Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Louisiana covered by Aetna

Hi, I’m Raina Deer. I’m a therapist who helps individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges with compassion and clarity. I specialize in working with people facing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. My goal is to provide a welcoming space where you feel supported and can grow at your own pace.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have a MSW in social work and a BA in Psyhcology with a minor in African American studies. My educational background and career include extensive work with transitional age youth, teens, children and families and other disenfranchised populations.

I'm a retired U.S. Army veteran with more than 30 years of experience supporting others through life's challenges. Over 26 of those years were spent walking alongside troops — listening, guiding, and helping them navigate the weight of service. That experience clarified my path, and in 2015 I became a Licensed Professional Counselor.

Whether or not it's my calling, I know this: I'm good at what I do, and I care deeply about the people I work with. My approach reflects the things I love most in life, including a strong belief in the healing power of animals. I've seen firsthand how they meet needs we don't always recognize we have — offering comfort, connection, and a kind of understanding that words sometimes can't reach.

I have been practicing social work for 15 years with the last 3 in the field of counseling/therapy. I attended Southern University and A&M College and Tulane University's School of Social Work where I received my Bachelor’s and Master’s of Science in Social Work degrees respectively. I have worked in what is considered the trenches, community health, and now healthcare. Helping you reach your goal is my passion.

I’m a client-centered therapist with more than 14 years of experience working as a mental health provider, addictions counselor, and group therapy facilitator. I work with adults and older teens who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship challenges, substance use, recovery, or major life transitions.

I understand that reaching out for therapy can feel uncomfortable or overwhelming, especially when life already feels heavy. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, respected, and supported without judgment. I believe therapy works best when there is a genuine connection, and I strive to build that connection through honesty, compassion, and trust.

I’m passionate about helping people better understand themselves, develop healthier coping skills, and move toward lasting emotional wellness. Whether you are facing a difficult season, feeling stuck, or simply looking for support and guidance, I’m committed to helping you navigate those challenges with greater clarity and confidence.

With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I am deeply committed to helping individuals and families heal, grow, and reconnect with their strengths. My work is grounded in trauma-centered therapy, recognizing that many emotional and behavioral challenges are rooted in experiences that deserve compassion, understanding, and skilled support.

Throughout my career, I have worked extensively with children, adolescents, and families, helping them navigate life transitions, relationship challenges, and the impact of trauma. I believe therapy should be a safe space where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered to move forward with confidence.

Therapy is personal, and I believe it should feel that way. With nearly nine years of experience, I've learned that meaningful change happens when clients feel comfortable enough to let their guard down and simply be themselves. My sessions are conversational, genuine, and often include humor when it's helpful, so clients frequently leave feeling like they've had a real conversation instead of a formal counseling session while also gaining practical, evidence-based strategies they can apply in everyday life. I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), along with other evidence-based approaches, to help clients create lasting change.