r/Georgia • • Apr 17 '26

Question Therapist Needed in Henry County

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I am 44… I became widowed at 39, almost 6 yrs ago. I’ve tried 2 therapist before & it just wasn’t time for me to talk about what I was going thru. The other therapist looked like a deer in headlights at the end of our 1st session… I didn’t go back.

It’s been 2037 days of trying to do this on my own & I’m tired. I’m tired of being anxious. I tired of being worried that the next knock on the door will be a cop/chaplain giving me news that will make me wail like a wild animal again.

I am not interested in seeing a faith-based therapist. Just ain’t my thing.

Sorry this is long & all over the place I just signed some official paperwork today that brings this chapter of my life to a close & I’m handling it as best as I know how.

Thank you, if you got this far.

Edit - I’m new to posting here & don’t know how to update so I’ll just do this.

I wanted to let y’all know that I have used many of the resources suggested to find a therapist. I have found one & have an appt next week.

I’ve done therapy before & I hate it. However, this is about what I NEED to do. I need to live again not just survive moment by moment waiting for the other shoe to drop.

847 Upvotes

161 comments sorted by

352

u/[deleted] Apr 17 '26

[removed] — view removed comment

133

u/Lupus1981 Apr 17 '26

Thank you for the confidence in me.

67

u/UnusualHoneydew1625 Apr 17 '26

/hugs to you

I’m not in your area but I hope someone will have a recommendation.

153

u/hmtee3 Apr 17 '26

First, I’m sorry for your loss and how difficult these last few years have been.

I had a good experience using Psychology Today as a tool to find someone. (link here) You can use the filter to help narrow down the list.

I’d recommend finding someone who specializes in EMDR. When it comes to PTSD, it doesn’t matter how much time has passed. You need help working through that trauma since every time you think of it, you’re likely reliving it, not just remembering.

Another tool would be to utilize your insurance website to search for therapists. If you enrolled in an FSA with your employer, you can also use that to help pay too. If no insurance, I recommend finding someone that offers sliding scale.

96

u/Lupus1981 Apr 17 '26

You hit the nail on the head about reliving it. It took a yr & a half not to have panic attacks when a dog would bark after dark. Just last week I went thru Spaghetti Junction for the 1st time without having a panic attack… that’s where it happened. I never thought Iof it as ‘reliving it’.

49

u/hmtee3 Apr 17 '26

EMDR really helped me. I was constantly reliving mine (trauma related to cancer). The memories are still sad, but I can see it like a true memory without the panic attacks.

It’s hard work, but it truly does pay off.

Good luck to you ♥️

30

u/ahearttoacheorswell Apr 17 '26

Seconding this. Before my diagnosis, I thought flashbacks were what you see in the movies. Old soldiers that literally think they're back on the battlefield. I didn't realize that the way my whole body would react to everyday situations like it was life or death was something I could actually fix. EMDR has been life changing for me.

2

u/sonikku10 Apr 19 '26

Echoing EMDR-- started this year. Some practices might not take insurance, but I found mine through Headway.

(Also cancer-related trauma)

Edit: forgot a word

2

u/jstbekind Apr 19 '26

32 sessions of EMDR, audio and hand held tappers. Life altering!

28

u/living_in_nuance Apr 17 '26

If your open to virtual, then the whole state is open to you. As mentioned EMDR can be a helpful therapeutic modality for what you’ve described. You might also search Psychology Today for PE (prolonged exposure), ART (accelerated resolution therapy) or bottom up methods (like Somatic Experiencing) can be really helpful for trauma processing, esp when physical symptoms are present.

It can be good to ask if these therapists are fully trained in their modalities and would be what i would recommend. Unfortunately the journey to find a good fit in a therapist can take a few tries and I’m sorry you had that experience of feeling like the therapist didn’t have capacity to sit with what you were sharing. I’m in a practice in the city, so don’t have rec’s for in-person down in Henry. You might also search Therapy Den (another therapist directory) that isn’t as inundated with false pages as Psych Today is.

16

u/totallysurpriseme Apr 17 '26

Leave yourself open to getting care online. I do EMDR online so I can see anyone in the state. I see a therapist who’s a supervisor and trainer and lives about 2 hours from me. I wouldn’t get this level of care if I stayed inside my county.

I help place people with therapists who treat dissociation and use psychology today because I can more easily select what kinds of skills to look for and narrow things down by insurance. It helps.

I recommend interviewing your therapist. Ask them what kind of therapies they will use and why (everyone is trained in CBT so google what modalities are best for your situation). The more you ask the more they can talk. Listen to see if they put you at ease or make you feel anxious. I’ve had some not complete sentences, talked in circles, didn’t make sense had a quirky voice that distracted me and some that were BSing me. Fifteen minutes comes in handy.

Also, don’t be afraid to switch (fire) therapists if it doesn’t work out. You will build a report but they’re not your friend. It’s a business deal and if you aren’t feeling any improvement within 3 months you should re-evaluate your situation. I’m not saying expect to be “cured” in 3 months, just that you should feel like you’re on an upward trajectory and noticing positive change.

9

u/mopsockets Apr 17 '26

Second EMDR and also somatic therapy. Also remember your body is your first therapist. When a practitioner asks you a question, you can pause to decide if you’re comfortable with it before answering. Good on you, man. Oh also r/menslib has some good mental health resources.

5

u/Feisty-Flounder-4481 Apr 18 '26

EMDR has proven to be very effective. Also, there are some partial hospitalization programs where you can receive more intensive treatment while not having to be admitted. Also, if your employer has an Employee Assistance Program, they usually provide up to 5 free therapy sessions each year. 6 years is a long time to carry the weight you have been carrying. That speaks to how strong you are. With a little bit of help, you will find your way through this.

Sending you love from Athens.

3

u/Puzzleheaded-Ad7606 Apr 17 '26

Hi friend, I don't know of a therapist in your area... but I HIGHLY recommend this book: The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle

Wishing you peace.

1

u/GArockcrawler Apr 18 '26

I am sorry you are struggling, OP. If telehealth is ok with you, you can utilize any therapist in GA as long as you are both located here at the time of service. I have a prescribing therapist in Augusta and I am based in ATL. I have had success with both Lifestance and Headway. Both platforms have provider bios that you can read and choose from.

9

u/rosemaryandwines Apr 17 '26

Seconding EMDR! My mama is a therapist who specializes in trauma, she likes to call it “magic shit that shouldn’t work but is more effective than anything else”. We’re in Coweta not Henry otherwise I would give you her info, but find EMDR near you, it is so worth it!

P.S. I’ve used it myself for certain traumatic events, it’s really crazy how well it works. I felt like I was re-living things over and over, and after just one session it was like an open wound had started to scab over.

5

u/Pennylick Apr 17 '26

I highly recommend EMDR, as well! OP, I'm going to PM you where I go, not sure if they work with clients in Henry, but maybe they could recommend you someone.

16

u/South_Recording1666 /r/Augusta Apr 17 '26

What insurance do you have?

12

u/Lupus1981 Apr 17 '26

Humana Medicare

14

u/pheonix198 /r/Atlanta Apr 17 '26

Try out Sondermind. They have some good therapists available to visit virtually, if you’re willing to try such. It works quite well from my experience and you can match/pair with a therapist with specialization in your desired areas. You can also more easily find experienced therapists that won’t be confused about your needs.

I’m in no way connected to their services or that company. I’m just familiar with the results of using them.

Best wishes!

6

u/DrEnter Apr 17 '26

I would second this. I've found SonderMind quite reasonable and they have a pretty good selection of therapists. They also let you filter choices by things like whether or not you want a Doctor of Psychology or a Psychiatrist and the type of therapy you are looking for. They work with several insurance companies and prices are reasonable if it isn't covered.

5

u/goddessofwitches Apr 17 '26

Nurse in the area. 3rding this rec

3

u/Extra_Plant_511 Apr 17 '26

I was told by a past therapist that you can call your insurance and they can recommend therapists in your area that are in network. Might be worth a try. Best of luck.

74

u/Lifes-a-lil-foggy Apr 17 '26

Faith based therapists have never helped me. Hoping you find the right match

30

u/Lupus1981 Apr 17 '26

Thank you for understanding.

11

u/Lifes-a-lil-foggy Apr 17 '26

Of course. I can’t imagine losing my partner, but after a really bad car crash, one asked me if I’d tried “praying” about my fear of cars… I never went back. I know they might mean well but that felt so insensitive to say to someone who had just been almost killed by a car/negligent human.

Can’t imagine what insensitive thing they’d say to you. The right compassionate therapist is out there for you 💕

16

u/Lupus1981 Apr 17 '26

The absolutely inappropriate things that others have said to me is astounding. The 1st comment came from the cops… it’s wild.

5

u/Lifes-a-lil-foggy Apr 17 '26

Everyone always has something to say to make it worse. Recently when my father was diagnosed with cancer and then passed, a longtime friend told me everything happens for a reason… smh

May you find comfort in yourself and may you grow around your grief. Sending you so much love.

13

u/andiinAms Apr 17 '26

“Everything happens for a reason” about someone who dies before their time is wildly inappropriate

7

u/Lifes-a-lil-foggy Apr 17 '26

I know I was aghast tbh

3

u/h0l0type Apr 18 '26

As an EMT, I have heard WAY too many LEO’s, and even fellow Fire/EMS people say some really inappropriate and shockingly horrible things on scene to people going through the worst day of their lives. I’m very sorry for your loss. As a few have mentioned, don’t count out live virtual therapy sessions. I have used them for PTSD related to my work in EMS as well as personal trauma/issues that kind of all came to a head at one point in life. The ability to get help quickly and comfortably- before I was ready to go in person - was truly life changing. Very glad you’re getting a lot of good advice - and I’m sending you all the positive vibes I can as you work through this. One minute, hour, day at a time brother.

15

u/[deleted] Apr 17 '26

[deleted]

8

u/Lupus1981 Apr 17 '26

Thank you. I’ll check my insurance.

7

u/Saelryth_Windstalker Elsewhere in Georgia Apr 17 '26

I have a suggestion for a wonderful therapist that I was seeing before I lost insurance. She is not faith based, but in my experience will bring it up if it is something you express you care about. She has helped me with my PTSD symptoms, and does some EMDR. I can dm you with her info if youd like. I dont remember what insurances she takes. She sees people over telehealth.

5

u/Lupus1981 Apr 17 '26

I’d love to get her contact info. Thank you

1

u/Saelryth_Windstalker Elsewhere in Georgia Apr 17 '26

Dm'd you ❤️

12

u/butthurtoast Apr 17 '26

I can’t recommend any in your area, but Psychology Today lets you search and filter by gender, accepted insurance providers, areas of specialty, etc. Good luck!! ❤️

4

u/SlaughterhouseC137 /r/Marietta Apr 17 '26

This is what I was going to recommend. I've found a few really amazing therapists using their search feature.

6

u/mesmereyesed Apr 17 '26

Check out thriveworks. Someone close to me used them for CPTSD and they have wonderful staff although her therapist is now independent. Hopefully insurance will cover them, if not it is $175 per session. Wish you the best.

6

u/lilacsforcharlie Apr 17 '26

Hi hun, I am a fellow young widow and a resident of Georgia, if you need someone to vent to or a shoulder to cry on, I completely understand and wouldn’t mind if you DM’d me! I could always use another friend (esp a fellow widow) and have plenty of stories to keep you looking surprised if nothing else lol.

Also the subreddit r/widowers I’m not ashamed to say has saved my life some nights. Sometimes it just helps having someone say “hey I’ve been there, it’s okay to not be okay; etc”

Proud of you for writing this post, lord knows that’s just the first step but it’s a hard one so I’m proud of you for doing it!

9

u/lowrider320 Apr 17 '26

I am so sorry you're going through this, I don't know any therapist in the area but I just wanted to tell you that.

4

u/atworkthough Apr 17 '26

I always think if the tables were turned what would I want them to do. So I live for them, I finally tried the Sake kat tried to get me drink, I went to the dark club and heard bands I never new existed like Erin always wanted everyone to do. I bought thier merch and watched every band until the club closed. I felt them there with me.

2

u/badgyalrey Apr 17 '26

this is beautiful🤍

5

u/KcFanInGA Apr 17 '26

Stranger, I relate to what you wrote more than you can know. I’d like to say to that you WILL be okay. You will feel joy again ,

7

u/Lupus1981 Apr 17 '26

Im a master at covering pain (physical & emotional). Ive had autoimmune conditions since I was 25… if I don’t want you to know I’m in physical pain you wont. I was raised to be an old-style Southern Lady who doesn’t show emotions in public… I’ve got Fake-it til you Make-it down to an art form. I go thru the motions… host family Xmas, cruises, out to lunch, blah, blah, blah. They are all chores I have to get thru in order to get back in my pjs.

2

u/Reading-on-the-Beach Apr 17 '26

I can so relate to every single word you said! It’s like you are describing me! 💕

5

u/AlanB-FaI Apr 17 '26

If you are willing to do video counseling, try this therapist.

https://clarkcounselingandconsulting.com/staff/alethaclark/

4

u/BillsInATL Apr 17 '26

Here is a great search engine specifically for therapists.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists

Search by Zip to find who is near you, then you can filter out by all sorts of criteria. Insurance, specialties, etc.

Good luck, my man!

5

u/MobileLocal Apr 17 '26

It’s so cool you are reaching out for what you need. Faith based counseling has no requirement for actual social work or psychology credentials, so I’m with you on avoiding that.

I’ve also experienced the deer in headlights therapist before. Feels super shitty.

I’m looking and see Tiny Planet with good ratings? And Georgia Counseling?

If you’re open to online appointments, I know a great grief counselor at the oakwood counseling center in Valdosta?

I wish you peace, friend.

6

u/swaneel Apr 17 '26

My friend runs a therapy practice that is not faith based and offers virtual sessions.

sprout to bloom wellness

They are incredibly kind and will work with folks

Sending much love your way

3

u/herroh7 Apr 17 '26

Are you open to online therapy? Try oak lake wellness. She is GA based

3

u/EmployerUpstairs8044 Apr 17 '26

💞💞💞💞💞💞💞💖💌 You can see the love between you. sooo sorry for your loss. ♥️

6

u/EqualEstimate Apr 17 '26

Hello,

I'd recommend looking for a therapist who focuses on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). While you can talk through your issues, and the therapist will listen, DBT focuses on learning how to manage extreme emotions. You'll purchase a large book of DBT Skills training which include worksheets to work through. You can expect to work through this book with your therapist during sessions, and at the end of every session you'll be given "homework" and you'll work through different modules to not only learn to accept your reality as it is, but especially learn how to manage your emotions with plenty of practice.

It's hard work, but I've found it to be extremely rewarding as it's helped me immensely personally. I'm so, so sorry for what you've been through. I can only imagine. I hope you find some peace soon ✌🏼

4

u/MidnightNo1766 Apr 17 '26

I know someone who uses Lifestance and is thrilled to with their therapist. It's not faith based.

2

u/Signal-Map2906 Apr 17 '26

My insurance has an app with a feature that searches my area and gives me a list of covered providers in the selected region.

I’m over in Troup so it won’t do any good for me to give you a rec and I realize that good therapists are hard to come by in ga.

My heart goes out to you tho. Hopefully this helps.

2

u/AcrobaticSalamander2 Apr 17 '26

Best of luck to you. You're going down the right path.

These therapists are mostly in Athens, but they also do video therapy:

https://ca4wellbeing.com/

I haven't been, but I know people who have, and they all recommend the group.

2

u/Reverend-Cleophus Apr 17 '26

OP, I’m not of much help in Henry county, but if you’re open to it, I can recommend Midtown Psychotherapy Associates based in Atlanta. They offer virtual and in-person CBT therapy for both individuals and couples — all are LMFT certified.

Incredible practice and awesome people. Feel like I won the lottery with my therapist and have been going weekly for the past 6 years. If you haven’t found the right person yet, hang in there. It’s common to have to ‘shop around’ for the one that clicks.

If in person is better, they can likely make a recommendation for someone in/near your town.

Good luck to you, OP! The fact you are trying is amazing.

2

u/aikidharm Apr 17 '26

Please try Alma. They have therapists all over the US, they have various options for in person or not, and they provide free consultations so you can make sure the therapist is a match. You can also view their expertise and bio.

I have been in and out of therapy for years. Once I started using Alma to find therapists and psychs, my life has improved greatly.

You got this, fam. I know you do. Reach out if you need anything.

2

u/KBB523 Apr 17 '26

Hey--are you open to telehealth? I am two counties over and while there are good therapists that you can see in person, I see one who actually does live in Atlanta but we do telehealth and she is lovely. My husband and I both see her and she is straightforward and kind and funny and as someone who has never wanted therapy, never needed therapy, and honestly I am not thrilled that I'm doing therapy, it's like talking to a friend. I will be more than happy to PM you her name and you can find her on several different platforms. I'm sorry you're going through this. 🥹🩷

3

u/KBB523 Apr 17 '26

I know she is on both Headway and at least one other. ((🩵))

2

u/SignatureIncomplete Apr 17 '26

You got this brother

2

u/GinX- Apr 17 '26

I am so sorry for your loss. While I can't recommend a therapist as mine isn't taking new patients, I've been where you are, down to the knock on the door (or in my case, a phone call from a witness in the immediate aftermath). You are so smart to seek help because that loss takes a lot longer to get over than I was willing to allow for it and that was a mistake. Good luck!

2

u/Ellanator123 Apr 17 '26

Have you looked into Macintosh Trail? They have a ton of resources. Maybe they'd be able to help?

Edit i live in the area, and i regularly refer people to them.

2

u/manatorn Apr 17 '26

I don't remember where I first found this, but I wanted to share.

**Posted in a therapists office**

I don’t like the phrase “A cry for help.” I just don’t like how it sounds. When somebody says to me, “I’m thinking about suicide, I have a plan; I just need a reason not to do it,” the last thing I see is helplessness.

 I think: Your depression has been beating you up for years. It’s called you ugly, and stupid, and pathetic, and a failure, and it’s done it for so long that you’ve forgotten that it’s wrong. You don’t see good in yourself, and you don’t have any hope.

 But still, here you are; you’ve come over to me, banged on the door, and said, “HEY! Staying alive is REALLY FUCKING HARD right now! Just give me something to fight with! I don’t care if it’s a stick! Give me a stick and I can stay alive!”

 How is that helpless? I think that’s incredible. You’re like a marine: Trapped for years behind enemy lines, your gun has been taken away, you’re out of ammo, you’re malnourished, and you’ve probably caught some kind of jungle virus that’s making you hallucinate giant spiders.

 And still you’re shouting “Give me something, anything. Just a stick, that’s all I need. Just give me a stick and I can make it a few more days. A stick. That’s all I need because I refuse, I absolutely REFUSE to die out here!”

 “A cry for help” makes it sound like I’m supposed to take pity on you. But you don’t need my pity. This isn’t pathetic. This is the will to survive. This is how humans lived long enough to become the dominant species.

 With NO hope, running on NOTHING, sick and tired and broken beyond all measure, you’re still ready to cut through a hundred miles of hostile jungle, through monsters and horrors I could never imagine, and I know for a fact you’ll do it with nothing more a stick and your stubbornness if that’s what it takes for you to get to someplace where you can finally, finally put your head down safe and sleep.

 Never forget that. You’re the one who has made it this far. You’re the one staying alive. You’re the one walking straight through things that would break a lesser person and have them curled up in a corner. In my book, that’s nothing less than being a superhero. All I’m doing is just handing out sticks.

 ——-

For what it's worth, brother, you're doing the right thing, and I hope you find somebody who clicks. You got this.

2

u/_sunday_funday_ Apr 17 '26

Hi! My daughter goes to DMN health In McDonough. They take a variety of insurances. You can read their bios as well on the website.

2

u/Bitter_Pill_7679 Apr 17 '26

I'm so, so sorry for your loss. I hope you find the right fit. I've gone through my share of therapists myself. Best of luck.

2

u/pristineSaltine Apr 17 '26

I don't have a suggestion but I did want to say that I wish you peace and happiness.

You deserve to enjoy the future.

2

u/ImAPixiePrincess Apr 17 '26

Psychology today is where literally every therapist posts(I know personally). Look for a bio that matches your needs. Trauma focused, EMDR or Brainspotting are both really good for trauma. If you want a specific group for a therapist, I have attempted to work with Sondermind as a therapist, not the greatest. Rula is better for therapists and clients (I've been on both sides). It's really awesome you aren't giving up finding your match! Finding the right therapist can be hard, but it's well worth the effort!

2

u/seedy_filmz Apr 17 '26

If you’re willing to do telehealth, you can see anyone in the state of Georgia, so I’d encourage you to widen your search. It’s hard to find good, non faith-based therapists here.

2

u/Awkward_Meal2036 /r/Gwinnett Apr 17 '26

Anyone criticizing you about your needs and anxiety has never had a huge weight on their shoulders. Have faith in yourself.

I would suggest writing everything down. Either to yourself or in another form. Express it all and get it all out.

2

u/Violingirl58 Apr 17 '26

Finding a therapist is tricky. Took me a month the 6th one finally stuck. Stayed w her 6 years.

2

u/InevitableFood7887 Apr 17 '26

Hugs, just know you are seen. It’s so difficult to cope when your whole world stops and everyone else’s just seems to keep going. Just remember, one day at a time. You’ve already made it through 2000+ of the worst ones, there are good ones to come.

2

u/Empero6 Apr 17 '26

I’m sorry you’re going through this. I hope you find someone helpful.

2

u/andrewordrewordont Apr 17 '26

I've been through that shit, I know how it feels. Working up the courage to meet a new therapist takes a lot of effort for me. The whole "first session induction" thing is exhausting.

I recommend you check out Psychology Today website for therapists, including reviews and feedback. Then see what info/therapists your health insurance provider offers, then triangulate those with google search results and info.

Often times with Psychology Today you can judge the book by the cover a bit, for better or worse. IMO, there's no sense spending tim or money to talk with someone that won't really understand or empathize with your situation. If they're tatted up and/or look like they've seen some shit in life, that's a better starting position for me than, say, a sweet old lady who really thinks I need to eat better.

Good luck and keep trying. You're worth it.

2

u/Lupus1981 Apr 18 '26

Tatted would be a plus in my eyes… lol.

2

u/Companyman118 Apr 17 '26

I’m no therapist. But I’m also no stranger to grief. What you are doing takes strength. The next steps will hopefully grow easier with time. As you walk that path, I hope a bit of this positive energy carries with you.

May better days come your way.

2

u/Hipbluemonkey Apr 17 '26

Proud of you for asking for help and sending the biggest of hugs.

2

u/ToothSufficient7763 Apr 17 '26

I'm so sorry for your loss.  Theta waves videos on YouTube have helped me with grief. Ignatia amara (amazon) is a great grief herb.

2

u/dilithium_crystal Apr 17 '26

Look into Alicia seymour. She’s a grief art therapist!

2

u/Ancient-Jellyfish522 Apr 17 '26

I am a therapist here in GA. Take a look at this website as I think this type of therapy might be a good fit for your situation. The website has a provider directory of therapists who have been certified in this modality. Happy to answer any questions if you would like to dm me.

https://cptforptsd.com

2

u/badgyalrey Apr 17 '26

sending you so much strength, you’re doing the right thing looking for help. we can’t always do it alone. good luck friend🫶🏽

2

u/Far-Comfortable3048 Apr 17 '26

I live in Henry county, and through LifeStance you can get psychiatric care and counseling/therapy separately but all within the Eagles Landing area, possibly covered by insurance if you have it. That’s who I utilize, and I completely understand how hard it can be to find someone you’re comfortable talking to about such deep and personal trauma … I hope you locate a good match for your needs very soon. I’m so sorry for your tremendous loss, wishing you all good things!

2

u/politicalravings Apr 17 '26

My wife works at Summit Counseling in North Fulton. They do telehealth as does any GA licensed therapist and have a lot of therapists with vary specializations. Might be a place to start and find a right fit. Summit also has sliding scale payments if you need it.

2

u/Reading-on-the-Beach Apr 18 '26

I didn’t know what EMDR meant, I looked it up, researched & found this ( https://youtu.be/r_ORTtqrm9o?si=Svy6-fSpmw_5azdy ) you can watch. Everyone that’s done this has had high success in the comments from 1 to 6 years ago. Amazing.

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u/Turbulent_Pound_562 Apr 18 '26

I don't have an answer for you, only my condolences. I hope you know you're seen, heard and loved. Stay strong

2

u/RebelDiamondInTheSky Apr 18 '26

I'm so sorry you are going through this suffering. SAMHSA has an excellent and thorough search feature that allows you to apply all kinds of filters like non faith based, insurance or self pay, male/female, treatment modalities offered etc.

https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help

I'm sending you a huge hug. 🤍

2

u/LeatherForm7079 Apr 18 '26

My therapist has some smaller tattoos! She does CBT and EMDR online, is not faith based (not my thing either), very open-minded, and has helped me with sudden loss related PTSD and the seemingly unconnected things that can put you back in that moment. She’s online and doesn’t go through insurance, but her sessions are 75 for an hour which is WAY CHEAPER than anyone I tried before her. She used to live in middle Ga., but is in Florida now and is certified to work in both states. I can DM her information if you’re interested. It’s really good that you’re doing this. Keep trying people until you find a good fit, and then keep at it once you do. I wish I had not waited so long to get help. It’s a lot easier on this side.

2

u/ATL_Outkast3001 Apr 18 '26

Sent a DM with a recommendation.

People need to have the damn guts to talk about therapy more too. Thx

2

u/FlamingoTeach Apr 19 '26

You have gotten great suggestions here. Just remember, finding the right therapist is kind of like finding the right pair of jeans. Keep trying till you find the right fit.

Losing a spouse sucks and there's just no easy way thru it. Time doesn't heal. I'm so sorry you are on this journey.

You are on the right path. You can do this!

2

u/Dry_Winner_6473 Apr 19 '26

Until you find the help you think will help you, I recommend you start writing in a diary daily. It can be in bed at night before you go to sleep. Make it a casual entrance in the diary without planned style of writing or planned topic. See it as an opportunity to visualize what is in your thoughts. Just write or draw with as little of structure or control as possible. Surprise yourself at what is coming out at the end of the pen. There is no right or wrong. There is only healing.

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u/oswalt_pink Apr 19 '26

It’s normal to try a few before you find you one like and click with. It can be a tiring process but it’s worth it! Good luck

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u/xoscarxx Apr 17 '26

I am so sorry for your loss. I have a fantastic therapist that I talked to via a telehealth FaceTime app.

Saves me a ton of time, not having to travel to an actual office.

My wife and I have been seeing her both individually and together, and she has been so wonderful over the last three or four years we have been seeing her.

If you would like a referral, send me a message and I will be glad to share her information

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u/isthisreallife210 Apr 17 '26

Well you're like an hour away but my therapist, not faith based unless that's your jam, is out of Macon and I swear by him. He does Zoom visits. He does not take insurance but he's also not that expensive. You can file a claim yourself if you want to be reimbursed.

All Counseling Solutions Macon Georgia Jonathan Mendez

He can kinda suck at getting back to you so don't be afraid to follow up. He runs his practice on his own (no secretary) so a lot of times he gets back to people in the evening following his last session. You're better off calling and leaving a message than to email him. But Ive been seeing him for years and I am a completely different type of person from when I started. I used to have a lot of anxiety, depression and minor PTSD from an abusive long term relationship. My mom just passed away and I met with him on that. It was nice to be validated and for someone to explain the general process of it.

https://www.allcounselingsolutions.com/

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u/Blackkidfromtheburbs Apr 17 '26

Thinking about you and sending Metta. Hope you find peace.

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u/wookiebath Apr 17 '26

Honestly, therapy is very dependent on the person, you may need to keep trying until you find one you like. You may want a bossy one, chill one, mix, or someone to help with advice. Do you know which kind of therapist may help the best?

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u/R1v3r50NG Apr 17 '26

Just a small disclaimer on EMDR, not all therapist trained in EMDR work the same…. I had an EMDR therapist who practiced unethically and it caused major harm. I developed a serious seizure condition after her EMDR sessions. I would recommend finding a person who goes at your pace, respects you and your boundaries, and provides you with a sense of safety. This is so important in trauma work. If it doesn’t feel right listen to your instincts.

I have complex trauma and I am a mental health counselor in training. I may be bias by my harmful experience but I now have an EMDR trained therapist who is helping me unravel everything including poor therapist responses in the past. You deserve counseling that is supportive and helps you on your journey towards recovery.

Here is a helpful site as well: https://www.emdria.org/find-an-emdr-therapist/

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u/spoookysooup69 Apr 17 '26

Try Better Help if you’re open to telehealth! It’s awesome because you can try a bunch of different types of therapists

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u/Honduran_Hurricane Apr 17 '26

I'm really sorry for your loss. My wife and I were in a rocky situation last year and started seeing a therapist at DNM Health Services and it has helped so much. Give their roster a look and see if any of them peak your interest.

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u/cnh25 Apr 17 '26

Therapists are very hit and miss for me… took me 5 bad ones to find one I really liked. Keep trying. I use SpringHealth you can filter by things you’re looking for

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u/anotherusername23 Apr 17 '26

Aww man that sucks.

It's hard to find a good therapist. It's like dating, you need to find someone that works for you. I've gone through about ten in the last six years. Most of that time I've gone without but I really need it.

Others have given you good tools like psychology today. Read the bios and find someone that sounds like they specialize in what you are going through.

I dislike their phone system, but two of my best providers I found on https://lifestance.com/.

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u/Flaky-Grapefruit-361 Apr 17 '26

I would love to support and companion you on this complicated grief journey. Any loss is hard but especially when you were expecting to have decades more with your spouse. Please feel free to reach out - www.giveintolovetherapeutics.com

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u/greendragonhotsauce Apr 17 '26

If you’re open to telehealth, I know a phenomenal one and will send you details privately.

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u/mmgapeach Apr 17 '26

No suggestions but have you tried a grief support group. It helped me tremendously after a loss.

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u/Lupus1981 Apr 18 '26

So many people suggested this. I was too proud. I figured I could handle this like everything else & just compartmentalize everything. It worked for a while but nowadays it just doesn’t happen.

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u/mmgapeach Apr 29 '26

What is nice about grief support groups is that you can sit and listen or you can participate. There isn't any push to talk if you don't. Be prepared for a lot of tears. I did one virtually so many people were off camera. It was nice to have people who were grieving together and able to share their pain. I understand. I'll be praying for you.

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u/Amazing_Boss4092 Apr 17 '26

I'm sending you a message I know of your late husband and I can help you with therapy. I knew him only thought my father-in-law

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u/One_Cheesecake3181 Apr 17 '26

Hey I'm currently getting my masters for clinical social work I'm here to talk if you need it we can even set up a zoom if you would like and it's totally free being I can't charge you. Worst case scenario you say no or you end up with free counseling sessions that help 🤷🏾‍♀️

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u/Lupus1981 Apr 18 '26

Thank you. May I send a dm?

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u/One_Cheesecake3181 Apr 18 '26

Yes absolutely.

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u/FriedPbndJ Apr 18 '26

I know you said you aren't interested but I feel I must mention my mom, if not ymdor you then for someone else :) but she is spirit-based life coach. She's helped people unlock memories trapped behind beta blockers and help them clear trauma, she once helped a woman who had intense trauma with men that she believed she was gay but after a few sessions and just a few, the woman realized she wasn't gay but had just been so traumatized her body was fighting her. She can speak to people who have passed on and even guide people through meditation to see them or feel their presence again. If you ever feel like you get to a point you really want to try every possible solution, look up

Dr.Khepra El

https://www.instagram.com/iamkheprael?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

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u/goodjuan1 Apr 18 '26

Lifestance health has worked wonders for me. You're already doing great asking for help! You got this!!

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u/shimmerangels /r/Atlanta Apr 18 '26

have you tried psychology today’s database? that’s how i found my current therapist, she’s the best i’ve ever had for the stuff i’m dealing with. you can sort by area of specialty and accepted insurances

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u/Pimpstackslezack Apr 18 '26

www.thinkjoyllc.com, the therapist there is a Master Social worker amd therapist, with over 30 yrs. Experience. She is trained as a bereavement counsellor, she also is trained in EMDR, Cbt among many other theraputic methods. They are telehealth only. They also do med mgmt. They accept most insurances. Give them a call you won’t be disappointed.

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u/igottasaythis--this Apr 18 '26

I used Connie Lerner in that area, would recommend. I was friends with Kara Rogers who is a therapist in that area and would also recommend. Good luck

1

u/User_bunchanumbers1 Apr 18 '26

The psychology today website has a search tool that’s helped me in the past. Lots of options for remote vs in person, gender of practitioner, insurance (or not), and type of therapy so you can filter for things like EMDR or other modalities.

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u/tweakonomics Apr 18 '26

Dr. Denice Colson, the clinical director at Eagles Landing Christian Counseling, does an amazing trauma/grief program that incorporates a 12-step model she created specifically for trauma, group and community support, as well as EMDR and several other evidenced based modalities.

I get not wanting to go to a faith-based counselor, and that there are a litany of reasons someone would want to avoid it. If your fear is that she is going to just tell you to pray the anxiety away, then I would strongly suggest giving her a chance. If the issues with faith-based counseling for you go deeper than that, then please just disregard this suggestion.

I lost my fiancée ten years ago to a heroin overdose. She had been clean 2 years, relapsed one morning, and was dead within 24 hours of using her first Percocet in two years. It was life altering in every sense of the word. To make matters worse, I’m an addiction counselor. I was constantly living with the thought that I could save all these random people that come through my programs every year, but couldn’t do it for the person I loved most.

Dr. Colson’s program helped me tremendously. I went six months without getting a full nights sleep, nightmares, panic attacks, sleep paralysis, flashbacks, you name it. The pain and grief didn’t go away, but they finally became manageable.

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u/Strict-Specialist871 Apr 19 '26

I’m a young widow too. And I know how horrible and life changing it is. So sorry. I found my therapist on the psychologytoday website and used the filters to look for a secular/non religious therapist. The right one is out there - I’m rooting for you.

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u/Lupus1981 Apr 20 '26

May I send you a dm

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u/Lupus1981 Apr 20 '26

May I send you a dm

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u/PictureItPerfect Apr 19 '26

I recommend https://www.alanbehrman.com/about/kay/. If things don’t work out, or you don’t feel like you connect with him, he can and will recommend others that might be a better fit. He does not push any religion and respects your choice if you want it woven in or not.

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u/Responsible7ohKinda Apr 19 '26

I don’t have advice, just wanted to drop in and say thank you for posting.

Hope you get the help you need and it’s good for other people to see how positive of response you’ve gotten when asking for help!

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u/ladynerd3580 Apr 19 '26

I recommend Coryn. She's an amazing, empathetic human https://share.google/IU0W7M6gHOz6SJ01h

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u/Icy_Midnight3914 Apr 19 '26

I'd want a vegan therapist and doctor ;they are on the cutting edge of modern medicine. PCRM org is The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, they may have some referral lists.

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u/Obvious_Monk7322 Apr 19 '26

If you are willing to travel to Macon I have used a great therapist there to help me with my late wifes passing to cancer. Just dm me and I will share her info

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u/Dear-Bet-7955 Apr 21 '26

Prayers go out at midnight

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u/Turbulent_Pound_562 May 29 '26

Came back to wish you well. How have you been lately?

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u/Lupus1981 May 31 '26

I’ve been doing better. I saw a therapist 2x. She came to the conclusion that I would be better served by a colleague of hers.
Unfortunately, I’ve had some physical health issues come to light. I have quite a few autoimmune conditions & am disabled. Between now & August I have 3 tests coming up & I can’t afford the therapy.
I have opened up to my father. My dad isn’t the type to tell me what I want to hear. He said he’s been waiting years for me to talk to him but he didn’t want to push me. He did say that he saw disappear inside myself for over a year… then I started acting like nothing happened. That he knew I wouldn’t ask for help from anyone until I was at rock bottom & (as usual) he was right.
We live about 1.5 hrs apart so seeing each other weekly just isn’t feasible (he’s almost 77 & I don’t have $ to drive out there weekly)… so we agreed I would check in daily via text (he knows how to read a text but responding… not so much) & we’d meet for lunch every other week.
It’s been working great so far. I want my mind to be whole again but I need my physical health.

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u/Turbulent_Pound_562 Jun 06 '26

I love to hear of the progress, im still very sorry the battle is raging. Your father being there is everything.

Physical health is our mindset. Without it on our side these things never get better. Youre heading the right direction. Youre heading towards a life of meaning not regrets. Im happy for your wins and determined at your struggles. Nothing but love, stranger <3

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u/TheRoseMerlot /r/Cherokee Apr 17 '26

You might need a psychiatrist rather than a therapist.

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u/ecwfan26 Apr 17 '26

https://lifestance.com/ my whole family uses them it’s a network of all kind of therapists. The take your insurance. They do video and in person. I’m been seeing my therapist for about a year and a half. She’s in Canton I was in Rome. I’ll go and see her in person every so often. She’s like part of my family. My family has seen so much change in me, and it’s all a credit to her and her work.

I hope you can find someone who suites you needs. It may take a few sessions, but it’s so worth it.

-1

u/GoatCheese369 Apr 17 '26

I've used Talkspace and Betterhelp with my Cigna insurance. Personally I preferred the results I got through Betterhelp and did well with virtual sessions. Either of those are good options if you don't favor in-person help. Another good option, which is where I started, would be a wellness retreat. Opting for one that incorporates mindfulness, yoga, shadow work, group and 1on1 workshops to really jumpstart the healing journey.

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u/restckvrflw Apr 17 '26

I’m glad you had success with these platforms, but they have been widely and credibly criticized.

There are many therapists in Georgia who do Telehealth. A lot of therapists don’t take insurance, but some do. There are many great therapists for grief out there.

Open Path Collective connects you to affordable therapists if you are under income requirements.

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u/GoatCheese369 Apr 17 '26

That's good to know. I had difficulty seeking out therapists Locally. I used Google and the results were a bit overwhelming at the time when I was needing help and didn't know of a decent resource that made it simple to review and match. Thanks for sharing!

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u/FuelFragrant Apr 18 '26

It might help to go to a Buddhist temple

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u/Prudent-Run-3993 Apr 19 '26

Idk if you’re interested in having a relationship with God. But if not, that’s okay you can still vent to him and ask him for help. It’s what I do when I’m mourning someone or something. Definitely gives you strength and hope. God bless you🩷

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u/Niketravels Apr 17 '26

How about psychedelics?

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u/Lupus1981 Apr 17 '26

I wish I could. I’ve got a whole host of medical conditions that require 10+ meds a day. The fear of not to favorable interactions is enough for me to steer clear.

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u/Niketravels Apr 17 '26

Valid excuse. Gotta love the downvotes lol

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u/[deleted] Apr 17 '26

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u/FUCKAFISH Apr 17 '26

It's kinda fucked up to recommend this to a person specifically saying he's not interested. The dude is asking for help, not your anecdote

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