Dr. Shelia Williamson Collins
Hello, I am Dr. Shelia Williamson Collins, PhD, NCC, LCMHC, CCMHC, LCAS, CCS, SAP, MAC. I am a board certified clinical mental health counselor and addiction counselor with nearly 20 years of experience in behavioral health. I am licensed as a clinical counselor in the states of North Carolina, Illinois, and Alaska. I have a PhD in General Psychology from Northcentral University. I also have a master's degree in Community Counseling and a bachelor's degree in psychology from Chicago State University. I have worked in an adult inpatient psychiatric unit, outpatient behavioral clinic, community-based mental health services, and residential substance abuse treatment programs. My counseling style is person-centered. I have a diverse therapeutic approach to counseling. However, my primary approach includes cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I specialize in mood disorders, anger management, addictions education, and relapse prevention. I believe that everyone has a story to tell; and I am here to listen. Giving voice to your concerns and issues is the first step to healing. We can accomplish this together. It would be my honor to work with you to assist you in reaching your healthy goals. Please let me know if you would prefer weekly sessions, and I will do my best to accommodate.
Tawnya Thompson
I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor in the state of North Carolina. I having been working in this field for over 25 years. I am fortunate to have been afforded the opportunity to work in a variety of settings. These settings include substance abuse treatment, mental health crises, domestic violence, critical incidences, youth corrections, individual, couples and family counseling. I have worked with clients who have had issues with depression, anxiety, stress and psychsocial problems. While I have benefitted greatly from these experiences, I believe myself to be most effective in individual counseling. I have taken the benefit of all these experiences and combined them to be the best counselor I can be. No matter the initial presentation of my clients, their issues tend to fall into one or more of the areas of my experience. As a therapist, my theoretical approaches tend to be solution focused, reality based with an emphasis on how my client views him or herself and the world around them. I believe we all make decisions and exhibit individual behaviors based on what we perceive is happening to us and the world around us. My goal is to help my clients determine if their beliefs, as well as their actions, are helping them be the best they can be. In addition to that, I work to ensure that my clients have the emotional tools they need to appropriately and effectively manage the emotional ups and downs of life. As I see it, life is "a continuum of temporary circumstances that we all must navigate the best we can with the skills we have". My calling is to serve others, with the hope that I can contribute in some way to helping them make their lives better..
Esther Reynolds
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and have been in a private practice for over 25 years. I work with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, ADHD, and traumatic experiences (physical, emotional, and sexual). Family conflicts and relationship issues are also a focus of my practice. My approach includes cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and rational emotive behavior therapy. I often coordinate mindfulness, insight-oriented approaches, and storytelling in my sessions, depending on an individual’s uniqueness. My primary goal is to develop a therapeutic relationship built on trust. I believe that the client’s motivation is key to success and that all motivation must start with a destination, chosen by the client. I see myself just as a facilitator, guiding the client towards that destination. I look forward to working with you!
Cassandra Bell-Gash
Min. Cassandra Bell-Gash M.Div., MEd., LCMHC, LPC A native of Shelby, North Carolina, Min. Bell-Gash accepted Jesus Christ as her personal savior and was baptized at age 12, at the Light Oak Baptist Church by the Rev Johnny Browner. She has always had a zeal for the Lord and was licensed as a Minster of the Gospel in November 2007, under Rev. Zeno T. Borders. She has worked in Christian Education at Faith Missionary Baptist Church under Rev. Borders and later Rev. Dr. Anthony Negbenebor. Her unique gift of teaching and preaching has manifested itself in Sunday School and Bible Study, but has also produced specialized workshops and retreats for women, young adults, and youth. Her leadership conferences have generated new opportunities for her to consult with organizations in their strategic planning and development. She believes that empowering other organizations to provide care extends the available resources needed by so many. Drawn to the marginalized in our society, Min. Bell-Gash, became an entrepreneur to advocate on their behalf. Her philosophy of going “beyond the walls”, propelled her to gain the necessary academics and training to provide holistic solutions. Earning her B.S. in Psychology minoring in Sociology in 1995 from the Gardner Web University; she continued and earned her M.Div, and MEd. respectively. As a continuous learner, she did not stop there, but has garnered many certifications in the mental health counseling field and continues to study. One could see the “handwriting on the wall” because this has been her life work for over 15 years. Chaplin, Therapist, Mental Health Liaison, and Crisis Counselor are just a few of the titles she’s held; Caro Mont Hospital, Cleveland Regional Medical Center, Broughton, and Kings Mountain Hospital represent some of the places she’s practiced. While titles and places are important, Min. Bell-Gash asserts that it’s the nameless individuals whose lives have been impacted by the services that she provides that really matter, and that continue to be her focus. Her “multifaceted” approach extends the services she offers for individuals and families, and is the added depth required to meet the spiritual and mental needs of the communities she serve. She is currently CEO of Life Provisions with chapters in North and South Carolina. She is a proud mother, and daughter and enjoys times with her family. She humbly acknowledges and accepts her role as a citizen of the Kingdom of God.
Kevin Stroud
Hello! I am a therapist and clinical social worker in North Carolina with 5 years of experience in the field. I have previously worked with individuals in an inpatient long-term setting and with children and families to maintain family preservation. I have worked with clients experiencing issues such as depression, anxiety, parenting problems, communication problems, and post-traumatic stress. I place a high emphasis on the importance of maintaining unconditional positive regard towards clients, as maintaining a strong working relationship can be critical towards addressing issues and making therapeutic gains. All individuals deserve to be heard and feel validation. From there, we can explore these difficult issues together and address negative feelings that cause hardship. I believe that solutions to our problems lie within all individuals, as each individual in the expert in their own life. My background lies in motivational interviewing, and cognitive and solution-focused therapies. Asking for help takes a lot of strength and vulnerability. If you decide to move forward, I will be happy to assist you in reaching your goals!
Payton Saine
I am licensed in North Carolina with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Tayona Curry
I am licensed in North Carolina with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, eating disorders, anger management and more. 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.
Loretta Tillman
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC)in both North and South Carolina with over 20 years of counseling experience. I am also a Nationally Certified Counselor and Accredited Disability Representative. I work with adults who want help to feel more in control, inspired, motivated, and empowered to find enjoyment in living from their authentic self. My experience includes working with clients with a variety of concerns such as anxiety, bipolar, depression, self-esteem, life transition issues, chronic pain, and disability. This is a transformational journey fueled by strength, integrity and courage. My counseling style/approach is warm, interactive and supportive. I believe in treating everyone with dignity, integrity, compassion and sensitivity in addressing their concerns. I do not believe in stigmatizing labels because labels do not define who you are. My approach uses multiple therapeutic modalities such as person-centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral, reality therapy and psycho-dynamic. This approach allows for flexibility to tailor treatment plans to meet your unique and specific needs and goals. Together, we will identify solutions and resources to inspire, motivate and empower you through your growth challenges to achieve the outcomes and results you want. I believe that you are your best expert in your life. I will provide you with guidance in identifying patterns, choices and consequences to accomplish goals for a more satisfying and authentic life. It takes strength, integrity and courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life supported by dreams and goals. Taking the first step toward change can be both frightening and rewarding. I will be with you every step of the transformational journey and help you with the tools to develop a "stick and stay" attitude toward your progress. BE YOU! All abroad the transformation journey, let's roll! I really look forward to working with you to become the best version of yourself.
Dr. Agyenim Akuamoah-Boateng
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS), Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS) and a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). I have a PhD in Human Services, with a concentration in Disaster, Crisis, and Intervention. I have over 20 years of experience in mental health and substance abuse counseling. I have been in the mental health and substance abuse field since 1998 and worked as a licensed private practitioner since 2001. I have experience working with clients with mental health (anxiety, depression, PTSD) and substance use disorders. I have dedicated the past few years working with individuals with Dual and Triple diagnosis of medical, mental health and substance use disorders. I believe in integrated medical, mental health and substance use disorders treatment. Most of my counseling approach is based on Motivational Enhancement Techniques (MET), Client Centered, Cognitive Behavioral and Solution Focused theories. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) techniques to help individuals who are dealing with traumatic experiences. I also have years of experience providing recovery skills training for individuals willing to quit and maintain complete abstinence from alcohol, prescription and illicit drugs. I would like to assure you that my services will be rendered in a professional manner, consistent with accepted ethical standards of this noble profession. My counseling approach will help clients attain self-realization, set and accomplish goals, and elicit self-efficacy. I look forward to working with you.
Dr. Elliot Sanchez
I just received my Doctorate in Ministry with a focus in Pastoral Counseling from Liberty University in 2025. I received a Master's Degree in Professional Counseling, from Grand Canyon University in 2016. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina license number 12968. I practiced as an LPC-Intern at Davis Regional Medical Center Psychiatric Unit for a total of 6 months from June 2016 to December 2016. In addition, I have been practicing counseling from a pastoral perspective under a ministry since 2012 for a total of 5 years in that arena of pastoral counseling. I have also been working in the profession of counseling from a substance use disorder perspective since 2013 license number CADC 2108 for a total number of years of 4 years of substance abuse counselor. Prior to working as a counselor, I worked in the capacity of a pastor since 2003. The National Christian Counseling Association licenses me as a Pastoral Temperament Counselor LN-16647 since 2013. As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I have a broad background in services to encompass adolescence, adults individuals, and couples. I work with individuals with a variety of issues including emotional, spiritual, relationship, or behavioral challenges; making difficult life decisions; dysfunctional eating, divorce; or those simply wanting to glean a deeper understanding of themselves. My specialties include relationship counseling, anxiety, stress and anger management, and sexual disorders.
Mary Jernigan
I am licensed in North Carolina with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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!
Lacey Payne
I'm a licensed therapist serving clients across Indiana, Kentucky, and North Carolina. I work with individuals navigating depression, anxiety, stress, relationship challenges, family conflicts, and trauma. My approach is grounded in compassion and a genuine commitment to understanding each person's unique circumstances. I believe therapy works best when it's collaborative—where you feel heard, respected, and supported in moving toward meaningful change. I create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore what's weighing on you and discover your own strengths and resilience. Whether you're facing relationship difficulties, family tensions, the weight of depression or anxiety, or healing from past trauma, I'm here to walk alongside you with care and expertise. Taking the step to seek support takes courage, and I'm honored to be part of your journey toward healing and growth.
Karen Hernandez
I am licensed in North Carolina with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationships family conflicts. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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.
Christopher Korty
I am licensed in North Carolina with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with parenting issues, marriage counseling's, anger management, emotional and behaviors struggles and individual challenges. 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.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Atkinson, North Carolina
Finding a therapist near you in Atkinson, North Carolina starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. North Carolina is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In North Carolina, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across North Carolina, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in North Carolina
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In North Carolina, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in North Carolina
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' copay is as low as $15, some pay $0.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in North Carolina
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in North Carolina through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in North Carolina
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across North Carolina, including residents in Atkinson.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in North Carolina do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' copay is as low as $15 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' copay is as low as $15 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Atkinson, North Carolina
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Atkinson and the surrounding NC area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.