Therapists in Opelousas, LA

The first sign of a serious struggle is often the condition of our relationships with others. Feeling misunderstood or unappreciated can often be a source of depression, stress, loneliness and anxiety. Experiencing job difficulties that leave us feeling inadequate and lost, or growing up in an alcoholic or otherwise dysfunctional home can intensify these feelings, especially when approaching the age/adjustment phase of retirement. Many even find themselves experiencing symptoms of post-traumatic stress. Gaining insight about how the past affects the present can help to smooth over many facets of our current circumstances.

In over fifteen years as I counselor I have seen with both young and old overcome the inner struggles that have held them back in life. I work with children and teens so that they can find success at home, school, and in life and help them with behavioral problems and struggles to make friends and socialize. I also provide therapy to both teens and adults struggling with anxiety issues, depression, stress, anger, addiction, and chemical dependency to help them find the freedom they seek. I use a combination of Cognitive-Behavior Therapy, Reality Therapy, and Play Therapy which I adapt to the needs and preferences of the client.

Our office can help you sort through the hard things you are experiencing. We are able to work with individuals throughout the lifespan; children, adolescents and adults. We often help clients that are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, grief and also issues of Attention Deficit Hyper-active Disorder, Anxiety and Depressive disorders, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, PTSD, divorce, and abuse. Many people come to us that just need a safe space to talk about their issues. If you need change in your life, counseling is a good opportunity to facilitate that change. A plan with identified goals helps to make the change you seek.

Life is a field of unlimited possibilities. Are you ready to begin exploring? I believe we are all here to help one another learn and grow. I would be honored to be a part of your journey. I offer flexible scheduling with options that include evenings and weekends. Schedule your date for therapy online today at therapydate.com

ONE Call and you have an appointment. Trying to find the right therapist is a daunting task. Who? What? How? We aim to simplify the process. Our therapists help make sense of where you are and how you arrived there. We'll journey together toward finding hope and healing so that you can live a healthy, content, and meaningful life. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, anger, PTSD, spiritual matters, sexual abuse, physical abuse, marriage conflicts, addiction, or repeating the same behavioral patterns of self-destruction, there is HOPE. It is possible to live the life you desire. We help you do that.

Do you function fairly well in most ways, but have some nagging issues (i.e. you struggle to trust, have a history of unhealthy or unsatisfying intimate relationships, trouble concentrating) that may be the result of past trauma? Do you want ways to process and heal that don't have to involve talking about the specifics of what happened to you? Do you have a child who needs some extra support navigating life changes (i.e. parents separated/divorced, school changes, moving homes, loss of loved one)? I have tools to address a number of issues that get in the way of better functioning and a more satisfying life.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and am dedicated to providing a safe, relaxing environment for you to express and explore issues/concerns. I enjoy working alongside others to reach their goals and believe in an individual's capacity for self growth and wellness. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families, using a variety of modalities. I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Processing Therapy.

What do you desire most? Many people are searching for peace and contentment, but finding that in today's world can be difficult. Having received specialized training in improving emotional connections, coupled with 17 years of counseling experience, has given me the skills necessary for helping people find the enjoyment of life they have been seeking.

I work with people who struggle with intense, unpleasant, difficult to manage emotions and the problematic behaviors that go with them. DBT is excellent for helping people think about and experience their emotions differently. I have the privilege every day of seeing people who had suffered, often for years, smooth out their lives and relationships. The overarching goal of DBT is to get through and past managing emotional pain and its ramifications and actually build a life worth living.

Life can be fun again! With support, understanding, education, and sometimes proper medication, you can turn your life around. If you find you're feeling bored, unmotivated, or you're having problems with focus and concentration; maybe you are easily frustrated and irritable, feeling lonely. Or maybe you find yourself lying and feeling guilty and remorseful, but repeating this behavior anyway. You're losing sight of who you really are! Are you using too much Alcohol and/or drugs to cope and can't quit? These are some of the symptoms of the disease of Addiction...and there is hope!

Kathy Manuel is a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in the treatment of mental health for 16 years. In a safe, therapeutic environment, she encourages and guides clients to achieve success using professional, sought after effective treatment modalities. She believes counseling is valuable when it is personalized to the individual's goals and is genuinely attentive to understanding her client's specific needs and desires.

I hold space for each client no matter their background, gender, size, age, race, religion, income, career, culture, sexual orientation, abilities, or disabilities. I am ready to walk beside and guide you on your journey to heal what has held you back, process what you've been avoiding, and resolve the issues that life has thrown your way. I provide a non-judgemental, safe, and supportive setting in which to move forward. Encouraging you to explore the internal landscape of your own life, holding you accountable in our work together, and holding space for you to be you.

If going to therapy is somewhat fearful, you are not alone. Must people do not know what to expect. Scientific research shows that psychotherapy works. Therapy can help you feel more comfortable being the real you. The goal of psychotherapy is not to change you. Change is your choice. It is to help build self-awareness, increase compassion, understanding, respect, empathy and acceptance toward yourself and others.

Actions are meaningful when inspired by values. If trauma, anxiety, depression, or addiction is troubling you, I would like to assist you in overcoming these issues and identify the life that you would rather have, You deserve to be doing and achieving the things that are important to you.

Do you feel as though life is passing you by? Do you feel as though you are a stranger in your own body and home? Are you ready for something different in life, making room for new experiences? As your counselor, we can explore these and many other issues, on your personal path to wellness. Contact me today to begin this wellness journey. In-person and telehealth sessions are available.

Worried about your child? Seeking help is the first courageous step as a parent! Assisting youth in navigating issues and witnessing them find their voice and unique gifts is the most rewarding part of my career. Anxiety, aggression, sadness, negative self views, unhealthy relationships and living in a complex world are all experiences that can hinder your child from being their best self. I have worked with youth for over 18 years and remain amazed at their wonder and resiliency. I strive to create a safe and caring environment where your child can express themselves freely - allowing them to feel heard, valued, and understood.