LPC-MHSP, LPC
Sharmen Rutherford , LPC-MHSP, LPC
Therapist in Alabama
Online therapy - get matched and start messaging.
About Sharmen
Rutherford is dually licensed as a professional counselor in Alabama and Tennessee and holds the credentials LPC-MHSP and LPC - meaning she is a Licensed Professional Counselor and carries a Mental Health Service Provider designation. She is also an Internationally Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor, indicating specialized training in substance use treatment, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, trained to work with trauma-related concerns. She is currently pursuing an Eating Disorders Specialist certification to deepen her expertise in food-related and body image issues.
Her professional affiliations include membership in the Alabama Alcohol & Drug Abuse Association, the International Consortium of Alcohol & Drug Counselors, the International Association of Trauma Professionals, and the International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals. Rutherford aims to offer strength, hope and practical skills so individuals can create a healthier, more resilient future. She looks forward to building a therapeutic relationship that supports each person’s goals and growth.
Therapeutic approaches and online care
Sharmen often draws from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which focuses on clarifying personal values and taking committed action even when difficult thoughts or feelings are present; ACT can help with anxiety, depression and coping with life changes. She also uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help people identify and adjust unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns, a practical approach commonly used for anxiety, depression, eating concerns and addiction. In addition, she integrates Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills when emotion regulation, distress tolerance and interpersonal effectiveness are priorities, which can be helpful for intense emotions and self-harm behaviors.
Finding the right approach is part of the process, and Sharmen works collaboratively with each person to tailor techniques to their needs, goals and preferences. She blends methods as appropriate and revisits the plan together to ensure it fits the client’s situation.
Online therapy offers flexibility and accessibility through video calls, phone sessions, live chat and text-based messaging. These options make it easier to schedule sessions around work, school and caregiving responsibilities, and allow licensed professionals to provide consistent support when in-person visits are difficult. The range of communication styles also lets people choose the way of working that feels most comfortable for them.
Frequently asked questions
How much experience does Sharmen Rutherford have?
She has 16 years of experience.
Is Sharmen Rutherford a licensed therapist?
Yes. She holds the credentials LPC-MHSP and LPC. License details are TN LPC-MHSP 6766 and AL LPC 4335.
In which languages does Sharmen Rutherford provide therapy?
She provides therapy in English.
Where is Sharmen Rutherford located?
She is located in Alabama.
How can I work with Sharmen Rutherford as my therapist?
You can work with Sharmen Rutherford through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.
Does Sharmen Rutherford work with international clients?
She does not currently work with international clients.
How much does therapy with Sharmen Rutherford 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.
Areas of expertise
Primary focus
Also works with
Additional focus areas
Therapeutic approaches
Experience
16+ years
Licensed
Alabama, Tennessee
Languages
English
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