Melissa Moore
Beyond loving to help people become better individuals I enjoy exploring the world and learning new cultures, caring for animals and being outdoors. I have over 6 years of experience working in the mental health field. I earned a Master’s in Arts in Counseling Psychology from Anna Maria College and a Master’s in Science with a specialization in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Massachusetts Boston. I have experience working in different settings such as at home, mental health agencies, hospital and school settings. I use a holistic approach in my treatment working with a diverse background with various mental health dispositions. Some of these areas I have experience in includes treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, cultural diversity, work stressors, life transitions and also help in redefining values and beliefs. Modalities I have implemented in my treatment approaches includes cognitive behavioral therapy, humanistic therapy, solution focused therapy, person centered therapy and expressive therapy. I also have pursued training in trauma focused therapy where I help individuals explore past traumatic events that shape them to who they are in the present moment and striving towards becoming better individuals in the present and future. By creating an unconditional, supportive and trustworthy environment I am hopeful to helping individuals explore their full potentials by using their challenges and strengths to reach their goals and to pursue future endeavors. Looking forward to exploring this journey together.
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.
Tara Knight
Hi and welcome! You have taken the courageous step to a happier and healthier life...good for you! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 20 plus years of experience and am excited to work with you. Some of my specific areas of focus include depression and anxiety, family and relationship issues, trauma, grief and low self-esteem. My approach is simple and straight forward...I believe it is crucial to have a trusting relationship with your therapist. Through that relationship we will take a journey of discovery and transformation together. And along the way we will conquer the issues that are holding you back or simply stressing you out. In therapy I typically utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing with a general sense of Person Centered Therapy in which the therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance. I began my career working in Substance Abuse running several treatment programs in Florida and North Carolina. Eventually I started my own general counseling practice in North Carolina where I spent many years working with adults, children and families. Most of my time with clients was focused on stress related issues, depression & anxiety, trauma, and relationship and family dynamics. I look forward to starting this journey with you!
Cora Strickland
Hi. My name is Cora Adams Strickland I’m a licensed clinical mental health counselor for the state of North Carolina. Currently, I own a private mental health practice in Burlington, NC where I provide individual and family therapy for children and adults. I have has been in private practice for over 15 years. The theoretical approach(s) that I use is Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing. I assist people with understanding the connection between their thoughts, their feelings, and their actions. I use some of the following interventions to assist persons with making change: • Cognitive restructuring and behavioral activation. • Investigating thoughts. • Identifying cognitive distortions. • Acceptance Exercises. • Relaxation techniques. • Motivational Interviewing. I received my Undergraduate degree from East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina and my Master’s degree from North Carolina Central University in Durham, North Carolina. Specialties • Stress, Anxiety • Trauma and abuse • Self esteem • Depression • Coping with life changes (Adjustment Disorders) • PTSD I also have experience in, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Parenting issues, Career difficulties, Bipolar disorder, ADHD Years of Experience: 15
Carrie Ross
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 25 years experience as a social worker and have been licensed as a clinical social worker for 17 years. I have worked with clients in various ages throughout my career. I love working with clients to assist them in developing healthy coping skills, emotional regulation, and helping you on your journey!
Dr. Lakisha Ellison
Welcome! I am a Doctor of Social Work and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina. I started my social work career in 2005, working with children and families of all ages, races, sexual orientations, genders, and abilities. I have assisted clients with depression, anxiety, attachment, grief/loss, parenting concerns, relationship challenges, trauma, abuse, Bipolar, adjustment issues, and more. I helped families address various concerns that revolved around child abuse, child neglect, domestic violence, substance abuse, self-esteem, and beyond. My current focus areas include sexual trauma, anxiety, work with transgender individuals, and the impact of adverse childhood experiences throughout the life span. I also enjoy working with queer and lesbian women of color interested in processing race, ethnicity, and sexuality concerns at the intersections of gender, oppression, and other unique experiences. My counseling style is client-centered, down-to-earth, and engaging. I integrate my humor and acts of holistic practice to include aromatherapy, healing rituals, and more. While I am not strictly a cognitive behavioral therapist (CBT), I often use CBT and find it helpful if clients are empowered to understand and use CBT outside of the traditional therapy session. Also, I use solution-focused techniques, motivational interviewing, and aspects of reality therapy, to name a few. As a social worker, I am strength-based and conceptualize clients' needs with their unique environments in mind. My goal is to help my clients be the most authentic and empowered version of themselves and live unapologetically real. The process of uncovering and discovering takes courage, strength, and hard work, something most of us have and need a little reassurance. If you are ready to begin a new therapy journey, I will be a professional support for you. You got this! The therapeutic relationship is critical and one of the most important aspects of a successful experience. I consider it a privilege to assist individuals on their journey. I look forward to working with you! In Kindness and Wellness, Kisha
Marika Dillard
I’m a licensed clinical social worker with independent licensure in Nevada, North Carolina, Alabama, and South Carolina. I have experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and have completed continuing education in cultural competence, particularly focused on the African American community. I’ve also pursued specialized training in supporting clients with depression, alcohol use disorder, and other mood and behavioral concerns. My approach to therapy is warm, collaborative, and goal oriented. I define success as helping clients recognize their growth and celebrate progress—no matter how small. I believe therapy should feel supportive, empowering, and personalized to your unique journey.
Christina Johnson
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). I am the owner of a private practice where I work with adults providing individual therapy, life and career coaching, and mindfulness-based support. As a clinician, I am committed to helping clients navigate life’s challenges by identifying and building on their strengths, insight, and intrinsic motivation to support overall wellness. I strive to provide a safe, supportive, and confidential space where clients can explore possibilities, gain clarity, and develop meaningful change. Together, we work toward finding calm and balance while managing anxiety, trauma, depression, grief and loss, self-esteem concerns, health-related stress, and other life challenges. Therapy is a collaborative process that requires openness, engagement, and a willingness to grow. I utilize a client-centered approach and integrate evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Reality Therapy. Interventions are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, and a faith-based or spiritual perspective can be incorporated upon request. You are here on purpose.
Todd Gomez
As a licensed therapist with two decades of experience in South Carolina, North Carolina and Virginia, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice centers on creating a compassionate, affirming space for clients navigating diverse experiences—including LGBTQ+ journeys, relationship dynamics, workplace stress, and personal growth. I bring deep expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, social challenges, and interpersonal relationships. My approach is holistic and client-centered, focusing on understanding each person's unique story and strengths. Whether you're struggling with communication barriers, exploring identity, managing life transitions, or seeking greater self-understanding, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance. My therapeutic work spans a wide range of focus areas, including men's issues, young adult challenges, multicultural concerns, and support for individuals experiencing significant life changes. I strive to create a welcoming environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to explore their emotional landscape and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth.
Maya Perry
I have been a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, in North Carolina, for 14+ years. Some goals of therapy have included reducing overthinking, decreasing anxiety-related attacks and anxiety symptoms, understanding rational vs irrational thoughts, and understanding how thoughts affect actions. I also have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, and parenting issues. I believe the most effective approach to therapy is to work with you to determine how therapy will look and work best for you. By focusing on the issues important to you, change is more likely to happen and to be long-lasting. It takes courage to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.
Demetria Powell-Harrison
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social worker and I've been providing therapy for the past 10 years but working with individuals to reach their goals for over 20 years. I truly believe in focusing on the person, meeting you were you are and working together on a solution focused approach. I've worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, life goals, coaching and coping skills, I also helped people heal from past traumas in their childhood and see the correlations of how it affects their decisions in their adult life. My therapy style is warm and interactive. There is a no judgement zone while working with me. I've been told that I am very easy to talk to and it is easy for them to open up when talking with me. I believe in treating people with kindness and respect and that everyone deserves to be heard. My approach combines Cognitive-behavior therapy, Motivational interviewing, Active-listening, Psycho-social-behavioral approach. It depends on the person and what is needed at the time. Being flexible is very important. It takes courage to seek help and make changes in our life. I am here to support you and to empower you to make those changes. I am looking forward to working with you!
Margaret Hormenoo
As a licensed therapist in North Carolina, I bring nearly two decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting diverse individuals through life's complex challenges. My background centers on understanding multicultural experiences, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, grief, and anger management. My professional approach honors the unique journeys of each client, particularly those navigating immigration experiences, end-of-life transitions, and cross-cultural emotional landscapes. Drawing from my rich multicultural background, I create a supportive therapeutic environment that respects individual identities and lived experiences. I am committed to providing culturally responsive care that acknowledges the nuanced intersections of personal history, emotional wellness, and individual strengths. My goal is to walk alongside you, offering empathetic guidance as you explore healing, personal growth, and emotional resilience.
Frances Pope
I am licensed in New Mexico, North Carolina and South Carolina with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, depression, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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.
Aerial Graham
As a licensed therapist serving clients in North Carolina, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping people work through depression, anxiety, stress, and life transitions with compassion and understanding. Drawing from my training and experience, I offer a culturally responsive therapeutic environment that honors each client's unique background and spiritual journey. My practice is particularly attuned to the experiences of Black individuals seeking culturally affirming mental health support. I believe in empowering clients to develop resilient coping strategies, rebuild self-esteem, and create meaningful pathways toward personal growth. My therapeutic style combines evidence-based practices with a warm, collaborative approach that respects your individual strengths and challenges. Whether you're struggling with addiction, managing life changes, or seeking support during difficult emotional periods, I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine care and professional expertise. Together, we can explore your goals and cultivate healing strategies that resonate with your personal experience.
Find a Therapist Near You in Banner Elk , North Carolina
Finding a licensed therapist near you in North Carolina can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
North Carolina is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in North Carolina, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in North Carolina (NC). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
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 on BetterHelp support adults across North Carolina with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in North Carolina
When searching for a therapist near me in North Carolina, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across North Carolina, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across North Carolina.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in North Carolina want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in North Carolina
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in North Carolina without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in North Carolina (NC)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
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 Banner Elk.
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 vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
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 private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.