Athens is one creative city, and your mental health can take a turn for the better with a counselor in Athens.  Being the 6th largest city in Georgia, it’s a hub for many people, and many flock to it because of the rock prevalence of alternative rock and other popular bands.

You can kickstart your creativity today with the help of a counselor, and really benefit from these services while living in Athens. 

This is Dr. Kenika Holloway's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Kenika Holloway

Offering therapy in GA
License: PhD, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I understand that life can be challenging and even overwhelming, but you do not have to go through it alone. I can assist you by listening to you and helping you gain clarity in your situation. I will support you in finding solutions and I also teach you skills that you can use as soon as you are comfortable. I have helped clients with balancing school/work life, anxiety, life transitions and many other life stressors. My interventions are geared toward YOUR unique situation hence I do not have a "cookie-cutter" approach to working with my clients. I do use theories to support my efforts such as person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, humanistic and spiritual approaches and when necessary, I will provide psycho-education to address stress management, addiction, anger, grief, conflict resolution, relaxation and other areas of concern. I am committed to helping you achieve a meaningful transformation, reach your inherent potential and achieve your personal goals. ABOUT ME:I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Georgia with over 15 years of experience. I obtained my master's and doctoral degrees from Mercer University. I have worked at a domestic violence shelter and in substance abuse treatment facilities, mental health agencies, and private practice. I look forward to having a collaborative conversation with you that will evoke the necessary changes you desire. You have made the first step to improve your quality of life. Hopefully, I can be apart of the next steps in your journey of self-discovery!

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Sophia Franklin

Offering therapy in GA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

Hello! I am a licensed clinical social worker in Georgia with over 12 years of experience working as a counselor and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, and anger management. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. Originally from Mississippi, my counseling approach focuses heavy on building a strong rapport, so that trust is established before goals are discussed. Growing up in the south, treating someone with respect is required. In addition, my years working with individuals experiencing homelessness and those who were uninsured enhanced my awareness of seeing each person for who they are vs what they are currently experiencing. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, narrative, and solution-focused counseling, but I can and will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking control towards feeling better is a courageous first step and if you are ready, I am willing to walk along with you to ensure you are heard, receive support, and empowered along the way. Thank you starting your journey & I look forward to working with you!

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Vanessa Stapleton

Offering therapy in GA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) licensed in the state of Georgia. I have over years of experience working with a diverse population who face a range of barriers that include anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational conflict, anger management, substance abuse, grief, loss, and other emotional concerns. I am goal oriented and focus my attention on assisting clients to find solutions. I offer a therapeutic approach that is strengths-based and grounded in cognitive behavioral and person-centered theories to provide insight, empowerment, and growth. Each counseling session is tailored to meet the client’s special needs. I also provide a safe environment to build autonomy, self-esteem, and coping skills that can be implemented to assist in daily living. If you feel open to exploring how we can collaborate on making positive changes and healing in, your life, I am here to support and empower you.

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Dr. Malkema Martin

Offering therapy in GA
License: PhD,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of GA and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). I have been advocating and promoting mental health within urban communities for the last 9 years. I have committed my work to help minorities receive culturally competent mental health services. I received my Ph.D. in Counselor Education & Supervision at the Chicago School for Professional Psychology, Master’s in Clinical Counseling from Eastern Illinois University and I received my Bachelors in Psychology from Spelman College. I have worked in clinical mental health settings for 9 years. I have experience with individual/group mental health counseling, crisis intervention, social services, case management, and early intervention. I also have experience in health, mental and administrative education where I provide effective advocacy and service coordination for clients to ensure their physical, social, and emotional needs are met. My areas of clinical specialization are individual counseling, early intervention, and family counseling. My objective as a clinical counselor is to effectively guide my clients to positive life decisions. Counseling can be very therapeutic when counselors are practicing effectively. I seek to build a trusting relationship with my clients and create a judgment-free environment in which my clients can freely discuss their needs, concerns, and overall wellbeing. My theory of counseling focuses on behavioral and cognitive. I believe that behavior is learned through reinforcement and practice. I also believe that an individual’s thoughts are based on experiences. Therefore, my philosophy of counseling tends to be mostly focused on cognitive behavioral therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on clients’ observable behavior and their responses to life. I focus on what my clients can do, not what they can’t do. My philosophy is that as a counselor it is important to focus on the client’s strengths and not the weaknesses. As a counselor, I seek to provide my clients with the best culturally competent care that fits their needs.

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Mark Beach

Offering therapy in GA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
6 years of experience

I am a Georgia licensed professional counselor with a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I have been working in an inpatient setting since 2016, treating men with substance use disorder. Working with individuals with substance use disorder has given me the opportunity to counsel individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, marriage and family relationship issues, as well as emotional and physical trauma. I am a Christian counselor who uses a client centered approach that is compassionate and interactive towards all individuals regardless of religious beliefs. Empathy plays a large role in my approach towards clients. I believe that all clients should be given an empathetic ear and treated with respect and sensitivity. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is my main approach to therapy. I recognize that all individuals are unique and have specific needs. I work hard to customize each of my therapy sessions to meet the needs of each individual person. Reaching out for help takes an enormous amount of courage; I want to congratulate you on your courage in taking the first steps to seeking a better and more fulfilling life. It is my desire as a therapist to help you set goals and empower you to reach those goals! I look forward to working with you.

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This is Dr. Vickie Jester's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Vickie Jester

Offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
28 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Dr. Stephanie Davidson's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Stephanie Davidson

Offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
35 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 30+ years of professional work experience. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Kimberley Rodriguez Mojica's avatar and link to their profile

Kimberley Rodriguez Mojica

Offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyDepression
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Georgia with over 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & 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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Kimberli Patrick

Offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesCoping with life changesADHD
31 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 31 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My therapeutic approach is client centered. I believe in adapting to the style that is best for the client. I am known for being personable and having a calming affect on people. I work with client and/or their family to assist with achieving their personal goals and feeling like they can manage life on life terms. I work to provide a comfortable and inviting atmosphere to accomplish these goals. My career includes working inpatient substance treatment for adolescents, community mental health, school-based counseling, in home therapy and private practice working with children and their families providing individual and/or family therapy. I also has experience working with groups with substance abuse and mental health issues. I have worked with a variety of issues in many different settings. 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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Junetta watson

Offering therapy in GA
License: MS, LPC, CPCS
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
18 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with the State of Georgia. I have been in the Mental Health and Substance Abuse field for over 19 yrs. My objective is to maintain an ongoing career in Psychological Counseling/Crisis Management, utilizing skills from multiple theoretical approaches in order to counsel individuals with co-occurring /chronic/situational disorders. I have been helping individuals with mental health disorders, dual diagnosis disorders since 2002. I have worked in MH since 2007 on an outpatient basis as a therapist/case manager, with a strong emphasis on helping individuals of all ages who suffer from depression, anxiety, grief, anger and conflict type issues. My approach is solutions oriented, reality goal directed, motivational with strong evidenced based approach. I have experienced and carried certification through the Beck Institute in CBT and Trauma Focused Therapy.

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How to find counseling in Athens

Finding the best therapist close by in Athens can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services 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 Athens. 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 Athens, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens, elsewhere in Clarke, or in the greater state of Georgia.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens may not take health insurance, some in the state of Georgia 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 Georgia 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 Athens, Georgia 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 Athens above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens 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 Athens therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in GA, 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 30609 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 Athens 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 Athens licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find 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 Athens, Georgia can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Athens has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online 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 Athens.

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

30601, 30602, 30603, 30604, 30605, 30606, 30607, 30608, 30609, 30612, 30622, 30683

Popular cities near Athens, GA

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