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Amy Bates

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Southern Shores
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPCC,ATR-BC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am an Art Therapist and Counselor experienced in working with individuals and families in a community mental health agency and private practice. I am also an adjunct professor teaching graduate level Art Therapy and Counseling. I am currently licensed in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida and New Mexico as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a Nationally Board Certified, Registered Art Therapist. From a holistic perspective, I honor your unique life journey while helping you find deeper meaning and greater balance in your life. I utilize traditional solution focused, evidence-based practices with a warm, positive, strength-based approach. While teaching practical skills for managing your immediate symptoms, I integrate the creative process, mindfulness and somatic-awareness to support you and help you gain insight and guide you toward the life you want to live. I can help you clarify your goals, build on your strengths, recognize your obstacles, and find practical solutions for moving toward greater peace and happiness. I look forward to joining you on this journey.

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Tiffany Harris

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Southern Shores
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

It is my goal to assist my clients with bridging the gap from where they are emotionally, cognitively, physically, and spiritually to where they want to be. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 20 plus years’ experience including private and group practice, education, government and psychiatric trauma. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and have extensive training in evidence-based practices in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy skills training, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. I equip my clients with techniques to reduce symptoms associated with transitions, anxiety, post traumatic stress (PTSD) depression, and generational trauma. They learn the building blocks to release negative emotions, reduce/eliminate physiological arousal triggers, reduce stress, and develop a sense of calm and clarity. They also learn how to improve the quality of their relationships. The by-product of working with me is goal achievement, internal and external healing. My philosophy in counseling is that life is a journey that gives us new opportunities every day to live the life we desire. No two days are the same, and we will have highs and lows, but it’s up to us to stay the course, reset or make changes as needed. We also must gather the experiences and supports along the way to get to where we want to go next. I have a passion for empowering people to heal and break free from traumatic experiences that causes distressing emotions. Working with me, you will receive the tools necessary to step up to a whole new level of empowerment, confidence, and vitality. You will also take steps to release disempowering patterns and thoughts that limit your goal achievement and hinder quality relationships. You have the right, and internal power to heal. I look forward to joining you on your journey!

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Kamay Gaboda

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Southern Shores
Counselor License Type(s): LCMHCS,CCS ,MAC ; LCAS CCMC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
20 years of experience

Congratulations You have taken the first step to recovery! Taking that step to ask for support to help when you are dealing with difficulties is a brave one. I am an North Carolina-based, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Supervisor, Certified Clinical Supervisor for Substance Abuse with nearly 20 years’ experience working with trauma, substance abuse, and addiction. Often, co-occurring issues include: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, bi-polar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive compulsive behaviors, and, of course, relationship challenges. My experience includes individual, couples and group therapy in residential and outpatient settings of a Community Mental Health Center and a private addiction mental health and substance abuse treatment facility. I would describe my approach to therapy as eclectic, as it depends on the client's needs and goal for treatment .The modalities that have proven and I have the most experience in are : Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy , Mindfulness-based Therapy, Motivational , and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I believe in a strong therapeutic relationship to support the client to facilitate the change they are looking for. I hope I can help you with this journey.

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Natifa Pettus

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Southern Shores
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
12 years of experience

Hello, I am a mental health, family, and substance abuse therapist licensed in North and South Carolina with over 12 years of experience working as a psychotherapist clinical social worker. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns and ages including situation to life difficulties, ADHD, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss, divorce and separation, parenting problems, career challenges, and self esteem and confidence building. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse during child and adulthood. My therapy style is empathetic, client centered, culturally sensitive, and relaxed . I believe in treating everyone with compassion, respect, sensitivity, confidentiality, and genuine concern for peoples well being and progress. I believe mental health is instrumental in an improved quality of life, and without a healthy mind and healthy thoughts, we can not fulfill our fullest potential . My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, person centered, psychodynamic, and motivational interviewing therapy techniques to support your change. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. The first steps to change is Awareness and Desire, the courage it takes to seek support is the beginning of your change. If you are ready to begin your journey towards those next steps of Knowledge, Action, and Perseverance, I am here to support and empower you to facilitate your positive change. I may be rough, but you don't have to face your storm alone. I look forward to working with you!

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Patricia Greer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Southern Shores
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW,LCAS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
18 years of experience

Feeling stressed, anxious, confused, bored, lonely, sad or down? Struggling with an addiction? Over the years I have helped many people work through these issues to empower them to improve and enjoy a better quality of life. I know firsthand how it may feel vulnerable and unsettling to reach out and ask for help with therapy. However, I firmly believe we all deserve the opportunity to improve ourselves. I am a LCSW and LCAS, a skilled and accomplished Behavior Health Therapist with integrity, empathy and compassion specializing in the treatment of co-occurring Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders to empower clients and their families to improve their quality of life. Since 2005 I have worked with clients of all ethnic and demographic background. I am experienced with multiple treatment modalities to help individuals and families with various issues, including effective communication, practical coping skills, major traumas and losses, grief, depression, anxiety, anger management/healthy relationships, alcohol/drugs, lifestyle adjustments, and parenting. My goal and hope are to help people find their own voice with assertiveness skills and become comfortable in their own skin to live a better and more fulfilling life. I look forward to working with you!

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Gerald Ziemba

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Southern Shores
Counselor License Type(s): LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
25 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor in NC with over 20 years of experience working as a therapist and school counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, anxiety, anger issues, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced relationship conflicts. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and rational-emotive counseling. 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 take the first steps towards a 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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Dr. Hurey Hughes

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Southern Shores
LGBTRelationship issuesCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina and Virginia with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, career difficulties, & depression. 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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Tondrea Leach

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Southern Shores
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
22 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, & anger management. 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!

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Preston Page

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Southern Shores
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW, LSATP
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

I have 30 years experience as a counselor. I have worked in many different environments including, private practice, local mental health clinics, inpatient mental health and substance abuse clinics. I work with people to help them be the person they are and become the person they want to be. I am a real bearded Santa but am not religious. I related to the natural world in a way that I describe as spiritual, although it may not be what most people consider to be spiritual I served in the US Army both active duty and National Guard. I am a Vietnam Veteran with a total of 23 years service. I was a MFLC and worked with active duty soldiers and airmen for several years mostly at Fort Bragg but other facilities as well. I am married, have four children and eight grandchildren.

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Glenda Johnson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Southern Shores
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, intimacy related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Southern Shores

Finding the best therapist close by in Southern Shores 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 with therapists in Southern Shores that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Southern Shores. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Southern Shores, 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 for therapists. 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Southern Shores region and in the state of North Carolina. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Southern Shores or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Southern Shores therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Southern Shores area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Southern Shores, elsewhere in Dare, or in the greater state of North Carolina. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

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

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

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Southern Shores due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Southern Shores 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 a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of North Carolina you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

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

Therapists in Southern Shores, 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Southern Shores psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

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

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Southern Shores 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 helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified 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.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Southern Shores provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

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

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Southern Shores 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Therapists 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 Southern Shores 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 Southern Shores 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in NC, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 27949 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Southern Shores counselor?

Before seeing your Southern Shores therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Southern Shores therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. 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 for therapy 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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Southern Shores 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 with a Southern Shores counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Southern Shores, 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.

Southern Shores has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Southern Shores, North Carolina

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 Southern Shores 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 to customer service 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 Southern Shores.

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

27949

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