In the search for a balanced life, many of us could use the guidance of a therapist at one point or another. When it comes to counseling services, Charleston, SC can offer a wider field of choice than many rural and smaller town areas, however finding the right therapist isn’t always easy, even in major cities. 

One of the issues is that when it comes to psychology, there are a number of evidence-based approaches that can be more or less effective depending on the mental health challenge being addressed. Seeking help for relationship difficulties can take a whole different direction than therapy for treating personality disorders. The kind of therapy you need may not be accessible or available nearby. 

With online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp, you can find a wider range of choices than when looking for in-person sessions in your area. BetterHelp offers access to over 30,000 mental health professionals that work in a number of specializations from psychodynamic therapy to gender identity. By filling out a simple online questionnaire, BetterHelp will match you to a therapist who meets your individual needs. And because having a truly person-centered experience can be essential to effective therapy, if you need to switch therapists you can do so at no additional cost. 

Online therapy can be a convenient solution for busy parents, professionals, and students. Online sessions fit easily into any schedule, and with video chat, phone, and text messaging options, you can talk to your therapist from the comfort of your own home or office. And while BetterHelp isn’t covered by insurance, many find that therapy cost with online therapy is more affordable than practice because practitioners don’t operate with overhead costs. 

If you are in the Charleston area and have been thinking about therapy for any reason, whether for life coaching, to manage life adjustments, focus on women’s issues, or to deal with persistent feelings of stress, there is no better time to start. Therapy can offer tools and strategies that lead to a more fulfilling life, so reach out to BetterHelp to get started on your wellness journey. 

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Psychologist Amanda Polk providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Amanda Polk

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LISW-CP 12039
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years offering treatment

Amanda D. Polk, MSW, LISW-CP, is a dedicated and compassionate licensed clinician with over eight years of experience in the mental health field. Holding a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Walden University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology from the University of South Carolina, Mrs. Polk combines her academic knowledge with a wealth of life experience to provide exceptional care to her clients. A proud veteran with 25 years of service in the Army and The South Carolina Army National Guard, including a deployment in Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan, Mrs. Polk has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to serving others. Her passion for helping her community extends beyond her military service. She has worked as a Guardian Ad Litem, advocating for abused and neglected children, and as a licensed Therapeutic Foster Parent. Mrs. Polk specializes in treating a variety of mental health challenges, including borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma, anger management, and parenting skills. Additionally, she has extensive experience working with couples, helping them improve communication, resolve conflicts, rebuild trust, and strengthen their emotional connection. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in building strong, trusting relationships with her clients. Mrs. Polk integrates evidence-based techniques such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and mindfulness to provide patient-centered care tailored to each individual's or couple's unique needs. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, Mrs. Polk is committed to helping her clients find hope, healing, and practical tools to navigate life’s challenges and build fulfilling relationships.

Psychologist Bertha Myers providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Bertha Myers

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 7290
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
8 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate stress, relationship dynamics, family conflicts, and personal growth. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach to addressing issues like social anxiety, self-love, communication barriers, and workplace challenges. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering individuals to develop resilience, heal from past experiences, and cultivate meaningful connections. I have extensive experience supporting diverse populations, including young adults, caregivers, veterans, and individuals facing significant life changes. My approach is collaborative, trauma-informed, and deeply committed to honoring each client's unique journey and strengths. I understand that seeking support takes courage, and I'm dedicated to creating a safe, affirming space where you can explore your experiences, develop coping strategies, and move towards personal transformation. Together, we'll work to understand your challenges and build pathways toward healing and growth.

Psychologist Dr. Michelle Fox providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Dr. Michelle Fox

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 10685
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
32 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in South Carolina, I bring over three decades of compassionate clinical experience to supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My approach centers on creating a warm, affirming therapeutic environment where clients can explore their emotional landscapes with genuine understanding and respect. I specialize in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and anger management, with a deep commitment to helping individuals develop stronger self-love and communication skills. My practice welcomes diverse clients and experiences, offering culturally sensitive support across various backgrounds and perspectives. My therapeutic style emphasizes collaborative healing, focusing on empowering clients to navigate social anxieties, process difficult emotions like guilt and shame, and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. I believe in creating a supportive space where individuals can explore their challenges, build resilience, and rediscover their inherent strengths. Whether you're seeking support through panic attacks, relationship difficulties, or personal transformation, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy, expertise, and genuine care.

Psychologist Barbara Jane Barker providing different types of therapy in Charleston

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 Amy Powers providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Amy Powers

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 5219
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years offering treatment

I am a licensed professional counselor with over 17 years of experience. I counsel individuals, couples and families using mainly cognitive behavioral therapy. I have worked with clients with a wide range of issues from depression and anxiety to bipolar and personality disorders. I have training in trauma focused counseling to deal with abuse and neglect issues as well. I feel it best to be warm and respectful, but also forward and to the point. I will tailor your treatment plan to focus on your specific needs. I will provide a safe and accepting environment so that you feel comfortable and open. It takes a lot of courage and strength to seek help and I look forward to helping you progress and grow.

Psychologist Cynthia Byas providing different types of therapy in Charleston

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 Rickia Jessup-Clowney providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Rickia Jessup-Clowney

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 10694
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years offering treatment

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 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Beth Kaminsky providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Beth Kaminsky

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LISW 19078, PA LCSW CW025128
Mental Wellness Specialties: GriefParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Pennsylvania, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients address challenges like depression, grief, life transitions, and self-esteem concerns. I'm particularly passionate about creating compassionate spaces where people can explore personal growth, heal from past experiences, and develop stronger communication and coping skills. My therapeutic approach focuses on understanding each individual's unique journey. I work closely with clients experiencing social anxiety, relationship difficulties, and emotional struggles related to identity, purpose, and personal empowerment. Whether you're dealing with life changes, interpersonal challenges, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance. I draw from evidence-based practices to support clients in developing resilience, self-compassion, and meaningful strategies for personal transformation. My goal is to help you build inner strength, reconnect with your authentic self, and create positive pathways forward.

Psychologist Laura Nash providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Laura Nash

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 10550
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
9 years offering treatment

I am licensed in South Carolina with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Shelia Reynolds providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Shelia Reynolds

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 10286
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years offering treatment

I am licensed in South Carolina with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & despression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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!

Psychologist Shaven Smith providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Shaven Smith

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LISW-CP South Carolina 17608, LA LCSW 18500
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years offering treatment

Hello, and welcome. I'm Dr. Shaven Abney Smith, a licensed clinical social worker with a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) degree and experience supporting individuals through a variety of life's challenges. I specialize in helping individuals navigate depression, trauma, anxiety, and life transitions using proven, evidence-based approaches tailored to each person's unique needs and experiences. My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in evidence-based practices. I believe therapy is a partnership where we work together to identify your goals, build on your strengths, and develop practical tools to support meaningful and lasting change. I communicate in a clear and direct manner because I value transparency and believe in helping you get to the heart of what's going on, always with compassion, warmth, and sensitivity. I strive to create a space where you feel safe, seen, and never judged. Whether you are seeking healing from past experiences, support through current challenges, or personal growth, I am committed to meeting you where you are and walking alongside you on your journey toward greater well-being.

Psychologist Bonnie Rauch-Bouie providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Bonnie Rauch-Bouie

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 9529
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist with extensive experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients address depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and challenges related to self-esteem and life transitions. I am deeply committed to creating a compassionate and collaborative therapeutic environment where individuals can explore communication challenges, discover life purpose, and work through feelings of guilt and shame. My approach emphasizes personal growth, emotional healing, and developing meaningful strategies for forgiveness and self-understanding. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I aim to empower clients to build resilience, enhance emotional well-being, and cultivate transformative insights. I believe each person has unique strengths and the capacity to create positive change in their life. My goal is to provide supportive guidance that honors your individual journey and helps you develop more effective coping mechanisms.

Psychologist Ashley Wheaton providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Ashley Wheaton

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LISW-CP 18915
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
6 years offering treatment

I'm a therapist dedicated to supporting individuals through life's most challenging moments. With experience working with clients navigating depression, anxiety, stress, and grief, I bring both clinical skill and genuine compassion to our work together. My approach centers on helping you build self-esteem, process difficult emotions, and develop healthier communication patterns. I specialize in addressing social anxiety, anger management, forgiveness, and codependency—recognizing that these struggles often intersect with workplace dynamics, relationship concerns, and caregiver stress. I believe in meeting you where you are, honoring your values and beliefs as we work together. Whether faith is central to your life or you prefer a secular approach, I'm committed to creating a space that feels authentic and respectful to you. My goal is to support your journey toward greater self-love, emotional clarity, and meaningful connection. I'm here to walk alongside you with honesty, care, and a deep commitment to your growth.

Psychologist Kerry Wischusen providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Kerry Wischusen

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 11318
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCareer difficulties
3 years offering treatment

Hi, I'm Kerry, a Licensed Professional Counselor based in South Carolina. I'm glad you're here. A lot of people come to therapy carrying more than they realize. My work is grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and over years of practice I've come to understand acceptance as something built through three connected skills. Presence is the ability to stay grounded in the here and now, with a workable relationship to the thoughts that try to pull you elsewhere. Ease is the practice of intentionally calming an overactivated nervous system, not by avoiding what's hard, but by learning your body's own pathways back to steadiness. Compassion is a warmth toward your own difficulty rather than a war against it. I bring two lenses to this work. I'm trained in mindfulness meditation and yoga, so I understand contemplative practice from the inside, as a lived discipline and not just a technique to hand someone. I also stay closely connected to the neuroscience of emotional regulation and behavior change, so the support I offer holds both the science and the felt experience of being human. Above all, I'm a deep listener. Before we get to tools or frameworks, I want to understand you: your patterns, your history, what "hard" actually feels like in your body and your day. Good therapy is built on that kind of attention. If you're navigating anxiety, emotional dysregulation, relationship difficulty, or a persistent sense of being disconnected from yourself, I'd be glad to work alongside you.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Charleston, South Carolina

Finding a therapist near you in Charleston, South Carolina starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. South Carolina is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you. 

The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In South Carolina, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.

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 can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.

Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in South Carolina

Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In South Carolina, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.

Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in South Carolina

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. 

You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in South Carolina

BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in South Carolina through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.

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 Charleston.

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 near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

Is online therapy effective?

Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.

How quickly can I start therapy?

You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.

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 discreet?

Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.

Find a Therapist in Charleston, South Carolina

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Charleston and the surrounding SC area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

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