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.
Pamela Harris-Jones
Choosing a therapist is a deeply personal decision. You want someone who will listen without judgment, understand what you’re going through, and help you make real changes—not simply tell you to “think positive” or “just let it go.” That’s where I come in. I believe therapy should be a place where you can take off the mask, tell the truth about how you’re feeling, and know that you will be met with compassion—not judgment. My approach combines warmth and genuine connection with practical, evidence-based strategies that you can actually use in your everyday life. As a therapist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I help clients understand how their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors influence one another. We’ll work together to recognize patterns that may be contributing to anxiety, depression, self-doubt, or feeling stuck—and develop healthier ways of responding. But therapy with me isn't about checking boxes or giving you a list of things you should be doing. It’s about you. Your experiences. Your struggles. Your goals. Your story. I’ll meet you where you are while helping you move toward where you want to be. If anxiety has you constantly overthinking, if depression has made it difficult to find motivation, or if you’ve spent so much time taking care of everyone else that you’ve forgotten how to take care of yourself, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. I want therapy to be a space where you can learn, grow, heal, and ultimately become more confident in your ability to handle life’s challenges. You are not your anxiety. You are not your depression. You are not your worst day. There is more to your story—and I would be honored to help you discover what comes next. If you’re ready to make yourself a priority, I’m ready to walk alongside you.
Eva Jones
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina with 5 years counseling experience working as a counselor and life coach. My work has been in the realm of depression, anxiety, anger management, emotional and behavior issues as well as substance use issues. I have worked with families struggling with relationship issues and parenting skills. I also have experience in areas of life coaching such as individual and spiritual growth. My desire is to work with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, anger management, emotional and behavior issues as well as substance use issues. My counseling approach is calm, warm and empathetic while being non-judgmental. My approach is eclectic/integrative therapy. I believe that individuals are unique and will benefit from the most effective methods to address their needs. It takes courage to stand up and ask for help. I believe you can find joy in your journey when you allow change to start from within yourself by creating a positive atmosphere. When you are ready I am ready to stand up and walk with you. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
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!
Pamela Peoples
I am licensed in North Carolina with 38 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and focus (adhd). 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.
Jonna Davis
As a licensed therapist in North Carolina, I bring nearly two decades of compassionate counseling experience to supporting individuals navigating life's complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on understanding and addressing challenges like anxiety, grief, self-esteem concerns, and ADHD through a faith-informed, conservative therapeutic lens. I am deeply committed to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their emotional experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. Drawing from evidence-based practices and a Christian perspective, I help individuals build resilience, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and move toward greater emotional well-being. My goal is to walk alongside you with empathy, respect, and genuine care, honoring your unique journey and providing thoughtful guidance as you work through personal challenges. I believe in the power of therapeutic partnership and am dedicated to supporting you with professional expertise and compassionate understanding.
Linda Milewski
Hello, I’m Linda Milewski, a Licensed Clinical Therapist and addiction specialist of 20 years. I hold a Masters in Social Work (MSW) and I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Non Violent Communication (NVC), Trauma-informed Care and Awareness, Tibetan Sound Bowl Healing, as well as Mindfulness practices. Additionally, I hold international certifications in addiction, Employee Assistance Program, and Sober Coaching. After nearly two decades in inpatient psychiatric units, recovery facilities, mental health agencies, and wellness centers, I have helped stabilize many clients suffering from crisis, addiction, trauma, mood disorders and stress responses to various types of trauma. I developed a keen interest in various types of symptoms that create behaviors most would consider detrimental to their lives. As I travelled extensively internationally, delving deeper into the causes of suffering, I began to understand more deeply what (in the Buddhist context), “suffering” means and how we can heal from it. I began looking at the client as a “whole organism” by exploring how the body and its nervous system becomes severely compromised over time stemming from chronic stress. I have learned that when the body is relaxed through certain techniques, there is no room for stress or trauma to be held. Through regulating the body and nervous system, we create a safe and calm therapeutic space from which to find creative and authentic solutions to our daily challenges. I believe that once the body feels safe, we are supported to make deep and life-changing shifts. Non Violent Communication (NVC) is important to me. This modality supports us to speak authentically from the heart, tying in beautifully with mindfulness practices, trauma awareness and the regulation of emotions through somatic work. This method also supports us to set boundaries in ways that are compassionate for ourselves and others, enabling us to foster deeper, more authentic connection. My approach with each client is to provide support, accountability, and structure that honors and helps clients to step out into post traumatic growth. Through use of a range of techniques, tools and therapeutic approaches, I see transformations in my clients as they experience a strong feeling of overall safety and well being. I look forward to hearing from you and going on this journey of healing and self discovery with you!
Amy Prokopowicz
I am licensed mental health and addictions counselor with more than 13 years of experience working in community mental health and private practice. I earned my BS from North Carolina State University then earned a MA in Counseling from North Carolina Central University. I completed my practicum at Hospice, studying thanatology and my internship focused on counseling women with mental illness, addiction, and trauma. For 10 years, I worked with active duty military and their families providing solution focused counseling. I take an integrative approach to counseling focused on mind and body connection to support mental, physical, spiritual, and financial self-care. Outside of being a counselor, I am single older mom to an energetic toddler. I fully empathize that life takes us on unexpected course and at times pulls us out of balance. I am here to support and empower you on your journey to achieve your goals to lead the healthiest life.
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.
Veena Madhudi
I am licensed in the states of New York and North Carolina with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Paulette Plummer
As a licensed therapist in North Carolina with over two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate stress, relationship dynamics, family conflicts, and personal growth. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach to therapy, with deep expertise in addressing multicultural concerns, young adult issues, and the nuanced experiences of marginalized communities. My work focuses on healing from isolation, shame, and interpersonal challenges while empowering clients to develop stronger communication skills and self-understanding. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I provide a supportive environment where individuals can explore their unique stories, work through difficult emotions, and develop resilient coping strategies. Whether you're dealing with mood disorders, relationship transitions, or seeking to build greater self-love, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Diannah Harris
I am licensed in North Carolina with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, & 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!
Erin Callan
Who is Erin the Counselor? My name is Erin Callan, I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), National Board-Certified Counselor (NBCC) and specialize in Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Trauma, grief and loss, severe and persistent mental illness, drug use/abuse, special populations (LBGTQ+, maturing adults, vulnerable/at risk individuals (gang, economically disadvantaged, etc.), end of life care, caregiver burnout, communication issues, work/life balance, cognitive perception, identity issues (gender/sexual, trans issues) and co-occurring diagnoses, and more. I have worked in the mental health field for a total of 23 years. I have practiced Outpatient for approximately 5 to 6 years. I provide affirming care/evidence-based practices including/not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive, Reality Perception, Solution Based, Strength Based, Motivation Interviewing, Person Centered, Narrative, Self-Awareness, Personal Grown, and more). Who is Erin the person? And am I the right therapist for you? I am a neurodivergent (mild Autism/ADHD, SPMI) individual. Working with me is a unique experience and may not be for everyone. If you believe it may be difficult to work or understand my communication/or thinking style, please consider another therapist. I’m an honest, authentic person. I’m conversational. I empathize based on my own personal experience, which I could write a book about. My purpose of becoming a therapist is to apply my own personal experience and what others taught me and apply it (a book/school doesn’t teach you real life or suffering). What’s Erin’s true goal in life: If I could help one person in my lifetime: I would complete true “self-actualization,” according to The Hierarchy of Needs. Having lived life with no regret and “Achieved the true integration of the conscious with the unconscious and have become my “whole self.” (Jung, father of Analytical Psychology). Feel free/ Erin is an open book. Feel free to ask me about any special accommodation you may need. I'll try to work with you to fit you in outside my normal working hours. My hours are M-F, check out my slot availability for times. Thank you for choosing me as your counselor and making an appointment with me! I look forward to meeting you and working with you in the future! Erin Side note: It helps me if you have auto-generated notes turn on, you can find it in your settings to turn on). Putting Change in your Personal Space- Erin Callan, LCMHC, NBCC
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Elm City, North Carolina
Finding a therapist near you in Elm City, 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 Elm City.
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 Elm City, North Carolina
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Elm City and the surrounding NC area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.