Saint James, North Carolina is situated on the southeast coast of North Carolina and nestled among unique wetlands. Perhaps the best words to describe Saint James are residential, recreation, and retirement. It’s a fairly new community that was just established in 1999. When you’re not feeling mentally or emotionally well, at times, nothing feels new or unique.
Life doesn’t have to feel like you’ll never find your way out of the swamp. Saint James is alive and well with mental health counselors and one is sure to be your perfect match to help get you out and enjoying all that Saint James has to offer.
Ann-Marie Duncan
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.
Lakisha Boykin
“What you think, you become. What you feel, you attract. What you imagine, you create.” -Buddha Life can be challenging and it can be hard. With these challenges, it can bring feelings of fear, sadness, confusion, insecurity, frustration and even anger. Is there something or someone that keeps you up at night? Are your negative thoughts impacting your relationships and how feel about yourself. Well, I am here to help. I am here to offer a safe and non-judgmental space to help you work through whatever life has thrown your way-whether it be negative or positive. I would like to support you in managing and navigating your thoughts and feelings. For 15 years, my work in mental health has surrounded helping individuals in the community. Over the last 3 years, I worked as a clinician in a behavioral health walk-in clinic providing clinical assessments and recommending behavioral health services for individuals. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to make change, improve their lives and fulfilling their purpose. I have over 6 years experience in working with individuals who are experiencing life transitions, depression, anxiety, family conflict, marital conflict and self-esteem issues. I am familiar with working with psychiatrist, primary care physicians or any other community agency. Deciding to engage in therapy can feel overwhelming and scary. Finding a therapist that fits your personality and style is important. My therapy style is warm, compassionate, receptive and supportive to your own unique style and needs. I believe that you are the expert of your life-I am just a vessel to help you navigate where you want to go. I look forward to working with you and helping you become the best version of yourself.
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.
Laurel Meine
As a licensed therapist with three decades of experience in North Carolina, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, and interpersonal dynamics with compassionate, personalized care. I have extensive expertise in working with diverse populations, including LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, survivors of trauma, and those experiencing life transformations. My approach is deeply empathetic and tailored to each person's unique journey, focusing on healing, self-discovery, and personal growth. My therapeutic work spans a wide range of concerns, from social anxiety and relationship challenges to chronic pain, caregiver stress, and midlife transitions. I am committed to creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and rediscover their inner strength. Through collaborative, evidence-based techniques, I help individuals build self-love, overcome isolation, and reconnect with their life's purpose. My goal is to empower clients to move beyond their current struggles and create meaningful, fulfilling lives.
Shirley Southard
I have worked in the human service field for approximately 20 years. I have had the pleasure of working with mental health, developmentally disabled and substance abuse populations. I have worked with Assisted Medication Management and active military members and their families. My greatest reward as a therapist is helping my clients explore ways to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to look forward to the future with hope. I believe that we all need someone to talk with who will really listen and accept us as we are, without judgment. I provide my clients with that warm, nonjudgmental environment—a safe place to explore the issues that may be preventing them from living the life they want. I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Substance Abuse Supervisor. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Therapy and psycho-education extensively. My experience includes working with clients dealing with divorce and single-parenting, addictions, grief, women’s issues, and mood disorders, among other challenges. I find that my great passion is working with individuals and children.
LaShana Poole
I am licensed in North Carolina with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I believe life can be an emotional rollercoaster, but more importantly you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. Let's remove the labels and find you! I am here to support you in that process.
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
Korey Fisher-Wellman
My name is Korey Fisher-Wellman. I graduated with a Bachelors in Psychology from Lenoir-Rhyne University, a Masters in Social Work from Appalachian State University, and a Masters in Public Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I have been a licensed clinical social worker for over 15 years, working primarily it the public child welfare arena. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, client-centered, and motivational interviewing. I have experience working with individuals struggling anxiety, depression, mood instability, substance use, history of trauma, and grief and loss. In addition I am recognized as Adoption Competent Therapist by the Center for Adoption Support and Education.
Demetria Powell-Harrison
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social worker and I've been providing therapy for the past 10 years but working with individuals to reach their goals for over 20 years. I truly believe in focusing on the person, meeting you were you are and working together on a solution focused approach. I've worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, life goals, coaching and coping skills, I also helped people heal from past traumas in their childhood and see the correlations of how it affects their decisions in their adult life. My therapy style is warm and interactive. There is a no judgement zone while working with me. I've been told that I am very easy to talk to and it is easy for them to open up when talking with me. I believe in treating people with kindness and respect and that everyone deserves to be heard. My approach combines Cognitive-behavior therapy, Motivational interviewing, Active-listening, Psycho-social-behavioral approach. It depends on the person and what is needed at the time. Being flexible is very important. It takes courage to seek help and make changes in our life. I am here to support you and to empower you to make those changes. I am looking forward to working with you!
Stephen Barine
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.
Lona Champagne
As a licensed therapist in Louisiana, I bring 15 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenging personal transitions, relationship dynamics, and emotional healing. I specialize in supporting women through significant life stages, including pregnancy, postpartum experiences, and family transformations. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and holistic, focusing on areas like self-esteem, grief recovery, and personal growth. I understand the intricate challenges of relationships, family dynamics, and individual emotional journeys. Whether you're experiencing life changes, struggling with personal connections, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm committed to creating a supportive and empowering therapeutic environment. I offer a warm, respectful space where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past challenges, and develop meaningful strategies for personal transformation. My goal is to walk alongside you as you rediscover your strength, purpose, and inner resilience.
Paula Garrard
As a licensed therapist in North Carolina, I bring over 15 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges related to depression, anxiety, stress, grief, significant life transitions . I specialize in creating affirming, supportive spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals and older adults, offering compassionate guidance that honors each person's unique journey. My approach is deeply empathetic, client-centered, and designed to help you develop meaningful coping strategies and emotional resilience. I understand that seeking therapy takes courage, and I'm committed to walking alongside you with respect, understanding, and professional expertise. Together, we can explore your strengths, address your challenges, and work towards the personal growth and healing you deserve.
Stephanie Faison
I am licensed in North Carolina with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. 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.
Sherrida Smith
I am a licensed clinical therapist with several years of experience. I have over 25 years of experience working with children, adults and families. I also enjoy facilitating different types of therapeutic groups. I have supported teens, adults and families through social issues and concerns, relationship issues, parenting problems, including marital concerns. I have also worked with children and adults who have suffered various forms of abuse or neglect. I have worked with people from different backgrounds, cultures and appreciate learning about each and every person I work with. I embrace getting to know more so I know how to help support each client with attaining their goals. My therapeutic style is very authentic, warm and strength based. I believe that my therapeutic practice is a work of the heart, and I believe in the change and or support that each and everyone of my clients' seeks. I have utilized theoretical perspectives such as cognitive behavioral therapy as well as brief treatment therapeutic modalities. I also enjoy utilizing bits of psychoanalytic theory and I'm creative and open based on what is best for each and every client I serve. I am looking forward to working with you to support and encourage you into the next best phase of your life.
Find a Therapist Near You in Saint James , 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 Saint James.
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.