When it comes to finding the right therapist, Raleigh, NC can seem like an optimal spot. But even in a populous city, it’s not always so simple to find mental health services. There are a number of therapeutic approaches in the mental health field, and each may be more or less effective on different mental health conditions. What you personally need in counseling services may not be available in your area. In addition, it’s essential to consider the importance of therapeutic alliance. For therapy to be successful, you need to feel comfortable speaking with your therapist. 

When in Raleigh, find therapists through online therapy platforms like BetterHelp to streamline the process. BetterHelp offers over 30,000 mental health care providers, with professional experience in treating everything from panic attacks to post-traumatic stress disorder. By filling out an online questionnaire, you’ll be matched with a therapist that meets your needs. If you don’t feel a connection with your chosen therapist, you can switch at no additional cost.  It’s also easy to fit appointments into a busy schedule, and with video chat, phone, and text messaging options you can attend your therapy sessions from the comfort of your own home or office. 

Mental health care is important for all ages, and therapists can provide support as well as offer a number of tools to help shift you into a more positive mindset. While mental health is one of the more popular searches online, it’s not always easy to take that first step. Simplify the process by reaching out to one of the licensed providers at BetterHelp, and get started on the path toward mental health and wellness. 

 

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Denise Mason

Offering therapy in NC
License: MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

Hi! My name is Denise and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of North Carolina and Florida as well as a Licensed Independent Social Worker- CP in the state of South Carolina. I graduated from Norfolk State University's Graduate School of Social Work in 2000, concentrating in Family Systems Practice and Hampton University with a Bachelors of Arts in 1995. I have been a therapist for over 15 years with degrees in psychology and clinical social work, as stated above. I specialize in mood and adjustment disorders such as depression and anxiety as well as trauma associated disorders, but have worked with a variety of disorders dealing with, but not limited to behaviors, relationships and grief. I currently work with adults, children and families. I enjoy working with people and bring my genuine self to the work that I do. I am honest, open and direct, but warm and encouraging at the same time. I love to see the humor in different situations where some might not expect. I believe that humor can work in therapy when needed. I provide support from the initial session and throughout the entire counseling experience. I am here to work together with you to get you to the life that you want for you and your loved ones. I incorporate goal-setting for your mental health, personal and professional life. My counseling approach is client centered and I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Stages of Change as therapeutic interventions that will help you with the issues you struggle with.

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Jeffrey Helms

Offering therapy in NC
License: MS,LCMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I have been a mental health counselor for the past seven years. The population I work with is unique as most of my clients live in group homes and low income housing who have chronic mental illnesses such as Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder from growing up in an abusive family and/or who have been homeless at one point in their lives. I have also worked with many couples as they forge a path through obstacles in their marriage and have seen them meet their goals. My counseling style is considered eclectic but I often approach each session in a person centered manner and often lean on cognitive behavioral therapy. I believe the client is their own expert and they know their limits. I want to know what has worked for a person as well as what has not worked and if they have hit a wall. Some clients I have met three to four times and they have met their goals and some I have had for over two years. I offer a great deal of understanding and empathy as I have had to deal with storms in my own life and know the value of having someone I know will simply listen.

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Dr. Latasha McIlwaine

Offering therapy in NC
License: EdD,LCMHCS,LPCS
AddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
18 years of experience

Hello, I am Dr. Latasha McIlwaine, a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPCS) in the states of South Carolina and Georgia and also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS) in the state of North Carolina. I am also have a license and certification in Addictions (LCAS/CCS) and I am certified in Domestic Violence. I earned my graduate degree in Mental Health Counseling and went on to study Counseling Psychology to earn my Doctorate degree (EdD). I have been in practice for over 18 years across North and South Carolina and Georgia. I have extensive training in a range of modalities including, person/client-centered, brief solution focused, reality, family and cognitive behavioral therapies. I also have experience in Anger Management and Marriage and Family Therapy. I am an educator too with undergraduate, graduate and doctorate students who are pursuing their goal of becoming a therapist. I am also an author and my first book is Fragile Brokenness: The Unspoken Secrets That Shaped A Pretty Unprotected Girl Into A Practicing Clinician And Therapist. My book speaks to my experiences with life and mental health issues and how I coped and learned to deal, made pivotal moves and developed plans for successful overcomes. My book also speaks to how I found my calling to become a clinical therapist helping and teaching others. I have extensive experience providing quality services for adults, children, couples as well as families on a wide range of areas including depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, relationships, interpersonal dynamics, communication, self-esteem, school/career issues, anger management, stress management, parenting and addictions. I am also in private practice providing tele-therapy, Insightful Options, PLLC. I have two websites: https://www.insightful-options.com and https://www.drlatashamcilwaine.com; https://www.greenemcilwainefoundation.org I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Summer Woodside

Offering therapy in NC
License: PhD,LCSW,LISW-CP
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker licensed in North and South Carolina with over 15 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, finances, career challenges, personal relationship issues, and ADHD. I have also worked with people who have experience physical, emotional, and mental abuse. My counseling style is open and non-judgemental. I believe in treating everyone with respect and demonstrating empathy in all situations. I view the relationship between the counselor and client as a partnership, and work closely with my clients to empower them to be active participants in the counseling process. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral and systemic approaches and includes a heavy emphasis on the strengths perspective. Taking the first step towards seeking a change in your life is always the hardest step to take! I commend you for considering this process and am here to support you if you decide to move forward. I look forward to working with you!

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Mala Ross

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing services to clients for over 20 years. I have worked in several state including New York, Florida and North Carolina. I have treated a wide variety of populations and ages across the entire life span. I believe that a therapist is a tool for you to use on your individual life journey. I also know believe that a person's mental health is just as if not more important than physical health. If your mind is well, physical healing is easier and more possible. Although I enjoy working with all populations I believe that my experience, skills and level of training are a good fit for individuals struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship and self esteem issues. I also have many years of experience working in family systems. I hope that my clients will find that I am a compassionate therapist who does not have any other agenda other than what my clients' stated goals are. I hope that my clients will find that therapy with me will be a safe and supportive place to come to. I utilize cognitive behavioral treatment, dialectical behavioral treatment, family centered treatment and emotionally focused treatment. My approach is to start where you want to begin. I look forward to working with you.

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Stephanie Adams Rodriguez

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesDepression
13 years of experience

I am a mental health therapist licensed in the state of North Carolina with over 10 years of experience working as a professional counselor and life coach. I started working in a community setting with the pediatric population and their families in the Intensive In Home setting. Transitioning to outpatient at a Community Hospital in EAP, I continued working with the pediatric population and adults. I have worked with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, work life balance , premarital counseling , marriage and parenting challenges, career challenges and transitions, OCD, and ADHD. My therapy style is person centered to enhance the therapeutic relationship. I focus on creating a safe space to explore a client's concerns and develop therapeutic goals. I provide a supportive nonjudgmental space with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approaches are evidence based and combine short term brief solution focused therapy , cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic , and mindfulness approaches. 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!

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Tamara Hemby

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCMHC,LCAS,CRC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist with over 10 years of experience. My interactions in therapy includes me being warm and encouraging while also promoting accountability. I have provided therapy in varied settings with a wide range of individuals. Issues addressed have included but are not limited to: family conflict, childhood trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety and feeling lost. I do not believe in "fixing" people; however, I do believe in recovery! I utilize an eclectic counseling approach consisting of cognitive-behavioral methods, along with a person-centered approach. Cognitive-behavioral therapy consists of techniques used to reduce emotional stress and negative behavior patterns in thoughts and perceptions, such as cognitive restructuring, problem solving, and modifying thoughts. Person-centered therapy focuses on the interpersonal relationship of the counselor and client, and identifying the client’s feelings and accept or alter these thought processes. Gestalt therapy is grounded in the client’s “here and now”. The initial goal is for clients to gain awareness of what they are experiencing and doing now to become whole or complete. Reality therapy focuses on keeping the client in the present with emphasis on client responsibility for success. Motivational Interviewing is often used and endorsed at my current place of employment due to effectiveness of the treatment modality when treating substance abuse and/or dependence. These therapy modalities are well established, researched, and highly respected. Deciding to seek out and utilize help takes courage and strength. I would like the opportunity to support you on your journey. I look forward to working with you!

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Ashley Howell

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

Hi my name is Ashley Howell, and I am a licensed clinical social worker and licensed independent social worker of clinical practice from North Carolina practicing in NC and SC, who works with those on an individual basis, as well as those that may be a part of your life such as family or those of significance to you. I have over 5 years of experience in providing case management services, as well as therapeutic/ counseling services to those from diverse backgrounds specializing in working with young adults to the elderly. My specialties include providing support to those in need with potential relationship concerns, severe anxiety, depression, emotional abuse, career challenges, burnout, caregiver fatigue, dementia and Alzheimer's Disease support, coping with life changes, grief, and bereavement, and medical related trauma. I have extensive training and history in working in a variety of medical settings over the years. I am able to provide a listening ear and assistance to those in need or in desire of services for improvement in these areas, providing resources to learn to cope with circumstances, and helping to provide clients with the best services through a variety of counseling approaches. Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Strengths Based Modules, Mindfulness based approaches, Solution Focused therapy, psychotherapy, Person Centered Therapy, Anticipatory Grief, and Bereavement counseling. Growing up with family members who all worked in industries that serve others, it has been instilled in me to do the same through providing a listening ear and serving others in the capacity that I know how through a variety of therapeutic evidence based approaches. I hope that you will please allow me to join you through your journey of change and potential growth!

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John Dyson

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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Lauren Turner

Offering therapy in NC
License: LISW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Ohio with 4+ years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including addictions, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma and/or emotional abuse. My therapy style interactive, validating, and welcoming. I believe in treating anyone with kindness, respect, sensitivity, compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. I tend to be non-directive in my approach and solution focused. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I understand that it takes a lot of courage and strength to make 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!

How to find counseling in Raleigh

Finding the best therapist close by in Raleigh 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 Raleigh. 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 Raleigh, 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh, elsewhere in Wake, 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 Raleigh area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh, 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 27617 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh, 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.

Raleigh 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Raleigh.

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

27601, 27602, 27603, 27604, 27605, 27606, 27607, 27608, 27609, 27610, 27611, 27612, 27613, 27614, 27615, 27616, 27617, 27619, 27620, 27621, 27622, 27623, 27624, 27625, 27626, 27627, 27628, 27629, 27634, 27635, 27636, 27640, 27650, 27656, 27658, 27661, 27668, 27675, 27676, 27690, 27695, 27697, 27698, 27699

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