Ayden, North Carolina sets a prime example of how a town can transform its image. Once called Ottertown, Ayden was once home for troublemakers, outcasts, and misfits. The railroad brought new life to the town and plenty of honorable residents made their home in Ayden. Today, Ayden bills itself as “A Hometown to Love.” Struggles with mental health may keep you from appreciating Ayden’s annual Collard Festival and the nearby outer banks of North Carolina.

Struggles don’t have to last for long. Professional counselors in the Ayden area can help you transform your distress into feeling your best. Matchup with an Ayden area counselor and start your journey to recovery now.

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Barbara Grant-Kelly

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience

Hello there, I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in the state of NC. As a helping professional for more than 20 years, my experience is quite diverse and comprehensive. In the field of mental health and wellness, I have functioned in the capacity of Mentor, Educator, Foster/Adoptive Parent and Counselor. I have coached individuals on living, social skills, how to effectively resolve problems and interact with the community as a whole. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. Life experiences often disrupt our sense of wholeness, leaving us feeling unable to find our way back to ourselves. When this happens, our lives and our relationships can become difficult, or even unbearable. Our work together is one of helping you to reunite with that core wisdom within yourself, so you can experience more love, connection and happiness that is innately yours. Together we will develop a deep knowing of who you are and what you stand for. Working together, we will identify and shift patterns that are blocking you from fully experiencing and living a life worth living. As a highly compassionate, empathetic, patient, respectful and committed individual, I understands it takes courage and time in taking those steps towards this type change. So, if you are ready to take that first step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Joshua Sheets

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina with 9 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients of various ages and circumstances with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, anger management, and motivation. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma and individuals with chronic pain. I take a holistic approach to treatment taking into consideration physical health, spiritual health or values, relationships and emotional/mental/behavioral health. People sometimes get into a pattern of thoughts or behaviors that cause them to feel stuck in life. Our work together will be making deliberate attempts to make a change in your viewpoints, thoughts, feelings, or behavior leading to solutions to your concerns. We will build on your strengths in the change process and help you develop small steps to take to make the changes you desire. You can view this experience like a person panning for gold in a river who finds occasional flecks of gold in their pan. After several pieces of gold are found, you have enough gold to form a nugget. Each small step you take will be like a fleck of gold that will add up to valuable change in your life. Our work together will be helping you develop the skills necessary to resolve not only your current concerns but also prepare you to manage other concerns in the future. It does not have to take years of therapy to see a difference in your life. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Solution Focused Therapy to help you make the changes you want in life. Our work together will be much different than talking to your friends or family. I will be able to give you unbiased, nonjudgmental feedback and support. It is important for you to be honest with yourself and me so that we can have the most effective experience together. I am sure your expectation of therapy is to feel better and get help with your concerns. My expectation is for you to work on the steps or changes we agree would be helpful between sessions. I am here to help and support you but I can’t do the work for you. You will not be alone on this journey of change. Change can feel scary but it doesn't have to be difficult. If you are ready to start making changes, I'm here to help empower and support you as well as give you the tools for change. I look forward to working with you!

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Alexandria Luey-Gomez

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW,LCAS-A
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
4 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker and licensed clinical addiction specialist-associate. I have worked in the healing field since 2015 and made it my life mission to provide a safe environment where clients can find refuge in the healing process. I have a wide range of experience in working with clients who are experiencing trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety, depression, life changes, crisis and more. My approach is genuine empathy and compassion. I use a combination of trauma informed, acceptance commitment therapy, CBT, DBT, strength based, different spiritual healing energy and much more. I believe in individuality, so together we will tailor your treatment plan to meet your specific needs and goals. It takes courage to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Amanda Wentz

Offering therapy in NC
License: MSW,LCSW,CCTP
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
7 years of experience

I have been a therapist since 2014 when I graduated with my masters degree in social work from North Carolina State University in Raleigh, NC. After graduating with my bachelors in social work in 2012 and working for a year at a homeless shelter, I knew there was more that I wanted to be doing, which led me back to school to continue my education. I finished all of my clinical hours for licensure in April of 2018, which is when I became an LCSW. I have worked at three different outpatient mental health centers during my time of practice, all which served different ages, diagnoses, and stages of life. The majority of my experience comes in working with individuals learning to cope with anxiety, stress, depression, addictions, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, life transitions, relational issues and grief and loss. I may be the “therapist,” but no one knows you like you do, and that is why I make it a priority to make sure we use my expertise, as well as yours to make sure we get you where you want to be! I traditionally come from a strengths based background/approach for this reason. I have taken certified courses in Trauma Focused CBT, and in treating Anxiety. I can’t promise I won’t respectfully try to challenge you throughout this process, but you have the power to choose what feels right for you. I understand that this is a difficult spot to be in, and that the thought of needing “therapy” can sometimes seem unnecessary, but I really hope that you can look at this like a partnership where I can provide you with certain tools that will help you on your journey. There is no such thing as a stupid question, a ridiculous thought, or a reason to be embarrassed. Everyone handles stress and life transitions differently, and if it weren’t for that we wouldn’t have the uniqueness that helps us all accelerate at different things. I am honored to get to hear your story, and to be your sounding board at this time of transition.

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Sara Gordon

Offering therapy in NC
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

Hello, there! If you're reading this, it's likely that you're currently in a season of life where you feel you'd like some support or direction. My name is Sara and I want to you to know that I feel it takes a lot of courage to reach out for help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in North Carolina who has worked in Mental Health for the past nine years. I enjoy helping others feel more confident to address and resolve life challenges. I utilize a variety of evidence-based practices to support my clients, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Enhancement, Solution-focused, trauma focused, and person-centered approaches. While I've worked with folks with an array of challenges, I enjoy helping others learn to cope with and reduce the effects of anxiety, depression, grief, physical ailments, family conflict, and sleep difficulties. If you feel I might be the right therapist for you, let's connect and begin to explore together how you might begin feeling more confident to move forward on your journey.

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Crystal Burts

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyDepression
16 years of experience

Thank you for viewing my profile. My name is Crystal Burts and I am happy that you are on your wellness journey. I am a clinician and clinical supervisor with 15 years of experience serving individuals, families, and groups. I am also an Army Vet, mother and wife. My therapeutic approach includes interpersonal practice with a focus on rapport building and self-determination. I look forward to connecting!

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Lynn Strole

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesAnger managementDepression
32 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 32 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & anger management. 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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Luis Puertas

Offering therapy in NC
License: MS, LPC, LMHC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementADHD
6 years of experience

As a dedicated Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a strong academic foundation from Florida International University in Miami, FL, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise in helping individuals facing challenges related to ADHD, anxiety, family issues, and adjustment disorders. My professional journey has led me to work with diverse individuals and families, encompassing various cultural backgrounds and complex dynamics. Utilizing evidence-based therapeutic modalities such as cognitive-behavior therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, emotional focused couples therapy, and family dynamics, I am committed to providing comprehensive and effective support. I firmly believe in the inherent capacity of every individual to foster personal growth and discover meaning in their lives. My approach emphasizes the essential elements of structure, discipline, and self-compassion, serving as cornerstones for therapeutic progress. If you've reached this point, you possess the resilience and determination to move forward in your journey toward greater well-being and fulfillment. I am here to guide and support you on this path to empowerment and positive change.

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Michelle Thompson

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Ashley Nash

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder. 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. 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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How to find counseling in Ayden

Finding the best therapist close by in Ayden 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Ayden. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Ayden, 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. 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 to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Ayden or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers 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 Ayden area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy 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 Ayden, elsewhere in Pitt, or in the greater state of North Carolina.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

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

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Ayden due to a higher cost of living. 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 Ayden may not take health insurance, some in the state of North Carolina may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of North Carolina you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

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

Therapists in Ayden, North Carolina 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. They 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, they 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

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

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Ayden 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 lead by a therapist in Ayden helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Ayden 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.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

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 Ayden therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

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

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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 are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist 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 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 Ayden 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 lot of people in NC, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles 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 28513 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

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

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy 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, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. 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 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 therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Ayden 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 through therapy 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 Ayden, North Carolina 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.

Ayden has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy 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?

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

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

Take some time today to learn more about the team of 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 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 Ayden.

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

28513

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