Mental Health Therapy in Mississippi

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Therapists in Mississippi

Teresa Worthy

Marion, Mississippi - Licensed Professional Counselor
Online
In Person

As a Licensed Practical Counselor with a rich tapestry of over 20 years in the field, I bring a depth of understanding and a breadth of experience to each session. My journey in counseling has allowed me to support a diverse array of individuals grappling with challenges including depression, anxiety, complex relationship dynamics, addiction, parenting intricacies, the aftermath of trauma, and navigating the complexities of ADHD. My commitment extends profoundly to those who have endured physical or emotional wounds in the shadows of domestic violence. At the heart of my practice is a counseling style that is not just warm, but genuinely engaging and interactive. I firmly believe in the power of respect, sensitivity, and compassion as cornerstones of effective therapy. Stigmatizing labels have no place in our sessions. My eclectic approach weaves together the best elements of cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and rational-emotive counseling philosophies. This integrative blend is then meticulously tailored to resonate with your unique narrative and specific needs. Embarking on a journey toward a more fulfilling and happier life requires immense courage, and acknowledging the need for change is the first, brave step. If you're poised to take this step, I am here not just to support, but to empower you in this transformative journey. Together, we can explore new horizons of emotional wellbeing and personal growth. I am eagerly looking forward to being a part of your journey and working collaboratively with you to unveil the vibrant life you deserve.

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Kimala Flowers

Prentiss, Mississippi - Licensed Professional Counselor
Online

I am a LPC and BC-TMH. I graduated from William Carey College with a Bachelors of General Studies in Business Administration and Psychology; and I received my MS in Rehabilitation Counseling from Jackson State University. I have over 16 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have experience working as an adult clinician, in outpatient community mental health. I focus on working with adults and families often with emotional and mental health problems, by providing mental health counseling. I have experience working with a variety of issues such as suicidal ideations, homicidal ideations, drug and alcohol abuse, depression, self-esteem, anxiety, coping skills, and trauma. I also have experience working in a residential treatment facility with youths and adolescents with behavioral and emotional problems. I enjoy helping others establish goals, meeting those goals, and developing coping skills to help them manage everyday life situations and issues. I have worked with all ages, providing individual therapy, family therapy, and group therapy. My approach to counseling is a cognitive-behavioral perspective; meaning my goal is to help clients change patterns of thinking and behavior by recognizing and changing negative thoughts, learning to manage negative emotions, and controlling unhealthy impulses. Other interventions and treatment approaches that I utilize are DBT and Trauma-Focused therapy.

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Mary Griffith

Hattiesburg, Mississippi - Licensed Professional Counselor
Online

As a licensed therapist with over 15 years of experience, I provide compassionate, holistic support to individuals navigating complex life challenges. My practice centers on understanding each person's unique journey, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and life transitions. I am deeply committed to creating a supportive, affirming therapeutic environment that honors diverse experiences and identities. My approach is rooted in empathy, cultural responsiveness, and evidence-based practices that empower clients to explore personal growth, heal from past wounds, and develop meaningful coping strategies. My professional focus spans a wide range of concerns, including social anxiety, self-love, communication challenges, workplace stress, and multicultural experiences. I work collaboratively with clients to unpack complex emotions, build resilience, and cultivate authentic connections—both with themselves and others. Through a person-centered lens, I support individuals in understanding their inner landscape, confronting barriers, and moving toward more fulfilling, intentional lives. My goal is to walk alongside you with genuine care, respect, and professional guidance. For most people, seeking counseling is a giant step and it takes a lot of courage. If you are ready to work on having a more meaningful life, I am here to support and encourage you. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Ricardo Gillispie, PhD, LCSW

Meridian, Mississippi - Clinical Social Worker/therapist
Online

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

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Lindsey Vining

Gulfport, Mississippi - Clinical Social Worker/therapist
Online

I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW), Sociologist, and Life Coach with over 15 years experience providing therapeutic services to adults, adolescents and children. I have worked with individuals in a variety of settings, including inpatient and outpatient settings, crisis and emergency shelter services, community mental health, and medical clinics. I have worked with persons who have been victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, serious mental health issues and homelessness, among others. My therapy style is motivating and supportive, but direct, while using humor and optimism to develop an effective therapeutic rapport and bring about change. My theoretical orientations primarily used are person-centered and cognitive-behavioral. My approach combines Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. I will tailor our time together and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I have a commitment to quality and compassionate mental health services. I pride myself on being non-biased and non-judgemental. It takes incredible 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 ALWAYS make every effort to accommodate your schedule and/or time zone. If my current availability does not work with your schedule, please message me directly. I'm happy to try my best to make specific accommodations for you! Please note that I diligently check your messages daily, other than Sundays. I look forward to working with you! (she/her/hers)

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Mental Health in Mississippi

In 2024, the Mississippi State Senate Study Group found that 72,000 people across the state visit Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs) each year. Of those, about 23,000 are under 18 years old. There are currently 125 mental health providers in the state, and 11 are designated as CMHCs while the rest are private practices.

While these resources are available, data shows that more than 30% of adults in the state who experience frequent mental distress avoid seeing a doctor due to the high cost.

To help reduce this barrier, the state has mobilized crisis response teams in all 82 counties, staffed by mental health professionals who are available around the clock to provide emergency community-based services.

Government leaders are also taking a stand to help the youngest population access the critical mental health care they need, investing nearly $39 million to expand these services to low- and moderate-income families with children and young adults.

30%

Mississippi adults who experience mental distress, but avoid seeking help due to cost

72,000

People in Mississippi who visit CMHCs

23,000

People under 18 who vist CMHCs

Free Mental Health Resources in Mississippi

Gulfport Behavioral Health System offers dedicated mental health and behavioral health services to children, teens, and adults. They offer free, confidential assessments and both inpatient and outpatient programming. There are also specialized programs for substance use disorders and treatment tracks for veterans, first responders, and active military members.
Mississippi Families as Allies is a nonprofit organization that supports teens and students who are struggling with their mental health. They also have family support services to improve outcomes. Services are offered in Spanish, and there are regularly scheduled events throughout the year where continued care is available.
Provide Services for
Teens & Students
The Mississippi Center for Autism and Related Developmental Disabilities is a nonprofit organization that supports those on the autism spectrum and those with developmental disabilities. Services include assessments, interventions, therapy, educational programming, and family oriented support.
Provide Services for
Autism
Catholic Charities of Jackson works with individuals of all ages and walks of life, including those who’ve been impacted by domestic violence or are living with a disability. Along with these specialized programs, counseling, shelter, and general social support services like access to housing and food are available here. They also offer migrant services and support for those struggling with drug or alcohol use.
Provide Services for
Domestic Violence Disability
Hinds Behavioral Health Services provides a continuum of support, including a 24/7 mobile crisis response team that will serve you free of charge. They also offer countless free resources to homeless individuals and others through their Bridge Drop In Center. Here, you can get connected to housing support, meals, and other immediate services.
Pine Belt Mental Health Care Resources provides comprehensive care to those struggling with a behavioral health challenge. There are specialized counseling services for veterans, children, and those with intellectual or developmental disabilities. There’s also a dedicated chemical dependency program here.
The Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence works with victims of domestic abuse, providing access to shelter, advocacy, and resources that will help them. They offer DV related training to different organizations as well. As a state agency, you can get connected to other resources within your community too.
Provide Services for
Domestic Violence
The Mental Health Association of South Mississippi serves individuals of all ages, providing comprehensive care to address mental health and wellness needs. There are dedicated programs here for homeless individuals, including supportive housing, outreach, and peer support services. There are also mental health care screenings and a drop in center where you can build your educational, social, and work skills.
The Mississippi Council on Developmental Disabilities works with individuals who have a developmental or intellectual disability, including those on the autism spectrum. They provide supportive care, including mental health support for both individuals and their families. They also collaborate with other state services and agencies to ensure comprehensive care.
Provide Services for
Disability Autism
The Mississippi Department of Human Services offers a range of support services to adults, seniors, victims of domestic violence, and those who have an intellectual or developmental disability. You’ll get connected to different resources that can improve your health, wellness, and overall life.
Provide Services for
Seniors Disability Domestic Violence
The Mississippi Department of Mental Health has a 24/7 crisis hotline that you can call if you're experiencing a mental health struggle. This department also offers crisis and stabilization services and can help you start your path to recovery. They support individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
The University of Mississippi Counseling Center supports students and faculty members who are experiencing struggles with their mental health. The center offers free counseling services where you'll work with a licensed professional.
Provide Services for
Teens & Students
NAMI Mississippi is a coalition of families, community members, and individuals who will help you receive supportive care for mental health struggles you or a loved one might be working through. They offer access to free in person and online support groups, educational classes, and a host of advocacy programs throughout the state.
Mental Health Mississippi acts as a hub where residents can turn for mental health resources and support. They also provide anonymous mental health screenings and services to address drug and alcohol struggles you might be facing. Supportive care is available for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities as well.
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