette region and in the state of Louisiana. 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 Lafayette 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 Lafayette area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find Lafayette 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 Lafayette, elsewhere in Lafayette, or in the greater state of Louisiana.
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 Lafayette 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 Lafayette 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 Lafayette 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 Lafayette may not take health insurance, some in the state of Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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 Lafayette online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Lafayette, Louisiana 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 Lafayette 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 Lafayette 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 Lafayette 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 Lafayette 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 Lafayette 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 Lafayette?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Lafayette 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.
Lafayette 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 Lafayette 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 Lafayette 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 LA, 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 70593 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 Lafayette counselor?
Before seeing your Lafayette 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 Lafayette.
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 Lafayette 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 Lafayette 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 Lafayette, Louisiana 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.
Lafayette 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 Lafayette, Louisiana
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 Lafayette:
70501, 70502, 70503, 70504, 70505, 70506, 70507, 70508, 70509, 70593, 70596, 70598