When you're mentally unwell, it can feel like you're in a town with rude people. Your mind is giving you doubts, unwarranted criticisms, and other insults that bring you down. When you feel like no one cares, who can you turn to? A counselor based in Charleston may be the answer you're looking for. 

Charleston is known for its hospitable people. In life, having friendly people to love and support you can be the key for success. A counselor can be that hospitable person who goes above and beyond to help you. Speak to a counselor today and see how they can help. 

This is Shawn Tyras's avatar and link to their profile

Shawn Tyras

Offering therapy in SC
License: MA, LPC,BC-TMH
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

Welcome! Have you had recent changes to your life or struggling with ongoing mental health issues? Maybe your adolescent is experiencing mood changes, behavioral issues or anxiety. I applaud you for searching for support and I believe that you have come to the right place. It takes courage to seek out counseling and share personal thoughts to get to the live you want. I want to walk beside you where ever you are at this time and help you reach your goals. Here is a little about me and how I plan to support you: I have a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Webster University (2014) and am a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina and Maine. After graduating, I began my career in a community Mental Health Clinic and have worked with children, teens and young adults predominately, but have some older patients that I also love working with. In addition, I work in the On-Crisis portion of this agency. Some of the therapies I use are DBT, CBT, EMDR and Motivational Therapy depending on the client's need. When it comes to small children I do utilize some art and game activities to help them move forward towards their goals and build on their strengths. The clients that I have worked with range from those with depression, anxiety, bipolar, borderline personality disorder, self esteem and trauma issues and celebrate with them as they reached goal after goal. My therapeutic style involves helping you to arrive at insight, strategies, and tools that you can begin using immediately to make positive change in your life. Sometimes we can just sit and talk and when it is needed I love to provide concrete tools wherever possible and help you to have a plan for the following days before our next session, if that is the pace you would like to move at. Most importantly, we are going to make sure we are making progress on goals that you have for yourself. I will be there to guide you, encourage you, possibly even challenge you if I feel you are unknowingly allowing obstacles to stand in your way. You may find it helpful to know that I have a lot of experience being the client in a counseling relationship and I was very nervous at first and need to know that the therapist/counselor was nonjudgmental and I would feel validated and understood when I shared things that I would never share outside of that office. People need to feel that their therapist/counselor treats them as they would expect to be treated if they were on the other side. If this is the kind of relationship you would like to have with your counselor, you’ve come to the right place.

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Joye Hilton

Offering therapy in SC
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am Licensed Professional Counselor South Carolina (2018) with over 11 years of clinical experience in the mental health arena. My clinical interests lie in the area of marriage and family dynamics, including marriage, divorce, adoption, foster families, and blended families. I am also experienced working with disorders seen in childhood and adolescence such as ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and other mood-related disorders. In recent years, I have done some work with trauma survivors who want to regain control of their life. I do work with teens and young adults who identify as LGBTQIA+. I obtained my BS degree in Psychology in 2005 from Fayetteville State University and MA in Counseling in 2009 from Webster University. With my educational background combined with clinical experience working with diverse populations in many different settings, I feel that I can assist patients from different backgrounds navigate through life.

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Dr. Patricia Frisch

Offering therapy in SC
License: M.A., Ph.D., LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

Hello! I am a mental health and spirituality counselor, licensed in South Carolina with seventeen years in practice. My unique approach to counseling combines Positive Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Emotion-Focused Therapy (ET). I completed an NBCC-approved forty-six CEU course in Applied Positive Psychology, and I have worked with clients from ages three to senior citizens. I earned an MA from LaSalle University and a Ph.D. from Loyola University in Maryland, both in mental counseling and spirituality. During my Ph.D. studies, I secured an Externship at the Duke University Medical Center. The first requirement for counseling is that the client feels safe in an environment that enables positive motion toward improving their quality of life. I have unconditional acceptance for my clients within this positive environment. Solutions to our puzzling problems are often right in front of us. However, emotions such as anxiety and depression can block us from accessing the answers we long to find. I assist my clients in increasing self-awareness of their feelings until they are comfortable enough to become relaxed and peaceful. The clients' self-confidence grows, and they share their thoughts, new perceptions, and ways they may want to change behaviors. I look forward to working with you! Patricia F Frisch, M.A., Ph.D., LPC

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Andrew Michaels

Offering therapy in SC
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementDepression
20 years of experience

I have thirty years experience in the mental health field. I have extensive knowledge and experience working with people suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, OCD, trauma, PTSD, domestic violence, complicated grief and relationship issues. I also work with LGBTQ+ population around the issues of sexual identity, relationship issues and coming out to famililes and peers. For 17 years I have worked in a day treatment program where I provided individual, group and family counseling targeting clients suffering with range of issues from ADHD , physical/sexual abuse and substance abuse. I am currently devoted to clients suffering from Schizophrenia, Schizo-Affective Disorders and Major Depression where I provide them with psychoeducation regarding , symptomatology, and connecting them to community services to optimize their functioning in the community. I am a highly trained clinician who enjoys working with a multicultural population where I treat all my clients with sensitivity and respect. I incorporate a vast range of clinical interventions into my practice: CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Person-Centered, Anger Management, Relaxation Training and Psychoanalytic Treatment. Listening to others in a caring and empathetic manner has been crucial in my ability to develop trusting relationships with others. I maintain a nonjudgmental stance with awareness of one's cultural beliefs and values and provide an atmosphere where one has the ability to cope through difficult times within their lives. Being able to reach for help is a crucial step in your decision to make a change in your life. Regardless what comes across in our lives, we have the ability to choose one’s way, to challenge ourselves through our struggles and become stronger individuals. I am looking forward to working with you.

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Kiana Thomas

Offering therapy in SC
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
5 years of experience

I am a graduate of the University of South Carolina with a bachelor’s degree in Experimental Psychology and a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from South University.. I have worked in both private practice and public agencies. I enjoy utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Therapy as I help individuals overcome their challenges and accomplish their goals. I find joy in providing individuals and couples a safe and therapeutic atmosphere. I work with individuals who are trying to navigate stress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, interpersonal challenges, and relationship issues.

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Marika Dillard

Offering therapy in SC
License: LISW-CP
Stress, Anxiety
5 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 5 years of professional therapy work experience. I previously worked in education, where I have vast experience with children, families, and navigating relationships. I also have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety. 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. We will be using those strengths to assist in forming coping strategies and other tools that you can utilize. 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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This is Terri Evans's avatar and link to their profile

Terri Evans

Offering therapy in SC
License: LPC,CPCS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am an energetic, efficient Licensed Professional Counselor for both GA and SC. I have experience working in outpatient, inpatient, community, addictions, and virtual settings. I have worked in the counseling arena for the past 13 years. I've had the opportunity to work with individuals from all walks of life whom are aiming to either make a change or "be the change". It is my belief that being compliant, building rapport and partnering with the client, allows for better identification and a "buy in" of resolutions. I incorporate a client centered approach, which enables me to build the necessary rapport to make the therapeutic process less intimidating for the clients to define goals and work towards the achievement of those identified goals. My compassion and empathetic demeanor encourages the client to discuss their deepest emotions and experiences. My self-less attitude allows me to meet the client “where they are at”, providing a safe space free from judgment, but instead providing respect, transparency and genuineness. One of my favorite theoretical orientations is DBT, as I believe that people as a whole are doing the best they can, and with the practice of mindfulness, we can all manage stress, and better cope with serious illness, anxiety and depression.

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Jordan Azar Adams

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, ADHD, parenting issues, anger management, & 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Corey Riley

Offering therapy in SC
LGBTFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionADHD
5 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with LGBTQ+ related issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, & depression. I believe in building a strong counseling relationship as our primary means of finding resolution to your concerns.

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This is Sarah Adeyinka-Skold's avatar and link to their profile

Sarah Adeyinka-Skold

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania and South Carolina with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find counseling in Charleston

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston, 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 Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston 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 29413 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 Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston, 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.

Charleston 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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Charleston.

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

29401, 29402, 29403, 29407, 29409, 29412, 29413, 29414, 29415, 29416, 29417, 29422, 29424, 29425, 29455, 29457, 29492

Popular cities near Charleston, SC

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