When you have an eating disorder it is hard to enjoy visiting with relatives and friends or eating in public restaurants. It seems like you are always trying to cover up your disorder, so others will not notice. It is time to talk to a counselor about getting some help. There are many in the Waynesville area who are experienced in diagnosing and treating eating disorders.

Waynesville also has some great places to visit while you are out. The Museum of North Carolina Handicrafts has craft displays and agricultural artifacts, the Wheels Through Time Motorcycle Museum has over 300 rare motorcycles, and the Waynesville Parks and Recreation Center has disc golf, a pool, playgrounds, and even a dog park.

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Hadley Berting

Offering therapy in NC
License: MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

About Me: I am a licensed therapist in North Carolina. I have been conducting counseling for eight years with the first two focused on individuals 18 and under and the rest working with ages 5 to 75. My goal is to create a safe space for clients to open up and discuss what is bothering them. Counseling can be a difficult process due to feeling like it is opening old wounds however it is helpful to process the past while taking steps towards your future. I have experience working with clients who have never been in therapy and clients who have been in therapy for decades. My job is to support the client wherever they are . It is not my job to tell you what you are doing wrong or to tell you what to do in the future. My job is to guide the client to find the direction on their own. I run a private practice outside of Betterhelp however I check and respond to messages several times a day. I can respond to messages at all hours but will only schedule sessions Monday-Wednesdays between 9:30-2pm. Specialities and Experience: *Physical, Sexual and Emotional Trauma *Anxiety *Perinatal Mood Disorders *Depression ADHD Building Coping Skills Mindfulness Adults, Children and Teenagers LGBTQ+ Couples Counseling Military as I was previously a military spouse Years of Experience: 8

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Meg Gemelli

Offering therapy in NC
License: LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

** Not receiving new clients at this time ** I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist in North Carolina with over sixteen years of experience working with women, couples, and families. I've collaborated with clients facing a wide variety of challenges, such as marriage struggles, parenting concerns, depression and anxiety, career concerns, confidence and self-esteem, issues of spirituality, grief, and abuse. I'm experienced in providing online therapy, as well as working within residential treatment settings, outpatient/office spaces, faith-based environments, and within the hospital and school systems. My therapy style is warm and experiential. I strive to provide both depth and insight, and just as important, joy and laughter into my work with clients. I believe there's beauty and meaning to be discovered in every life story--regardless of creed, color, or income bracket. My approach is one of human connection and safe/secure attachment to one another, and I rely heavily on emotionally-focused therapy techniques, especially in my work with couples. While serving individual clients, it's common that I also integrate aspects of narrative, solution-focused, and trauma-informed therapies into our work together. On a personal note, I'd like to applaud your decision to invite someone into your story instead of attempting to journey alone. We experience no greater strength than when we join together in our most difficult times in life. I look forward to working with you, and if you have additional questions for me as you consider your next step, please don't hesitate to reach out.

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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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Pamela Schultz

Offering therapy in NC
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Pam, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, in North Carolina. I have over 10 years of experience in mental health, including eight years in outpatient therapy. I work primarily from the perspective of cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused therapies, but also incorporate other techniques such as mindfulness, skill-building, and trauma-based interventions. I believe strongly in the validation of clients’ feelings and experiences, to help remove stigma and shame. I will meet you where you are, free of judgement, and with full support for whatever goals you wish to pursue. I believe that with support, clients can be empowered to make difficult decisions and take charge of their own growth. While some decisions we make may not result in the most desired outcomes, I believe that everybody is just doing the best they can. I believe that you are the expert and author of your own life story, and the answers you need will come from within. I am a very direct person, known for my honesty and “cut-to-the-chase” attitude. I avoid buzzwords and clinical language most of the time, except for the purposes of educating the client, so that they can make fully-informed choices. In our sessions, I want you to feel relaxed, at ease, and open to sharing your honest self. I want our time together to be productive, but yet feel as comfortable as a chat between friends. Over my years of practice, clients have described me as “relatable,” “trusted,” and “real.” I am comfortable and supportive of diverse needs and lifestyles. While I make every effort to be “culturally competent,” I appreciate listening to clients tell their own stories. I share my home with my husband and dog. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with friends, traveling, attending outdoor music festivals, and getting my money’s worth from streaming television.

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Brandy Wilson

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
4 years of experience

My name is Brandy Wilson and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of North Carolina. Over my 16 year career, I have worked with a diverse population of children, young adults, adults and the geriatric population. Early in my career, I worked with children and adults with developmental disabilities such as down syndrome, intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorder. I have extensive experience providing crisis interventions services in an inpatient psychiatric hospital, residential treatment facility and in outpatient therapy. I have worked with individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Schizophrenia just to name a few. I also have experience working with individuals who are struggling with major life changes, such as a medical diagnosis, divorce, or older adults losing their independence. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, humanistic approaches, strength-based approaches, solution focused techniques, and mindfulness practices to help you achieve your goals. I really enjoy working with others and helping them find their inner strength to overcome any obstacle they are facing. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Donald McRae

Offering therapy in NC
License: M.Ed. ,LPC,LAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepression
25 years of experience

Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Addictions Counselor (LAC) in South Carolina. I am also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in the state of North Carolina. I have been licensed for more than twenty years and have provided therapy in a number of settings to include a mental health clinic, military bases and not-for-profit agencies. I have a wealth of knowledge and experience working with individuals, families and couples. I have facilitated psychotherapy groups and provided individual therapy. I am certified in Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT) and I am grounded in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) as well as Trauma Focused CBT. I genuinely enjoy working with others and have been successful helping people attain their goals. In addition to DBT and CBT, I have a rich background in Mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) , Motivational Interviewing and Brief Solution Focused Therapy. I believe that it takes courage and commitment to confront oneself and bring about change in a therapeutic relationship. I am nonjudgmental, empathetic, compassionate and sensitive to the effort it takes to engage in therapy. I welcome the opportunity to work with individuals that are genuinely committed to self examination and change.

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Sara Wheeler

Offering therapy in NC
License: M.Ed.,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

Warmest of welcomes! I'm here to listen and cultivate hope every step of the way. I’ve been an empathetic encourager my entire life, and a trained therapist for over a decade. Prior to becoming a licensed therapist I worked as an addictions counselor. I’m experienced and skilled in helping others as they work through all types of life transitions, relationship stresses, addictions, anxiety, depression, trauma, and parenting issues. I also specialize in EMDR treatment. I am here to help you figure out the first steps and walk with you as you grow into a happier in life.

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Denese Etheridge

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Ronella Ellis

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCareer difficulties
18 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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John Anderson

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger management
4 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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.

How to find counseling in Waynesville

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Waynesville 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 Waynesville 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 Waynesville 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 Waynesville, 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 Waynesville 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 Waynesville 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 Waynesville 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 Waynesville 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 Waynesville 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 28738 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 Waynesville 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 Waynesville 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 Waynesville, 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.

Waynesville 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 Waynesville.

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

28738, 28786

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