Your life can feel like  a studio sometimes. Great things can come from a studio, and so can pure art. But when the production is a disaster, it can be a problem. Self-doubt can feel like that director who just isn’t satisfied. Depression can make you feel like the actor who doesn’t know their lines. A counselor can be the person who helps create order in the studio. 

Wilmington is known for having the biggest studio outside of California. While they are producing movies, you can create your own masterpiece. You just need to speak to a counselor and ask for help. 

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Janice Carr

Offering therapy in NC
License: LMFT, LCMHC,NCC
Trauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

ABOUT ME: Hello! So glad you’re here! My career path has not been traditional. It took many different twists and turns in the corporate and commercial world before I found my place as a counselor and therapist. My professional life experiences have expanded the knowledge and understanding I’m able to incorporate into helping you recognize, address, resolve, or just alleviate your life problems along with your wants, needs, or concerns. And, sometimes, it’s just a matter of having someone to talk to that will listen. That’s ok too! I am licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist (MT2839) in the State of Florida, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (8160) in North Carolina, a Licensed Professional Counselor In Colorado (LPC.0019501), a National Certified Counselor (NCC), and have been Certified in Telehealth, Grief Counseling, and Trauma. I earned my master’s degree in counseling from California State University and my undergraduate degree from the University of Colorado in Interpersonal Communication with an emphasis in Psychology. My work has included a broad spectrum of culturally diverse populations that include adults, adolescents, children, and families. The venues have included military installations (worldwide), homeless shelters for women and teens, community mental health centers, private practice, family services, along with a mental health crisis center. Within these settings I have worked with the kind of personal problems and challenges that so many of us face daily -- that are at once shared as part of our common humanity and yet are uniquely and individually our own. I’m here to help you resolve the issues and concerns that are impacting your life, your goals, your relationships. Let me help. SPECIALTIES: Relationship Issues, Trauma, Self esteem, Grief, Coping with life changes. Also experienced in: Addictions, physical and/or sexual abuse, personality disorders, depression, stress, and anxiety. Clinical Approaches: My base approach to individual therapy is client centered. However, depending on the needs of the individual client therapy may integrate solution focused, cognitive behavioral (CBT), motivational interviewing and/or other theoretical practices depending on what best serves you as my client. In family counseling my preference is a systems approach. Years of Experience: 16 + years

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Michelle Murdock

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor licensed in North Carolina with about 7 years of experience working as a counselor with over 17 years in the mental health field in various capacities. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, grief and loss, OCD, ADHD, anger management, substance abuse, and intellectual disabilites. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is inviting and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion without being judgmental. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behaviral, solution-focused, reality, and mindfulness. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your specific needs. It takes courage to seek help. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support, empower you, and meet you where you are (mentally and emotionally). I look forward to working with you!

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Laura Bradbury

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW
GriefCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Coping with life's transitions can be difficult. I am here to help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am physically located in the state of Utah, and licensed in both Utah and North Carolina. I have worked for over ten years as a professional grief and loss counselor. I have substantial experience with transitions and losses associated with death, divorce, emerging adulthood, empty nesting, illness, moving, survivorship, and other transitions. I also offer counseling for those who are caring for a loved one, dealing with compassion fatigue, or facing a terminal or life limiting illness. I work with adults of all ages, from emerging adults to late and very late adulthood. I am particularly adept at issues such as coping with grief, overcoming guilt and regret, understanding anger, practicing self expression, communication of needs, working with depression and anxiety, motivation and goal setting, and identity shifts. I appreciate the effort and courage it takes to begin to research therapists. If you decide this is a good fit, my approach to therapy is warm and open-minded. I approach each session with a curious mind and a sense of openness to whatever you are ready to bring forward. While therapeutic approach and style is important, there are also practical details to consider when finding a therapist. If you are considering reaching out to me for therapy, a couple of practical details to consider: 1) I am typically an "after hours" therapist, with a schedule that accommodates members who need sessions in the late afternoon/evening or weekends. If you prefer daytime sessions, I occasionally am able to offer a lunchtime visit, but those are somewhat limited and tend to fill fast. 2) I tend to book a couple weeks in advance, which means that I am not generally able to accommodate last minute requests for same day or next day sessions. Feel free to make such a request, and I always consider it, but may not be able to oblige.

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Rosalie McGrane

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

Hi, my name is Rosalie Grayson McGrane. I received my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from UNC Chapel Hill and my Master's in Counseling and Guidance from Appalachian State University. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, stress and depression. I enjoy providing individual, couples, and family counseling.eating disorders. I have assisted clients with relationship issues, eating disorders, and grief and loss. I believe a trusting relationship between counselor and client is most important. Therefore, I will strive to provide a comfortable climate with warmth, caring, and confidentiality so that you feel safe. I believe being accepting, objective, respectful, and genuine are characteristics essential in working with clients. It is is important that we are open and honest with each other in order for appropriate counseling goals to be established. I feel every individual is a unique and a complex being, therefore the approach I take with your concerns is based on your mental, physical, social, and spiritual development. Depending on your individual needs, I will use different methods of therapy including psychotherapy, coaching, and consulting. Most sessions will focus on self-awareness, choice, problem-solving, and setting goals for the present and future. Cognitive behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, and reality therapy form the basic theoretical foundation of my work with clients. I like to help people in a way that allows them to learn how to better control relationships and all their actions in order to live a healthier and more productive life. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Cyndi Aya

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuse
13 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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!

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Dina Velazquez

Offering therapy in NC
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

Hello, my name is Dina Velazquez and I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist currently living on the east coast. I have over ten years experience as a therapist, in both the Community Mental Health model and doing clinical assessments for a health insurance carrier. I earned my Master's degree in Counseling at Pacifica Graduate Institue in Carpinteria, CA. My experience includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, and substance use issues. My approach is client centered while also incorporating the use of other skills including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, solution focused and some Cognitive Behavioral therapies. I feel that each of our experiences are unique, and may require different avenues to attain wellness. Also experienced in: Addictions , LGBT , Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Physical Disabilities, Coping with life changes

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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.

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Jeanie Kincaid

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in North Carolina with almost 20 years of experience, I have helped clients with depression, anxiety, social phobias, relationship issues, family conflicts, work and life stressors, motivation, self esteem, and confidence building, . I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming your challenges. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. It is my belief that everyone can find their joy.

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Tanya Lance

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
20 years of experience

I am a licensed Mental Health Therapist in North Carolina with 20 years of professional experience. I practice a holistic approach to treating mind, body, and spirit. My passion is empowering others to rise above life’s circumstances and not define one’s self by current behaviors or past experiences but by embracing the power of being uniquely you just for today. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression, & substance use disorders. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming your challenges. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Kayce Bragg

Offering therapy in NC
License: LPCS,LAC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I look forward to the opportunity to walk this journey together! Let me tell you about myself: I’m a wife, mother to four, and a dog mom! I live in SC but love to travel to see new places and try new things. My favorite place is anywhere with a beach as I love anything involving sunshine and water! Professionally, I am a Board-Certified Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, and a Licensed Addiction Counselor in the state of South Carolina and have been practicing in the mental health field since 2011. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Kansas, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon, and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois . I am currently working on my Doctorate of Psychology and was EMDR trained in 2021. I am very person-centered in my work with clients as I believe that you know you better than I know you! My practice is solution-focused as I believe in focusing more heavily on the problems you’re experiencing right now and working together to develop effective strategies for improving not only your current symptoms, but also your overall life satisfaction. I often incorporate Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy at times to help identify problematic thinking and retrain your brain to be more positive! Some other theories I believe in are Positive Psychology and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I have significant expertise in dealing with adults (18+) who are experiencing the following: various mental illnesses (including but not limited to Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, other Psychotic Disorders, Depression, Anxiety); difficulty adapting to life situations; relationship issues; stress caused by pressure at work or home; grief and loss; self-esteem issues; other difficulties maintaining life balance. I also have experience with addictions issues and am able to help in those areas. I am skilled in aiding others in developing coping skills, interpersonal skills, independent living skills, stress management, personal empowerment and advocacy, healthy leisure habits, and other important life skills. It is important to understand that therapy is about you and what you need, so the process is really driven by the client! My role is to facilitate discussion and prompt new ways of thinking in order to inspire fresh perspectives. :)

How to find counseling in Wilmington

Finding the best therapist close by in Wilmington 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 Wilmington. 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 Wilmington, 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington, elsewhere in New Hanover, 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 Wilmington area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington, 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 28407 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington, 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.

Wilmington 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 Wilmington.

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

28401, 28402, 28403, 28404, 28405, 28406, 28407, 28408, 28409, 28410, 28412

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