Living on an island may seem like a dream life where everyone is happy all the time but, of course, there is no place on earth where everyone is happy all the time. Oak Island is a town that was established in the 1830s and was once popular for fox hunting and the Intracoastal Waterway. However, the island was almost completely destroyed by Hurricane Hazel in 1954, when only five buildings were left standing.

Rebuilding after a devastating event like this hurricane or any other type of traumatic event can be tough and many who go through something like this need counseling afterward. If you or someone you love needs counseling, talk to one of the Oak Island area counselors today to get some help.

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Psychologist Ann-Marie Duncan providing different types of therapy in Oak Island

Ann-Marie Duncan

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCMHC 4987
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTDepression
28 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in North Carolina, I bring nearly three decades of compassionate clinical experience to supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My practice centers on creating affirming, inclusive spaces for exploring personal growth, particularly for LGBTQ+ individuals, those navigating relationship dynamics, and people experiencing mood-related difficulties. My therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in understanding each person's unique journey. I specialize in addressing depression, anxiety, addiction recovery, sexuality, exploration, and personal empowerment. With expertise in supporting diverse relationship structures and identities, I help clients develop self-love, clarify life purpose, and heal from family dynamics. I'm committed to providing a non-judgmental, progressive environment where individuals can authentically explore their emotional landscape, build resilience, and create meaningful personal transformation. Whether you're working through life challenges, relationship patterns, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional insight.

Psychologist Theresa Shultz providing different types of therapy in Oak Island

Theresa Shultz

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCSW C007719
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
16 years offering treatment

About Me: Hi there... My name is Theresa Shultz. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), in the state of North Carolina. I am also a mother of three, grandmother to four, and great grandmother to four children. I am also a survivor and a recovering alcoholic (30 years sober). Since I have been in recovery, my life has changed dramatically with much gratitude to the people who have been helping me on my journey. I would like to help you on your journey of recovery now. I have been providing therapy for the past ten years in many different roles. I have worked with a wide range of people and populations. I have experience with a variety of mental health conditions such as, depression, anxiety, addiction, anger management issues, grief/loss, trauma experiences and relationship conflicts. My approach to therapy is to be warm and attentive, non-judgemental, direct and honest. I will not tell you how to live your life only provide support and tools to help you achieve your goals. I will join with you for a time to assist you on this part of your journey, working together with you as a team. I will assist you in identifying your goals and the steps needed to achieve them. Depending on what your treatment goals are, I use some different therapeutic interventions, such as: short term solution-focused therapy; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT); Mindfulness, and Motivational Interviewing (MI). Therapy will move at your pace to achieve your overall therapeutic goals. I look forward to working with you. SPECIALTIES Stress, Anxiety Addictions Trauma and abuse Grief Depression SERVICES OFFERED MESSAGING LIVE CHAT PHONE VIDEO LICENSING NC LCSW #C007719

Psychologist Tameka McFarland providing different types of therapy in Oak Island

Tameka McFarland

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LMFT 8219, NC LMFT 2185
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesSelf esteem
7 years offering treatment

My name is Tameka McFarland. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Human Development and Family Studies from UNC Greensboro in2004. I earned my Master of Science degree from Capella University in 2017. I am also a certified proficient life coach. I own and manage a thriving private practice in North Carolina. I have been licensed since December 2017. I treat individuals, couples who are dating, planning to get married, currently married, or are considering divorce. I will treat emotional concerns that are affecting intimacy between a client and their partner. I provide support to families who have concerns about parenting. I will see any client ages 18 and up of all ethnicities and sexual orientations. My ideal client would be a couple or family, however, I see many individuals in therapy as well. I specialize in treating couples and families. I also provide Cranial Electrotherapy to treat anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, and chronic pain. My preferred theoretical modalities are Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I treat adults of all ages.

Psychologist Angela McCoy providing different types of therapy in Oak Island

Angela McCoy

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCMHC 13998
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCareer difficultiesDepression
5 years offering treatment

I am a therapist from North Carolina. I have been in this fabulous and rewarding career for 5 years. I employ Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Person Centered Therapy the most, but enjoy prescribing any theory that will lead to my clients becoming the best version of themselves. Therapy is a beautiful process and I look forward to joining you on the voyage of becoming your best self! All clients, teens, and couples are welcome! I welcome any client from any community or platform!

Psychologist Pamela Peoples providing different types of therapy in Oak Island

Pamela Peoples

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCSW C012108
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
16 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Tanya Richmond providing different types of therapy in Oak Island

Tanya Richmond

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCSW C003381
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
26 years offering treatment

I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and a certified person centered practitioner (person centered thinking trainer and mentor trainer) with more than 26 years of experience in the field. I have worked with people experiencing a wide range of concerns including grief, loss, end-of-life planning, anxiety, stress, coping, trauma, and improving self-care (particularly for caregivers). I use mindfulness therapy and person centered skills and find Qi Gong and Yogic breathing as well as guided meditation to be beneficial techniques to build into my work. My style is person centered, warm, reflective, and engaging. I believe in treating everyone with dignity and respect. I listen to learn what is important to you...and always keep that in mind when we work together. I don't like to use labels and feel they limit us all. I will customize our time together and your treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am glad that you are seeking purpose, meaning, and a happier life by addressing those things that may be holding you back, troubling, or confusing you. That can be a daring journey and you have taken the first step! I am here to help you think through changes you may want or need to make and to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Linda Milewski providing different types of therapy in Oak Island

Linda Milewski

Clinician
License Type(s): FL LCSW SW13301, NC LCSW C007143
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
18 years offering treatment

Hello, I’m Linda Milewski, a Licensed Clinical Therapist and addiction specialist of 20 years. I hold a Masters in Social Work (MSW) and 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!

Psychologist Stephen Barine providing different types of therapy in Oak Island

Stephen Barine

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCMHC 6694
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementADHD
17 years offering treatment

I am licensed in North Carolina with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, & anger management. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Raven Patten providing different types of therapy in Oak Island

Raven Patten

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCSW C019728
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years offering treatment

Hi, I’m Raven Patten, LCSW—and I’m really glad you’re here. I work with individuals who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or like life just isn’t aligning the way it should. A lot of my clients are used to holding it all together for everyone else, but privately feel anxious, burnt out, or unsure about their next step. My approach is real, collaborative, and focused on helping you get clear and take control of your life again. I believe you are the expert on your own experience—my role is to help you slow things down, make sense of what’s going on, and support you in making choices that actually align with who you want to be. I often use a blend of: * Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) * Strengths-based approaches * Solution-focused strategies I also incorporate what I call a “First Day” mindset—the idea that you can reset, refocus, and move differently at any point, no matter what yesterday looked like. I support clients navigating: * Anxiety and stress * Life transitions * Burnout * Self-esteem and identity * Relationship challenges * Feeling stuck or unfulfilled My style is warm, direct, and non-judgmental. I’ll meet you where you are, but I’ll also challenge you when needed—because growth requires both support and honesty. If you’re ready to get out of your own way and start showing up differently in your life, I’d love to work with you.

Psychologist Christopher Korty providing different types of therapy in Oak Island

Christopher Korty

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCSW C006843
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteem
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in North Carolina with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with parenting issues, marriage counseling's, anger management, emotional and behaviors struggles and individual challenges. 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.

Psychologist Sherrie Pace providing different types of therapy in Oak Island

Sherrie Pace

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCSW C010680
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorder
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in North Carolina with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with bipolar disorder. 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!

Psychologist Tony McKee providing different types of therapy in Oak Island

Tony McKee

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCSW C005160
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in North Carolina with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, 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!

Psychologist Christina Jones providing different types of therapy in Oak Island

Christina Jones

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCMHC 12964
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteem
9 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in North Carolina, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life challenges. My approach centers on helping clients work through stress, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I have extensive experience addressing communication difficulties, life transitions, and emotional healing. My therapeutic practice focuses on empowering individuals to develop stronger self-understanding and resilience. I offer compassionate guidance for those experiencing isolation, workplace challenges, family conflicts, and young adult transitions. Drawing from a Christian perspective, I create a supportive environment that respects each client's unique journey and spiritual beliefs. I am committed to helping clients explore personal growth, overcome emotional barriers, and develop healthier coping strategies. Whether you're struggling with self-esteem, relationship issues, or seeking greater life purpose, I provide a warm, non-judgmental space to support your healing and personal transformation.

Psychologist Kiara Grier providing different types of therapy in Oak Island

Kiara Grier

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCMHC 16012
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years offering treatment

I'm Kiara Grier, a therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through life's most challenging moments. With six years of clinical experience, I work with clients navigating stress, anxiety, relationship difficulties, parenting concerns, and self-esteem struggles. I'm passionate about helping people build stronger communication skills, discover their life purpose, and work through feelings of guilt, shame, and the desire for forgiveness. My approach is grounded in understanding the complexities of human connection—whether that's attachment patterns, codependency, or blended family dynamics. I also specialize in supporting young adults facing questions about their purpose in life and individuals navigating major life transitions. I am especially passionate in helping individuals desiring to integrate their Christian faith with their healing journey and finding their life's purpose and calling. I believe in meeting you where you are with warmth, respect, and genuine care. My goal is to create a therapeutic space where you feel heard and supported as you work toward meaningful growth and healing. I'm honored to walk alongside you on your journey.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Oak Island, North Carolina

Finding a therapist near you in Oak Island, 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' average copay is $23 per session. 

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 Oak Island.

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' average copay is $23 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' average copay is $23 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 Oak Island, North Carolina

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Oak Island and the surrounding NC area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

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