Prenatal and postpartum therapists & psychiatrists in Lake Charles, LA

My path to psychiatric care is a little different from most. I spent over a decade as an Obstetrics Nurse before transitioning into psychiatric mental health — and that background deeply shapes how I show up for my clients. I understand the weight of life transitions, the complexity of the mind-body connection, and the importance of feeling truly supported. Now, as a PMHNP, I bring that same compassionate, whole-person perspective to mental health care.

I am a dedicated and compassionate counselor with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from Concordia University Wisconsin. I have experience working in substance abuse treatment, as well as providing individual and group therapy in both mental health clinic settings and public schools.

My clinical background includes supporting clients in diverse environments, where I have provided mental health services to individuals, adolescents, and groups. I am experienced in addressing substance use challenges alongside a range of mental health concerns.

My approach integrates evidence-based practices, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). I strive to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered.

Therapy and the journey to self-exploration can be hard. Together, we can navigate your path toward improved mental health and emotional well-being. My approach is solution-focused, centered on the immediate obstacles you are facing. While how you got here matters, what you choose to do next can have an even greater impact. As a clinical social worker with experience across private practice, hospital social work, parenting education, and community care, I bring a broad range of experience to support us in working through challenges together.

My name is Yolanda Cockerham, and I am currently based in Louisiana, but I also see patients in the D.C. area. I grew up in New Orleans. I completed my Post Master’s Degree at Southeastern Louisiana University and am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am skilled in assessing and treating a variety of mental health disorders, including Anxiety/PTSD, Major Depression, Bipolar/Mood Disorders, and Schizophrenia.

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.

I am an experienced mental health professional specializing in counseling and social-emotional support for adolescents and families. I have worked in a telehealth setting for the past 6 years. My work focuses on anxiety, behavioral challenges, and life transitions using evidence-based, client-centered approaches. I strive to create a safe, supportive space where clients can build skills, gain insight, and grow.

I am a Psychology Professor, Ordained Minister, Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor in MS and LA, having been a therapist for 30 years. I am also a wife and mother of 3 adult daughters.