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Melissa Groh

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hello! Thank you so much for visiting my profile and for choosing to take this step in your life. My name is Melissa Groh and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of North Carolina. I have my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Truman State University and my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Southern California. I have been practicing as a mental health therapist for six years and have worked with people of all ages. Throughout my work, I have assisted clients with concerns related to anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, grief and loss (hospice), life changes, parenting challenges, homelessness, substance abuse, and many other subjects. My style as a therapist is warm and inviting, with a healthy amount of empowerment to accomplish the goals you have set for yourself. I draw from a wide variety of theories and techniques centering around talk therapy and including a solution focused, task centered, mindfulness, and strengths based approach. I believe that in working together we can make progress and improvements in the areas you are seeking help with. I treat each client as an individual and tailor my approach in ways that benefit you most. I know that initially therapy can feel like a lot of hard work and is sometimes scary and overwhelming, but I’m proud of you for moving forward. I believe that together we can work towards accomplishing your goals and I would love the opportunity to work with you.

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Kathleen "Kathy" Link

Offering therapy in NC
License: MSSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
9 years of experience

I have a Master’s Degree in Social Work, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Oregon and North Carolina. I have worked as a mental health therapist, a case manager, a care manager, and a hospice social worker. I have served folks with a wide range of challenges including substance use disorder issues, depression, anxiety, stress, chronic illnesses, end-of-life issues, caregiver fatigue, relationship issues, career challenges, and grief and loss. One of my specialties that I hold closest to my heart is pet loss grief support. My therapy style is warm, interactive, and person-centered. I am here to support my clients with their goals. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines dialectical behavior therapy, mindfulness therapy, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, and principals of positive psychology. I am here to support you.

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Karen Cauthen

Offering therapy in NC
License: MA,LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

What is hope? It is the fuel that powers change. Whether good or bad, change is constant. How we react to change stimulates interaction with others creating consequences that affects our world. Hi, my name is Karen. I have a BS in Religion, a MA in Marriage and Family Therapy and I am licensed in the state of North Carolina as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor. My approach to helping people is Eclectic Therapy. I integrate multiple psychotherapies from a variety of disciplines to customize the best possible therapeutic process for each unique client. Whether using a single treatment or a combination of treatments, each counseling session, each treatment plan is adapted to the needs of each individual client, depending on their problem. I have worked with clients in many venues: hospital, private practice, outpatient facility, crisis line. I have treated and co-treated numerous problems: schizophrenia, bi-polar, GAD, PTSD, ODD, OCD, family, marriage and couple relationship issues, pornography, grief, caregiver burnout, substance use, addictions, career changes, trauma, abuse, and more. Asking for help is not always easy but it can be extremely rewarding. I hope when we connect that my training, experiences and style is the right fit for you.

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Mary Hales

Offering therapy in NC
License: MA, LPC, LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
22 years of experience

Hello! I am Mary Hales, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I obtained my Masters in Mental Health Counseling from Medaille College in NY. I have over 15 years of experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, hospitals, residential settings, community-based agencies, and private practice. My specialties include anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, substance and other addictions, trauma, and abandonment, couples, and grief therapy, to name a few. I believe that each individual is unique, and it is important to address each client’s issues with an individualized personal approach, one that is relevant to the person and their current presenting problem. I approach counseling in a manner that empowers individuals to create positive change in their situations. My approach is to use a range of therapeutic modalities, to focus on the clients and their needs. I believe in creating a therapeutic relationship in which clients can feel safe while discussing and exploring their problems. Counseling should be considered a journey of personal exploration, which may lead to major changes in your life perspectives and decisions. It takes courage to take the first steps towards seeking this journey of personal exploration for a more fulfilling and happier life. So, if you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you to achieve your personal goals. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. David Ford

Offering therapy in NC
License: Ph.D.,LCMHC, LPC,NCC, ACS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTCareer difficultiesDepression
3 years of experience

Hello all!!! I am a person-centered counselor who is licensed in NC, VA, and NJ. I have 10 years of counseling experience and I am also a Board Certified Counselor and an Approved Clinical Supervisor. I am a Counselor Educator and have been teaching graduate and doctoral students for seven years. My clinical orientation is integrative and includes cognitive, behavioral, humanistic, and rational/emotive approaches. My clinical experience includes working with adults dealing with addictions, HIV/AIDS, racial identity development, racial trauma, gender identity development, gender expression, issues around affectional orientation, depression/anxiety, stress management, self-esteem, and members of the LGBTQ+ and Same Gender Loving communities. I also work with career/occupational concerns. I believe in creating a brave space for my clients where they have the courage to bring their authentic selves without being silenced, marginalized, or judged. Authenticity and open communication are key to building a strong therapeutic relationship and both are a two-way street. We can challenge other, grow with each other, and work together as we travel your pathway to wellness.

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Ashley Stewart

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

First, I want to acknowledge how brave you are for taking the first step in putting your mental health first. Having been in your shoes I know firsthand how scary it can be to discuss difficult issues with someone you've never met. I want to reassure you that if you're feeling nervous or anxious, that's ok, those are normal responses! My job as a clinician is to create a safe space for you to work through those difficult issues. Now let's work together to create a happier and healthier YOU! My approach to therapy is a mixture of different modalities such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Strengths Based Approach and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy). A majority of my professional career has been working with clients experiencing grief and loss. I also work closely with anxiety and depression seeing as both typically run concurrent with grief and loss. I attended Campbell University in North Carolina for my Bachelor's of Social Work and then moved to Denver Colorado to attend The University of Denver and graduated their advance standing Master's program. I then obtained my LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) through the North Carolina Board of Social Work. License # C014486 11/08/2023

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Anna Czerniak

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
8 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Illinois with over 15 years of experience working as an advocate and therapist. I have worked in a range of areas including foster care, domestic violence & sexual assault, corrections (with both juveniles and adults), parent coaching, and community mental health. I have provided therapy to adolescents and adults for Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, and Bipolar Disorder. I have also provided coaching to parents who have children with ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Behavior Concerns. My counseling style is open, accepting, and solution focused. I use a variety of techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I believe in meeting individuals where they are and taking a holistic approach to address your unique needs. I am a therapist who is caring, non-judgmental, honest, and direct. If you are ready to better understand your behaviors (or the behaviors of your child) and build skills to improve your well-being and happiness, I am here to support you. I am open to engaging with you in whatever manner you feel comfortable (e.g. phone, video, and/or messaging). I am typically available mornings and afternoons. However, I may be able to accommodate evening appointments as needed. I typically respond to messages within 24-48 hours.

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Marlon Smallwood

Offering therapy in NC
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
7 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. 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!

This is Traci Kaiser's avatar and link to their profile

Traci Kaiser

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in both Texas and North Carolina with 10 years of therapy experience. I am a retired Army BH Provider and worked in both Joint Service and Special Operations settings. I love working with Active-Duty and Veterans. I specialize in Trauma-focused work, mood disorders, family issues, stressful life changes, and all things Anxiety. I work with my clients to create a confidential, open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment or stigma. 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 Tanisha Prins's avatar and link to their profile

Tanisha Prins

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina and Virginia with 16 years of professional work experience with adults in the military and the civilian sector. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, substance use, domestic violence, OCD, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma or 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. 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!

How to find counseling in Sylva

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Sylva 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 Sylva 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 Sylva 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 Sylva, 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 Sylva 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 Sylva 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 Sylva 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 Sylva 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 Sylva 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 28779 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 Sylva 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 Sylva 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 Sylva, 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.

Sylva 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 Sylva.

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

28779

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