Leah Pavela-Mullins
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience in helping people find solutions to their problems. Over the years, I have been told by clients that they really feel that I am listening to them and trying to understand what is going on in their lives and how they feel. Clients have also told me that they do not feel any sense of judgment, but rather that I accept them for who they are and where they are in their life’s journey. My style is empathetic and solution focused. I will spend time asking you questions in order to get to know you and try to find out what is at the heart of your issue. Together, we will talk about possible avenues you may want to take, or changes you may want to consider. I may give you some “homework” assignments…things to write out or think about, worksheets to complete, or even techniques/exercises to practice in your own time so that some of what we discuss in our sessions is reinforced. Most of all, I will be an objective listener, helping you to gain insight into what is going on with you, so that you are able to make the choices and changes you want to, in your own time. I look forward to working with you!
Melissa Moore
Beyond loving to help people become better individuals I enjoy exploring the world and learning new cultures, caring for animals and being outdoors. I have over 6 years of experience working in the mental health field. I earned a Master’s in Arts in Counseling Psychology from Anna Maria College and a Master’s in Science with a specialization in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Massachusetts Boston. I have experience working in different settings such as at home, mental health agencies, hospital and school settings. I use a holistic approach in my treatment working with a diverse background with various mental health dispositions. Some of these areas I have experience in includes treating anxiety, depression, mood disorders, cultural diversity, work stressors, life transitions and also help in redefining values and beliefs. Modalities I have implemented in my treatment approaches includes cognitive behavioral therapy, humanistic therapy, solution focused therapy, person centered therapy and expressive therapy. I also have pursued training in trauma focused therapy where I help individuals explore past traumatic events that shape them to who they are in the present moment and striving towards becoming better individuals in the present and future. By creating an unconditional, supportive and trustworthy environment I am hopeful to helping individuals explore their full potentials by using their challenges and strengths to reach their goals and to pursue future endeavors. Looking forward to exploring this journey together.
Dr. Shelia Williamson Collins
Hello, I am Dr. Shelia Williamson Collins, PhD, NCC, LCMHC, CCMHC, LCAS, CCS, SAP, MAC. I am a board certified clinical mental health counselor and addiction counselor with nearly 20 years of experience in behavioral health. I am licensed as a clinical counselor in the states of North Carolina, Illinois, and Alaska. I have a PhD in General Psychology from Northcentral University. I also have a master's degree in Community Counseling and a bachelor's degree in psychology from Chicago State University. I have worked in an adult inpatient psychiatric unit, outpatient behavioral clinic, community-based mental health services, and residential substance abuse treatment programs. My counseling style is person-centered. I have a diverse therapeutic approach to counseling. However, my primary approach includes cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I specialize in mood disorders, anger management, addictions education, and relapse prevention. I believe that everyone has a story to tell; and I am here to listen. Giving voice to your concerns and issues is the first step to healing. We can accomplish this together. It would be my honor to work with you to assist you in reaching your healthy goals. Please let me know if you would prefer weekly sessions, and I will do my best to accommodate.
Pamela Harris-Jones
Choosing a therapist is a deeply personal decision. You want someone who will listen without judgment, understand what you’re going through, and help you make real changes—not simply tell you to “think positive” or “just let it go.” That’s where I come in. I believe therapy should be a place where you can take off the mask, tell the truth about how you’re feeling, and know that you will be met with compassion—not judgment. My approach combines warmth and genuine connection with practical, evidence-based strategies that you can actually use in your everyday life. As a therapist specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I help clients understand how their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors influence one another. We’ll work together to recognize patterns that may be contributing to anxiety, depression, self-doubt, or feeling stuck—and develop healthier ways of responding. But therapy with me isn't about checking boxes or giving you a list of things you should be doing. It’s about you. Your experiences. Your struggles. Your goals. Your story. I’ll meet you where you are while helping you move toward where you want to be. If anxiety has you constantly overthinking, if depression has made it difficult to find motivation, or if you’ve spent so much time taking care of everyone else that you’ve forgotten how to take care of yourself, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. I want therapy to be a space where you can learn, grow, heal, and ultimately become more confident in your ability to handle life’s challenges. You are not your anxiety. You are not your depression. You are not your worst day. There is more to your story—and I would be honored to help you discover what comes next. If you’re ready to make yourself a priority, I’m ready to walk alongside you.
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.
Dr. Les Brinson
I am a licensed Ph. D.-level psychologist in North Carolina with 40+ years of experience. I am passionate about practicing psychology with patients, especially in supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. Mainly, my patients come to me for help with: • Anxiety and chronic worry • Depression and low motivation • Stress, burnout, and work-life balance • Life transitions (retirement, aging, health changes, loss) • Relationship concerns and communication issues • Adjustment to illness or changing roles • Meaning, purpose, and identity I bring a compassionate approach to working with diverse populations, with a particular focus on caregiver stress, financial challenges, aging concerns, and relationship issues. My therapeutic style honors each individual's unique experiences and is committed to creating a supportive and affirming environment. I draw on decades of professional experience and expertise in applying all evidence-based psychotherapy problem-solving approaches. I offer nuanced guidance for older adults, families, and individuals navigating significant life transitions. My practice is rooted in respect, empathy, and a genuine desire to support personal growth and emotional well-being. 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!
Dr. Lynn Reed
I'm a licensed therapist in North Carolina and South Carolina with extensive experience supporting individuals through life's most challenging moments. My work centers on helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, grief, and addiction with compassion and skill. I specialize in supporting women through a wide range of concerns—including postpartum and seasonal mood changes, pregnancy-related transitions, self-harm, panic attacks, and social anxiety. I also work with clients processing trauma, abuse, abandonment, and attachment difficulties, as well as those navigating major life transitions like divorce and workplace challenges. My approach honors the unique identities and experiences my clients bring to our work together. I'm particularly committed to creating an affirming space for clients of color and those exploring multicultural concerns, prejudice, and discrimination. I believe in meeting you where you are and working collaboratively toward meaningful healing and self-discovery. Whether you're seeking support for specific struggles or exploring deeper questions about purpose, self-love, and belonging, I'm here to walk alongside you with genuine care and professional expertise. Taking that first step toward therapy takes courage, and I'm honored to support your journey.
Esther Reynolds
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and have been in a private practice for over 25 years. I work with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, ADHD, and traumatic experiences (physical, emotional, and sexual). Family conflicts and relationship issues are also a focus of my practice. My approach includes cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and rational emotive behavior therapy. I often coordinate mindfulness, insight-oriented approaches, and storytelling in my sessions, depending on an individual’s uniqueness. My primary goal is to develop a therapeutic relationship built on trust. I believe that the client’s motivation is key to success and that all motivation must start with a destination, chosen by the client. I see myself just as a facilitator, guiding the client towards that destination. I look forward to working with you!
Mary Jernigan
I am licensed in North Carolina with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Carrell Frederick
As a licensed therapist serving North Carolina, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating stress, anxiety, and self-esteem challenges. My professional journey has been dedicated to creating compassionate, affirming spaces where clients can explore their inner experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. My approach centers on understanding each person's unique story and strengths. I draw from evidence-based practices to help clients build resilience, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and cultivate greater self-understanding. With over a decade of clinical experience, I am committed to walking alongside my clients as they work toward healing and empowerment. I bring a culturally responsive lens to my therapeutic practice, recognizing the importance of identity, lived experience, and individual context. My goal is to provide supportive, personalized care that honors your full humanity and supports your journey toward wellness.
Jessica Drennen (She/Her)
Relationships matter. Relationships with other people and relationships with ourselves are equally significant. For years I have been passionate about working with kids, adolescents, and adults in exploring life and how they fit. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist in North Carolina with 12 years of professional work experience. Facing life and all it has to offer can be overwhelming, scary, and sometimes seem unbearable. I do not shy away from difficult topics or the elephant in the room (such as race, white privilege, LGBTQIA, male toxicity, gender issues, politics, trauma, substance use, bullying, suicide, etc.). It is my goal to create space for us to explore any and all topics you need to address, improve on, and/or process. You do not have to do this alone, and you lead the way. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Karen Hernandez
I am licensed in North Carolina with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationships family conflicts. 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 & empower you in that journey.
Stephen Dickerson
I am licensed in North Carolina with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, & career difficulties. 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.
Caleb Harding
I am licensed in North Carolina with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Speed, North Carolina
Finding a therapist near you in Speed, North Carolina starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. North Carolina is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In North Carolina, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across North Carolina, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in North Carolina
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In North Carolina, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in North Carolina
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' copay is as low as $15, some pay $0.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in North Carolina
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in North Carolina through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in North Carolina
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across North Carolina, including residents in Speed.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in North Carolina do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' copay is as low as $15 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' copay is as low as $15 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Speed, North Carolina
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Speed and the surrounding NC area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.