LPC, LMHC

Dr. Keith Cates, LPC, LMHC

Therapist in Alabama

Keith is a LPC, LMHC therapist in Alabama.

16+ years of experience
Focus areas include Trauma and abuse, Self esteem
Approaches include Existential Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

See availability and next steps on BetterHelp.

About Keith

Dr. Keith Cates is a licensed counselor with 16 years of clinical experience who works with adults facing a wide range of challenges. He holds the credentials LPC and LMHC, which indicate training and licensure to provide professional mental health counseling. His practice focuses on trauma and abuse, self-esteem and confidence, career-related concerns, compassion fatigue, stress and anxiety, relationship and intimacy issues, parenting and fatherhood matters, and challenges related to veterans, first responders, and non-monogamous relationships.

He has particular experience supporting first responders and their families, including EMS, law enforcement, fire services, emergency dispatch, and military personnel, and he also works with clients navigating BDSM, kink, and alternative sexual cultures. Dr. Cates approaches each person with sensitivity and respect, acknowledging the courage it takes to seek change and a more fulfilling life. He tailors conversations and treatment plans to each client’s unique needs, preferences, and goals.

Clients can expect an empowering, collaborative process in which the therapist offers support and practical strategies while helping individuals build resilience, address post-traumatic stress, and cope with life transitions. Dr. Cates aims to help people move toward greater wellbeing, stronger relationships, and clearer direction in their personal and professional lives.

Therapeutic Approaches for Online Support and Growth

Dr. Cates uses several evidence-informed approaches to help clients address trauma, stress, and life transitions. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing - EMDR - is a structured therapy that helps people process distressing memories and reduce their emotional impact, often used for post-traumatic stress and other trauma-related difficulties. Mindfulness Therapy teaches practical skills to increase present-moment awareness and reduce reactivity, supporting clients who struggle with anxiety, stress, or chronic emotional overwhelm. Existential Therapy explores meaning, values, and personal responsibility, helping those facing emptiness, life changes, or questions about purpose to clarify goals and make authentic choices.

Choosing the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. Dr. Cates collaborates with each client to assess needs, goals, and preferences, adapting methods over time so the work fits the person rather than forcing a single model. This collaborative stance helps clients feel involved and respected as they try different strategies.

Online therapy offers practical flexibility for working with Dr. Cates. Sessions may be scheduled as video calls or phone appointments, and shorter check-ins can occur by live chat or text-based messaging. These options make it easier to access licensed professionals from home or between other commitments, supporting consistent progress while accommodating busy lives.

Frequently asked questions

How much experience does Dr. Keith Cates have?

Dr. Keith Cates has 16 years of professional experience in counseling and psychotherapy.

Is Dr. Keith Cates a licensed therapist?

Yes. He holds the credentials LPC and LMHC. License details include AL LPC LPC02734 and FL LMHC MH20512.

In which languages does Dr. Keith Cates provide therapy?

Therapy is provided in English.

Where is Dr. Keith Cates located?

Dr. Keith Cates is located in Alabama.

How can I work with Dr. Keith Cates as my therapist?

You can work with Dr. Keith Cates through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.

Does Dr. Keith Cates work with international clients?

No. Dr. Keith Cates does not currently work with international clients.

How much does therapy with Dr. Keith Cates cost?

The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.

How can I get started with therapy?

Getting started is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.