For our Faith & Mental Health edition, we wanted to provide a list of people, organizations, and resources that can help with everything from suicidal ideation to intimacy problems, substance abuse, motherhood challenges, and more. Please note, many of these resources can help with far more than just the topic (e.g., “Anxiety”) under which they’re listed! Please share this article with anyone you know who might be struggling – and never be afraid to ask for help.
ADDICTION
Harbor House Chemical Dependency Services (Jackson)
Every person faced with substance abuse issues has a unique and important story. Their journey to get to the point of needing help has been filled with uncertainty and pain. Those around them have been impacted. Their lives are not where they could be, and they have tried to moderate or stop without consistently being able to do so.
Addiction preys on the young and old, poor and wealthy, those with a family history and those without. Nobody sets out to become addicted, but substance use becomes a coping process, and eventually the person cannot stop.
Harbor House was established in 1973 to serve men and women impacted by substance abuse through residential treatment. Our mission remains to offer hope to adults by providing an effective continuum of high-quality, valuable, compassionate behavioral health treatment. Harbor House cares for hundreds of people every year who need help. Many of them are without insurance or other resources and often have co-occurring mental health issues.
Our philosophy is based on person-centered treatment planning; the one needing help is the most important part of the treatment team. Each person’s treatment plan is created to address their specific needs. The only things necessary for the person to achieve sobriety are honesty, open-mindedness, and willingness to take risks toward trusting the process, surrendering to the program, and committing to change.
We treat a substance use disorder as a chronic disease that can be managed to improve a person’s physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Recovery takes time, dedication, and support. Harbor House staff are committed to offering support, compassion, and effective tools for change through residential services, MAT (Medication-Assisted Treatment), and recovery support services so those we serve can be set free from addiction to live a life worth living.
Mercy House Adult & Teen Challenge (Copiah County)
Mercy House Adult & Teen Challenge is a program for men struggling with addiction. With 14 beautiful acres in Copiah County, men find a safe “retreat” to rebuild their lives. We believe in Total Life Transformation, and the vision we have is to see Broken Families Restored One Man at a Time. 601-213-8536 mercyhouseatc.com
Pine Grove Behavioral Health & Addiction Services
Pine Grove is one of the nation’s most comprehensive treatment campuses, offering a variety of programs for men and women, children, adolescents and adults. Here is some wisdom from Pine Grove about the dangers of social media addiction:
Social media platforms have become central to our daily lives, offering unparalleled connectivity and access to information. However, casual browsing can spiral into an addiction, with significant implications for mental and physical health. How does this problem develop, and what warning signs should you look for if you worry about yourself or a loved one?
Warning signs of social media addiction
Characteristics of social media addiction include an uncontrollable urge to use platforms like Instagram and X (Twitter), devoting so much time and effort to this technology that it prevents you from fulfilling other life responsibilities. This compulsion stems from the intermittent rewards social media platforms provide – likes, shares, and comments that stimulate your brain and encourage continuous engagement.
Identifying social media addiction can be challenging, as it shares characteristics with normal usage. However, specific signs indicate a pervasive problem.
- Neglecting your personal, professional or educational responsibilities.
- Withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety or depression when not using social media.
- An overwhelming urge to refresh your feed – even in inappropriate or dangerous situations, such as while driving.
- Loss of previously enjoyable activities, including sleep and exercise.
Who is most at risk?
While anyone can develop a social media addiction, some groups are more susceptible.
- Teenagers and young adults, who are native digital users and frequently rely on social media for social validation.
- People with mental health conditions like anxiety or depression may use social media to escape or alleviate their symptoms.
- Lonely, marginalized or isolated people might depend on social media to stay connected, which can spiral into addictive behavior.
Social media addiction vs. technology addiction
While social media addiction is a form of technology addiction, there are distinct differences.
- Specific vs. general: Social media addiction is specifically about compulsive use of social media platforms, whereas technology addiction can involve a broader range of digital devices and activities like gaming, browsing and streaming.
- Social interaction: Social media addiction often begins with seeking approval and interaction from others. Meanwhile, technology addiction can be completely solitary, focusing on content consumption or interactive engagement with digital interfaces.
Find freedom from social media addiction at Pine Grove
Social media addiction is a growing concern with severe physical and mental health implications. Recognizing the signs and understanding the risk factors can help resolve this modern-day challenge. At Pine Grove, we expertly treat clients struggling with social media and other forms of digital addiction, helping them regain control and achieve a healthier, more balanced life. Contact us today to start restoring your well-being. 1-888-903-1761 (See ad on page 5.)
William Magee Center (Oxford)
The William Magee Center for Alcohol & Other Drugs and Wellness Education is dedicated to transforming students’ lives by providing education, intervention, and support services to enhance well-being and foster success at The University of Mississippi. The William Magee Center provides education, resources, and support to change and improve students’ lives. More info: https://olemiss.edu/magee-center/
ANXIETY
Cornerstone Counseling (multiple locations)
Cornerstone Counseling is led by a passionate team of counselors with a heart to serve and provide personal care. Here is some advice from one of our professionals:
Philippians 4:6 states, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and pleading with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” I want to focus briefly on the phrase with thanksgiving. We have two types of gratitude: state gratitude and trait gratitude. State gratitude is being grateful in a moment. Trait gratitude is being a grateful person. A grateful person can see God’s love in every situation.
The phrase with thanksgiving needs to be understood in the context of “do not be anxious about anything.” Sometimes the opposite of anxious is not calm but thankful. Perhaps gratitude is one way to find peace in the middle of a storm.
Reader, you may experience storms that cause significant anxiety. Gratitude most likely will not cure that anxiety completely, but gratitude can be a means to find a peace that surpasses all understanding. Do not feel shame if you struggle with gratitude, and do not be afraid to seek help for any of life’s struggles. – Justin Kelly, PhD, LPC-S.
AWARENESS & SUPPORT
National Alliance on Mental Illness – Mississippi
Started as a small group of families gathered around a kitchen table, The National Alliance on Mental Illness – Mississippi was chartered in 1989, and has blossomed into a leading voice on mental health. We work in your community to raise awareness and provide support and education that was not previously available to those in need.
CHURCH-BASED COUNSELING
Summit Counseling (Jackson)
First Baptist Jackson started its Summit Counseling program in 1983 as one of the first church-based Christian counseling ministries in the Southeast. Over the years, Summit has impacted thousands of individuals and families throughout the Jackson metro and Mississippi. We believe Jesus is our Wonderful Counselor who desires for us to find healing and life.
Summit is a catalyst for hope and has a proven record of restoring lives – whether clients are facing premarital / marital issues, parenting, aging, depression, anxiety, trauma, or grief. Our therapists are licensed and trained to meet clients’ presenting problems and offer help through a multitude of counseling modalities.
My vision is to continue to meet the needs of those who come through our doors, so they understand they are cherished by the One who matters. No matter what they have done or what life has dealt them, God wants to make a way.
Summit is in the process of becoming a Medicaid provider and plans to apply for Medicare. Our fee structure is a sliding scale, and we accept Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi. For those unable to pay for counseling, master’s level interns will see clients for free. We also provide EAP (employment assistant program) to help businesses in the metro and the state with their mental health needs.
In addition to individual counseling, Summit facilitates several groups: Caregivers’ Support, for those whose spouses participate in FBJ’s Rock Steady Boxing for Parkinson’s patients; Grief Share, Divorce Care, and starting this fall, Cancer Survivors Group. Summit is the host of the annual Hope Conference – Lighting the Way to Cancer Survivorship.
FBJ is a downtown church FOR Jackson, and Summit is uniquely positioned to accomplish this with our counseling ministry that feels called to bring hope and healing to a city that desperately needs it.
– Don Waller, director, Summit Counseling
COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
Hinds Behavioral Health Services (Jackson)
Since 1971, Hinds Behavioral Health Services (HBHS) has specialized in community mental health services for adults, youth, and those living with substance use disorders.
One in 5 people live with a mental illness, and many disorders often begin during childhood. Hinds Behavioral Health Services’ NFusion Metro system of care helps individuals between the ages of 0-21 transition into adulthood through a stigma-free environment, activities, groups, counseling, wraparound services, and peer support. Participants must have emotional or behavioral problems or be involved with two or more child-serving agencies.
Your church can help individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. Hinds Behavioral Health Services’ Congregational Recovery Outreach Program provides mental health and substance use disorder education, resources, and outreach to faith-based organizations. The program builds supportive environments and connects individuals living with mental illness and/or substance use disorders to quality healthcare. For more information about mental health programs, visit hbhs9.com.
COUNSELING (various specialties)
Compass Christian Counseling (Flowood)
Compass Christian Counseling is a group of professional clinicians who understand the importance of a personal relationship with Christ and the transformative work He can provide in our lives. We want to help individuals and families facilitate positive change and personal growth in their lives. Please reach out to us at admin@compassccms.com or 601-228-6907.
The Counseling Firm (Madison)
Dr. Jennifer Hogue specializes in mental health. The Counseling Firm’s mission is to help improve well-being, assisting clients with past and present trials by encouraging hope, breaking cyclical patterns, and enhancing cognition emotionally, spiritually, and physically to achieve their purpose with healthy awareness for a victorious life. Contact: 601-622-6337 or 444jrh@gmail.com
Crossroads Christian Counseling (multiple locations)
Crossroads Christian Counseling, established in 1989, is a ministry of the Rankin County Baptist Association. Crossroads’ mission is to assist individuals, couples, and families in finding healing in the midst of difficult times.
Crossroads’ counselors are educated, trained, experienced, and equipped to help children, teens, adults, and senior adults.
Crossroads’ offices are located in Pearl, Ridgeland, Kosciusko, Laurel, Hattiesburg, and Biloxi. Also, many of our counselors are certified to counsel via telehealth. Crossroads’ administrative staff can assist in finding the right counselor for you. You can call 601-939-6634, or find us on the internet at crossroadscounselingms.com.
If you are a Christian counselor searching for a place to counsel either full-time or part-time, please contact us. Our experienced administrative staff handles nearly all of the time-consuming paperwork, freeing counselors to do what they’ve been called to do: help people who are hurting.
Elizabeth Taylor, LPC (Brandon)
Licensed since 1997 and in private practice in Brandon for the last 10 years, you can expect to find a safe, comfortable space during our counseling sessions. My counseling approach will always come through a Christian worldview coupled with compassion, kindness, patience, and truth. More info: https://elizabethtaylorlpc.com/
KMC Counseling (Ridgeland)
Maybe you often feel overwhelmed, worn out, or like you’re running on empty. Life is full of ups and downs, and sometimes those low points just seem to go on and on. Whether this is a new feeling for you or it’s an old, unwanted friend, you don’t have to face it alone. If feelings of shame or worry about being a burden have kept you from seeking help in the past, know that you are God’s creation and are deserving of receiving help. Everyone has inherent worth, no matter what they’ve survived or what they’ve done. My goal is to extend Christlike compassion to others in the way Jesus has extended it to me. – Kate Crawford.
After working in community mental health, university counseling, and an active private practice group, Kate committed herself to providing a more client-focused approach to treatment. She founded KMC Counseling in Ridgeland in 2022.
Red River Counseling (Ridgeland)
Red River Counseling was founded in 2018 by Dr. Branden Henry, a licensed counselor and marriage therapist who also teaches counseling courses at Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson and Orlando. Red River has sought to provide the best therapeutic services in an accessible way to our local Mississippi community. Simply put, they seek to:
Heal Hurts
Empower Change
Restore Relationships
Recover Life to the Full
Some of the specialties they offer through their in-house referrals are ketamine-assisted therapy, K9-assisted therapy, life and recovery coaching, sex therapy and addiction counseling, marriage and family counseling, trauma treatment through EMDR and experiential somatic intensives, and a multitude of other therapeutic modalities.
Red River Counseling offers therapy, coaching, and psychiatric services to individuals, couples, and families. Their diverse clinicians are trained and experienced in helping with addiction, trauma, PTSD, grief, depression, anxiety, relationships, parenting, recovery, anger, and many other issues.
They are located on Lake Harbor in Ridgeland (near Friendship Park) and provide guidance, local resources, and transparency on their website at RedRiverCounseling.net. You can also reach them by email at office@redrivercounseling.net, by phone at 601-780-7400, or by scanning their QR code.
Let us help you Recover, Heal, and become Empowered.
Watershed Counseling Associates, PLLC (Jackson)
For over a decade, Watershed Counseling has provided the Jackson metro and surrounding areas with compassionate, professional counseling. Our team of experienced therapists is committed to walking alongside you on your journey of healing and reclaiming joy. We understand that life’s challenges can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone.
Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, or any other life issue, Watershed is here to support you with a Christ-centered approach that integrates faith and proven therapeutic techniques. Our services are tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals, couples, and families.
Let us help you navigate your watershed moment and find peace and restoration. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward a brighter future. watershedcounselingms.com
FAMILY REUNIFICATION
Journey of Hope Counseling (Madison)
I’m a wife and mom of six, as well as an LPC who loves to work with kids, teens, and adults. My favorite work is in family reunification. I love helping families reconnect in meaningful, healthy ways! Reaching out to talk to someone is the BEST type of self-care. – Michelle Hamilton, LPC-S, NCC, BC-TMH. Contact: 601-668-3738 or Michelle.HamiltonLPC@gmail.com
MOTHERHOOD COUNSELING
Krista Woods Counseling (Ridgeland)
Motherhood can be challenging, and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed sometimes. My mission is to provide a supportive space where you can release stress, embrace self-compassion, and grow in confidence. I’m here to help you find the support you need to experience more joy in your journey as a mom. More info: https://www.kristawoodscounseling.com/
PARTIAL HOSPITALIZATION
Three Oaks Behavioral Health (Ridgeland)
Three Oaks Behavioral Health is a private, freestanding mental health facility offering partial psychiatric hospitalization and intensive outpatient services for adults and adolescents addressing emotional challenges and chemical abuse issues. For over 23 years, Three Oaks has served patients in developing personal growth, promoting hope and healing. Our team of professionals includes board-certified psychiatrists, counselors, and registered nurses.
We offer:
- Adult psychiatric PHP facilitates skill sets to manage depression, anxiety, bipolar, grief and loss.
- Adult substance abuse PHP addresses coexisting psychiatric and chemical dependency issues.
- Adolescent PHP for ages 13 to 18 addresses depression, anxiety, anger, and ADHD.
- Intensive Outpatient Program offers group and individual counseling for individuals needing less intensive treatment for depression and anxiety.
Specialty individualized tracks to address eating disorders and trauma recovery are also available.
Anyone in need of care is invited to contact us for a FREE confidential comprehensive screening. No referrals are needed. Call 601-898-3080.
PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES
Essential Touchstones Psychological Services
Essential Touchstones, established in 2018, specializes in intensive, evidence-based, and multi-modal therapies for adolescents, adults, and families. Our mission is to heal individuals and families from the inside out. We offer comprehensive assessments, psychiatric medication services, and personalized treatment plans for all ages.
SEX & INTIMACY
Doxa Renewal Clinic (Ridgeland)
Sexuality is an important building block of a healthy relationship, designed by God to channel intimacy and closeness in marriage. Contrary to popular belief, most people will experience intimacy problems at some point in their lives. In some cases, these problems are easily resolved, but sometimes they remain persistent and can be a source of conflict, misunderstandings, and frustration.
There are lots of physical and psychological reasons why sexual dysfunction can happen. Many people who seek medical treatment for their problems also turn to a therapist for complementary help. Although there is no miracle cure to solve sexual problems, a qualified clinician can help facilitate change in the life of an individual or a couple. At Doxa Renewal Clinic, we are uniquely qualified to facilitate those hard conversations with ease and sensitivity, integrating theological training with psychological approaches.
Dr. Marti Witherow combines extensive clinical experience and high professional standards to help her clients deal with sensitive intimacy-related concerns. Her approach is based on empirical research and evidence-based practices widely accepted in the sexual medicine world. She works proficiently at the intersection of psychology, sexual medicine, and Christian faith since sexual issues are often best addressed in a treatment team of clinicians.
SUICIDE
988 Lifeline:
24-hour access to trained crisis counselors for kids and teens
Kids and teens these days face all kinds of pressure. Life can be tough. Overwhelming. It’s a world that’s different from the one their parents grew up in.
But they also have resources their parents didn’t have. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to offer access to trained crisis counselors for anyone experiencing mental health-related distress. That could mean thoughts of suicide, emotional distress, a substance use crisis, or any other mental health issue.
There are too many people experiencing mental health distress without the care they need or knowing what support is around them, especially young people.
In 2022, there was one death by suicide in the United States every 11 minutes. Shockingly, suicide was the second-leading cause of death in both 10- to 14-year-olds and 25- to 34-year-olds. The 988 Lifeline launched that same year, providing an easy way to reach a caring, trained counselor no matter where you live.
The Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provide free and confidential support through calls, texts, and chats. The three-digit dialing code of 988 is available for calls and texts, and online chats are available at 988lifeline.org. Mississippi has one of the highest in-state answer rates in the nation, meaning that when you contact the Lifeline from Mississippi, a fellow Mississippian is answering – someone who knows our state, our people, and the challenges our friends, neighbors, and families face.
Never hesitate to reach out for help, whether that means asking friends or trusted adults for support or contacting 988.
For more information about services and support near you, call the Mississippi Department of Mental Health Helpline at 1-877-210-8513. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, any time is the right time to call.
Mission Vigilant – For the 22 (based in Madison)
My name is Susan Cleland, and I lost my oldest son, Michael Vinson, to veteran suicide in 2019. Before he died, I had no idea that suicide was such a threat to military life until the day I learned that the high-water mark of such deaths was 22 veterans per day.
Because we want to support our veterans and their families who continue to struggle with silent battles, we established the nonprofit Mission Vigilant – For the 22 in March of 2022. Last year, we helped 28 Mississippians receive 69 sessions of counseling anonymously. We also provided funding to supply GriefShare materials at various churches.
My family and I now feel that our calling is to use our network to provide support, resources, and outreach services for military veterans, first responders, and their families. Our partners include Cornerstone Counseling, Lifeworks Counseling, Brentwood Behavioral Healthcare, Defining Wellness Centers Inc., First Responders of Mississippi, Stronger Together Foundation, Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services, Mothers of Veteran Suicide, and 5th Squad.
Another resource we offer is the book “Mission Vigilant: A Mother’s Crusade to Stem the Tide of Veteran Suicide,” which I co-wrote with author Sherye Green.
For more info, visit https://www.missionvigilant.org/.
TREATMENT CENTERS
Capstone Wellness (located in Arkansas)
Capstone is a leading residential treatment center dedicated to helping young men ages 18-26 and teens 14-17 overcome self-destructive behaviors, mental health struggles, and compulsive behaviors. With a focus on individual and group therapy, a proven clinical team, adventure therapy, and supportive canine companions, Capstone provides a comprehensive and supportive environment for healing and growth.
At the heart of Capstone’s approach is a commitment to providing exceptional care with an unmatched client-to-therapist ratio of 2:1. This ensures that each young man receives personalized attention and support throughout their journey. The dedicated team of therapists and staff at Capstone are passionate about helping young men develop the tools and skills they need to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.
Individual therapy plays a crucial role in the Capstone program. Through one-on-one sessions, young men can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe and confidential setting. Therapists work with each individual to identify underlying issues, develop coping mechanisms, and cultivate healthier ways of relating to themselves and others.
Group therapy provides an opportunity for young men to connect with peers who share similar experiences. In a supportive group setting, individuals can learn from one another, develop empathy, and gain a sense of belonging. Group therapy also fosters the development of important social skills such as communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution.
Capstone’s canine companion program offers a unique and therapeutic experience for young men. Interacting with dogs has been shown to have numerous benefits for mental health, including reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Dogs can also provide unconditional love and companionship, which can be especially important for young men who may feel isolated or alone.
Adventure therapy is another integral component of the Capstone program. Through activities such as hiking, camping, and rock climbing, young men can challenge themselves physically and mentally. These experiences can help build self-esteem, confidence, and a sense of accomplishment. Adventure therapy also provides opportunities for teamwork, cooperation, and problem-solving while working to replace some unhealthy coping mechanisms with positive recreational activities.
Capstone is a program built on faith and clinical excellence. Our Christ-centered environment offers a spiritual foundation for healing and growth. The heart of Capstone’s approach: “Every person is made in the image of God to love and to be loved at a core-to-core depth of intimacy with God, self, family and friends while using their unique gifts for a meaningful purpose.” It is in the depths of struggle that God gives opportunities to grow and to develop deeper relationships, strengths and a passion for a purpose.
Capstone is more than just a treatment center; it’s a community where young men can find hope, respite, resilience, and a path to healing. With a focus on individual and family care, therapeutic modalities, and a supportive environment, Capstone is committed to helping young men overcome their challenges and live fulfilling lives.
WOMEN’S ISSUES
Wendy Maxwell, Restoration Counseling Group (Ridgeland)
You’re facing a major life change you didn’t anticipate that has you at a breaking point. Perhaps it’s debilitating thoughts keeping you stuck in dysfunctional ways of reacting and coping, increasing your stress, anxiety and depression. You may feel paralyzed. Perhaps it’s getting harder to function day to day, as if you’re in free fall.
I see and help people daily just like you. It’s a challenge to confront faulty ways of coping, thinking and relating. I work with clients to make sure the process isn’t overwhelming. The techniques learned and the changes established will allow you to have confidence that you can manage whatever comes your way.
I help women and teens with depression and anxiety improve their ability to handle stress and change so they gain strength, confidence and a new perspective that allows improved relationships, improved ability to handle stress and hardship, and overall peace of mind.