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Alisha Cooper

Offering therapy in NC
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

HELLO. Thank you for stopping by. My name is "AC" (Alisha) and I am a licensed professional counselor. Thank you for stopping by :-) I am trained clinically as a therapist. However, the reason I do this type of work is for a much deeper and meaningful reason. I will have to take you to the past for a moment. I have religious roots but they were not good ones in terms of helping me understand the things that I was struggling emotionally. If those challenged endured for a long time, there was really no help. It was summed up as not having "enough" faith. Tired of hearing this sentiment, I pursued counseling for Christians who felt like they were faithless because they had struggles. I wanted to stop this from perpetuating one person at a time. What you can expect from a counselor who is a Christian? You can expect that you will not be shamed into thinking that you do not have enough faith. In fact, we may not even talk about faith in sessions unless you ask for that. I say to people that I am a Christian so that you know my core values. Do I have people that do not share the same values? I sure do... not to talk about my values but what you are seeking relief in with kindness and care. Before we do: Here are a few things to expect: 1. Nervousness-What will happen? How will I feel? What should I say or not say? There are questions that can cause some nervousness. Just remember, everything that you have experienced is part of the human experience. Say what you want if you want, when you want. 2. Feeling like what's the Point-"I don't feel a change". Some times a light will flicker in therapy BUT not always in every session will that occur. But whether it occurs in real time or not, what we talk about is always working on you consciously or subconsciously. You will know when you notice that a new way of looking at something happens and think to yourself, "That is a new though or different reaction that I had." This delayed reaction to a therapy session is actually more common! 3. Frustration-As you do your "work", you'll notice that people who you are in relationship have not. Learning how to take your new found skills and freedom into the world takes a new perspective. Who are you now regardless of all circumstances is the question that you will be able to answer. This means that despite what others do or don't do, you will be OK. 4. It is time to Fly- You will find at some point in your personal work that you are not as distressed and you are better able to manage thoughts that once brought you distress. You are spreading your wings and will not have an imminent need for counseling. No matter when this occurs for you, I want you to fly. It may be time for you to end your subscription and do just that. If a few weeks have passed and you have not used the service, you are likely taking flight on something new that you discovered. Please Fly High. No need to feel as though you have to maintain your subscription "just in case". You can always come back later if you'd like. 5. Flexibility and Persistent pesky gnats. That is what I am calling thoughts and feelings that just need time to stop appearing and biting. Do not feel odd if you still fight to fan off pesky thoughts. Likely there is a "holding on" to a thought, belief, image, or something else that you have not fully released. This is where the need for flexibility comes in. You will have to be flexible and not hold on rigidly to the way you have interpreted things (even though you are sure that you are "right") . Even if you are right, you still may be left feeling less than free. Counseling is a good tool to see what is left in your thoughts that need to be re-worked. 6. Never Compare Yourself to Others. Do the best that you can do. That is Enough. Appointments: You are free to choose any time that you see on the calendar. If you need to verify that your time zone is reflected accurately, know that I am in the Eastern Time Zone in the US (EST time). Your time zone as listed on your account will be seen. If you travel outside that time zone, a good app is World Time Buddy to verify. My commitment to you is that I will be on-time and prepared for your session. I will not respond to other clients while I am in session with you. Should I have to reschedule an appointment, I will do that as soon as possible, likely days in advance as not to disrupt your plans. I will then get you reschedule ASAP. If I have an personal emergency and need to cancel the next day, I will inform you promptly of my situation and when I will be available. I ask that you take the same care when scheduling or cancelling. PLEASE NOTE: The Golden Rule Policy for No-shows or a Same Day cancellation. Please cancel 24 hours in advance. This allows for your block to be used. Cancellations that occur the same day, prevents anyone else from scheduling in that time. Emergencies do happen and I take a person's word for it without explanation. The honor system is enough :) In the case of a true emergency, you are free to reschedule as you wish. Crises and emergencies are rare. However, should 2 emergencies occur resulting in you not maintaining your appointment, please talk to me so that I can understand your unique needs before attempting to reschedule. If the no-show/same-day cancellation was for any other reason and you would like another appointment, I ask that you message me and Request a Same- Day appointment. I will give you the times that are open for the day you contact me. This it lessens the chance of a repeat no-show and I can serve efficiently. Have a lovely day, AC

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Melissa Moore

Offering therapy in NC
License: MS,LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

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.

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Judy Cline

Offering therapy in NC
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

Hi, and thanks for taking the time to see if you and I may be a good clinical match. I am a licensed clinical social worker with more than 10 years of counseling experience, many of those as a hospice grief counselor. I believe the most important part of therapy is the relationship developed between the client and his or her counselor. As your counselor, I will provide an environment of unconditional positive regard, acceptance and support with no judgment, in hopes that you will be able to see yourself in the same way and successfully make the changes you are seeking to achieve. My therapeutic modalities vary because people are unique and not everyone responds in the same manner to specific approaches. Your therapeutic experience should be tailored to you, and I will encourage and empower you to actively participate in the process. You can do the work that is needed. You have already begun...just by considering therapy and looking for a therapist. I would be honored to join you in your journey and look forward to hearing from you.

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April Day

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCMHC,LPC,CSOTP
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Hello! First, I want to say welcome. It takes a great deal of courage to seek help and even more courage to work toward change. Should it be with me or another professional, I encourage you to stay the course because the results are worth it. Now, about me. I am a Licensed Counselor in both Virginia and North Carolina with over five years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients with a broad range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family dynamic stress, poor communication habits, and abuse. I have worked in the mental health field for over 12 years, holding various roles at a community-based agency providing services to children and adults. I have provided support in both school and home-based services assisting individuals and families with a wide variety of needs, including Autism, ADHD, and Anxiety to living with serious mental illnesses such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia. My counseling style is empathetic, mindful, and client-centered, yet direct and straightforward. I believe that every person should be treated with respect and dignity, but most importantly, I pride myself on demonstrating compassion for all and being sensitive to the needs of others. I believe that people are usually doing their best, but sometimes just need extra help. If you are ready to take the next steps to begin living a more fulfilling and self-empowered lifestyle, I’d love to help support you along the way. I look forward to working with you. Thank you!

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Christine Broadwater

Offering therapy in NC
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
33 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 33 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and trauma. 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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Lauren Staley Stone

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Bernetta Moore Sutton

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteem
7 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. 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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LeighAnne Kellogg

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed therapist in North Carolina, I have my LCMHC. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & coping with life changes. I enjoy working with those that have serious and persistent mental illnesses. I have my LCAS meaning I can work with those struggling with addiction as well. I generally pull from CBT and MI. 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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Connie Kretchmar

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
18 years of experience

Welcome to counseling! I look forward to meeting you and assisting you in identifying and accomplishing your goals in a safe, supportive setting. I have 18 years counseling experience, have a BS in Human Development, a Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling from East Tennessee State University, and am licensed in North Carolina (LCMHC) and Tennessee (LPC-MHSP). I enjoy working with women and men, families, adolescents, all races, ethnicities, genders and sexual orientations. My treatment approach is cognitive behavioral, acceptance/commitment, person-centered, solution-focused, and I have found that working with a client usually leads us to a therapeutic approach which can be satisfactory and successful for the client. Taking the first step to come to counseling can give you a wonderful opportunity to clarify what has meaning to you, what may be lacking in the present or is holding you back from a more meaningful and fulfilling life. Once we identify these issues, we can address them positively, learn to use coping skills that may have been absent or forgotten, and have the opportunity to feel relief and momentum toward an improved present and future. It’s my personal belief that everyone benefits from counseling, whether they may be suffering from (and want to lessen) symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma from the past or the present, grief, behavioral problems, parenting or relationship challenges, communication or self esteem issues. Working with a client in the counseling setting, I believe in the importance of building a caring, empathic, non-judgmental relationship by meeting a client where she/he is in life. I believe in the strength, courage, and resilience inherent in all people and that most people who seek out counseling come because they are temporarily stuck, not sick.

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Asha Bethea

Offering therapy in NC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

How to find counseling in Elk Park

Finding the best therapist close by in Elk Park 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 Elk Park. 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 Elk Park, 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 Elk Park 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 Elk Park 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 Elk Park, elsewhere in Avery, 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 Elk Park area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Elk Park 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 Elk Park 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 Elk Park 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 Elk Park, 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 Elk Park 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 Elk Park 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 Elk Park 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 Elk Park 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 Elk Park 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 28622 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 Elk Park 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 Elk Park 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 Elk Park, 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.

Elk Park 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Elk Park.

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

28622

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