Your mental state is important. When you have strong mental health, you can survive all the trials and tribulations that come with life. However, when your mental health isn’t that strong, you may suffer from anxiety, depression, or various other problems with your mental health. Luckily, there is hope, and that hope comes in the form of a counselor based in Wake Forest. 

Wake Forest is a quaint place to live, but you must calm your inner mind if you want to get the most out of Wake Forest. A counselor can help you do that. Speak to one today and learn more. 

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Stephanie Bigham

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
20 years of experience

It is often said that courage is found in unlikely places. Welcome to Better Help! I applaud your courage today! I know that this approach is quite different from a traditional in person therapy setting. I frequently tell the individuals that I work with that if "Plan A" doesn't work to just remember that the alphabet has 25 more letters! In other words, don't ever stop seeking life changes or asking for HELP when needed. There is often more than one solution to a problem and it is all about collaboration with that "just right" professional. I'm sure you're wondering if this approach will be a good fit for you, too. A little bit about me. My name is Stephanie Bigham. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the beautiful state of North Carolina. I grew up in Florida but have resided in N.C. for over 15 years. I attended the University of Florida (Go Gators!) where I earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree with a Major in Sociology and Minors in Psychology / Education. I went on to receive my Master of Social Work Degree from Florida International University. I am also a Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator. I have worked in many settings including a mental health clinic for individuals with developmental delays, a hospital / NICU, a respite program, a private practice office and a classroom. I have been a full time "stay at home mom" and also worked as a substitute teacher for grades K-5. My perspective is unique in that my career path has expanded outside of the traditional Mental Health pathway. I use a mindfulness/ acceptance based cognitive behavioral therapy approach to treatment in order to guide individuals to become more self- aware. I help individuals to notice their thoughts, feelings and attitudes in a direct but nonjudgmental way. By tracking and noticing dysfunctional thoughts one may obtain relief from feelings of stress, anxiety, depression or conflict. I require active participation as well as collaboration and often give homework to explore between sessions. I also take a psycho-educational approach to treatment as information also leads to awareness and helps individuals learn better techniques for coping with stressful life situations. My specific areas of expertise include: Stress/Anxiety, Parenting Issues, Family Conflict, Relationship / Divorce Issues, Motivation/ Self-confidence, Coping with life changes, Depression and Grief /loss. I also work with individuals experiencing career difficulties or seeking Professional Coaching. I leave you with one final quote from the great Vince Lombardi, "It's not whether you get knocked down, it's whether you get up!" I look forward to working together with you on this journey of introspection, growth and change.

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Pamela Harris-Jones

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCMHC, NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
9 years of experience

Life is challenging and change is hard. If you are dealing with symptoms associated with anxiety and depression, I can assist you in your efforts to resolve and finally eliminate those struggles. Congratulations on your decision to make you the priority in your life. My name is Pamela Harris-Jones and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and National Certified Counselor. I earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from North Carolina Central University. I continued my education going on to earn a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My primary approach to counselling is using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I enjoy helping clients understand how feelings influence thoughts influence behavior. I assist clients in setting short and long term goals. I help clients to progress from where they are to where they want to be. I also utilize Solution-Focused Therapy and Motivational Interviewing in helping to set goals. Through my experience with youth and adults I have developed a passion for helping others to succeed. My work has aided many in making the most of their therapeutic experience and has helped them be better prepared for their future. I am fully committed and determined to support clients. I believe every one, if given the proper guidance, can find a path to their personal success.

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Kristi Rakes

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

Life is hard and everyone deserves to have an outlet to talk about their feelings. I approach my practice with compassion, empathy and nonjudgmental understanding. With my holistic mindset, I seek to help people navigate stress, mental health issues and "life" in general. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have been working in the field of mental health for 15 years. I have extensive training in mental health diagnosis, end of life care, and Women's issues. I am also certified in Trauma Focused CBT. I value anyone who is brave enough to seek help, and I attempt to help people identify their strengths in times of vulnerability and pain. I utilize strength based practice modalities, CBT, TFCBT, Motivational Interviewing techniques, Mindfulness and Self Esteem building to help people achieve their goals for wellness. My hope for all encounters, either personal or professional is to bring something positive to the lives of people I meet. I want to help you heal, help you see your worth, and help you find a better future in your strengths and abilities.

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Christina LaBond

Offering therapy in NC
License: MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
8 years of experience

Hello Better Help community! My name is Christina and I have been in the mental health field since 2012, providing outpatient therapy since 2014. I am fully licensed in North Carolina as a Clinical Social Worker. Prior to that I was practicing in Michigan, where I am originally from. I received my Masters degree from University of Southern California. My passion is to help empower people by assisting them in the process of overcoming personal barriers and discovering their own strengths so they can live a fulfilling and healthy life. I have experience working with a variety of populations affected by various mental health and interpersonal challenges. I take an eclectic approach which is trauma-informed and strengths-based. I have worked with individuals, couples, families and groups. I facilitated several weekly groups which were psychoeducational in nature including trauma, depression, anxiety, psychosis, and co-occurring substance use and mental health. I have extensive experience with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and incorporate many elements from Dialectal Behavior Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. My goals are to assist people in developing skills to manage symptoms more effectively while shifting their focus to accentuate their strengths to help them achieve life goals. I have worked in a variety of settings including community mental health, mental health clinics, primary care settings, work in the community, as well as work with the court system on guardianship cases. Many of my clients have a history of trauma which continues to negatively affect their sense of self-worth, their feelings of safety/security with others, and their outlook of their future. My therapeutic style often incorporates a trauma-informed perspective because past trauma often continues to negatively affect individual attachments later in life. I feel so fortunate that we live in a world where technology allows us the opportunity to connect with individuals that may have been outside our reach before. I strive to provide the support and empathy to help empower others to make difficult but positive changes in their lives. You have already taken the first steps toward making changes in your life and I will be here to walk side-by-side with you on your personal journey.

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Deborah Fritts

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

Hello, I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina and have a genuine desire to help anyone struggling with life demands, trauma, anxiety, and grief related to loss of any kind. After 10+ years experience in the world of grief and loss, this has allowed me to treat those with complicated grief, additional stressors, depression and adjustment disorder. My experience also includes counseling and coaching those with physical disabilities. My counseling approach is person centered, offering compassion, guidance, and techniques to help in your journey towards finding meaning and purpose in life again. My desire is to walk this journey with you without getting lost in it. Although my approach is compassionate and non-judgmental, I am prepared to challenge and empower you to a better life. I look forward to meeting and working with you!

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Terri Ellerbe-Graves

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
23 years of experience

My name is Terri Graves, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have nearly 23 years of experience working in the helping field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns. My goal is to help you find ways to get through these times by creating coping strategies, healthy boundaries, and core skills where needed. Our world is ever-changing which requires a modern therapeutic approach. Maybe you feel overwhelmed by current stressors, or perhaps you want to heal from past experiences. Whatever your goals are, I am here to help you grow, heal, change, and thrive in your life. Many clients feel ashamed or scared to be vulnerable, but I can promise that you are safe from any judgment. There is nothing you can say in our space that will phase me or surprise me. All of your thoughts, worries, traumas, and hardships are welcome. Let’s start your journey to being a better you.

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Anthony Redfearn

Offering therapy in NC
AddictionsFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorder
13 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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! I am here to provide support for those who often ask the questions: Who am I? Where am I from? Why on earth am I here? What am I supposed to be doing here? I provide support for the couple needing conflict resolution, more trust, and healthy communication skills to improve intimacy. I am here for those plagued with thoughts/ feelings/symptoms of traumatic experiences from grief, childhood, and other abuse. I am here for those with addictions, wanting recovery. I provide a safe, supportive setting to talk and process concerns to provide care and support for healing. The Goal is to have life and have it more Abundantly. My specialty is to use talk therapy coupled with Person Centered Counseling and other therapeutic approaches and interventions in a place of safety for clients ages ten and older via telephone, virtual media, or in person in a private office setting. I support Medicated Assisted Therapy to help bring about positive change in thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Growing up in an alcohol dysfunctional family setting with abuse in the home, bullying in school and in the neighborhood, coupled with my own struggles in addiction, relationships, and recovery and education, I pride myself on being able to facilitate an office setting that is safe, unbiased, and non-judgmental, for healing, growth, and healthy development.

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Amy Justice

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 25 years of experience in personal development and education, and 7 years of clinical counseling experience. I specialize in trauma recovery, anxiety and ADHD, but have experience with many other challenges as well. Working with clients who are new to and a little nervouse about therapy are my specialty, but I love working with anyone interested in learning more about themselves! I have worked with college students, military personnel and families, first responders and the general population. 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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Laura Noel

Offering therapy in NC
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionADHD
7 years of experience

Hello! I am a licensed therapist in North Carolina with 7 years of counseling experience and 11 years working within the mental health field. My therapy background includes working with children, teens, adults, and couples. I specialize in helping clients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationship issues, self-esteem, personality disorders, and healing from trauma. Deciding to talk to someone can feel scary or intimidating but my goal is to support you each step of the way. Whether you are returning to therapy or just starting, I strive to approach each individual and situation with an open mind, empathy, and kindness. I believe effective therapy provides honest objectivity that can help you gain insight and motivate you to make positive changes in your life. I hope to encourage and empower you to see your full potential and to focus on your strengths as well as your areas of concern. I aim not to "fix" you but to support you in a safe space towards your journey to wellness.

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Pius Ondachi

Offering therapy in NC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, anger management, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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How to find counseling in Wake Forest

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Wake Forest 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 Wake Forest 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 Wake Forest 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 Wake Forest, 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 Wake Forest 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 Wake Forest 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 Wake Forest 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 Wake Forest 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 Wake Forest 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 27588 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 Wake Forest 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 Wake Forest 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 Wake Forest, 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.

Wake Forest 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 Wake Forest.

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

27587, 27588

Popular cities near Wake Forest, NC

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