Therapists in Knox County, TN

I am a person-centered therapist and I practice from a Humanistic perspective. More recently I am receiving training and education in decolonizing therapy. I am a laid-back, nonjudgmental clinician who prioritizes the mental well-being of my clients. I used humor, psycho-education, and evidence-based practice to meet each new client where they are. I wrote a dissertation about working with Black professional women and mothers and created an evidence-based approach to help them unlearn the Strong Black Woman narrative.
I am a person-centered therapist and I practice from a Humanistic perspective. More recently I am receiving training and education in decolonizing therapy. I am a laid-back, nonjudgmental clinician who prioritizes the mental well-being of my clients. I used humor, psycho-education, and evidence-based practice to meet each new client where they are. I wrote a dissertation about working with Black professional women and mothers and created an evidence-based approach to help them unlearn the Strong Black Woman narrative.

My passion is to offer individualized, compassionate client care using a variety of methods. I work with adults, teens, and children. My clients range in age from five years old through adulthood, and they are usually having issues with adjustments, transitions, family, and relationships. They also may struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, or substance use issues. I offer a non-judgmental and safe, healing space. I want to help clients meet their goals and offer hope where it may be lacking.
My passion is to offer individualized, compassionate client care using a variety of methods. I work with adults, teens, and children. My clients range in age from five years old through adulthood, and they are usually having issues with adjustments, transitions, family, and relationships. They also may struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, or substance use issues. I offer a non-judgmental and safe, healing space. I want to help clients meet their goals and offer hope where it may be lacking.

Life can be filled with storms, doubts, and challenges that at times feel insurmountable, overwhelming, and lonesome. But in the midst of such circumstances, you do not need to walk through it alone. My passion is to help children, adults, couples, and families find hope and healing in the middle of their storm in a manner that is tailored to each persons uniqueness and holistic needs. Whether you are facing grief/loss, depression, anxiety, past pain, relationship issues, difficulty in life transition, spiritual-related concerns, or other mental health issues, it is my honor to walk alongside you as you pursue hope and restoration.
Life can be filled with storms, doubts, and challenges that at times feel insurmountable, overwhelming, and lonesome. But in the midst of such circumstances, you do not need to walk through it alone. My passion is to help children, adults, couples, and families find hope and healing in the middle of their storm in a manner that is tailored to each persons uniqueness and holistic needs. Whether you are facing grief/loss, depression, anxiety, past pain, relationship issues, difficulty in life transition, spiritual-related concerns, or other mental health issues, it is my honor to walk alongside you as you pursue hope and restoration.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee with 20 plus years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee with 20 plus years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

VIRTUAL VISITS-Telehealth. We specialize in sessions via the internet on high encrypted, Hipaa Compliant systems (similar to FaceTime, Skype, etc.) It allows for same day sessions for clients who are not able to make it into one of our physical locations. Clients can use their phones, tablets, laptops, and PC's. We are a professional counseling firm with experienced counselors in Sexual Abuse, Relationship/Marital Counseling, Family Counseling, Codependency Counseling, Gender Identity, Incarceration/Probation Counseling, and specialize in Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counseling for adults and teens, as well as Trauma and PTSD.
VIRTUAL VISITS-Telehealth. We specialize in sessions via the internet on high encrypted, Hipaa Compliant systems (similar to FaceTime, Skype, etc.) It allows for same day sessions for clients who are not able to make it into one of our physical locations. Clients can use their phones, tablets, laptops, and PC's. We are a professional counseling firm with experienced counselors in Sexual Abuse, Relationship/Marital Counseling, Family Counseling, Codependency Counseling, Gender Identity, Incarceration/Probation Counseling, and specialize in Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counseling for adults and teens, as well as Trauma and PTSD.

Life can be heavy and it's always good to have someone help you carry it. I want to meet you where you are and I prioritize providing a safe, welcoming space to process whatever it is you are carrying. I believe that each person's journey is unique and I am committed to work collaboratively with you to explore your concerns and develop effective strategies for growth and healing.
Life can be heavy and it's always good to have someone help you carry it. I want to meet you where you are and I prioritize providing a safe, welcoming space to process whatever it is you are carrying. I believe that each person's journey is unique and I am committed to work collaboratively with you to explore your concerns and develop effective strategies for growth and healing.

My approach combines the comfort of a genuine and authentic therapeutic relationship with the significance of measurable outcomes and evidence-based treatment practices. Ensuring that you and/or your loved one feel comfortable, safe, and free from judgment during our sessions is vital to me. I primarily work with adults dealing with a range of issues, from life stressors and challenges, to regulating emotions/behaviors to depression/anxiety to relationship and family difficulties. Life's changes and heightened stress can make coping harder for everyone, and it's during these times that support is essential.
My approach combines the comfort of a genuine and authentic therapeutic relationship with the significance of measurable outcomes and evidence-based treatment practices. Ensuring that you and/or your loved one feel comfortable, safe, and free from judgment during our sessions is vital to me. I primarily work with adults dealing with a range of issues, from life stressors and challenges, to regulating emotions/behaviors to depression/anxiety to relationship and family difficulties. Life's changes and heightened stress can make coping harder for everyone, and it's during these times that support is essential.

Finding a therapist that speaks your language and really “gets you” can be an overwhelming process. Maybe you’re feeling exhausted by perfectionism and disordered eating, looking for support navigating relationships and life transitions, or maybe you’re a parent seeking a space where your teen can build coping skills they need to thrive. I like to take a collaborative and individualized approach that is tailored to your own unique journey. Together, we can work towards alleviating the pressure you carry while creating a better understanding of who you are, and how you can create a life that is aligned with your true sense of self
Finding a therapist that speaks your language and really “gets you” can be an overwhelming process. Maybe you’re feeling exhausted by perfectionism and disordered eating, looking for support navigating relationships and life transitions, or maybe you’re a parent seeking a space where your teen can build coping skills they need to thrive. I like to take a collaborative and individualized approach that is tailored to your own unique journey. Together, we can work towards alleviating the pressure you carry while creating a better understanding of who you are, and how you can create a life that is aligned with your true sense of self

Liza Varlan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
5 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37917
Waitlist for new clients
I understand reaching out for help takes courage and bravery. In my practice, I hope to create a safe and empathetic space for all struggling with life’s challenges. I am passionate about helping clients reach balance in life after difficult events. I have 10 years experience providing therapy to adults and children who have experienced traumatic experiences.
I understand reaching out for help takes courage and bravery. In my practice, I hope to create a safe and empathetic space for all struggling with life’s challenges. I am passionate about helping clients reach balance in life after difficult events. I have 10 years experience providing therapy to adults and children who have experienced traumatic experiences.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I work with adults across the life-span, including recent high school graduates and college students navigating the transition to independence as well as adults in other stages of life. I use a variety of therapies to treat a range of conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, trauma, and other life difficulties. In addition, I have specialized training in the LEAP method for gaining medication compliance for people suffering from psychosis. I also have extensive training and experience treating personality disorders, including borderline personality disorder.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I work with adults across the life-span, including recent high school graduates and college students navigating the transition to independence as well as adults in other stages of life. I use a variety of therapies to treat a range of conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, trauma, and other life difficulties. In addition, I have specialized training in the LEAP method for gaining medication compliance for people suffering from psychosis. I also have extensive training and experience treating personality disorders, including borderline personality disorder.

I begin each session by checking in on your well-being, making sure that you are okay. When I know you are okay, we move into the work of our session...exploring, and unpacking. I utilize different evidence-based strategies to create a personalized approach to treatment. I provide a safe space, which is warm and non-judgmental. I allow you to flow freely in conversation, I may also ask some prompting or leading questions and I will provide you feedback, based on what you say. I won't make it up. Our session will be skill-building. We will find our rhythm, listen and talk, and learn and apply skills so that we get better.
I begin each session by checking in on your well-being, making sure that you are okay. When I know you are okay, we move into the work of our session...exploring, and unpacking. I utilize different evidence-based strategies to create a personalized approach to treatment. I provide a safe space, which is warm and non-judgmental. I allow you to flow freely in conversation, I may also ask some prompting or leading questions and I will provide you feedback, based on what you say. I won't make it up. Our session will be skill-building. We will find our rhythm, listen and talk, and learn and apply skills so that we get better.

Hey there, I'm Shelby. I know the decision to start therapy isn't always the easy one but I hope to provide a space for you to grow. In my practice, I focus on helping individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, burn out, relationship dynamic issues, self-esteem issues, and life transitions. I focus on providing an environment that feels collaborative, welcoming, and supportive while I help individuals learn and grow.
Hey there, I'm Shelby. I know the decision to start therapy isn't always the easy one but I hope to provide a space for you to grow. In my practice, I focus on helping individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, burn out, relationship dynamic issues, self-esteem issues, and life transitions. I focus on providing an environment that feels collaborative, welcoming, and supportive while I help individuals learn and grow.

I began my career working in inpatient substance abuse facilities attached to hospitals. I am well-versed in groups for addiction and prefer individual counseling for issues in later recovery or dual diagnosis. I see adults and motivated adolescents in my practice. Both men and women are welcome as are couples and families. Other specialty areas are sexual abuse and mood disorders.
I began my career working in inpatient substance abuse facilities attached to hospitals. I am well-versed in groups for addiction and prefer individual counseling for issues in later recovery or dual diagnosis. I see adults and motivated adolescents in my practice. Both men and women are welcome as are couples and families. Other specialty areas are sexual abuse and mood disorders.

Growth can be a difficult journey, and you do not have to be alone in it! Whether you are navigating a life transition, family conflict, healing from past traumas, or struggling to maintain boundaries- I am here to help. Life can throw so many circumstances at us day to day. Which, can often lead to sadness, lack of motivation, hyper-vigilance and many more overwhelming emotions. Though these circumstances are difficult, I am here to support you in achieving your goals and cultivating a life-worth living.
Growth can be a difficult journey, and you do not have to be alone in it! Whether you are navigating a life transition, family conflict, healing from past traumas, or struggling to maintain boundaries- I am here to help. Life can throw so many circumstances at us day to day. Which, can often lead to sadness, lack of motivation, hyper-vigilance and many more overwhelming emotions. Though these circumstances are difficult, I am here to support you in achieving your goals and cultivating a life-worth living.

I consider it one of my greatest privileges to partner with people as they navigate their stories. I know from personal experience that therapy can be invaluable when processing change, emotional turmoil, and questions about self. While I often utilize concepts from CBT, DBT, and other theories, I most often draw from Narrative Theory and take a Person-Centered approach in my work with clients. I am trained in TF-CBT and EMDR, and my professional history includes over four years working exclusively with survivors of sexual trauma.
I consider it one of my greatest privileges to partner with people as they navigate their stories. I know from personal experience that therapy can be invaluable when processing change, emotional turmoil, and questions about self. While I often utilize concepts from CBT, DBT, and other theories, I most often draw from Narrative Theory and take a Person-Centered approach in my work with clients. I am trained in TF-CBT and EMDR, and my professional history includes over four years working exclusively with survivors of sexual trauma.

Tessa Chancey is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider Designation, who has been practicing since 2016. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She then graduated from Columbia University in the City of New York with a Master of Arts and a Master of Education in Psychological Counseling. Tessa approaches her therapeutic work from a Cognitive Behavioral lens and works collaboratively with her patients to reach their goals. She provides a non-judgmental and safe space for patients to gain awareness and understanding on their healing journey.
Tessa Chancey is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider Designation, who has been practicing since 2016. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She then graduated from Columbia University in the City of New York with a Master of Arts and a Master of Education in Psychological Counseling. Tessa approaches her therapeutic work from a Cognitive Behavioral lens and works collaboratively with her patients to reach their goals. She provides a non-judgmental and safe space for patients to gain awareness and understanding on their healing journey.

26 year private practice specializing in psychotherapy grounded in theory and research on treatment, relationships, child development, and disorders. I'm committed to those I work with and open to all walks of life. I listen closely with curiosity to help you identify deep emotional blind spots to help you make sense of the troubles you are having. Discovering these deeper roots of your problems and symptoms will not only give you a different perspective of the obstacles and trauma in your life, it will help reduce emotional pain, and help you feel more control in your life.
26 year private practice specializing in psychotherapy grounded in theory and research on treatment, relationships, child development, and disorders. I'm committed to those I work with and open to all walks of life. I listen closely with curiosity to help you identify deep emotional blind spots to help you make sense of the troubles you are having. Discovering these deeper roots of your problems and symptoms will not only give you a different perspective of the obstacles and trauma in your life, it will help reduce emotional pain, and help you feel more control in your life.

I graduated from East Tennessee State University with a master's degree in counseling in 2016. I obtained my Licensed Professional Counselor, Mental Health Service Provider licensure in 2018. I have worked with children, teens and adults with a myriad of mental health conditions and life stressors in multiple settings, including outpatient, Intensive outpatient, in-home counseling/case management, crisis and residential treatment facilities. I have a passion for helping people live fulfilling and quality lives, regardless of life circumstances.
I graduated from East Tennessee State University with a master's degree in counseling in 2016. I obtained my Licensed Professional Counselor, Mental Health Service Provider licensure in 2018. I have worked with children, teens and adults with a myriad of mental health conditions and life stressors in multiple settings, including outpatient, Intensive outpatient, in-home counseling/case management, crisis and residential treatment facilities. I have a passion for helping people live fulfilling and quality lives, regardless of life circumstances.

I know that seeking help can be overwhelming and there are many qualified individuals who could help you, but you need a therapist who is a good fit for you. Consider if I am this "good fit". I believe I have the unique ability to connect with my clients, and they with me. This can be done through empathy. Empathy is the experience of understanding another persons thoughts, feelings, and conditions from their point of view. I work hard at doing this with every individual and their unique experiences. Irvin Yalom, a renowned psychologist, suggested, therapy is mostly a process of removing obstacle
I know that seeking help can be overwhelming and there are many qualified individuals who could help you, but you need a therapist who is a good fit for you. Consider if I am this "good fit". I believe I have the unique ability to connect with my clients, and they with me. This can be done through empathy. Empathy is the experience of understanding another persons thoughts, feelings, and conditions from their point of view. I work hard at doing this with every individual and their unique experiences. Irvin Yalom, a renowned psychologist, suggested, therapy is mostly a process of removing obstacle

It's time to get UNSTUCK from the past or negative beliefs, so you can be the best parent, partner, or friend you can be. Maybe you’re having problems in your relationships, feeling depressed and anxious, or struggling to set healthy boundaries. Maybe you have childhood trauma or memories that are starting to affect you. After a recent life change, you may feel like you don’t know who you are any more. You thought life would be easier than this. Let's find YOU again. You can feel whole and at peace in your emotions, relationships, and spirituality. If you're struggling with marriage, motherhood, mood, or faith, I am here to help.
It's time to get UNSTUCK from the past or negative beliefs, so you can be the best parent, partner, or friend you can be. Maybe you’re having problems in your relationships, feeling depressed and anxious, or struggling to set healthy boundaries. Maybe you have childhood trauma or memories that are starting to affect you. After a recent life change, you may feel like you don’t know who you are any more. You thought life would be easier than this. Let's find YOU again. You can feel whole and at peace in your emotions, relationships, and spirituality. If you're struggling with marriage, motherhood, mood, or faith, I am here to help.
See more therapy options for Knox County
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Knox County, TN
1,000+
Average cost per session
$125
Therapists in Knox County, TN who prioritize treating:
91% | Anxiety |
85% | Depression |
69% | Relationship Issues |
68% | Self Esteem |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Coping Skills |
66% | Stress |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
83% | Aetna |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
74% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Therapists in Knox County, TN see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
80% | Female | |
19% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Knox County?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.