Are you diving into the deep end of life, ready to swim your hardest and experience the thrill of the water? Or are you standing by the shallow end, afraid to even dip your feet in the water? If you struggle with mental wellness issues, just getting into the waters of life, whether they're deep or shallow, can be incredibly difficult to do.
But millions of Americans every day seek the help of mental health professionals, and you
should seek help too. Reach out to a Newton-area therapist or doctor to get the support you
need, and the support you deserve.
Simone Totoro
I have been working in the area of mental health for over 20 years. I am dually licensed in New Jersey as an Professional Counselor (LPC) and Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC). Additionally, I am a Licensed Mental Health Professional (LMHC) in Florida and an LPC in PA and MS. My areas of expertise include Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Trauma and Family Centered Therapy. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and an Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) for those seeking licensure in New Jersey. I enjoy working with adults, and seniors struggling with trauma, mood disorders, depression/anxiety, anger issues and adjustment disorders as well as OCD. In order to offer my clients the best care, I involve myself in ongoing continuing education opportunities. I have specialized training in Telehealth services, Mindfulness, and AAT (Animal Assisted Therapy). It is amazing to see how animal companions can assist us when dealing with life stressors! I am looking forward to helping you develop goals and witness your journey towards recovery. Sometimes the smallest steps in the right direction end up being the biggest steps of your life.
Dr. Lashanda Baylor
Hello! My name is Dr. Lashanda Baylor and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in Mississippi. I am also a Doctor of Professional Counseling.I have been providing Behavioral Therapy for a wide array of issues and populations for 20 years. I would describe my approach as goal oriented, and client centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). Both modalities are hands-on, practical approaches to problem-solving. I believe in treating everyone with respect and dignity. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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!
Dr. Ricardo Gillispie, PhD, LCSW
BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION Ricardo Gillispie, PhD, LCSW I received my Bachelor’s Degree in 1973 in Social Science from Mississippi Valley State University. I was accepted in the first Masters of Social Work Program at the University of Southern Mississippi graduating in 1975. I was awarded the first Social Worker of the Year by the Mississippi Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers in 1992. I was accepted in the first Ph.D. Program in Social Work at Jackson State University graduating in 2000, with the primary focus in Psychotherapeutic Social Work. Prior to retiring from Private Practice, I was part owner and CEO of Family Counseling Services, PLLC in Meridian, MS. This was a Private Behavioral Health Care Group Practice consisting of Psychiatrists, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, PhD Clinical Psychologists, Licensed Professional Counselors and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners. While in Private Practice, I specialized in Marriage and Family Therapy, Cognitive/Affective Disorders, to include patients experiencing Depression, Anxiety and Post Traumatic Disorder. After retirement, I accepted the offer to serve as a group therapist for Rush/Ochsner Intensive Outpatient Psychogeriatric Programs. These are IOP's throughout East Mississippi. In 2000, I accepted to be a consultant for Rush Psychogeriatric Intensive Outpatient Programs. In this role, I help develop the Behavioral Healthcare Program for geriatric patients with mental health, aging and emotional conditions. After developing these Programs, I provided training for social workers, psychiatrist and nurses. Afterward, I surveyed these Programs in accordance to CMS guidelines. In 1999 I accepted the consulting role with East Mississippi Correctional Facility, a private prison under the management of the GEO Group, Inc. in Boca Raton, Florida. In that consulting role, I designed the first exclusive mental health program in corrections in the United States. February 2006, I accepted the full-time position as Deputy Warden of Mental Health Programs with East Mississippi Correctional Facility (EMCF), and maintained my private practice with Family Counseling Services, PLLC. From 1973 to 1985, I served as Assistant Director for Region Ten (Weems) Mental Health Center covering a catchment area of nine counties in East Central Mississippi. In that role, I wrote the Initial Operation Grant for Weems Mental Health Center and other grants. 1986, I served as Clinical Director and an investor of Laurel Wood Psychiatric Hospital in Meridian, MS. I served fifteen years on the Meridian School Board of Trustees, serving two terms as President. I was elected as Region Ten National Association of Social Work Representative for the Nomination and Leadership Committee, representing Mississippi, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Louisiana and Tennessee. 1994, I was appointed to the first Mississippi Social Workers Licensure Board serving one term as chairman. I served as an Auditor of Correctional Facilities in the United States for the American Correctional Association (ACA). Also, I was a Psychiatric Social Worker Surveyor consultant for the Center of Medicaid/Medicare Services (CMS), in which I surveyed public and private psychiatric hospitals for Medicare and Medicaid compliance in the United States. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Diplomat in Clinical Social Work, and Certified by the Academy of Certified Social Workers. 2006, I was inducted in the Hall of Fame at Meridian Community College. I have served as a part-time instructor for Mississippi State University School of Social Working – Meridian Branch, Meridian Community College and Adjunct Faculty for the University of Southern Mississippi School of Social Work. I have provided the following professional presentations: • 2015 Techniques in the Provision of Group Psychotherapy - Rush Hospital Senior Citizens Program • 2017 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – Rush Hospital Senior Citizens Program • Guest speaker for the 2010 American Correctional Association Annual Conference in New Orleans, LA. Topic: Efficacy of Mental Health Services in Corrections • Presenter at 2011 American Correctional Association Annual Conference in Chicago, Ill, Topic: Long Term Segregated Offender Mental Health Program. • Social Work Standards of Practice in Psychiatric Hospitals for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – Seattle, WA • Assessment Interviewing Training for the Mississippi Department of Health and Human Services- Jackson, MS • Stress Management Workshops for Industries, Hospitals and other professional organizations. • Interviewing Skills Training for the Department of Public Welfare; sponsored by the University of Southern Mississippi Continuing Education Department - Gulfport, MS • Assessment Interviewing/Assessment Training for the Bureau of Indian Affairs; Choctaw Reservation - Philadelphia, MS • Developing of Treatment Plans for the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – Baltimore, MD • Guest Speaker for the Institute of Rural Mental Health; Topic: Barriers for African Americans in Obtaining Mental Health Services In the Rural South • Operational Development of the Psychosocial Assessments – Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) – Kansas City, MO I have authored the following publications: Book: How to Prevent the Collision of the Two Worlds we Live, Publisher - Mulberry Book, LLC, 2020. Hospitalized Africa American Men with Mental Illness: Some Antecedents to Service Satisfaction and Intent to Comply with Aftercare. Psychiatric Rehabilitation Skills, Volume 6, Number 3, winter 2002. Hospitalized African American Mental Health Consumers: Some Antecedents to Service Satisfaction and Intent to Comply with Aftercare. American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, Volume 75, Number 2, pp. 254-261, 2005. I have been married to Catherine Nelson Gillispie since 1973. We have a daughter Dr. Veronica Gillispie-Bell who is a physician of OBGY at Ochsner Hospital in New Orleans and son, Rashad Gillispie a graduate of MVSU with a degree in computer science. My wife and I attend North Park church in Meridian, MS a multiracial and cultural congregation. Licensed and Certifications: • Mississippi Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Marriage and Family Counselor - #COO82 • Academy of Certified Social Workers (ACSW) - #881216796 • Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (BCD) - #006164
Brenda Drake
As a licensed therapist serving Mississippi, I bring 19 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on creating compassionate, affirming spaces for healing across diverse life experiences. I specialize in addressing mental health challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. My therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in understanding intersectionality and individual experiences. I'm particularly committed to supporting LGBTQ+ communities, people of color, and individuals navigating complex personal challenges. My work focuses on empowering clients to develop self-love, improve communication, overcome isolation, and rediscover life purpose. I offer expertise in addressing a wide range of concerns, from workplace stress and relationship issues to more nuanced experiences like identity exploration, multicultural challenges, and personal transformation. My goal is to walk alongside you, honoring your unique journey with respect, empathy, and professional guidance.
Laura Gillom
Hello, my name is Laura Gillom. I am an LCSW in Mississippi with over 15 years of psychotherapy experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including stress, depression, anxiety, family conflict, and transitions of life. I have also helped many people who have experienced all types of trauma and emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with dignity, respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stereotyping and stigmatizing labels. I use an eclectic approach to therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Talunja Eskridge
I am an Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in Mississippi. I have over 20 years of counseling experience. I worked as a social worker for the fist half of my life and then went back to get my LPC. I have worked in various areas of therapy including domestic violence, trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use issues that include comorbid diagnoses. I am a compassionate Licensed Professional Counselor committed to providing a safe environment for clients to share feelings, fears, challenges, and goals for themselves and their families. Innovative thinker and problem solver who is dedicated to excellent, evidenced-based care. Interested in research and learning in order to improve patient/client care.
Dr. LaTibbie Johnson- Cavett
As a licensed therapist serving Mississippi, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients through transformative healing, with a deep commitment to addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. My approach honors each person's unique journey, particularly focusing on young adults, women's experiences, and individuals working through family conflicts, social anxiety, and life transitions. I bring culturally responsive care that centers on self-love, communication, and personal empowerment. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I create a compassionate, affirming therapeutic space where clients can explore their deepest challenges. Whether you're confronting isolation, seeking purpose, or healing from difficult experiences, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with understanding and professional guidance. My work is grounded in evidence-based practices that respect your individual strengths and lived experiences. Together, we'll develop meaningful strategies to support your emotional wellness and personal transformation.
Ayanna Gill-Cooper
I am licensed in Mississippi with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Regina Lewis
Hello! I am a licensed therapist in Mississippi with 8 years of professional experience. I specialize in helping clients navigate a variety of challenges, including stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting concerns, motivation struggles, self-esteem, confidence, and career difficulties. I strive to create an open and safe environment where you can share your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. I believe that building a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship is key to helping you achieve your personal goals and improve your overall well-being. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage, and I am proud of you for getting started. I look forward to working together and supporting you on your journey toward a healthier, happier life.
Candice Dorman
I am licensed in Mississippi with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma, abuse, & career difficulties. I also have experience working with despression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Jennifer Heidelberg
I'm Jennifer Heidelberg, I'm passionate about helping people overcome life challenges and move forward. I have a background the medical field As a counselor I have experience in working with a plethora of populations. I help individuals overcome adversity, I'm here to guide you through tough times. If you're struggling with a big or small issue, don't hesitate to reach out.
Reta Chandler
As a licensed therapist in Mississippi, I bring nearly two decades of compassionate counseling experience to supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on understanding each person's unique journey, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and anger management. This also has allowed me to work with those individuals with substance abuse issues and help them to understand triggers in their lives and how to develop and live a sober life. I am deeply committed to helping clients navigate challenging emotional terrain, focusing on areas like self-love, communication challenges, social anxiety, life purpose, and healing from past experiences. My practice honors individual experiences while providing supportive, thoughtful guidance through personal transformation. My therapeutic style integrates evidence-based practices with genuine empathy, creating a safe space where clients can explore their inner world, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. Whether you're struggling with isolation, relationship dynamics, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with professional care and respect.
Kendon Ellerman
I am licensed in Mississippi with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & career difficulties. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Brittany Berry
As a licensed professional counselor, I specialize in counseling adolescents and adults facing challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. My approach integrates mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to create a supportive and personalized space for growth. With a background in crisis intervention, I am committed to helping clients build resilience and develop effective coping strategies. Whether you’re navigating stress, emotional struggles, or personal development, I’m here to support you on your journey.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Newton, Mississippi
Finding a therapist near you in Newton, Mississippi starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Mississippi is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Mississippi, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Mississippi, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Mississippi
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Mississippi, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Mississippi
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Mississippi
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Mississippi through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in Mississippi
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Mississippi, including residents in Newton.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Mississippi do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Newton, Mississippi
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Newton and the surrounding MS area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.