Heather Simmerson
As humans we are all susceptible to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and degraded self care. We can all fall victims to relationship problems, grief and confusion navigating through life with its ever changing twists and turns. I have a desire to give clients a nonjudgmental, safe and welcoming environment in order to work on overcoming these life obstacles when they interfere with ones happiness and clarity. Looking for help when you feel you are at the end of your rope takes courage but displays a sign of resiliency within yourself. If you feel that you can no longer handle your circumstances alone, I encourage you to contact me. I can be there to work through your circumstances with you and work on improving your quality of life together. I have a passion for helping people overcome difficult times in their life. My focus in practice is to ignite hope and collaborate with my clients by utilizing an integrative and evidence-based approach to psychotherapy. I work with individuals of all ages and look forward to witnessing the growth and continued resiliency within you.
Thomas McMinn
I am a therapist that genuinely hopes the best for my clients and works to reach treatment expectations as determined by my clients. My experiences in life have provided insight to the struggles and difficulties life presents. I am a Generation Xer having been born in 1966. Most of my formative years were spent in Ohio. My family moved to South Carolina right as I entered into high school. Sports has played an important role in my life. My hopes of getting into recreation management was redirected in college. I discovered the Family Therapy course offered one semester in college and enrolled. I thoroughly enjoyed the course. So, that lead me into the pursuit of becoming a psychotherapist. The path of obtaining higher education and licensure as a professional counselor took me to Texas. I received my initial training through a seminary my grandfather attended in the early 1920s. In 1989, I married and moved to Texas to follow my dream. The training I received has served me well. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the modality of choice for me in my practice. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy puts the emphasis on thoughts that lead to feelings which in turn manifest in our behaviors. Aiming to address the way we think and correct it can significantly impact lasting change to behaviors. I feel strongly about connecting with my clients and working toward a therapeutic alliance. Doing my best to give clients information, encouragement has been a successful formula in my practice.
Dr. Nancy Simpson
Hi there! I am Dr. Nancy Simpson, licensed clinical psychologist in South Carolina. Currently retired from a 30- year, rewarding teaching career at our local community college, I yearn to give back. Early in my career I was a practicing psychologist and worked in both in-patient and out-patient settings, performed neuropsychological assessments, and diagnosed & assessed mental illness. But, I found my bliss in academic psychology. Now it's time to return to my roots to help others. I am well trained, compassionate, and bring mutual respect and caring to therapy. When not teaching or mentoring, you can find me on my hobby farm, milking my goats, making cheese, tending my honey bees, spinning, weaving, working as a historic craft interpreter and generally enjoying life. If you think we'd be a fit on your journey of exploration and/or healing, I'd be delighted to work with you.
Cindy Burnett
My name is Cindy Burnett, and I have been providing counseling services for 27 years in the state of South Carolina. I believe each person has an individual path that their life takes based on your family of origin, life choices, interactions with others, and how you respond to each experience. Along the path you may encounter challenges, emotional struggles, or uncertainties, and I want to come along side you to help you view, manage, and change the way you see, experience, and react to your journey. I believe everyone can benefit from counseling at some point in their life by having an empathetic, compassionate, and non-judgmental person who you can talk to. I want to be an emotional support, encourager for you and provide a new perspective to help you manage your life. I use client centered, solution-focused, mindfulness, and cognitive behavior therapy techniques to help my clients understand, change, reflect on, and accept the unique and special person that they are. I have been working with children, adolescents, adults, and families for 31 years in a variety of settings from working with students and adults with intellectual challenges. I have worked with families and individuals in the community mental health setting, and in the school system. I have worked primarily with adolescents, young adults, and families. I have worked with a wide range of mental health issues such as personal relationships, self-acceptance, depression, anxiety, anger management, blended families, personality disorders, ADHD, and life transitions. I obtained my masters in community agency counseling from Clemson University and then obtained my LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor certification. I obtained a masters in Elementary and Secondary School counseling from Clemson University. I also obtained my Global Career Development Facilitators Certification, so I could work with people who need career guidance during times of transition. Therapy is a process that should be individualized and help mend relationships, increase self-awareness, and help you become successful throughout your life. Thank you for considering me to be your therapist as we partner together to help you improve your life. Regardless of who you choose as your therapist I am proud of you for seeking help and I hope you find someone that you trust and feel comfortable sharing with. Have a great day.
Victoria McDaniel-Tracy
Welcome to Better Help! You've taken a huge step, and I'm sure you're wondering how this works and whether it's the right fit for you. My name is Vickie McDaniel, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Oklahoma. I am also a Licensed Independent Social Worker for the state of South Carolina. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the University of Oklahoma in 2011. I've worked in many different settings with individuals and families who have a variety of personal issues such as depression/anxiety, stress, family problems, trauma/abuse, eating disorders, relationships/parenting and the grief and loss of people or of their pet. As a clinician, my experience has taught me that the most important aspect of counseling by far is the connection and comfort you feel with the person you choose to share your personal struggles. I believe we can all grow through challenging experiences by increasing our self-awareness, self-esteem, positive thinking, and problem solving techniques. Sometimes another person, one who isn't in our immediate circle, can offer a perspective or additional support, that gives us movement on a difficult situation when we feel stuck. It would be my privilege to be that person for you. We all want to be able to share our personal truths and be accepted and understood. I believe it's very important to be open-minded and non-judgmental when someone shares their personal story or experiences with me. Our relationship with our self and others has worth and is useful to explore in counseling. You are welcome to message me anytime through Better Help. The frequency with which you can have access to a counselor to work through day to day emotions and problem solving is extremely beneficial for most and a nice change from traditional outpatient counseling. I usually check messages twice each day, seven days per week. I offer messaging, live chat and phone sessions with limited availability in the evenings and weekends. Please note that what you see in my calendar may not reflect my only availability so you always want to check with me through messaging first. I look forward to working with you!
Gamble Veverica
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience working in various clinical settings. I have experience treating and helping people of all ages with different life challenges, with a special focus in depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress management, family dynamics, and grief. I have a holistic, client-centered approach, and my style is nonjudgmental, compassionate, and warm. I have most experience with cognitive and dialectical behavior therapy (CBT and DBT) modalities and empower clients by teaching life-long skills in these areas. I honor and respect the client by considering them the expert on their life, and my goal remains focused on how I can best serve the client by tailoring my approach to their needs.
Dr. Sally Goh
I am a counselor educator and a licensed professional counselor; I am licensed in Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia with 8 years of professional work experience. As a relationship-driven and person-centered therapist, I have extensive experience using cognitive behavior, EMDR, Gestalt, and neuroscience-based approaches in working with a diverse population on adverse childhood experience (ACE), anxiety, cross-cultural and generational issues (belongingness), depression, grief and loss, stress management, substance use/abuse, and trauma. Prior to private practice, I worked as a community-based and addiction counselor. I am also meaningfully involved in mentoring and training mental health counselors. I believe counseling within the context of a trusting and collaborative relationship is one you feel heard. If you currently feel stuck, paralyzed, and overwhelmed with emotional pain, we will work step-by-step to heal, restore, and reclaim your life. You will learn to use your intrinsic strengths and skills to process your trauma, be assertive, set boundaries, and refuse to carry the guilt and shame of others, to move forward with self-confidence and purpose. In attaining personal growth, you will ground your healing in authentic hope that creates real change to live a healthy and abundant life.
Dr. Stephen Gunsallus
I am licensed in South Carolina with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and focus (adhd). I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I earned my Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)in Pastoral Community Counseling in 2017, a Master of Sacred Theology (STM) in 1999, and a Master of Arts in Counseling (MA) in 2003. I also have seven units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) of which four were done as a residency. I am also a recipient of an award for Community Organization by Adapt Advocacy Association (aaa+) in 2011. 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!
Marissa Patti-Marshall
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina and South Carolina with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with a variety of concerns including stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, depression, trauma, parenting, and behavior issues. In addition, I have worked with individuals experiencing homelessness, addiction, and life transitions. I work with my clients to create a safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I utilize a client-centered approach to ensure clients are heard, validated, and empowered. My therapeutic style combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Solutions- Focused approaches. I ensure clients’ strengths are highlighted and built upon. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Ruby Gordon
I am licensed in North Carolina with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
How to find counseling in Blackville
Finding the best therapist close by in Blackville 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 Blackville. 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 Blackville, 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 Blackville 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 Blackville 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 Blackville, elsewhere in Barnwell, 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 Blackville area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Blackville 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 Blackville 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 Blackville 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 Blackville, 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 Blackville 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 Blackville 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 Blackville 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:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Behavior therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Talk therapy
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Attachment therapy
- Relationships
- Children, adolescents, and teens
- Addiction (substance abuse)
- Divorce
- Trauma or PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychodynamic treatment
- Career counseling
- Alcohol use disorders
- OCD
- ADHD
- Mood disorders
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
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 Blackville 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 Blackville 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 29817 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 Blackville 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 Blackville 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 Blackville, 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.
Blackville 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Blackville:
29817