Central, South Carolina is a small town that’s halfway between the two great cities of Atlanta, Georgia and Charlotte, North Carolina. If that isn’t awesome enough on its own, Central is just a half hour’s drive from the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains, Lake Hartwell, Lake Keowee, and Lake Jocassee. None of these wonders are surpassed by the genuine caring people who call Central home. With so much beauty around every corner, you may be wondering why it’s difficult to see the beauty in life sometimes.

Mental health and wellness can be a difficult thing to figure out. Make it easy on yourself and match up to begin working with a Central area mental health professional who can help you make sense of how your feeling.

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Psychologist Kendra Woody Simmons providing different types of therapy in Central

Kendra Woody Simmons

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 5234
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
15 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and Licensed Addictions Counselor in South Carolina with over 15 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, adolescent issues, and addictions. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I have experience working with veterans, active-duty military servicemen and women. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and solution focused counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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!

Psychologist Muma Azeh providing different types of therapy in Central

Muma Azeh

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 7535
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
15 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina with five years of experience in the United States and 23 years of experience in marriage and parenting in Cameroon, Africa, with the Worldwide Marriage Encounter and the Catholic church. I am accredited to counseling the military and their families. I have vast experience and knowledge in this field and am currently a Military and Family Life Counselor at a military base in South Carolina. I served with the faith-based organization as a parenting coach for 12 years. I served as a Behavioral Health Consultant at Brookland Medical Practice, Cayce, South Carolina, and a Qualified Mental Health Professional at the South Carolina Department of Corrections. I am a Military Family and Life Counselor in Columbia, SC, and an online Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I hold a master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and a National Certified Counselor. I am currently in the dissertation phase of my Ph.D. in psychology. In a few months, I will graduate. I work as a behavioral health consultant at Eau Claire Cooperative Health. Before, I worked at a Crisis Stabilization Unit in a penitentiary department. I invite you to read about my education, background, experience, and counseling approach by clicking on my name above our messages. I generally check messages a few times daily, Mondays to Fridays, and respond as quickly as possible. During the weekend, I might take a bit longer time to respond. I will appreciate your patience during such times. It takes longer during the weekend because I might be helping other clients or carrying out their duties and responsibilities. My profile's availability is tentative, so I can arrange an appropriate time with my client if requested. There are many stressful issues on earth now, including COVID–19 and all its ramifications, the vaccine fight, and people acting in response to these incidences. The world we now live in is strange. Life situations like the above can cause significant worry for some and overwhelm others. It is our place as counselors to help humanity with these issues. I welcome the client to the counseling session with a smile and encourage them to tell me their difficulties, problems, or constraints. I like counseling clients from 13 years and above. I encourage clients not to see themselves as the problem or the disorder but as people with difficulties or suffering from an illness. I treat my client with respect, sensitivity to their core beliefs, and empathy for their issues. I also handle relationship issues and other life experience issues. My core counseling approach is cognitive-behavioral therapy, but I combine this approach with person-centered, humanistic, psychodynamic, and narrative counseling. I mostly used open-ended questions when dialoguing with clients. These questions are tailored based on the client's needs. I have understood that in the helping profession, you have to love your career, and I love my career. The helping profession needs courage and determination from the counselor and the client.

Psychologist Shenelle Bowman providing different types of therapy in Central

Shenelle Bowman

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 5103
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
18 years offering treatment

Greetings! The situations that lead people to seek out a counselor can be some of the most trying experiences of their lives. That said, I encourage you to take a moment to appreciate the effort you have put in already. You have begun to advocate for your own well-being and have put yourself on the journey toward healing. My name is Shenelle and I am a licensed professional counselor and licensed addiction counselor in the state of South Carolina. I have 18 years of experience in the counseling field that encompasses the following settings: outpatient, inpatient hospitalization, private practice, state/local agencies. I have had the privilege to work with a range of populations from various backgrounds/cultures. My theoretical approach/techniques focus on supporting and assisting client cultivate living authentically, being their "true self", utilizing their strengths, discovery of what makes their life meaningful in order to help with meeting the challenges of life. My work as a counselor is rooted in a foundation of Person-Centered therapy where the client fully experiences the present moment, learning to accept oneself, and deciding ways to change. The client's ability to connect with me will be the number one factor determining how well we work together and how effective their healing will be. I strive to be respectful, authentic, genuine, empathetic, accepting and unconditional. These qualities are the heart of therapy and facilitate a healthy connection that allows true healing to take place. I will provide a safe space in which you are free to explore all your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without judgement. I have experienced positive outcomes and symptom reduction with clients affected by anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, loss and substance use. By utilizing evidence based techniques/therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivation Enhancement Therapy, clients can embrace methods that promote cognitive and behavioral changes. I am honored and committed to serve as a collaborator on your path of self-discovery and healing.

Psychologist Terrence Wyatt providing different types of therapy in Central

Terrence Wyatt

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 7836
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
11 years offering treatment

Are you hurting from ordeals and stressors in life? Have you struggled to experience success in an area but don't know where to begin? Do you need someone to listen to you with understanding and without judgement? From personal experience, I understand how life's obstacles can hinder us from living the life we want to live. I am here to support you on your journey to becoming a better you. My own personal experiences in life have motivated and equipped me with a desire to assist you through your own personal journey. My goal is to support and encourage you to identify and channel your inner strength to promote a better quality of life. Life's challenges can make it difficult to seek assistance from a stranger. I will respectfully meet you where you are in your journey. Allow me the opportunity to work with you to create understanding and to develop solutions to assist you in regaining control of your life.

Psychologist Rachael Fowler providing different types of therapy in Central

Rachael Fowler

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 9285, GA LPC LPC011709
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionADHD
7 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in South Carolina, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on compassionate, holistic care that addresses a wide range of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. I'm deeply committed to helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome social barriers. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering individuals to build resilience, understand their inner experiences, and create meaningful connections—whether they're struggling with isolation, workplace stress, or personal growth challenges. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with clients across diverse backgrounds and life stages. My expertise spans young adult issues, relationship dynamics, mood disorders, and healing from past trauma. I believe in creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their experiences and discover their inherent strengths. My goal is to walk alongside you, offering guidance and support as you navigate life's complexities and move toward greater emotional well-being and self-understanding.

Psychologist Audrey Williams providing different types of therapy in Central

Audrey Williams

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 7668
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Processional Counselor, practicing for five years with individuals and families. I have mostly focused on helping adolescents, children and adults work through issues of anxiety, depression, insecurity, poor self-image, behavior issues, family relationships and more. My passion is helping others find the answers they need to feel themselves and live the lives they wish to live. My belief is that we know ourselves best, and a therapist supports you in this process of self-discovery and helps you with techniques to battle ineffective habits or thoughts we have. My approach is centered around empowering, encouraging, and validating my clients with a warm and nurturing approach. If you are interested in working together, i would love to virtually meet you and let you see if we are a good fit. Finding the right fit in a therapist sometimes takes a few tries and that’s okay. It’s all about how you click with your therapist and how comfortable you feel to work on lasting change. If you’d like to work together, welcome!

Psychologist Barbara Jane Barker providing different types of therapy in Central

Barbara Jane Barker

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LISW-CP 5108
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
32 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker, having practiced since 1994. I have a Master's in Social Work from an accredited program. Further, I have advanced training in Family Systems. I have worked with various populations including adults, teenagers, and children. The areas of service include anxiety, mood issues, abuse and neglect, abandonment, mid-life issues, grief, chronic illness, trauma, attachment and adoption, trauma, My therapy style is supportive, open, direct, and treating people with respect and compassion. My theory of practice is Family Systems, with additional theories deemed important to facilitate change. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and joyful life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Kafayat (Ayoka) Hannah providing different types of therapy in Central

Kafayat (Ayoka) Hannah

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LISW 14712
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
18 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in South Carolina, I bring nearly two decades of compassionate mental health experience to my practice. My approach centers on supporting individuals through life's complex challenges, with specialized expertise in depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and LGBTQ+ experiences. I am deeply committed to creating a supportive, culturally responsive therapeutic environment that honors each client's unique journey. My work focuses on empowering individuals through transformative experiences including self-love, navigating social anxiety, workplace challenges, women's issues, and significant life transitions like divorce, pregnancy, and personal growth. My practice is grounded in understanding and addressing diverse emotional landscapes—from managing isolation and financial stress to processing complex feelings around relationships and personal identity. I strive to provide a warm, affirming space where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal change.

Psychologist Cynthia Byas providing different types of therapy in Central

Cynthia Byas

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LMFT 4624
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
11 years offering treatment

I am licensed in South Carolina with more than 10 years' professional work experience as a licensed therapist. I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, addiction, depression, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse. I believe you are the expert of your story and you have many strengths that will assist you to overcome things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling, happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Acquanita Pettis providing different types of therapy in Central

Acquanita Pettis

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCSW C016758, SC LISW-CP 16505
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
12 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist serving North and South Carolina, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients through challenges related to stress, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, and interpersonal dynamics. I bring a deeply compassionate approach to working with LGBTQ+ individuals, young adults, and those experiencing social anxiety, relationship difficulties, and personal growth transitions. My therapeutic style emphasizes creating a safe, affirming space where clients can explore their experiences, heal past wounds, and deepen their self-understanding. I'm particularly passionate about supporting individuals working through issues of identity, discrimination, attachment, and personal transformation. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help clients build resilience, improve communication, and cultivate self-love. Whether you're dealing with panic attacks, relationship challenges, or seeking to understand your life's purpose, I'm committed to walking alongside you with respect, understanding, and genuine care.

Psychologist Katasha Harper providing different types of therapy in Central

Katasha Harper

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LISW-CP 16672
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in South Carolina, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on empowering clients to cultivate self-compassion, navigate challenging relationships, and develop resilient coping strategies. With extensive experience addressing depression, anxiety, grief, and life transitions, I create a compassionate space where healing and personal growth can flourish. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients explore deep-rooted emotional patterns, overcome social anxiety, heal from past traumas, and rebuild self-esteem. I understand the intricate dynamics of family relationships, women's unique challenges, and the profound journey of personal transformation. Drawing from a holistic, culturally responsive framework, I support individuals in rediscovering their inner strength and purpose. I am committed to walking alongside you with genuine empathy, respect, and understanding, honoring your unique experiences and helping you develop meaningful strategies for emotional wellness and personal empowerment.

Psychologist Jessica Gum providing different types of therapy in Central

Jessica Gum

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LISW-CP 16973
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
8 years offering treatment

I am licensed in South Carolina with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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!

Psychologist Karen Slaton providing different types of therapy in Central

Karen Slaton

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 10297
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepression
10 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in South Carolina & Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My professional approach centers on compassionate, faith-informed counseling that addresses a wide range of emotional and psychological experiences. I have extensive expertise in helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and addiction. My practice focuses on supporting individuals through significant life transitions, including relationship challenges, caregiver stress, midlife shifts, and healing from traumatic experiences. I'm particularly committed to working with women, young adults, veterans, and older adults facing unique emotional challenges. Drawing from a Christian perspective, I offer a supportive environment that honors each person's spiritual journey while providing evidence-based therapeutic strategies. My goal is to help clients develop healthy communication skills, overcome isolation, process feelings of guilt and shame, and cultivate personal growth and resilience. I approach each therapeutic relationship with deep respect, understanding that healing is a personal and transformative process. Together, we'll work collaboratively to address your specific needs and support your path toward emotional wellness.

Psychologist Kierra Carr providing different types of therapy in Central

Kierra Carr

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 8955
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years offering treatment

I am an individual, adolescent, adult and marriage and family therapist licensed in South Carolina with over five years of experience working with couples, families, teens, military and middle aged population. I work with clients who experience a wide range of symptoms and concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and ADHD. I have also worked with many people who have experienced trauma and emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Find a Therapist Near You in Central , South Carolina

Finding a licensed therapist near you in South Carolina can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

South Carolina is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in South Carolina, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in South Carolina (SC). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across South Carolina, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across South Carolina with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in South Carolina

When searching for a therapist near me in South Carolina, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across South Carolina, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across South Carolina.

Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in South Carolina want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in South Carolina

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in South Carolina without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in South Carolina (SC)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

Therapists near you in South Carolina

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across South Carolina, including residents in Central.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in South Carolina do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Central can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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