Therapists in Tuscaloosa, AL
![Photo of Kimberly Marable Winters, LPCS, CEAP, SAP, CRC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f038a4e6-bf88-4293-9828-357e9fce25a2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Marable Winters
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS, CEAP, SAP, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
Areas of focus: Depression, anxiety, stress management, work-related concerns/ stress, marital/ premarital and relationship issues, as well as, substance use disorders and addictive behaviors.
Therapist passionate about helping you make changes in your life that ultimately improve the quality of your life. Seeking to guide, educate, motivate and support you along the journey of finding the healthiest YOU possible! I seek to help people modify their responses to life experiences, change, pain and trauma. Group support is extremely beneficial so don't overlook the options presented by Coach K's Korner to address relationship issues, stress/ anxiety and spiritual growth. Text 205-960-9150 for more information.
Areas of focus: Depression, anxiety, stress management, work-related concerns/ stress, marital/ premarital and relationship issues, as well as, substance use disorders and addictive behaviors.
Therapist passionate about helping you make changes in your life that ultimately improve the quality of your life. Seeking to guide, educate, motivate and support you along the journey of finding the healthiest YOU possible! I seek to help people modify their responses to life experiences, change, pain and trauma. Group support is extremely beneficial so don't overlook the options presented by Coach K's Korner to address relationship issues, stress/ anxiety and spiritual growth. Text 205-960-9150 for more information.
![Photo of Amanda Hood, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51578c3b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 10 years experience with treating clients of all ages with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, and Panic Disorder.
I believe that counseling should be tailored to the individual so I strive to create a unique, safe environment for every person who comes in for help. I work with my clients to help them overcome the issues that are keeping them from moving forward in their life. I enjoy being a safe space for people who are nervous to start therapy or have had negative experiences in the past.
I have over 10 years experience with treating clients of all ages with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, and Panic Disorder.
I believe that counseling should be tailored to the individual so I strive to create a unique, safe environment for every person who comes in for help. I work with my clients to help them overcome the issues that are keeping them from moving forward in their life. I enjoy being a safe space for people who are nervous to start therapy or have had negative experiences in the past.
![Photo of Elise Dobson Ezelle - Elise Ezelle, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2240f939-a859-4c5f-bb11-cf2cdbc92181/3/320x400.jpeg)
Elise Ezelle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Waitlist for new clients
Primarily, my experience revolves around children/adolescents who are struggling with anxiety, drug abuse, depression, learning disorders, trauma and family discord.
Hello! I am so happy you have taken the time to review my profile. With the uncertainty of today's society, I can empathize with clients who are struggling with adapting to new norms. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, drug abuse, learning disorder and/or behavioral problems, take this positive step and reach out to me to begin your journey to a healthier mindset.
Primarily, my experience revolves around children/adolescents who are struggling with anxiety, drug abuse, depression, learning disorders, trauma and family discord.
Hello! I am so happy you have taken the time to review my profile. With the uncertainty of today's society, I can empathize with clients who are struggling with adapting to new norms. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, drug abuse, learning disorder and/or behavioral problems, take this positive step and reach out to me to begin your journey to a healthier mindset.
![Photo of Kimberly Jenkins-Richardson - Jenkins-Richardson & Associates LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64aff2c9-f29b-4177-a790-b080bb0fb8af/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jenkins-Richardson & Associates LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, College Mental Health, Couples/Marriage/Family Counseling, Postpartum Therapy, Infertility Counseling, Play/Art Therapy and Sexual Abuse/Trauma Counseling.
Accepting New Clients! Jenkins-Richardson & Associates is a diverse practice of Licensed Counselors and Social Workers. We are also one of a few practices state-wide who has both a Registered Play/Art Therapist and a Certified Pastoral Counselor on staff. We provide in person counseling services in our Tuscaloosa offices and telehealth services to individuals residing in the state of Alabama. Our services include Individual counseling for ages 4+, Couples, Family, and Group Counseling. Our specialization areas are as follows:
Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, College Mental Health, Couples/Marriage/Family Counseling, Postpartum Therapy, Infertility Counseling, Play/Art Therapy and Sexual Abuse/Trauma Counseling.
Accepting New Clients! Jenkins-Richardson & Associates is a diverse practice of Licensed Counselors and Social Workers. We are also one of a few practices state-wide who has both a Registered Play/Art Therapist and a Certified Pastoral Counselor on staff. We provide in person counseling services in our Tuscaloosa offices and telehealth services to individuals residing in the state of Alabama. Our services include Individual counseling for ages 4+, Couples, Family, and Group Counseling. Our specialization areas are as follows:
![Photo of Mechelle Frazier, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d47455a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mechelle Frazier
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
Waitlist for new clients
Individual therapy is provided for many conditions including: Anger management, Anxiety, Boundaries, Co-dependency, Communication/Conflict, Depression, Divorce recovery, Grief and loss, Poor body image, Relationships, Self-esteem, Sexual issues, and Stress management;.
***EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE! Work in Progress is a counseling service devoted to helping you create the life and relationships you want by establishing healthy boundaries and healthy connections. We are all social beings that interact with others. Our fulfillment and identity are directly related to relationships with family, friends, loved ones, and most importantly, self. Therefore the goal of therapy is to help you create positive and long-term change by addressing your specific needs and helping you to find new ways to improve all of your relationships. Treatment plans are customized to fit your unique goals.
Individual therapy is provided for many conditions including: Anger management, Anxiety, Boundaries, Co-dependency, Communication/Conflict, Depression, Divorce recovery, Grief and loss, Poor body image, Relationships, Self-esteem, Sexual issues, and Stress management;.
***EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE! Work in Progress is a counseling service devoted to helping you create the life and relationships you want by establishing healthy boundaries and healthy connections. We are all social beings that interact with others. Our fulfillment and identity are directly related to relationships with family, friends, loved ones, and most importantly, self. Therefore the goal of therapy is to help you create positive and long-term change by addressing your specific needs and helping you to find new ways to improve all of your relationships. Treatment plans are customized to fit your unique goals.
![Photo of Julie Vence, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a1ddc27-3044-4ef0-a994-f75129354b84/1/320x400.png)
*EVENING & WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE* Do you feel your mental health is getting in the way of your everyday experiences and quality of life? You are not alone. Many people struggle with mental health issues that get in the way of being able to enjoy life and achieve their goals. Whether it is experiencing anxiety, depression, panic attacks, ADHD, or major life changes; my goal is to provide a safe and helpful environment to explore feelings and emotions that have been creating distress in your life. Whether it's learning to eliminate invasive negative thoughts about yourself, disordered eating, depression, anxiety, and more.
*EVENING & WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE* Do you feel your mental health is getting in the way of your everyday experiences and quality of life? You are not alone. Many people struggle with mental health issues that get in the way of being able to enjoy life and achieve their goals. Whether it is experiencing anxiety, depression, panic attacks, ADHD, or major life changes; my goal is to provide a safe and helpful environment to explore feelings and emotions that have been creating distress in your life. Whether it's learning to eliminate invasive negative thoughts about yourself, disordered eating, depression, anxiety, and more.
![Photo of Teresa Taylor, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c05a3a33-8a33-472b-94d5-be900dd4fa12/2/320x400.jpeg)
Teresa Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
I have worked with children, adolescents, families, and adults for over 20 years. This has given me experience in school settings, both in the elementary and high school areas, as well as, a mental health setting which implemented a team approach to care including psychiatrists, nurses, and psychotherapists. I have gained valuable experience in treating various disorders, as well as issues within families. Although I have worked in a variety of settings, my goal has remained constant: do all I can to encourage people to feel valued, to know they are cared about, and to feel empowered to act from their own inner wisdom.
I have worked with children, adolescents, families, and adults for over 20 years. This has given me experience in school settings, both in the elementary and high school areas, as well as, a mental health setting which implemented a team approach to care including psychiatrists, nurses, and psychotherapists. I have gained valuable experience in treating various disorders, as well as issues within families. Although I have worked in a variety of settings, my goal has remained constant: do all I can to encourage people to feel valued, to know they are cared about, and to feel empowered to act from their own inner wisdom.
![Photo of Shelby L. Stephens, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3388cace-c333-4833-9230-b4de56b45ac5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shelby L. Stephens
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Reaching out for help can often seem intimidating to some, so I like to approach therapy by creating an environment where you feel comfortable enough to be your authentic self and share any piece of your life without fear of judgment. Therapy should be an empathetic space where you get to untangle your thoughts within safe walls and gain tools to handle the stressors that come with the journey of life, whether that is learning to cope with daily anxieties or unpacking unresolved trauma. Let's take time to unpack your story and create a healthy path for future chapters.
Reaching out for help can often seem intimidating to some, so I like to approach therapy by creating an environment where you feel comfortable enough to be your authentic self and share any piece of your life without fear of judgment. Therapy should be an empathetic space where you get to untangle your thoughts within safe walls and gain tools to handle the stressors that come with the journey of life, whether that is learning to cope with daily anxieties or unpacking unresolved trauma. Let's take time to unpack your story and create a healthy path for future chapters.
![Photo of Dr. Takesha Shannon - TMS Counseling, LLC, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c11d09b7-89ad-4ec3-bea0-cf06a8cd550d/2/320x400.jpeg)
TMS Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
Looking for peace, a way to calm life's storms? Trying hard to keep your head above water? Try counseling it may be the answer you are looking for.
My style is open, flexible, & laid back. I believe in providing ethically sound therapy within the confines of a strong therapeutic relationship. I provide individualized treatment & I try to meet each client where they are.
If you are considering therapy you have made a valuable step in the right direction. Choosing therapy is hard but often rewarding.
Looking for peace, a way to calm life's storms? Trying hard to keep your head above water? Try counseling it may be the answer you are looking for.
My style is open, flexible, & laid back. I believe in providing ethically sound therapy within the confines of a strong therapeutic relationship. I provide individualized treatment & I try to meet each client where they are.
If you are considering therapy you have made a valuable step in the right direction. Choosing therapy is hard but often rewarding.
![Photo of Savannah Kiesel, ALC, MA, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92a2ec5e-9eab-47a3-8eb6-8bc692aad4fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello there! Life can be hard at times, but we don't have to do it alone. Congratulations on reaching out and taking the first step toward a better you! I believe counseling can change your life if you let it and anyone can benefit from counseling. My ideal client is someone who understands that counseling isn't always easy, but is ready to start their journey with an open mindset and determination to make themselves better. Counseling is often like healing a wound, it can be uncomfortable, but the healing process can be so rewarding in the long run. I can't wait to walk alongside you!
Hello there! Life can be hard at times, but we don't have to do it alone. Congratulations on reaching out and taking the first step toward a better you! I believe counseling can change your life if you let it and anyone can benefit from counseling. My ideal client is someone who understands that counseling isn't always easy, but is ready to start their journey with an open mindset and determination to make themselves better. Counseling is often like healing a wound, it can be uncomfortable, but the healing process can be so rewarding in the long run. I can't wait to walk alongside you!
![Photo of Caela Rhea, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b19c7d23-4587-4a29-9d05-7134fe1f39ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caela Rhea
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
Waitlist for new clients
My goal as a counselor is to provide safe and non-judgmental therapy space in two different therapy settings: Turning Point and Caela Rhea Counseling. At Turning Point Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault services, counseling is free for survivors of sexual assault or sexual abuse. Processing trauma is not easy, but I can provide you with the support and tools you need to heal. You must meet Turning Point eligibility requirements for services. Call 205-758-0808 or check out turningpointservices.org for more information. Caela Rhea Counseling is self-pay and open nights and weekends for tele-health sessions.
My goal as a counselor is to provide safe and non-judgmental therapy space in two different therapy settings: Turning Point and Caela Rhea Counseling. At Turning Point Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault services, counseling is free for survivors of sexual assault or sexual abuse. Processing trauma is not easy, but I can provide you with the support and tools you need to heal. You must meet Turning Point eligibility requirements for services. Call 205-758-0808 or check out turningpointservices.org for more information. Caela Rhea Counseling is self-pay and open nights and weekends for tele-health sessions.
![Photo of Gwendolyn Miniard, MS, CAMS-I, ALC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d57d851-932a-4bf2-a366-69e009085091/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gwendolyn Miniard
Associate Licensed Counselor, MS, CAMS-I, ALC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
Are you or a family member struggling with managing your mental health? If you answered yes, it is very understandable. We are facing unprecedented times and having someone to assist you in managing your mental health could be needed. As an Associate Licensed Counselor, I believe therapy should be individualized to meet the needs of each client. I am diligent in helping individuals, children, and families in overcoming mental health challenges.
Are you or a family member struggling with managing your mental health? If you answered yes, it is very understandable. We are facing unprecedented times and having someone to assist you in managing your mental health could be needed. As an Associate Licensed Counselor, I believe therapy should be individualized to meet the needs of each client. I am diligent in helping individuals, children, and families in overcoming mental health challenges.
![Photo of Ashley Neuhauser, LPC, NBCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e6671fc-339f-49f3-ac47-6def90fb3cd5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Neuhauser
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NBCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with life transitions, college, trauma, or difficult relationships? As a therapist, my goal is to help facilitate your journey towards positive change and control of your life. Clients seeking personal growth in communication, healthy relationships, and assertiveness will find helpful resources with my practice. I enjoy helping those who are seeking autonomy, positive feelings of self-worth, and the ability to adapt to stressful situations through real coping skills. Many of my clients focus on boundary work, assertiveness, and ending family trauma cycles.
Are you struggling with life transitions, college, trauma, or difficult relationships? As a therapist, my goal is to help facilitate your journey towards positive change and control of your life. Clients seeking personal growth in communication, healthy relationships, and assertiveness will find helpful resources with my practice. I enjoy helping those who are seeking autonomy, positive feelings of self-worth, and the ability to adapt to stressful situations through real coping skills. Many of my clients focus on boundary work, assertiveness, and ending family trauma cycles.
![Photo of Jamecha Hill, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44863fa1-90e0-4587-b0c7-55d60b7ee862/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jamecha Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Not accepting new clients
I am currently accepting new clients throughout Alabama. I'm also accepting clients in Florida (telehealth only). I am currently accepting BCBS, Cigna, ALL kids, New Directions, OON, self-pay options for residents in FL. My experience includes working with children/adolescents, adults, and families that may experience depressive and anxiety symptoms, behavioral issues, family conflict, identity issues (sex and racial identity), and life-induced stressors.
I am currently accepting new clients throughout Alabama. I'm also accepting clients in Florida (telehealth only). I am currently accepting BCBS, Cigna, ALL kids, New Directions, OON, self-pay options for residents in FL. My experience includes working with children/adolescents, adults, and families that may experience depressive and anxiety symptoms, behavioral issues, family conflict, identity issues (sex and racial identity), and life-induced stressors.
![Photo of Sarah Tarnakow, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72d58b8f-2893-4290-a111-dfb60701712e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Tarnakow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Not accepting new clients
Evening/weekend appts available! Let's start this journey together. We can celebrate the good times and figure out the hard parts. You deserve to feel heard and understood. We might be a good fit if you want to understand the "why" behind your problems and are ready for change.
Evening/weekend appts available! Let's start this journey together. We can celebrate the good times and figure out the hard parts. You deserve to feel heard and understood. We might be a good fit if you want to understand the "why" behind your problems and are ready for change.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Marian (Tina) Deloach, LPC, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b419cc0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Marian (Tina) Deloach
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northport, AL 35473 (Online Only)
Dealing with stress, grief, anxiety, or depression? The counseling services that I provide are for prevention and intervention to foster development of adaptive and adjustive behavior. Each client is different, and I work to help you find autonomy and to be a self-advocate. I see both adult and adolescent clients, and work to create a therapy plan that is best for each individual. I foster a nurturing, nonjudgemental environment and provide concrete strategies to address client needs.
Dealing with stress, grief, anxiety, or depression? The counseling services that I provide are for prevention and intervention to foster development of adaptive and adjustive behavior. Each client is different, and I work to help you find autonomy and to be a self-advocate. I see both adult and adolescent clients, and work to create a therapy plan that is best for each individual. I foster a nurturing, nonjudgemental environment and provide concrete strategies to address client needs.
![Photo of Ashley N Jones, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94a59890-0e7c-484e-a230-4544382ed249/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley N Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northport, AL 35476
Not accepting new clients
Much like a tapestry, we are a collection of all of our life’s experiences and interactions, both good and bad. Sometimes we develop ways of coping that get us through the bad times but that eventually lose their effectiveness and no longer serve us. One of the greatest honors that I have as a therapist is being able to help my clients repair the tears and worn parts of their tapestry as they learn more about who they are, where they’ve been, and where they want to go while they simultaneously weave in better ways of coping and managing through life’s stressors.
Much like a tapestry, we are a collection of all of our life’s experiences and interactions, both good and bad. Sometimes we develop ways of coping that get us through the bad times but that eventually lose their effectiveness and no longer serve us. One of the greatest honors that I have as a therapist is being able to help my clients repair the tears and worn parts of their tapestry as they learn more about who they are, where they’ve been, and where they want to go while they simultaneously weave in better ways of coping and managing through life’s stressors.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Kayle Lucas, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f75232a-dd19-4039-8510-c6d683cf463c/1/320x400.jpeg)
experiences of child abuse, interpersonal violence, and sexual violence) as well as concerns with depression, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.
Hi! I am Kayle Lucas. I believe that counseling is a sacred space and opportunity for you to be heard and respected. I am grounded in the belief that people can be motivated towards achieving positive psychological functioning, and this is essential to every therapeutic relationship and provides the basis for change to occur. I believe you are an expert of your experience, your wants, and your needs. I do not believe there is one single approach or theory that works for everyone in every situation. I have a diverse understanding of theories and I incorporate a variety of therapeutic principles to create the best treatment for you.
experiences of child abuse, interpersonal violence, and sexual violence) as well as concerns with depression, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.
Hi! I am Kayle Lucas. I believe that counseling is a sacred space and opportunity for you to be heard and respected. I am grounded in the belief that people can be motivated towards achieving positive psychological functioning, and this is essential to every therapeutic relationship and provides the basis for change to occur. I believe you are an expert of your experience, your wants, and your needs. I do not believe there is one single approach or theory that works for everyone in every situation. I have a diverse understanding of theories and I incorporate a variety of therapeutic principles to create the best treatment for you.
![Photo of Julie Vence - Ellie Mental Health (Birmingham-Hoover), LPC, LISW, LMFT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76f78490-acdd-4031-aa87-dfc78e37afb9/1/320x400.png)
Ellie Mental Health (Birmingham-Hoover)
LPC, LISW, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35244
We provide support for anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and more, helping you cultivate resilience and healing.
We offer Evening & Weekend Appointments! Welcome to Ellie Mental Health (Birmingham-Hoover), where authenticity thrives in a safe, compassionate, and inviting space. We are dedicated to providing exceptional care that meets you exactly where you are on your journey. Our empathetic approach recognizes the importance of the whole person, addressing your mental health concerns while embracing your overall well-being. Our goal is to support you in cultivating self-awareness, resilience, and stronger connections. With us, you'll experience a transformative path towards personal growth, increased self-esteem, and a more fulfilling life
We provide support for anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and more, helping you cultivate resilience and healing.
We offer Evening & Weekend Appointments! Welcome to Ellie Mental Health (Birmingham-Hoover), where authenticity thrives in a safe, compassionate, and inviting space. We are dedicated to providing exceptional care that meets you exactly where you are on your journey. Our empathetic approach recognizes the importance of the whole person, addressing your mental health concerns while embracing your overall well-being. Our goal is to support you in cultivating self-awareness, resilience, and stronger connections. With us, you'll experience a transformative path towards personal growth, increased self-esteem, and a more fulfilling life
![Photo of Virginia Rives, MA, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51321d9f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am experienced treating children, adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, personality disorders, self-harm, relationship issues and anger management, among others.
Taking the first step into therapy can be intimidating. Being vulnerable with a complete stranger isn't the most comforting thought. It is my goal to provide an environment that allows you to feel safe to show up and be authentic without fear of judgement. We are all human beings and need help from time to time. My approach to counseling is a collaborative effort aimed at increasing self-awareness and establishing a sense of empowerment in your own life. I focus on meeting clients where they are and facilitating positive change for a healthy, successful life.
I am experienced treating children, adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, personality disorders, self-harm, relationship issues and anger management, among others.
Taking the first step into therapy can be intimidating. Being vulnerable with a complete stranger isn't the most comforting thought. It is my goal to provide an environment that allows you to feel safe to show up and be authentic without fear of judgement. We are all human beings and need help from time to time. My approach to counseling is a collaborative effort aimed at increasing self-awareness and establishing a sense of empowerment in your own life. I focus on meeting clients where they are and facilitating positive change for a healthy, successful life.
See more therapy options for Tuscaloosa
Depression Therapists
What is the goal of therapy for depression?
Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognize and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.
What happens in therapy for depression?
Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.
What therapy types help with depression?
Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioral activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.
Can therapy for depression be done online?
Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.
How effective is therapy for depression?
Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.