Has your teen been getting in trouble at school or acting out at home? Maybe they are avoiding their friends or staying in bed all the time. These can be symptoms of depression and it is more common in teens than you may think. Pearl has quite a few dedicated counselors trained in teen depression and other mental illnesses. 

The City of Pearl is also known as “the city creating its own future” because they have a strong economy, progressive leadership, and excellent work ethics. Your teen is just starting their future and if they are depressed, they are going to need help getting their future going in the right direction.

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Debra Shelton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,MHSP,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Welcome! It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take those first steps towards change - I’m glad you are here. The courage you are now using to seek help can lead to great rewards and I would be honored to work with you. I’m a licensed therapist with 20 years of experience and have been providing services for Betterhelp for the past 5 years. Regardless of your situation, (whether you just feel stuck or are trying to manage some big challenges in your life) counseling can be helpful and rewarding. My approach combines principles of different therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavior therapy and humanistic counseling. In plain English, that means I believe you have the answers within you and we can work together to uncover them and to find solutions. I work with you to understand how your challenges developed, but I also help you learn new problem solving skills that you can apply to future challenges. We may look into the past sometimes in order to help you gain insight into your challenges and we will try on some new perspectives and new behaviors in an effort to bring about positive changes in your life. Together, we will determine the goals you want to achieve and from there we will collaborate on how to tackle each of them. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you.

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Taylor Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): M.Ed.,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Mississippi as well as a Board Certified Counselor through the National Board for Certified Counselors and a Board Certified TeleMental Health Professional. I have 7 years of post-graduate experience in counseling. I have worked in community mental health since completing my Masters of Education in Counselor Education in 2016, helping individuals with disorders such as depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, social phobia, and bipolar disorder. I also have experience doing college counseling as an intern, where I worked with primarily young adults who were struggling to maintain academic success while coping with life issues. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy which I have used to help several people be able to cope with their traumatic experiences. My counseling approach is geared towards promoting positive self-image, self-acceptance and love, and helping others enhance their worldview. I practice Solution-Focused therapy and Choice Theory along with a Client-Centered and Cognitive Behavioral stance. My goal as a counselor is to assist my clients in living lives that they enjoy and overcoming any obstacles that stand in their way. It is my belief that each person holds the key to their success. Life can be challenging, and we all go through hard times that can cause us to experience setbacks. To be able to ask for help to overcome these challenges and be vulnerable requires humility and strength. I have been honored to serve the clients I have had and help them along in their journey towards emotional freedom and success, and I look forward to continuing to do this with you as well.

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Kimberly Qualls

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
9 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi there. I am Kimberly Qualls, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys client centered therapeutic solutions. I am devoted to helping others become a better version of themselves. On my therapeutic journey, it's been a pleasure to work with a wide range of individuals providing treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma and much more. Focusing on strengths and building a strong rapport are key essentials to success. I have six years of devoted services. Through leading summer day treatment groups and therapeutic activities to teach functional living skills and address behavioral issues with children between the ages of 3 and18, I've also built strong relationships with parents. Caring for others has also been my passion. I've identified risk and resiliency factors within individuals, youth, peer groups, families, schools, and communities. I look forward to developing strategies for interventions while working with you. I also want you congratulate you and encourage you to continue moving forward on your therapeutic journey.

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Gwendolyn Sanders

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefIntimacy-related issuesParenting issues
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Mississippi and Louisiana. I have 20 plus years of experience working with Veterans, Families, Caregiver, Grief and Loss Issues, Aging Issues, Relationship Issues, and Employment Issues. My therapy style is relaxed and inviting. I look forward to meeting you and working with you to create a unique client centered experience as you reach your goals.

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Tina Johnson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
29 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Thank you for reviewing my profile to consider me for services. I have over 29 years experience working with intense clients from youth to developmentally disabled adult males. Currently, I specialize in women's issues regarding professional and personal relationships, finances, low self-esteem, domestic abuse, abuse/neglect with CPS, trauma, anger/stress management, parenting, anxiety, grief/loss, crisis intervention, and wellness. I am a Licensed Certified or Clinical Social Worker with a Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Southern Mississippi. I am originally from San Francisco, CA. I have lived in different places through the course of my adult life. I have raised two children and I have been married. I am divorced. I am particularly skilled at active listening. I see each client as capable of growth and improvement. I believe in the power of encouragement and empowerment but also self-sufficiency as well as self-determination. Again thank you for considering me to help you along your journey and I look forward to working with you.

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Victoria Williams

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I have been a LPC for the last 10 years and have worked with a very diverse group of clients. They range in age from 6 to 60. I specialize in adolescents and trauma. I have also worked with depression, anxiety, personal relationships, parenting problems, addictions, emotional abuse, and physical trauma. I utilize the person centered approach and make the client's best interest the center of all therapy. I promote a mutually respectful therapeutic environment in regards to sexuality and religion. I have worked with LBGQT populations along with adoption and foster parent populations. My approach combines cognitive behavioral therapy, reality therapy, and motivational interviewing. I focus on what the client feels is the problem and help them understand how to work through and deal with others while working on themselves. I ensure the treatment plan and sessions are mutually agreed upon throughout the entire duration of therapy. I have a flexible schedule and can see clients late evenings and weekends.

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Tomecia Payton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT,Psychometrician
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementADHD
28 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am by no means a typical therapist. I'm what some clients have referred to as an in-your-face kind of therapist. It is my philosophy that if we are going to spend time working on improving upon yourself; then let's improve upon yourself! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Mississippi and Alabama for the last 25 years. I have worked for community mental health agencies, the Department of Corrections, The University of Michigan Research Department, the University of Alabama consultant in the area of psychometry, and the Department of Education for the State of Mississippi. I obtained a B. S. degree from William Carey University in 1996, I obtained a master’s degree in Community Counseling from Mississippi State University, and I also completed my ED. S, at Mississippi State University in the year 2000. Since then, I have obtained a certification as a certified psychometrist which allows me to do psychometrics with children. I am currently working to complete my Ph.D. at Mississippi State University. My focus has always been on the youth and the functioning of family development. I would say I specialize in any extreme, odd, or unusual behaviors in children. As a therapist, I believe our quality of life is directly related to the quality of our relationships and the ability to maintain relationships. The most important relationship that I like to focus on is the relationship with oneself. I am a Gestalt therapist by nature and believe that in a therapy session you must focus on the whole person. Gestalt therapy is a form of psychotherapy that is centered on increasing a person's awareness, freedom, and self-direction. It's a form of therapy that focuses on the present moment rather than past experiences. Gestalt Therapy helps the client identify problematic pattern behavior in session, reflect on how their experiences thus far in life have shaped these patterns, and challenge clients to discuss possible solutions or ways to experience the problem in a new way. Through mindfulness practice, I help clients be more aware of their actions and the consequences that follow. Now let’s get to work!

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Valerie Aikens

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Mississippi with 10 plus years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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.

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Anna Mercante

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the States of Louisiana and Mississippi. I specialize in providing therapy to those with chronic medical illnesses, substance use disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders and those struggling with life transitions. I received my Bachelors in Psychology from Creighton University and my Masters of Social Work from Louisiana State University. Prior to entering private practice I have served as a clinical director for a behavioral health hospital, an addictions therapist, medical social worker, and a community mental health professional. Therapy is an opportunity for you to learn about yourself and to achieve personal growth. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, the treatment modalities I use are tailored to your individualized needs. I am here to help you work through your difficulties and to support you in achieving your personal goals. Everyone has a reason for seeking therapy, it could be to share your thoughts and feelings with a safe and non-judgmental person or to find solutions to the issues in your life.

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Kimberly Mason Peeples

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesEating disordersSelf esteem
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Mississippi with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & eating disorders. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Pearl

Finding the best therapist close by in Pearl 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 Pearl 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 Pearl. 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 Pearl, 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 Pearl region and in the state of Mississippi. 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 Pearl 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 Pearl area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Pearl 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 Pearl, elsewhere in Rankin, or in the greater state of Mississippi.

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 Pearl 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 Pearl 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 Pearl 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 Pearl may not take health insurance, some in the state of Mississippi 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 Mississippi 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 Pearl online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Pearl, Mississippi 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 Pearl 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 Pearl 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 Pearl 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 Pearl 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 Pearl 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 Pearl?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Pearl 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.

Pearl 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 Pearl 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 Pearl 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 MS, 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 39208 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 Pearl counselor?

Before seeing your Pearl 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 Pearl.

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 Pearl 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 Pearl 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 Pearl, Mississippi 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.

Pearl 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 Pearl, Mississippi

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Pearl.

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

39208

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