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Katie Smith

Offering therapy in NC
License: NCC,LPC,LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

**An important note before we get started: I am currently living overseas and am offering messaging ONLY services to new clients due to the time difference. In the future we may work towards a phone or video session if schedules allow.* Hello and welcome! If you’re here, it’s probably not because you’re feeling great about life at the moment. You might be feeling pretty miserable. Maybe you aren’t sure what steps to take or how to talk about it. That is okay! Change can be scary and challenging. That is why it can be helpful to have someone in your corner to provide support and help you figure out where you are and where you want to be. I am Katie Smith, a licensed professional counselor (LPC/LCMHC) in North Carolina. I have experience working with adults, teens, and families in both individual and group settings. I have enjoyed working with a variety of clients, including survivors of trauma, domestic violence and sexual assault, military spouses, and those experiencing anxiety, depression, and borderline personality disorder (BPD). As a therapist intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, I have worked extensively with clients experiencing chronic suicidal thoughts and chaotic interpersonal relationships. My approach to counseling is grounded in person-centered and cognitive behavioral theories. All that really means is that I have respect for your individuality and ability to direct your own path. I believe that, even if you don’t feel like it right now, you are the expert on your life. My job is to collaborate with you on determining your goals and individual needs. My hope is to empower each client to take charge of their narrative and determine their own path. My role as counselor will be to provide support through unconditional positive regard and a strong client-counselor therapeutic relationship as we explore thought and behavior patterns. Let's get started on developing more productive ways to handle the issues that are standing in the way of your goals. "It's not a matter of letting go—you would if you could. Instead of 'let it go' we should probably say 'let it be.'" ~Jon Kabat-Zinn

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Dr. Diane O'Brien

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

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

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Terri Stong

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

We all face difficult life transitions and circumstances. I work with individuals, couples, and families with a focus on personal and interpersonal functioning across the life span. Through the integration of theory, research, and practice, and with a sensitivity to multicultural issues, I strive to help people improve their well-being, alleviate distress & maladjustment, resolve crises, and increase their ability to live happy and fulfilling lives. 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. Areas of special interest include children/adolescents, young adults, women in transition, trauma, depression, anxiety, acute & chronic illness, abuse/neglect, motivation, self esteem, and grief & loss. I am skilled in both Clinical and Medical social work with experience in Oncology, pediatrics, teen/young adult, caregiver burnout, and hospice.

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Russell Goodwin

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

**Effective 5/27/2023, I am available only for Live Chat and Messaging** I am a solutions-focused Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) licensed in North Carolina since 2009. I have extensive experience working with adult populations and, in particular, those who struggle with depression, anxiety, and existential concerns. I hold a masters degree in professional counseling as well as masters degrees in two other disciplines (business, education). I am active in higher education having served as an undergraduate human services instructor since 2009. If we choose to work together, we will spend time exploring how your beliefs and thoughts influence your feelings and behaviors (i.e., a cognitive-behavioral approach). We will also focus on what truly motivates you and use that information to determine goals that are both relevant and doable (i.e., a motivational interviewing approach). I will work with diligence to provide a space for you to explore both your thoughts AND your feelings. If this sounds compelling, feel free to schedule an appointment!

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Tanisha Jackson

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am licensed Mental Health Psychotherapist in Maryland and North Carolina. I have over 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience and coaching in helping clients with stress, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. My specific therapeutic orientation is eclectic based approach with a humanistic approach. I appreciate every person that allows me to assist them on their journey to better mental health and wellness.

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Sherree Turcott

Offering therapy in NC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesADHD
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida & North Carolina as an LCSW. I have additional education in maternal/child health, lactation counseling and childhood education. I have a special interest in helping families navigate through fertility issues, fostering/adopting, pregnancy and postpartum. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Kathryn Sampalis

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

I am licensed in Illinois and North Carolina with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, adoption, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Jolona Kinlaw's avatar and link to their profile

Jolona Kinlaw

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping special needs mothers with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, & depression. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Luis Puertas's avatar and link to their profile

Luis Puertas

Offering therapy in NC
License: MS, LPC, LMHC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementADHD
6 years of experience

As a dedicated Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a strong academic foundation from Florida International University in Miami, FL, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise in helping individuals facing challenges related to ADHD, anxiety, family issues, and adjustment disorders. My professional journey has led me to work with diverse individuals and families, encompassing various cultural backgrounds and complex dynamics. Utilizing evidence-based therapeutic modalities such as cognitive-behavior therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, emotional focused couples therapy, and family dynamics, I am committed to providing comprehensive and effective support. I firmly believe in the inherent capacity of every individual to foster personal growth and discover meaning in their lives. My approach emphasizes the essential elements of structure, discipline, and self-compassion, serving as cornerstones for therapeutic progress. If you've reached this point, you possess the resilience and determination to move forward in your journey toward greater well-being and fulfillment. I am here to guide and support you on this path to empowerment and positive change.

This is Takiya Tarlton's avatar and link to their profile

Takiya Tarlton

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
13 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of NC, VA, FL and GA. I have been providing services for over 13 years in the school and community setting. My passion is being able to assist individuals understand the power they have inside of them. My hope is with discovery they can create a life that allows them to present the best version of themselves to others. I believe in prioritizing self care and assertively expressing your needs in a way that gives you permission to feel valued, loved, and accepted within relationships.

How to find counseling in Spencer

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Spencer 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 Spencer 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 Spencer 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 Spencer, 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 Spencer 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 Spencer 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 Spencer 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 Spencer 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 Spencer 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 28144 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 Spencer 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 Spencer 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 Spencer, 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.

Spencer 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 Spencer.

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

28144, 28159

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