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Psychologist Stephen Richardson providing different types of therapy in Waco

Stephen Richardson

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCSW C012054, SC LISW-CP 13202
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsBipolar disorderDepression
10 years offering treatment

Hello! My name is Stephen and I am a licensed clinical social worker with over ten years of experience providing compassionate, faith-based counseling to individuals in both North and South Carolina. My passion is helping people heal and grow closer to Christ by addressing their mental, emotional, and spiritual needs. I believe that true healing involves nurturing the mind, body, and spirit, and I am dedicated to guiding my clients through their personal journeys of recovery and spiritual growth. I hold degrees in Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and Winthrop University, and I am committed to creating a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their faith and find strength in their spiritual walk. Whether you're facing life's challenges, seeking emotional healing, or looking to deepen your relationship with Christ, I am here to support and walk alongside you every step of the way. My goal is to help you experience healing not just on a surface level, but in a way that transforms your entire being—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually—so that you can live a more fulfilled and Christ-centered life.

Psychologist Melanie Griffin providing different types of therapy in Waco

Melanie Griffin

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCSW C011127, CT LCSW 007008
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsBipolar disorderDepression
16 years offering treatment

No matter what kind of challenges or difficulties or painful situations you go through in your life, we all have something deep within us that we can reach down and find the inner strength to get through them. Alana Stewart My name is Melanie Griffin and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), practicing in North Carolina (#C11127). I am also licensed and have done extensive work as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Connecticut (#007008). I have been a Therapist/ LCSW for over 12 years and take pride in the fact that I have worked with a diverse population/culture of people. I received my Master of Social Work (MSW), from Southern CT State University, I also hold a Bachelors (BS) in Public Health. I have done work in such areas as Forensics, Community Services, Crisis Intervention, Trauma, Mental Health and Addictions, Geriatrics, Adolescent Services and Family Reunification. I firmly believe in “Meeting the client where they are”. This, I believe has enhanced my role as a truly empathetic therapist and has helped me to understand the importance of Person-Centered Therapy. CBT is another theory which I strongly believe really works in therapy. I understand that reaching out for help can not only be scary, but for many it still holds a realm of stigma and shame, this is why I am so conscious of the therapist’s role of engaging with their client for the purpose of opening up the gates of trust, empathy and understanding. If I can help you in anyway, please reach out to me.

Psychologist Amy Penley providing different types of therapy in Waco

Amy Penley

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LMFT 1357
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years offering treatment

With over 10 years of professional experience, I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in North Carolina and a certified dementia practitioner. My work has centered on supporting individuals through challenges such as stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and building confidence. I believe in creating a safe and open environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment; and I honor the courage it takes to seek a more fulfilling and happier life. My approach is compassionate and person-centered, drawing on a wide range of evidence-based modalities to encourage growth, provide support, and facilitate lasting change. I have had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults, tailoring care to meet each person’s unique needs. In addition to clinical counseling, I have extensive experience on an assertive community treatment team, where I supported individuals facing complex mental health challenges. Currently, I serve as a clinician on a Health Education and Aging Resource Team where I provide education, consultation, and guidance to older adults and the dedicated individuals who care for them. I also supervise graduate practicum students in the Community Mental Health Counselor Program at a local university, helping to shape the next generation of mental health professionals. At the heart of my work is a commitment to walk alongside my clients with empathy, respect, and encouragement as they take steps toward healing, growth, and lasting change.

Psychologist Rikki Bullard providing different types of therapy in Waco

Rikki Bullard

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 9283, NC LCMHC 9016
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
16 years offering treatment

Welcome to Better Help! My name is Rikki Bullard I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in the state of North Carolina and have over 12 years of experience working as a therapist. I have spent several years dedicated to working in individual counseling, specifically in the areas of depression, anxiety, relationship issues, behavioral concerns, parenting, family issues, adjustment/transitions, and trauma. I believe in helping my clients find the joy and happiness in life that they deserve and providing clients with the skills and techniques to be able to manage the ups and downs of life and live a healthier and happier life. My approach in the counseling process is a client-centered approach. I believe in meeting the client where they are and guiding sessions based on what the clients needs are and change with the client by using reflective questions. This theoretical approach allows the counselor/therapist to apply components of several major counseling and psychological theories including, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Existential, Person-Centered Therapy, Reality Therapy, and other disciplines within the field of psychology and counseling to allow for maximal results upon the specific needs of the clients. Each of these approaches is well-established, researched, and respected therapies. I will have open and honest communications with clients and provide compassionate, empathic, and sensitive counseling that is specific to the experiences of your life. I look forward to working with you to help you get to a place of peace and happiness. Let’s take that first step together!

Psychologist Ebonee Edwards providing different types of therapy in Waco

Ebonee Edwards

Clinician
License Type(s): AL LPC LPC05565, NC LCMHC 11721
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

I am licensed in North Carolina with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with parenting issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

Psychologist Stephen Barine providing different types of therapy in Waco

Stephen Barine

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCMHC 6694
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementADHD
17 years offering treatment

I am licensed in North Carolina with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, & anger management. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Regina Hughes providing different types of therapy in Waco

Regina Hughes

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCMHC 9369
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
14 years offering treatment

I am licensed in North Carolina with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression , relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Raven Patten providing different types of therapy in Waco

Raven Patten

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCSW C019728
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years offering treatment

Hi, I’m Raven Patten, LCSW—and I’m really glad you’re here. I work with individuals who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or like life just isn’t aligning the way it should. A lot of my clients are used to holding it all together for everyone else, but privately feel anxious, burnt out, or unsure about their next step. My approach is real, collaborative, and focused on helping you get clear and take control of your life again. I believe you are the expert on your own experience—my role is to help you slow things down, make sense of what’s going on, and support you in making choices that actually align with who you want to be. I often use a blend of: * Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) * Strengths-based approaches * Solution-focused strategies I also incorporate what I call a “First Day” mindset—the idea that you can reset, refocus, and move differently at any point, no matter what yesterday looked like. I support clients navigating: * Anxiety and stress * Life transitions * Burnout * Self-esteem and identity * Relationship challenges * Feeling stuck or unfulfilled My style is warm, direct, and non-judgmental. I’ll meet you where you are, but I’ll also challenge you when needed—because growth requires both support and honesty. If you’re ready to get out of your own way and start showing up differently in your life, I’d love to work with you.

Psychologist Yolanda Davis providing different types of therapy in Waco

Yolanda Davis

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCSW C019572
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
4 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina with over 30 years of social work experience, 4 of those years have been providing therapy and groups to individuals dealing with various challenges in their lives. 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!

Psychologist Sherrida Smith providing different types of therapy in Waco

Sherrida Smith

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCSW C018866
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
25 years offering treatment

I am a licensed clinical therapist with several years of experience. I have over 25 years of experience working with children, adults and families. I also enjoy facilitating different types of therapeutic groups. I have supported teens, adults and families through social issues and concerns, relationship issues, parenting problems, including marital concerns. I have also worked with children and adults who have suffered various forms of abuse or neglect. I have worked with people from different backgrounds, cultures and appreciate learning about each and every person I work with. I embrace getting to know more so I know how to help support each client with attaining their goals. My therapeutic style is very authentic, warm and strength based. I believe that my therapeutic practice is a work of the heart, and I believe in the change and or support that each and everyone of my clients' seeks. I have utilized theoretical perspectives such as cognitive behavioral therapy as well as brief treatment therapeutic modalities. I also enjoy utilizing bits of psychoanalytic theory and I'm creative and open based on what is best for each and every client I serve. I am looking forward to working with you to support and encourage you into the next best phase of your life.

Psychologist Olatunde Howard providing different types of therapy in Waco

Olatunde Howard

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LMFT 2073
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years offering treatment

As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in North Carolina, I specialize in supporting individuals and couples navigating complex life transitions, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I help clients address communication challenges, marital conflicts, and issues related to self-esteem and purpose. I believe the deepest need we have is to be in a satisfying securely attached intimate relationship with God, ourselves, and each other. I work with couples, men, blended families, and individuals experiencing isolation, purposelessness, or emotional emptiness. Drawing from my professional training, I offer guidance through topics like premarital counseling, compatibility, intimacy, infidelity, parenting, relationship challenges, and spiritual living--encompassing mental and emotional stability. My therapeutic style is rooted in understanding each client's unique journey, with a particular sensitivity to Christian perspectives and the nuanced experiences of individuals from diverse backgrounds. I am committed to creating a supportive, affirming space where clients can explore their challenges and develop meaningful strategies for personal transformation and deep relational connection.

Psychologist Danielle DiPrima providing different types of therapy in Waco

Danielle DiPrima

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCSW C018427, IA LISW 136683
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseEating disordersParenting issuesSelf esteem
4 years offering treatment

As a licensed clinical social worker, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My clinical focus centers on helping young adults, women, and veterans work through challenges related to trauma, body image, self-esteem, and stress management. I bring a compassionate and evidence-based approach to addressing eating disorders, posttraumatic stress, and somatization experiences. My therapeutic style emphasizes self-love, personal growth, and empowering clients to develop resilient coping strategies. Drawing from comprehensive clinical training, I am committed to creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their experiences, heal from past challenges, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. My goal is to walk alongside you as you build greater emotional strength and self-understanding.

Psychologist La Kevia Moore providing different types of therapy in Waco

La Kevia Moore

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCSW C019411
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years offering treatment

As a dedicated therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and self-esteem issues. I bring a compassionate, holistic approach to therapy, focusing on personal growth, communication, and healing. My work is deeply rooted in understanding the unique experiences of each individual, with a particular commitment to addressing women's issues, social anxiety, and the nuanced emotional journeys of young adults. I strive to create a supportive, affirming space where clients can explore their inner world, develop resilience, and cultivate self-love. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help clients develop practical coping strategies, work through interpersonal challenges, and rediscover their sense of purpose. Whether you're experiencing life transitions, relationship difficulties, or seeking personal growth, I'm here to support you with empathy, respect, and professional expertise.

Psychologist Kiara Grier providing different types of therapy in Waco

Kiara Grier

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCMHC 16012
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years offering treatment

I'm Kiara Grier, a therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through life's most challenging moments. With six years of clinical experience, I work with clients navigating stress, anxiety, relationship difficulties, parenting concerns, and self-esteem struggles. I'm passionate about helping people build stronger communication skills, discover their life purpose, and work through feelings of guilt, shame, and the desire for forgiveness. My approach is grounded in understanding the complexities of human connection—whether that's attachment patterns, codependency, or blended family dynamics. I also specialize in supporting young adults facing questions about their purpose in life and individuals navigating major life transitions. I am especially passionate in helping individuals desiring to integrate their Christian faith with their healing journey and finding their life's purpose and calling. I believe in meeting you where you are with warmth, respect, and genuine care. My goal is to create a therapeutic space where you feel heard and supported as you work toward meaningful growth and healing. I'm honored to walk alongside you on your journey.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Waco, North Carolina

Finding a therapist near you in Waco, 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' average copay is $23 per session. 

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 Waco.

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' average copay is $23 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' average copay is $23 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 Waco, North Carolina

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Waco and the surrounding NC area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist