Surest Therapists in Tennessee

Finding a therapist who accepts Surest (formerly Bind) insurance can make accessing mental health support both convenient and affordable. With 38 verified therapists in Tennessee who accept Surest, you can filter by therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and interpersonal therapy to address concerns like anxiety, stress, or relationship challenges. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is currently welcoming new clients and has availability within the next 30 days, ensuring you receive timely, high-quality care covered by your Surest plan.

Availability updated: 7/1/2025

Lee Owen

(he/him)

Lee Owen, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Lee Owen, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) providing virtual therapy in Tennessee. My focus is serving young adults and adults navigating life transitions. I believe that the emotions we are most tempted to run away from– fear, grief, anger– exist to tell us about the kind of life we want. I help clients learn to identify and listen to their emotions rather than being overwhelmed or shut down. I use evidence-based approaches to treat depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, and eating disorders. We will also work together to increase mindfulness and self-compassion and strengthen the relationships in your life.

Katherine Combs

Katherine Combs, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
12 years of experience
Virtual
I am licensed to work with those in the state of Tennessee, USA. I have over 20 years experience working in the mental health field, 12 of those years specifically working as a therapist. My experience consists of helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, mood disorders, anxiety, & depression. I also have taught parenting classes, which allowed me to help parents in their relationship with their children. I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). While I have been trained in various therapy techniques, I have found most relation in the Solution Focused umbrella utilizing Narrative therapy. Solution Focused therapy helps people recognize how to work towards what they want- including how Narrative therapy sees each person’s storyline from their past, separating themselves from their problem (instead of living stuck), and recognizing how they want their story to continue. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths to overcome your challenges. Different situations can take place without our ability to feel prepared. You can take time for yourself and begin processing, in a safe and secure manner, through teletherapy services.

Melissa Fowler

(she/her)

Melissa Fowler, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
21 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Tennessee (LCSW) and Massachusetts (LICSW) with over 20 years of experience guiding individuals through life's challenges. I understand that life's path isn't always straight; transitions, trauma, grief, depression, and relationship struggles are real. I believe in the transformative power of collaboration and growth. With a MA in Social Work from Georgia State University and dual BAs from UMBC, my diverse background equips me to provide tailored therapy and counseling. My compassionate, non-judgmental, honest, and down-to-earth approach creates a safe space where I walk beside you on your journey to healing and growth. NOT CURRENTLY OPEN TO COUPLES.

Jeffrey Freiden

(he/him)

Jeffrey Freiden, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
23 years of experience
Virtual
Greetings: I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Florida. I am also licensed in Tennessee, my home state. I received my Doctorate in Counseling from the University of Memphis. I have been in practice for 20 years. Currently, I work with adult males with men's issues. The pressure of employment and maintaining healthy relationships impact men in unique ways. I help to help you become happier with your life choices.

Tonya Shanks

(she/her)

Tonya Shanks, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
3 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and received my Masters from Aurora University. I have specialized training in EMDR and TF-CBT and have spent the last 19 years of my career as a social worker and therapist working with all age groups. I provide a safe, supportive space for children, adolescents, and adults to process their experiences and develop healthy coping strategies.

Rhett Brandt

(he/him)

Rhett Brandt, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
27 years of experience
Virtual
I have been doing clinical counseling for 25 years, and unlike most providers, I have a doctorate degree in counseling. I believe that the extra education helps me to provide more thorough, informed, and helpful feedback for clients. I currently provide therapy on a broad range of issues including trauma, anxiety, substance abuse and mood disorders. I am also comfortable working with sexual, gender, and eating issues. I have experience as well with neurodivergence and autism spectrum clients. My passion in a clinical setting involves working with trauma and dissociation, in particular clients with Dissociative Identity Disorder. I believe in giving you tangible feedback and practical solutions. I intend to demystify the process of counseling so that you can truly benefit from your work. In terms of my own self-care I enjoy walking outdoors as a means of reconnecting with nature. Recently, I rediscovered tennis, and have been playing doubles with a local group twice a week. I also recently started playing ping pong and pickleball.

Amy Kersten

(she/her)

Amy Kersten, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
20 years of experience
Virtual
I’m currently living in Missouri with my wonderful husband, our lovable dog, and two very sassy cats. As a military spouse and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals and families through life’s many challenges. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Alaska and went on to complete my Master of Social Work at the University of Maine. With over 20 years of experience as a therapist, I’m passionate about helping others find healing, growth, and resilience.

Jackie Taylor-Mays

(she/her)

Jackie Taylor-Mays, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
30 years of experience
Virtual
If you're in need of a concerned and respectful therapist, I'm the person for you. I help people struggling with anxiety, addiction, depression and relationship issues. I’ve accomplished over 20 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a graduate degree from University of Tennessee and 10 additional years of experience specific to justice-related mental health counseling. I am the ideal therapist for someone interested in reaching goals and becoming their best version. I’m empathetic and can relate to life experiences and be open and honest in giving feedback and suggestions. A therapist with active listening skills is essential for clients to be heard. Being heard and understood without judgement is a major step in the healing process.

Grace Shawley

(she/her)

Grace Shawley, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I’m Grace Shawley. Originally from North Carolina, I moved to Tennessee for school and have called it home ever since—living in several different cities throughout the state. I'm now in my ninth year as a therapist and have had the privilege of working in both inpatient and outpatient settings, which has given me a well-rounded view of mental health care. Outside of the therapy room, I share my space (and sometimes my sessions) with my dog and two cats—who occasionally make surprise appearances as unofficial therapy assistants. Whether you're navigating life changes, emotional challenges, or just need a space to process and grow, I'm here to walk alongside you with empathy, insight, and care.

Amie Healy

(she/her)

Amie Healy, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
8 years of experience
Virtual
Do you find yourself struggling with feeling heard or being able to be fully present in the moment? Each person deserves the space to be heard, a place where they can be their authentic self. I want to understand and help you work through any events or concerns that have caused you to seek out therapy. Whether you are struggling with feeling anxious, not wanting to get out of bed or do the things that you used to enjoy or have experienced a loss. Together we can identify what you need in order to live a more fulfilled life. Seeking therapy can be a scary move and many people often feel that they have lost themselves so give yourself credit for making the first step! I enter each session ready to provide you with empathy, my undivided attention, and that safe space so that you can overcome whatever challenges brought you here.

Marli Simpson

(she/her)

Marli Simpson, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Tennessee and a Clinical Professional Counselor (CPC) in Nevada, with over 13 years of experience helping adults navigate life’s challenges and build fulfilling lives. My specialty areas include LGBTQIA+ issues, trauma, addiction recovery, anxiety and mood disorders, neurodiversity, relationships, personality disorders. I am passionate about creating a supportive, affirming space where clients can feel understood and empowered to make meaningful changes. My clinical background spans a variety of settings, including inpatient mental health, residential substance abuse treatment, outpatient therapy, corrections, and domestic violence shelters. This diverse experience allows me to bring a well-rounded, client-centered approach to my work. Whether you’re working through life transitions, healing from trauma, or exploring identity, my goal is to help you feel seen, supported, and capable of moving forward with confidence.

Briana Whitted

(she/her)

Briana Whitted, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi there, my name is Briana and I am here to support you through various challenges and transitions. We can oftentimes feeling frustrated, stuck, or anxious - whether this be as a spouse, parent, employee, or just feeling overwhelmed as a human in general. We can all experience getting to a place where we feel completely numb & just trying to survive. You might feel like a hamster running on its wheel, feeling completely stuck and going nowhere, unsure of what to do differently. Maybe you're trying to heal on your own from the things that you never talk about, and are in need of someone who can listen & validate your emotions.

Cathy Tanner

Cathy Tanner, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
21 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am so glad you are reaching out. It takes courage to ask for help and I know that is not always easy and I am proud of you for taking the first step! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 21 years of counseling experience. I am here to support you on your journey towards mental health and well-being. I provide a safe and compassionate space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My clients often struggle with the "unknowns" of life and I like to help people feel more comfortable with the unknown and to trust the process of life.

Melissa Whelpley

(she/her)

Melissa Whelpley, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LCSW
5 years of experience
Virtual
"We don't have to do it all alone; we were never meant to." – Brené Brown This belief is at the heart of my work as a therapist. I am passionate about walking alongside my clients as a team, helping them navigate challenges and achieve their goals. Many people share things with me that they have never shared with anyone else, which is why I believe that trust and the therapeutic relationship are the most important foundations of therapy. I work with individuals ages 10 to 55 and have experience supporting both individuals and families. I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Attachment, Self-Regulation and Competency (ARC), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP) and Motivational Interviewing (MI). My specialty is working with teens and young adults, as I believe this transitional period is critical for personal growth and reaching one’s full potential. Before becoming a therapist, I served as a firefighter and first responder for over a decade, including combat firefighting tours in Iraq. This background has shaped my deep commitment to resilience, healing, and supporting others through life’s most challenging moments.

Derrick Smith

Derrick Smith, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LPC/MHSP
7 years of experience
Virtual
It's often difficult to know what you want and to pursue what you want. Especially, if broken patterns and negative family cycles are making you feel stagnant. There is an excitement that comes from building your own self-assurance and confidence as you stand securely in the story you want to live. Sometimes we wait to change our story because we don't feel ready. My hope is that we can all have the wisdom and courage to explore ourselves with compassion so that we can better love ourselves and love others. Let's create a foundation that allows us to live balanced personally, professionally, and relationally.

Karen Collins

(she/her)

Karen Collins, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
19 years of experience
Virtual
Karen Collins is a psychotherapist in private practice in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. She is originally from Ohio and graduated from The Ohio State University. She has worked at inpatient adult and adolescent psychiatric hospitals in Ohio for 8 years along with managing her private therapy practice and teaching at The Ohio State University. Then in 2012, she moved to Jupiter, FL where she began working at the West Palm Beach VA Medical Center for 10 years. Her career at the WPB VA Medical Center offered her the opportunity to work with Veterans in the following capacities over that 10 year period; as a Mental Health Therapist, Program Manager of Post Deployment Clinic and the Care Giver Support Program, Supervisor of Homeless Programs and Supervisor over programs serving Veterans with serious mental health conditions. In addition to working at the WPB VA Medical Center, she had a private practice in Jupiter, FL. In March of 2022, she left the WPB VA Medical Center in February to focus completely on her private practice which moved with her from Jupiter to Palm Beach Gardens, FL. She has published two books, one on relationships and another on managing depression. She has written a couples interactive co-journal and has published multiple articles on relationships, depression, improving well-being, thriving during and after a serious health issue and reducing acute stress response. She has a YouTube Channel, “Therapy with Karen Collins” where she posts peaceful places, guided meditations, provoking ideas to consider and a segment on managing acute stress response and improving overall well-being to teach how to prevent over-responding to stressors. She has provided therapy virtually for over 12 years.

Kaja Switalska

(she/her)

Kaja Switalska, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
8 years of experience
Virtual
I became a therapist simply because I’ve always wanted to help people. I've seen firsthand the incredible power of connection and how transformative it can be to have a non-judgmental, unbiased person who truly listens to you in therapy. That kind of support creates a space for growth and healing, and it’s something I’m passionate about offering to others. Being able to witness someone’s journey as they feel heard and understood is one of the most rewarding parts of this work. Growing up, I struggled with feeling like I belonged and often felt inadequate. Those experiences made me realize how important it is to have a safe space where you can be heard. I’m truly honored to be by someone’s side as they take strides toward becoming the best version of themselves and improving their lives. Everyone deserves that kind of support, and I’m grateful to offer it. Hi, I’m Kaja Switalska, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in helping adults, with particular focus on college-aged individuals, manage anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and adjustment issues. I aim to provide a welcoming, judgment-free space where you can feel heard. I often use humor to keep things light while also addressing real challenges. In our first sessions, we’ll get to know your unique needs and develop attainable goals. My approach blends CBT, mindfulness, solution-focused strategies, and motivational interviewing.

Jason Fox

(he/him)

Jason Fox, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
19 years of experience
Virtual
Are you stuck? Struggling with big feelings? Trouble focusing and staying organized? I can help! The journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step. It is often difficult to begin the journey of therapy and I am glad you are considering it. Most people come to therapy hoping to try and fix something in their life that does not seem to be working so well. I will work with you to try and discover what all is going on and how we can work together to help you be the best self you can be. I believe in focusing on building small, easy to learn coping skills and taking consistent baby steps towards your goals. Hello! My name is Jason Fox and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Service Provider designation in Tennessee (LPC,MHSP) I have 19 years experience in mental health. I practice primarily cognitive behavioral therapy. I focus on trying to teach people that we need to think and act better first in order to feel better. I have experience working in crisis and crisis supervision. I have seen a lot of different things over the years and the most important thing to me as a therapist is to meet clients where they are at and to have a positive working relationship with them to help them get to where they are going.

Chandra Malamud

(she/her)

Chandra Malamud, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
16 years of experience
Virtual
Are you struggling with a major transition? Life can certainly throw us some curve balls. Although you may feel overwhelmed or discouraged, things can get better. I specialize in helping people deal with big events like grief, illness, caring for a loved one, and divorce. These changes might contribute to anxiety, self-doubt, or depression. These challenging times can be exhausting, and it’s key to take care of yourself. With the right help, you can heal and even thrive. More and more people are understanding that mental health support isn’t a luxury, but a necessity that we all deserve. I keep up with the most effective therapies so that I can provide you with the best care possible. I also recognize that your situation is unique, and you have your own struggles and strengths. We will tailor your care to where you’re at, and what you need at this time. I am dedicated to supporting you however I can, through evidence-based therapy, education, and resources. I offer flexible appointments online, through a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform. If you’re ready for the next step, call to set up an initial consultation. I look forward to seeing how I can help.

Stacey Shine

Stacey Shine, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Stacey Shine. Whether you're navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, past trauma, or simply feeling overwhelmed by daily life, therapy can offer clarity and relief. I work with individuals (ages 10 and up) and couples to explore what’s not working, uncover inner strengths, and develop practical tools for real, lasting change. Clients often share that they feel at ease in our sessions—that therapy feels low-stress, grounded, and collaborative. My goal is to create a space where you can speak freely, feel safe, and do meaningful work toward your personal goals. My approach is warm, direct, and personalized. I draw from evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method for couples, and Strengths-Based techniques. Whether we're tackling anxiety, improving communication, or building resilience, we'll move at a pace that feels right for you. Therapy doesn't have to feel intimidating. It can be a supportive space to pause, reflect, and grow—and you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re ready to take the next step, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.

Tiffany Fields

(she/her)

Tiffany Fields, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
15 years of experience
Virtual
Beginning therapy is a deeply personal decision and often comes with a mix of curiosity, hope, and understandable hesitation. As a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience specializing in trauma-informed care, I understand the profound impact that life experiences can have on our emotional and psychological well-being. My approach integrates evidence-based clinical modalities with a deep respect for your individual journey. The goal is never to push past your boundaries, but to honor them—creating a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported.

Ken A

Ken A, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Welcome! Come on in, I’m glad you’re here. The challenges of life can be overwhelming; the past making the present feel like less of a gift. You may feel stuck, like it’s impossible to move forward. Life transitions have a way of stirring up emotions and throwing you off balance. This mounting weight can impact your relationships, work, social life, and everything around you. I want you to know that you don’t have to face all of this alone. Together we can create a plan to help you feel better and achieve the changes you are seeking. Here, you will have a safe place to learn and to grow to overcome the challenges you face. We will work together to establish a genuine connection. I believe this is the most important part of therapy. I value honesty and transparency in our work together, without which movement and authentic change cannot occur. For therapy to work, you have to feel understood and heard by your therapist. I will work with you to alleviate hesitancy about therapy and fear of vulnerability. I will frequently check in with you to ensure the therapy process is working for you and ask how our relationship can be improved. This collaboration will empower you to make the changes you need in your life. You will have more control over your decisions. Regardless of your “why,” whether trauma, marriage or relationship issues, depression, anxiety, grief, loss, or life transitions, I’m honored to be here for you. We will get through this together.

Mayme Siders

Mayme Siders, LCSW - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LCSW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I am an LCSW based in Evansville Indiana that serves Tennessee, Indiana, and Kentucky clients through telehealth. I have been a counselor for 10 years. I attended UTK in Knoxville Tennessee. I am an Integrative, Humanistic therapist that emphasizes positive psychology in my practice. I use a client centered, strengths based, solution focused approach. My goal is always to support you in moving toward your personal goals in ways that feel comfortable & accessible to you. Whether the issue is anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, poor coping skills, or phase of life issues, my approach is based in genuine support & kind, honest feedback.

Sarah Hirsch

Sarah Hirsch, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
30 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! My name is Sarah Hirsch and I'm a licensed psychotherapist (LPC) in Tennessee & Michigan. I've been working in behavioral health for over 30 years. I'm also a Duke Integrative Medicine Certified Health & Wellness Coach. I am intentional, considerate, and sensitive to the unique stories, and backgrounds of each client I connect with during the therapeutic process. We will work together collaboratively in a therapeutic partnership. I'll hold a space that is open and without judgment, encouraging the authenticity of your thoughts and feelings to identify effective individualized therapeutic solutions and tools that help foster greater insight, perspective, and ensure your success in making positive, transformational life changes. Therapeutic telehealth services are rendered from a whole-person perspective which honors the strengths and uniqueness of each individual's needs using an integrated, biopsychosocial approach that explores the psychological interconnections between mind, behavior, and health, to promote an increased quality of life and wellness in mind, body, and spirit. I look forward to meeting you!

Necole Richardson

(she/her)

Necole Richardson, LPC/MHSP - Tennessee Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPC/MHSP
6 years of experience
Virtual
You've taken the first step! I'm Necole a licensed clinician counselor in the states of Tennessee, Kentucky, and Utah. I've always desired to understand feelings, behaviour and the human mind; always been driven toward solving the questions that start with why. My passion for therapy began after realizing I was helping many clients with the similar concerns related to identity confusion, limited self-awareness, and low self-confidence. Life is pretty complex and sometimes presents us with challenges that require support and therapeutic interventions to achieve balance and overall wellness. Congratulations to you for your courage, and on your decision to seek empowerment and enhance your current emotional well-being. If you are in need of more support for your journey don't hesitate to reach out. Even if we aren't the right fit let me send you in the right direction.

Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Tennessee rather than a city like Nashville?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in the state. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across Tennessee from Memphis to Knoxville! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Tennessee.

Will my therapist take Surest (formerly Bind)?

Yes! If you use Surest (formerly Bind) you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have Surest (formerly Bind) you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

How does the Specialty Filter work? Can I find a therapist that focuses on Peer Relationships?

The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need. For example, your selected specialty, Peer Relationships, is filtering therapists in Tennessee that work with patients with similar concerns.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

What to expect during your first session?

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs.

Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center. Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.