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.

This is Dr. Diane O'Brien's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Diane O'Brien

Offering therapy in NC
License: PhD,LPC, LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

Do you often find yourself struggling to sort out your thoughts and feelings about events in your life? Have there been times in your life when you have wondered if you have made the right choices or if there are other possibilities for you? We have all experienced life changing experiences that have shaped us into the people we are today. Sometimes, a listening ear is all we need. Other times, more in-depth exploration of thoughts and feelings is needed before you can feel better. Whichever situation fits for you, I am here to help. I have been in practice for over 20 years and have had experience working with a diverse group of individuals, couples, and families. Together, we have explored trauma events and their impact on individuals and families, family relationships, couples’ issues, and depression, anxiety, infidelity, spiritual dilemmas, and other experiences that have an effect on day-to-day living. My experience extends to adults of all ages, including an older population and caregivers. I am open to working with couples who are experiencing issues, particularly in the area of communication. Working with individuals who are in the early stages of dementia or Alzheimer's Disease are a new and interesting population for me. For me, counseling is a passion. Being a counselor is a calling, it encompasses me as a person and as a professional. It is my hope that you will contact me for counseling so that I can be your companion on your journey to a more peaceful and satisfying future.

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Keisha Moore

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

Hello and thank you for the opportunity to serve you. I have been working with children and families in various capacities for over 20 years and have been working as a therapist licensed with the state of North Carolina for the past 7 years. I work with individuals with a wide range of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, anger, ADHD , trauma, physical emotional, verbal abuse, relationship issues and career challenges and stress management. I have experience in therapy with people of all ages, alternate lifestyles, many faiths and individuals from varying ethnic and cultural backgrounds- regardless of their socioeconomic status. I am also experienced in the areas of anxiety, depression, trauma, stress/anger management, career difficulties, critical incident stress and various issues with people with disabilities. I have worked with females and I am sensitive to feminine issues in counseling. I believe that my diversity of experiences has provided me with a range of skills and an ability to flexibly approach each client's unique circumstances. My theoretical approach to counseling is interactive in style and based on the cognitive behavioral therapy model. Depending on your individual need I will use different methods of therapy. I also employ techniques of cognitive-behavioral counseling,solution focused, acceptance and commitment therapy and motivational interviewing which empowers the client to challenge your internal thinking process to motivate positive change in your life. This is a philosophy of empowerment and accepts the client as the driving force in change. Most sessions will focus on self-awareness, choice, problem solving, and setting goals for the present and future. Other areas of counseling may include focusing on responsibility, meaning of life, your strengths and limitations, self-concept, acceptance, and change. Outside of session, there may be homework assignments such as journal writing, reading, art or other methods of self-discovery and expression.

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Melissa McClung

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCMHC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I have worked in various positions in the counseling arena for nearly 30 years. I enjoy working with families, couples and individuals to help them achieve their full potential. I work with clients who struggle with anxiety and depression. I help clients deal with life on life's terms. I tailor my practice to each client's individual needs. I believe that each person, whether man, woman or child, has within him or her the ability to be emotionally well. I work with individuals and families. I utilize a holistic approach combining Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Reality Therapy, and Emotion-Focused Therapy. I work with substance abuse issues in a non-judgmental manner to help those struggling in recovery. I also provide pre-marital and marital counseling. My passion and greatest wish is for my clients to make progress towards his or her goals. Tomorrow can always be better than today if we work together.

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Monica Bowens

Offering therapy in NC
License: MHR, MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficulties
7 years of experience

Hello! My name is Monica, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys helping individuals work towards future-focused movement to accomplish goals using a strengths-based, practical approach and solution focused steps. So, what does that mean, right? I like helping people discover and develop the best version of themselves in ways that empower and motivate them to accomplish their goals. I am down to earth and open-minded, and I believe people have the ability to make positive changes to their life if they are motivated, affirmed, and supported. I strive to be an inspirational force for others.

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Tamekia Powell

Offering therapy in NC
License: MA, LCAS,LCMHCS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

It is my belief that every individual is a unique and a complex being, therefore the theoretical approach taken will be based on your unique individual needs. A collaborative treatment and/or goals plan is created based on the information you provide and my assessment of your emotional, mental, physical, social, spiritual, economic, and career characteristics. I will need your continual input as we identify issues to be addressed within the counseling session. Open and honest communication between counselor and client is imperative to a successful therapeutic relationship. I am credentialed as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, Certified Sex Offender Treatment Specialist, National Certified Counselor and Trauma Focus CBT Therapist.

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This is Jacqueline Worthington's avatar and link to their profile

Jacqueline Worthington

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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 and empower you in that journey.

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This is Stella Thepaut's avatar and link to their profile

Stella Thepaut

Offering therapy in NC
LGBTRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in North Carolina. I have experience in helping clients with lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. 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.

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This is Christina Dixon's avatar and link to their profile

Christina Dixon

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
19 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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This is Dr. Sharon O'Connor's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Sharon O'Connor

Offering therapy in NC
License: M.A.,LPC,LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan/North Carolina/South Carolina with 25 years of professional experience. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have the strength that will assist you in overcoming the things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support and guide you in that process.

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This is Kathryn Sampalis's avatar and link to their profile

Kathryn Sampalis

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and North Carolina with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, adoption, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.

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How to find counseling in Oak Island

Finding the best therapist close by in Oak Island can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Oak Island. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Oak Island, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Oak Island or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Oak Island area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Oak Island, elsewhere in Brunswick, or in the greater state of North Carolina.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Oak Island area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Oak Island therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Oak Island due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Oak Island may not take health insurance, some in the state of North Carolina may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of North Carolina you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Oak Island, North Carolina working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Oak Island above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Oak Island helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Oak Island therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Oak Island therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Oak Island therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in NC, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 28465 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Oak Island counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Oak Island licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Oak Island, North Carolina can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Oak Island has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Oak Island.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Oak Island:

28422, 28465

Popular cities near Oak Island, NC

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