Aiken was named after William Aiken, who was the president of the South Carolina Railroad. Founded in 1871 with over 30 thousand people living there, Aiken is a popular place to live. In fact, the National Civic League honored the town with the All-American City Award in 1997. 

Have you found yourself wondering why Aiken is so popular and why you live there? Are you having trouble keeping work or having lasting relationships? These can be signs of a mental health disorder and you should contact one of the many professional therapists or counselors in the area for help. 

This is Dr. Denise Finney's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Denise Finney

Offering therapy in SC
License: PhD,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
35 years of experience

I hold a Doctorate Degree in Counseling Studies and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in South Carolina and Georgia. I am a member of the National Association for Mental Health Counselors and the American Counselors Association. For the past thirty years, my experience in the counseling field includes individual and group counseling. I address concerns such as anxiety, depression, anger management, and stress management. My primary therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavior Therapy which looks at an individual’s beliefs and behaviors. I utilize multiple approaches to therapy to allow me to tailor therapy to fit each client. My passion for counseling is my belief that each person has a personal story to share and the power of the listening ear should never be underestimated. I will utilize my experienced listening skill to assist you in feeling empowered outside of counseling sessions. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Summer Woodside

Offering therapy in SC
License: PhD,LCSW,LISW-CP
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker licensed in North and South Carolina with over 15 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, finances, career challenges, personal relationship issues, and ADHD. I have also worked with people who have experience physical, emotional, and mental abuse. My counseling style is open and non-judgemental. I believe in treating everyone with respect and demonstrating empathy in all situations. I view the relationship between the counselor and client as a partnership, and work closely with my clients to empower them to be active participants in the counseling process. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral and systemic approaches and includes a heavy emphasis on the strengths perspective. Taking the first step towards seeking a change in your life is always the hardest step to take! I commend you for considering this process and am here to support you if you decide to move forward. I look forward to working with you!

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Marianne Matos

Offering therapy in SC
License: LPC,NCC,ESMHL
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

My approach to counseling is person-centered. I have used cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and EMDR extensively as treatment modalities. I specialize in assisting people with self-esteem, and learning self-advocacy. I am a licensed professional counselor in SC, a National Certified Counselor, and an Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning through PATH International. I have extensive experience with adults, including elderly populations, and hold a MS in Mental Health Counseling, and a BS in Psychology. My expertise is in crisis and trauma. For the last 3 years I have been doing counseling at a crisis center to assist abused persons that are victims of domestic violence, and sexual assault. I also have extensive experience with children and young adults on a personal and professional level. I worked for a community service agency as therapeutic support for children with learning disabilities. I was also a dance teacher for 22 years. During my graduate internship I worked with alternative populations as well. I feel strongly about assisting minority and underserved populations.

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Mary Mathis

Offering therapy in SC
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementCoping with life changesADHD
13 years of experience

Every life story is filled with all kinds of moments—those of success and laughter and those of struggles and loss. In those moments when you are hurt, angry, lonely, scared or overwhelmed, it can be hard to know where to turn for direction. My passion in life is helping people to find the direction and support they need to move forward in those difficult times. I am a licensed professional counselor in South Carolina. My educational background includes a BA from Purdue University in Individual and Family Development and a MA in Clinical Counseling from Columbia International University. I have worked as an Multisystemic (MST) therapist for HIV+ teenagers, a School based Mental Health Counselor, and as a Military and Family Life Counselor. I have been helping individuals, families, and children to become aware of their inner strengths, and then, use those strengths to bring change to their current situation for over 13 years. Since every person’s story is unique, I use a variety of counseling techniques, including but not limited to, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Brief Solution Focused Therapy. It takes courage to ask for help and seek change. If you are ready, I am here to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in life.

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Molly Valerio

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changes
41 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 41 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family dynamics, & coping with grief and loss as well as spiritual issues or crisis. 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 honored to be a part of your journey forward.

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Elizabeth Evans

Offering therapy in SC
License: LISW-CP
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
22 years of experience

I have held full licensure as a clinical social worker since 2010. I have enjoyed providing therapy with women, children and families; a journey that began more than 20 years ago. I have a special place in my heart for military families coping with deployment. I work well with highly sensitive people and empaths. I consider the "whole person" in terms of mental health by weighing physical health, environments and how ecological factors influence wellbeing. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) are approaches I use most. Clients describe me as accepting, energetic and consistent. I believe I can help clients by tuning in closely to their challenges and step-by-step working toward strategies for quality outcomes.

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Donna White

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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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Marcus Thomas

Offering therapy in SC
Anger managementSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, & anger management. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Latoya Wright

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 10 years of professional community work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, & depression. 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 use therapy modalities such as Solution-Focused; Cognitive Behavioral ; Motivational Interviewing and Trauma-Informed Care . I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Jessica Swaim

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Hi! My name is Jessica and I am licensed in South Carolina with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I am specialized in trauma-focused therapy and have spent most of my career working with survivors of various types of trauma. My approach to therapy is creating a safe space for you to explore and process in a non-judgemental environment. 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. I look forward to working with you!

How to find counseling in Aiken

Finding the best therapist close by in Aiken 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 Aiken. 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 Aiken, 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 Aiken 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 Aiken 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 Aiken, elsewhere in Aiken, or in the greater state of South Carolina.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Aiken area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Aiken 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 Aiken 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 Aiken may not take health insurance, some in the state of South 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 South 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 Aiken, South 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 Aiken 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 Aiken 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 Aiken 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 Aiken 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 Aiken 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 SC, 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 29802 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 Aiken 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 Aiken 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 Aiken, South 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.

Aiken 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 Aiken.

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

29801, 29802, 29803, 29804, 29808

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