Once claiming to be the “Marriage Capital of the World” the small city of Folkston, Georgia gives Vegas a run for its money. For years, Floridians who didn’t want to wait to marry in their state would cross the Florida-Georgia line to marry in Folkston, a city known not only for its quick weddings but also history as a rail town.

Though it might not have the hustle and bustle of a bigger city, it’s easy to get lost in one's problems in Folkston, so much so, that it might be hard to see a way out. Like the famous tunnel in Folkston, the other side is often hidden from our view unless we have someone to guide us out. Thankfully, Folkston has mental health professionals who are trained to do just that! All you have to do is reach out.

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Dr. Carolyn Frye

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Folkston
Counselor License Type(s): LPC, NCC, DCPsy
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I have a Master of Arts degree in Professional Counseling and I am licensed in the state of Georgia as a Licensed Professional Counselor, specializing in depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. I received my Master's degree from the Georgia School of Professional Psychology (1998). I received a Doctor of Christian Psychology degree from Logos Graduate School (2005). I hold credentials from the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC) and the National Board of Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist (2009). I am a member of the Licensed Professional Counselor Association of Georgia and credentialed as a Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor by the LPCA of Georgia. SERVICES - WHAT WE DO You may be surprised to discover that the name of your problem is very familiar to me and that I am experienced in counseling interventions that will give you relief from their symptoms and help you find other ways of responding to your unique life situations. Some common issues for which clients seek treatment with me include: Depression Anxiety Emotional Control Relationship Issues Self-esteem Academic Performance Work Performance Changing Habits These issues may be common among many people, but their impact on your life will be unique. You will tell your story, your way, and in your time. Together we identify treatment interventions and goals that create the change that you want.

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Joy Kelleher

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Folkston
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,CCTP-ll
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoachingCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

Well done for taking this first step towards being your best self. It is normal to feel apprehensive about reaching out for help. It is my aim to reduce the barriers to counseling with flexible availability and approaches that work for you! I believe in meeting people where they are at and providing them with an enriching experience that equips them to meet their goals. With over 25 years of experience as a social worker, including extensive international work, I have worked with a large range of clients across the lifespan, with a broad range of needs, desires, and wants. My practice style is relational, strength-based, and individualized. In counseling you can expect professional, empathetic, and targeted support to facilitate the changes you want to achieve. I believe strongly in helping people to leverage their strengths, build resilience, and heal from grief and loss, trauma, and other adversities that they have experienced. I am passionate about giving back to the community. Therefore, I have volunteered in many capacities through-out my career. Currently I am a volunteer assistant swim coach for a local university, where I support athletes to find their feet, navigate the demands of college life, and develop important life skills. I have extensive experience working with young adults as they make important life transitions and forge their unique life paths. As part of my practice I also work with adults with relationship concerns, career challenges, anxiety, and depression. At the core of my work is a belief in the power of transformation through connections, empowerment, and healing. My personal and professional philosophy is that what binds us all together are some common needs, desires, and wants. People want to have a voice and to be heard. We are wired for connections and relationships. Fundamentally we want and need to feel that we belong and have a place in this world. We all have our fears, doubts, and unique experiences that shape our sense of self, choices, and world view. We all have mountains to climb, barriers to overcome, and pains to bear and heal. The idea of counseling is to gain the support and tools you need when you need it most. I look forward to meeting you, learning about you, and helping you during your life journey.

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Kathryn (Kay) Stargill

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Folkston
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,CPCS
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
28 years of experience

Hello and welcome! My name is Kay Stargill and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia since 2004. Though trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, my humanistic background is the foundation for my belief that true healing occurs within relationships. Because I value the power of relationship, I want you to know that I have personally experienced hard things too. My own experiences with anxiety, loss and trauma all contribute to my caring, compassionate and personalized approach in therapy. I also believe that every behavior has a purpose and a payoff. If we can understand what drives the behavior, then we can begin work on strategies that will develop new skills to help you. My professional background includes many years in community mental health with lots of different people struggling with life challenges. Most recently, I have operated my own private practice and worked with our local school district to provide mental health support. I love helping people and believe in a practical and solution focused approach to work through the problems that led you to seek assistance. I believe that it takes courage to reach out for help, and I will honor the bravery that you have shown to take this step. We will work together to help you achieve insight, learn new skills and find strategies that will move you toward change and growth. As we get started, we will set goals that we can use to monitor your progress. You may also receive homework that is practical and designed to help you practice skills and implement desired changes. What I want you to know the most is that there is always hope. Whether you are overwhelmed with big emotions or just needing guidance in a specific area, I will meet you where you are and be committed to helping you work through it. I look forward to working with you.

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Mary Hales

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Folkston
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LPC, LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
22 years of experience

Hello! I am Mary Hales, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I obtained my Masters in Mental Health Counseling from Medaille College in NY. I have over 15 years of experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, hospitals, residential settings, community-based agencies, and private practice. My specialties include anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, substance and other addictions, trauma, and abandonment, couples, and grief therapy, to name a few. I believe that each individual is unique, and it is important to address each client’s issues with an individualized personal approach, one that is relevant to the person and their current presenting problem. I approach counseling in a manner that empowers individuals to create positive change in their situations. My approach is to use a range of therapeutic modalities, to focus on the clients and their needs. I believe in creating a therapeutic relationship in which clients can feel safe while discussing and exploring their problems. Counseling should be considered a journey of personal exploration, which may lead to major changes in your life perspectives and decisions. It takes courage to take the first steps towards seeking this journey of personal exploration for a more fulfilling and happier life. So, if you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you to achieve your personal goals. I look forward to working with you!

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Stacey Paxton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Folkston
Counselor License Type(s): CAMS,CMAC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefAnger managementDepression
12 years of experience

My name is Stacey Nicole Paxton. I am a Certified Anger Management Specialist, Master Addiction Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor with over 9 years’ experience. I launched my career working in community health, non- profit agencies, residential drug treatment facilities, primary care treatment centers, and private practice. As a therapist I endeavor to instill hope, facilitate growth, and provide quality individualized treatment planning and tailor our dialogue to meet your specific needs. My approach is interactive and warm. I strive to educate, advocate, and encourage those who are working hard to become better versions of themselves. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages and stages in life and distinct challenges with concerns related to substance abuse, anger management, depression, anxiety, self- esteem, mood disorders, and adjustment difficulty. I utilize an integrated approach in therapy using models of treatment such as Cognitive Behavioral Interventions, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness Based Interventions and Solution Focused Interventions. My goal is to partner with you to create a space in your environment and within yourself where you increase awareness and feel empowered to live your most authentic life! I believe through collaboration and therapy you can begin to feel balanced and empowered and this approach will help you feel safe as you encounter change. If you’re ready to take the next step. I’m here to support you! I’m excited to meet you and begin working together!

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Catina Wilkes

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Folkston
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Dr. Tosha Ellis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Folkston
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am a licensed clinician in Georgia with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment planning to meet your person centered needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Diera Parham-Carruthers

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Folkston
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in District of Columbia, Georgia, Virginia, and Washington with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Melanie Hill

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Folkston
Trauma and abuseGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Yvette Fairley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in GA, Folkston
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Folkston

Finding the best therapist close by in Folkston can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services with therapists in Folkston that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Folkston. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Folkston, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses for therapists. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Folkston region and in the state of Georgia. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Folkston or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Folkston therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Folkston area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Folkston, elsewhere in Charlton, or in the greater state of Georgia. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Folkston area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Folkston therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Folkston due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Folkston may not take health insurance, some in the state of Georgia may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Georgia you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Folkston online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Folkston, Georgia working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. Therapists have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, therapists here all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Folkston psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Folkston above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Folkston provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Folkston?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Folkston therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Folkston therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Folkston therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in GA, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 31537 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Folkston counselor?

Before seeing your Folkston therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Folkston therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Folkston licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find with a Folkston counselor can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Folkston, Georgia can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Folkston has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Folkston, Georgia

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of Folkston therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Folkston.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Folkston:

31537

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