Leah Pavela-Mullins
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience in helping people find solutions to their problems. Over the years, I have been told by clients that they really feel that I am listening to them and trying to understand what is going on in their lives and how they feel. Clients have also told me that they do not feel any sense of judgment, but rather that I accept them for who they are and where they are in their life’s journey. My style is empathetic and solution focused. I will spend time asking you questions in order to get to know you and try to find out what is at the heart of your issue. Together, we will talk about possible avenues you may want to take, or changes you may want to consider. I may give you some “homework” assignments…things to write out or think about, worksheets to complete, or even techniques/exercises to practice in your own time so that some of what we discuss in our sessions is reinforced. Most of all, I will be an objective listener, helping you to gain insight into what is going on with you, so that you are able to make the choices and changes you want to, in your own time. I look forward to working with you!
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.
Erin Sperico
My name is Erin Sperico, and I have been licensed in the mental health field for over 11 years. I earned my Master of Art in Licensed Professional Counseling at Liberty University. I have had the pleasure of assisting individuals with varied issues and concerns including depression, anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, personality disorders to name a few. It is important that you and I are comfortable with one another and that you feel safe with me as you may be sharing with me things of an intimate and vulnerable nature. My approach incorporates various evidence-based practices such as mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral strategies, solution-focused and person-centered therapies among others. I also practice an offshoot of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) called Resource Tapping to assist those that have experienced trauma. I believe it is essential to meet you where you are and accustom my clinical approach accordingly. My sincerest goal is to support you along your journey by providing a non-judgemental and respectful atmosphere as we work together toward finding your personal fulfillment. Life will always have its ups and downs, yet I believe that your emotions and mental health don’t have to ride life’s roller coaster with the right perspective and outlook. We all have power from within…let me help you find yours again.
Karen Kavaloski
Hello, my name is Karen Kavaloski and I am a LPC in New Mexico, North Carolina and in Missouri. I was originally licensed as a counselor in 2009 while working in Arizona by the State of North Carolina after making a career change from a almost 30 year history in nursing. My passion since I was a young adult was counseling and it took me almost 30 years to achieve my goal of becoming a counselor. I was a Marine wife for almost 30 years and have traveled allot, I have 3 children and 5 grandchildren. My youngest, a son, and one of my grandchildren are severely autistic so I can identify with the stress and struggles some families have with managing special needs within their family. I am also a cancer survivor. I believe we all have an ability to heal the body, mind and soul and I consciously strive daily to be an active participant in my life and support and encourage others to do the same. My education beyond my nursing and counseling includes a Masters in Business Administration and a Doctorate in (Christian) Ministries. I have worked primarily over this past 17 years with trauma and substance abuse in the adult population with about 3 years working with the teenage population in these areas. I also have worked about 5 years total with prison reentry and counseling individuals and families with histories of incarceration in state and federal prison. I believe in working with individuals and families to achieve their highest goals. I believe the client is the expert in his/her own life and I fully encourage one to strive to work towards building a strong foundation within themselves and their families whatever that looks like to them, to that end I use focused solution therapy, internal systems therapy, mindfulness/compassion therapy, cognitive and cognitive behavioral, dialectical therapy, emotional freedom techniques and/or neurolinguistic techniques . I am also the author and publisher self help books under my Sacred Self Workbook Series Outside my therapy practice, I spend my leisure time reading. meditation/praying and gardening. I do light exercise daily.
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.
Jennifer Richards
I am licensed in North Carolina with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, LGBTQ+ related issues, relationship issues, trauma, & abuse. I also have experience working with despression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
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
Janet Stone-Nielsen
I am am I licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with 24 years of experience in the field. I have primarily specialized in the the area of trauma most specifically domestic and sexual abuse and the concerns that stem from these abuses such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, codependency, divorce/separation, grief, career related issues, economic concerns and self-esteem and parenting difficulties. I am also a certified clinical supervisor and happy to work with other professionals focusing on self-care and compassion fatigue. My style is warm and compassionate. I start where the client is with a person centered and empowerment approach. I often use psycho-education to help people understand patterns to assist in making lasting changes. I have extensive training in trauma, domestic and sexual abuse. I am newly trained in EMDR (Eye movement Desensitization and reprocessing therapy). I am also trained in the areas of TFCBT (trauma focused behavioral therapy), MI (motivational interviewing).
Kimberly (Kim) Henley
I am a licensed counselor and supervisor in North Carolina with 9+ years of professional work experience in counseling and over 20 years of experience in the mental health field in North Carolina. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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.
Nadine Roberts
I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor and a licensed clinical addiction specialist associate. I have worked in the mental health field for over 20 years in various capacities, but I’m most compassionate about working with my clients. My goal is to provide effective strategies and tools to assist with enhancing and promoting an optimum and healthy well-being. I use the cognitive behavioral therapy modality, but my focus is on client centered, so I will utilize other treatment modalities as deemed necessary. I will work with the client where they are on a confidential and a non-judgmental platform.
Monica Farrer
I am licensed in the state of North Carolina with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, addiction, relationship issues, & parenting issues. 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.
Loretta Tillman
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC)in both North and South Carolina with over 20 years of counseling experience. I am also a Nationally Certified Counselor and Accredited Disability Representative. I work with adults who want help to feel more in control, inspired, motivated, and empowered to find enjoyment in living from their authentic self. My experience includes working with clients with a variety of concerns such as anxiety, bipolar, depression, self-esteem, life transition issues, chronic pain, and disability. This is a transformational journey fueled by strength, integrity and courage. My counseling style/approach is warm, interactive and supportive. I believe in treating everyone with dignity, integrity, compassion and sensitivity in addressing their concerns. I do not believe in stigmatizing labels because labels do not define who you are. My approach uses multiple therapeutic modalities such as person-centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral, reality therapy and psycho-dynamic. This approach allows for flexibility to tailor treatment plans to meet your unique and specific needs and goals. Together, we will identify solutions and resources to inspire, motivate and empower you through your growth challenges to achieve the outcomes and results you want. I believe that you are your best expert in your life. I will provide you with guidance in identifying patterns, choices and consequences to accomplish goals for a more satisfying and authentic life. It takes strength, integrity and courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life supported by dreams and goals. Taking the first step toward change can be both frightening and rewarding. I will be with you every step of the transformational journey and help you with the tools to develop a "stick and stay" attitude toward your progress. BE YOU! All abroad the transformation journey, let's roll! I really look forward to working with you to become the best version of yourself.
Candace Melvin
Some days, it’s hard to show up. Maybe you’ve been feeling emotionally drained, overwhelmed by life, or you’ve been weighed down by back there, back then. Boundaries don’t really exist, the people pleasing mask is well worn, finding motivation or even recognizing yourself amongst the If you’re feeling the pull to do something different than survive; to pause, rest, and heal, I’m here to revive you. To show you how to conquer these symptoms and start living. With over 10 years of experience supporting individuals on their healing journeys, I’m here to walk alongside you.
Sharonda Ocean
Hello Beloved, Thank you for stopping by. Let me share some information with you about myself that will help you determine if I am good fit to support you in your journey of self-discovery and healing. So here we go, I am a licensed clinical social worker in North Carolina with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, with the last 6 years practicing as a licensed clinical social worker. My specialization lies in the art of self-love. Through my work, I've discovered that practicing self-love and prioritizing oneself are key components in the journey of self-discovery. Which supports individuals in addressing their own trauma, challenges and problems that may be newly developed or rooted in childhood. In doing this work, I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, confidence & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your own story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming challenges. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! If you believe that we can be a good fit and I can support you as you navigate your journey, I welcome you to my virtual therapeutic couch—a safe space where you can be seen, receive empathy, and find the support needed to navigate life's challenges.
Find a Therapist Near You in Mount Gilead , 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 Mount Gilead.
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.