About
You don't have to carry this alone. Whether you're battling anger, anxiety, depression, identity issues, or navigating a life transition that's knocked you off balance, what you're feeling is real — and it matters. So many people spend years telling themselves to just push through, to toughen up, to deal with it. But when that weight keeps building, it starts showing up everywhere: in the overthinking that won't quiet down, the emotional exhaustion that follows you into bed at night, the self-doubt that makes even small decisions feel impossible. If something in you is ready for a change, even if you're not sure what that looks like yet, I'm here to help. Give me a call at (205) 210-8362 — I look forward to hearing from you. When we first sit down together, I won't rush us past what matters. Those early sessions are about slowing down, really listening, and getting a clear picture of what's been weighing on you and what you genuinely need. I make it a point to create a space where you can speak freely — no judgment, no pressure, just honest conversation that helps you make sense of your own experiences. That kind of openness is where meaningful counseling begins. From there, we work together. We'll explore practical tools to help you manage difficult emotions, build resilience, and find your way back to a steadier place. Mental wellness isn't about arriving at some perfect version of yourself — it's about learning to move through life with a little more clarity and a lot less weight on your shoulders. What sets my practice apart is a genuine commitment to meeting you exactly where you are, while also gently challenging you to grow. I don't believe therapy should ever feel like a rigid formula. Every person who walks through my door brings a different story, so I tailor our work to fit your specific needs — blending evidence-based techniques with a grounded, supportive presence that keeps things real. You don't have to keep struggling through this on your own. Whenever you're ready to take that next step, I'd love to support you. Specialties: I specialize in helping adolescents, adults, and seniors navigate life's challenges with warmth, directness, and practical tools for lasting growth. Drawing on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Adlerian approaches, I am experienced with identifying the origin and nature of a wide range of difficulties, using that understanding to determine which treatment and intervention techniques will be most effective for you. I focus on creating a collaborative space where we can work together to clarify what is holding you back and why, so that the path forward feels both meaningful and grounded. Through this process, I guide you toward deeper self-awareness and overall wellness, ensuring that every step we take together is tailored to your unique needs and circumstances. Credentials & Experience: Over a decade of clinical experience spans a variety of treatment settings, grounding my practice in real-world, diverse therapeutic environments. I am licensed in both Alabama and Nebraska, bringing dual-state credentialed expertise to every client I serve. Through NBCC, I hold certifications as a National Certified Counselor, Board-Certified TeleMental Health Provider, and Approved Clinical Supervisor — a combination that reflects my commitment to rigorous professional standards, ethical telehealth delivery, and the mentorship of the next generation of clinicians.
"My therapeutic approach is integrative and evidence-based, drawing on four powerful, well-researched modalities to support your growth and wellbeing. Adlerian Therapy helps us explore how your early life experiences, personal beliefs, and sense of belonging have shaped who you are today — building self-awareness and a deeper understanding of the patterns that drive your thoughts and behaviors. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a practical, structured approach that helps you identify and shift unhelpful thinking patterns, so you can respond to life's challenges in healthier, more effective ways. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) equips you with concrete skills for managing intense emotions, improving relationships, and staying grounded when life feels overwhelming. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) guides you toward identifying what truly matters to you, so you can live with greater purpose and meaning — even in the presence of difficult thoughts or feelings. Our work together will be collaborative, supportive, and goal-focused. Each session blends genuine insight with practical skills, helping you understand your patterns, manage your emotions more effectively, and clarify your values."
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Watch intro videoSpecialties
Areas of Focus
Therapeutic Approaches
Services & Pricing
Free Consultation
15 min · Online
Qualifications
Verified by Calm at Home
Licensed · LIMHP, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH, ACS
Terissa Upchurch-Butler · Verified June 2026
Education and Years in Practice
Attended The University of Alabama, Ph.D. in , Graduated 2014
Additional Credentials
Membership from National Board for Certified Counselors -National Certified Counselor
2016
Membership from National Board for Certified Counselors - Board Certified- TeleMental Health Provider
2022
Insurance & Policies
I am in-network with several major insurance plans, including Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare, which can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs. If you are paying out-of-pocket, my private pay rate is $250 per hour. For those who may be experiencing financial hardship, I do offer pro bono services on a limited basis when availability allows — because everyone deserves access to quality care. I am also able to develop staff trainings as well as school and community programs to support mental health beyond the therapy room.
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My Practice at a Glance
Available for online sessions
Tuscaloosa, AL, 35407 map
My therapeutic approach is integrative and evidence-based, drawing on four powerful, well-researched modalities to support your growth and wellbeing. Adlerian Therapy helps us explore how your early life experiences, personal beliefs, and sense of belonging have shaped who you are today — building self-awareness and a deeper understanding of the patterns that drive your thoughts and behaviors. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a practical, structured approach that helps you identify and shift unhelpful thinking patterns, so you can respond to life's challenges in healthier, more effective ways. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) equips you with concrete skills for managing intense emotions, improving relationships, and staying grounded when life feels overwhelming. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) guides you toward identifying what truly matters to you, so you can live with greater purpose and meaning — even in the presence of difficult thoughts or feelings. Our work together will be collaborative, supportive, and goal-focused. Each session blends genuine insight with practical skills, helping you understand your patterns, manage your emotions more effectively, and clarify your values.
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Anxiety Test
GAD-7 · 7 Questions
Depression Test
PHQ-9 · 9 Questions
Stress Level
PSS-10 · 10 Questions