Forest City was once known as Burnt Chimney but was changed to Forest City in the early 1900s and the town has eight places that are on the National Register of Historic Places. The 7300 residents of the town are very proud of their history and they want everyone to know about it.
The area of Forest City also has some of the most fantastic mental health care providers in the county. If you are struggling with anything related to mental health, there are plenty of experienced counselors and therapists in the Forest City area who are there when you need them.
Amanda Morgan
Hello! Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and my practice. I am a Licensed Clincial Social Worker in Pennsylvania, Florida, North Carolina, and Washington DC. I earned my Bachelors and Masters degrees in Social Work from New York University. I enjoy helping individuals who are seeking solutions to challenges they are facing. A wise fortune cookie once told me, "Life is not a struggle, its a wiggle". I have vast experiences in terms of client population, setting, and geographical location. I have experience in places from New York City to rural North Carolina, where I worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, physical, emotional, verbal, and sexual abuse, trauma, adoption, foster care, pregnancy, life changes, refugees, and sexuality issues. I am also clincially trained to work with individauls who face the struggles of a mental health diagnoses including, but are not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, ADHD, gender/sexuality issues. I will tailor our sessions to meet your unique and specific needs, but find myself most often utilizing a mix of Acceptance and Committment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, Solution-Focused, Risk-Reduction, Psychodynamic, and always utilize Client-Centered Therapuetic technqiues. I genuinely enjoy the work I do with all individuals and place value in the fact that everyone's story, rationale, and feelings are different. I look forward to providing a safe, confidential space for you or your loved one to share their story and help find emotional, social, physical, spiritual, and/or occupational wellness and recovery.
Chris (Christopher) McKillop
As a licensed therapist in California, Maine and North Carolina, I bring over a decade of experience supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients understand and manage depression, anxiety, and stress, with a particular focus on anger management strategies. I create a compassionate, non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their challenges and develop meaningful coping skills. My therapeutic style is grounded in respect for each person's unique journey, with a commitment to providing supportive, evidence-based guidance. Through collaborative and personalized treatment, I aim to empower clients to build resilience, gain emotional insight, and create positive change in their lives. I understand that seeking therapy takes courage, and I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy, professionalism, and genuine care.
Melanie Griffin
No matter what kind of challenges or difficulties or painful situations you go through in your life, we all have something deep within us that we can reach down and find the inner strength to get through them. Alana Stewart My name is Melanie Griffin and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), practicing in North Carolina (#C11127). I am also licensed and have done extensive work as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Connecticut (#007008). I have been a Therapist/ LCSW for over 12 years and take pride in the fact that I have worked with a diverse population/culture of people. I received my Master of Social Work (MSW), from Southern CT State University, I also hold a Bachelors (BS) in Public Health. I have done work in such areas as Forensics, Community Services, Crisis Intervention, Trauma, Mental Health and Addictions, Geriatrics, Adolescent Services and Family Reunification. I firmly believe in “Meeting the client where they are”. This, I believe has enhanced my role as a truly empathetic therapist and has helped me to understand the importance of Person-Centered Therapy. CBT is another theory which I strongly believe really works in therapy. I understand that reaching out for help can not only be scary, but for many it still holds a realm of stigma and shame, this is why I am so conscious of the therapist’s role of engaging with their client for the purpose of opening up the gates of trust, empathy and understanding. If I can help you in anyway, please reach out to me.
Cynthia Jones
Hello! My name is Cynthia Jones, a clinician with a master level degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Winston-Salem State University (May 2012) and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from High Point University (2003). I am currently a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Clinician (LCMHC). I have devoted most of my career to the field of Human Services, beginning in 2002 as a Behavioral Modification Technician at a Level III group home for adolescent females. I have over 15 years of working experience with Children, Adolescents, Adults, Couples, and Families in individual and group settings; including experience working with Veterans and their families. My interests include working with all populations to overcome adversities and obstacles which may include: parents and their children individuals coping with role changes, job loss, career changes persons coping with grief, anxiety, stress, and depression youth adjusting to functional deficits and life challenges My belief is that therapy provides an opportunity for growth, self-discovery and insight in the context of a safe, supportive environment. Therapy often leads to better relationships, solutions to specific problems, significant reductions in feelings of distress and an overall improved well-being. Psychotherapy has been shown to have many benefits. However, it is difficult to predict what will happen in terms of therapeutic outcomes or to provide a clear estimate of time required for each client to reach his or her personal goals. One of the best indicators for success in therapy is the motivation level of the client such as being open to the process of change, being consistent with attending sessions and working on goals outside of sessions. Also, my belief is that each client is unique and presents with his or her own counseling needs and concerns. Utilizing one therapeutic approach may not work best for everyone. Therefore, I will utilize integrative models involving insight oriented, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Brief Strategic Family Therapy, Solution-Focused, Person Centered and System of Care. In our work together, it is expected that you will participate in the formation and completion of counseling goals so that our sessions will be meaningful and helpful to you. I may occasionally assign homework as a means of providing you with further reinforcement of concepts discussed in sessions and to prompt further insight and self-exploration. There are many reasons why people seek counseling. The fact that you are seeking counseling demonstrates your commitment to your mental and emotional health as well as your inner strength in identifying when seeking support is necessary. I believe that clients have the capacity to learn, change, and grow so that they may experience more meaningful, healthier, and happier lives. Whatever your reasons are for seeking services, I look forward to partnering with you on addressing whatever counseling needs you may have.
Dr. Les Brinson
I am a licensed Ph. D.-level psychologist in North Carolina with 40+ years of experience. I am passionate about practicing psychology with patients, especially in supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. Mainly, my patients come to me for help with: • Anxiety and chronic worry • Depression and low motivation • Stress, burnout, and work-life balance • Life transitions (retirement, aging, health changes, loss) • Relationship concerns and communication issues • Adjustment to illness or changing roles • Meaning, purpose, and identity I bring a compassionate approach to working with diverse populations, with a particular focus on caregiver stress, financial challenges, aging concerns, and relationship issues. My therapeutic style honors each individual's unique experiences and is committed to creating a supportive and affirming environment. I draw on decades of professional experience and expertise in applying all evidence-based psychotherapy problem-solving approaches. I offer nuanced guidance for older adults, families, and individuals navigating significant life transitions. My practice is rooted in respect, empathy, and a genuine desire to support personal growth and emotional well-being. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and 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!
LaShana Poole
I am licensed in North Carolina with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I believe life can be an emotional rollercoaster, but more importantly 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. Let's remove the labels and find you! I am here to support you in that process.
James Goodwin
I am licensed in California and North Carolina with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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.
Peggy Fair
Hi, I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the mental health field for the last 40 years. The first part of my career was in in Virginia working as an emergency mental health therapist in a community mental health clinic. I moved to North Carolina 30 years ago. For 16 years I worked as a mental health therapist in an inpatient psychiatric hospital. Then I went to work for the military as a mental health therapist working with the Marines and Navy servicemembers for the last 14 years. I also had a part time private practice for 23 years where I primarily worked with couples who were working on their relationship. I did not have much opportunity in my full time job to work with couples which is my passion. I was able to meet with couples in the evening to help them resolve their conflicts and develop positive coping skills as a couple. I am semi-retired and living in Florida now. I love being close to family and the beach. I love working with people to help them achieve their goals. My style is to help you develop the goals you want to change and give you the tools to achieve that goal. It is my privilege and honor to help those who are seeking help for themselves. I see my self as an integrative therapist who utilizes many tools to help my clients. I check my messages several times a day seven days a week and will get back to you within 24 hours or less.
Heather Lail
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, Master Addiction Counselor, and Certified Clinical Supervisor. I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Lenoir-Rhyne College and earned my Master of Arts degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. I have a total of 18 years of experience working in the behavioral health field within various settings which include 6 years of inpatient psychiatric work and 12 years of outpatient behavioral health counseling. I utilize an eclectic counseling approach incorporating various counseling theories and techniques to include but not limited to Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing, Transtheoretical Model, CBT, DBT. National Academy of Sports Medicine certifications include Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Nutrition Coach, and Certified Group Fitness Instructor. Personal training focusing on behavior change and corrective exercise while utilizing the NASM Optimum Performance Training Model based on scientific evidence and principles. Nutrition coaching utilizing the latest and most up-to-date information on nutrition science, behavior change strategies, and nutrition coaching strategies. Ability to guide clients seeking to improve their body composition, athletic performance, and their health through carefully crafted nutrition coaching that takes age, culture, socioeconomic status, and more into account. Main focus of concept is to integrate behavioral health with physical health and nutrition to maximize client progress towards achieving their goals in 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.
Carolyn Hallinan
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina with over 12 years of experience working as a therapist/counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, anger issues, relationship issues, aging and geriatric problems, and isolation/loneliness problems. I also helped many people who have experienced life purpose problems, emptiness, and self-love. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, client-centered and solution focused. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and 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!
Shantra Beane Gray
I am licensed in North Carolina with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions & coping with grief and loss. 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.
John Adriatico
As a licensed therapist in Louisiana, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life challenges with a compassionate and affirming approach. My practice centers on helping clients navigate diverse experiences, including LGBTQ+ journeys, relationship dynamics, family conflicts, and personal growth. I bring a deep understanding of mental health challenges across various life stages, from young adulthood through aging. My therapeutic approach is rooted in creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their emotions, heal from past experiences, and develop stronger self-understanding. My expertise spans a wide range of focus areas, including trauma recovery, communication challenges, social anxiety, life transitions, and personal identity exploration. I am committed to supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes, helping them build resilience, self-love, and meaningful connections. I approach each client's journey with empathy, respect, and a collaborative spirit, believing that every individual has the innate capacity for healing and transformation.
Susan Wickett
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over twenty years of experience working with individuals, families, and groups across the lifespan and from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. I support clients navigating depression, anxiety, grief, relationship challenges, parenting concerns, substance use, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and the effects of trauma and emotional abuse. As the spouse of a retired disabled veteran, I have personal insight into the unique demands of military life and the long-term physical and emotional impacts military service can have on veterans and their families. My therapeutic style is warm, interactive, and straightforward. I integrate evidence-based approaches including cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, psychodynamic therapy, rational-emotive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy–informed practices. My goal is to help clients build the insight, skills, and confidence needed to create meaningful change and greater independence.
Find a Therapist Near You in Forest City , 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 Forest 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 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.