David West
Welcome! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of South Carolina. I received my master's degree in social work with a speciality in working with adults and families from The University of Alabama in 2012. I've worked in both outpatient clinic settings as well as inpatient hospital settings for the VA hospital system and in community mental health. For the past 2 years I have coordinated a college outreach/counseling program which has extended my clinical experience to not only adults with families, but young adults as well. During my professional career I have had the opportunity to work with individuals experiencing difficulties in a wide variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, grief, as well as relationship issues and family turmoil. While my primary position has been working with veterans I have also had the opportunity to work with teens as well in various settings. I've served on multiple committees related to the development and implementation of treatment methods and I believe I have a good understanding of the most effective treatment options for a variety of emotional struggles. My treatment approach starts with helping the individuals I work with establish a good comfort level with me. I believe that showing my clients they have my unconditional positive regard and respect is the best way to begin a trusting and healthy treatment relationship. It is important to me to help those individuals I work with begin to identify positives about themselves and utilize these strengths to begin to overcome the struggles and barriers life has given them. I am certified in various treatment modalities that provide me with the ability to treat multiple issues in ways that result in proven success. I make an effort to be warm and open with those I work with in hopes that the environment is as welcoming as possible and fosters good/positive dialogue each and every session. It is important to me that my clients feel we are progressing toward better emotional stability so I will always ensure clear goals and guidelines are established by the client to guide us along our journey together. What is most important to me as a provider is that the client has as much control as possible in the treatment setting. It is not for me to decide what another person's treatment goals should be; I fully believe in patient centered care. In terms of availability, I check and respond to messages multiple times daily. I am available for sessions at nearly any time between 8am-6pm during week days, but can absolutely work with later appointment times or weekends if this is what works best for clients. I completely understand that jobs, family, and other life issues can get in the way of scheduling appointments during "regular hours" so I want to do all I can to provide the help needed whenever it is needed. I look forward to working with you!
Kevin Cooksey
Kevin Cooksey earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of South Carolina-Upstate in Research Psychology with a minor in Conflict Resolution. He has a Master's Degree from Liberty University in Marriage and Family Therapy and is currently working on his Ph.D. Kevin is certified by the American Association of Christian Counselors in Stress & Trauma Care with Military Application and in Sexual Addiction Counseling. Kevin has also been certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) through the Medical University of South Carolina. This training is to help children ages 5-18 that have been impacted by some type of trauma experience. He is licensed by the State of South Carolina as a Marriage and Family Therapist - LMFT. Kevin is also certified as a SYMBIS Assessment Facilitator. This is an assessment and counseling certification to help couples start their marriage off Right. It is a tool to educate and give couples the needed skill sets to have a successful marriage relationship. Kevin is a Member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and the American Association of Christian Counselors Family Builders Counseling Services offers a full line of counseling services. Kevin is currently a State Supervisor in Training
Elasha Leary
My name is Elasha Leary, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC) with the state of South Carolina. I am also a certified Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF). I have seven years of experience working in the school system as a school-based counselor before transitioning to the adult services. I have experience working with individuals, and families- adolescents, teenagers and adults suffering from a serious mental illness to include but not limited to depression/mood disorders, anxiety, trauma/abuse, family conflict, relationships issues, self-harming, suicidal ideations, and grief and loss. I have done work involving career path, self-esteem, coping skills, life transitions, and much more. My therapy style includes but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Strength-Based, Crisis Intervention, Psychoeducation, Person-Centered and Motivational Interviewing. I look forward to working with you to create the life you deserve!
Abreia Epps
I am a licensed professional counselor, and I have been providing individual and family therapy for the past 4 years. I graduated from the University of South Carolina with my counseling education specialist degree with a concentration with couples and families. My approach is Emotional focused and Attachment, and systemic based. I focus on emotions and attachments that individuals have and continue to experience. I work through emotions with my clients and help them find their sense of self, vulnerability, and emotional balance. I help the individual understand their experiences and feelings that they have, and I sit in those moments and process and grow with them. I validate, I normalize and I walk alongside my clients as we process together the emotion and experiences that have caused anxiety, trauma, depression, relationship problems exc. I am here to provide a service to individuals who are seeking growth, because they have been stuck in the same place for so long. Maybe you understand why, maybe you don't. Together we will get you out of that stuck place so you can grow and be whomever you want to be, and seek positive and healthy relationships in your life.
Cynthia Kirkland
I am a licensed counselor with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have helped clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. 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. I work with teens, adults and couples. 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 using a Christian perspective.
Stephanie Gore
I am licensed in South Carolina with years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Amy Cantley
I am licensed in South Carolina with 28 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 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.
Chelsia Allison
I am licensed in South Carolina with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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.
Susan Strader
Hi, my name is Susan. I am licensed in South Carolina and Arkansas with 6 years of professional work experience working with adults, adolescents, and children. Before the 6 years since receiving my licensure, I have worked with a wide range of individuals in different capacities (Higher Education and Applied Behavioral Therapy). I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence building. My education stems from a faith-based approach, but believe in meeting people where they are. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I look forward to serving you.
Andrew Sone
I am licensed in Florida, Georgia and South Carolina with 25 years of professional work experience. I am also a Minister within the Christian Faith. My areas of expertise are in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Brief Psychoanalysis, and when requested Faith Based Christian Counseling. Please contact me if you would like to schedule a time for us to connect. Better Help give you the option to have scheduled session either by: 1, face-to-face video 2, voice internet phone 3, or keyboard chat I believe you are the expert of your story and have many God-given strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Edisto Beach
Finding the best therapist close by in Edisto Beach 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 in Edisto Beach that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Edisto Beach. 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 Edisto Beach, 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 in the Edisto Beach region and in the state of South Carolina. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Edisto Beach or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Edisto Beach area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find Edisto Beach 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 Edisto Beach, elsewhere in Colleton, or in the greater state of South Carolina.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Edisto Beach area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Edisto Beach 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 Edisto Beach 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 Edisto Beach 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 a BetterHelp therapist 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). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.
How is a licensed therapist on this Edisto Beach online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Edisto Beach, 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 Edisto Beach psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
How does working with a professional 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, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Edisto Beach 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 Edisto Beach helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified Edisto Beach 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 - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
- EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
- Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
- Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
- Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
- Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
- Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
- Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
- Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
- Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
- Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
- Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
- OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
- ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
- Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
- 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 Edisto Beach 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 in Edisto Beach?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Edisto Beach 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.
Edisto Beach therapists 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 Edisto Beach 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 Edisto Beach 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 psychotherapist.
With a lot of people in SC, therapists 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 29438 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Edisto Beach counselor?
Before seeing your Edisto Beach 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 while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Edisto Beach.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. A Edisto Beach 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 with a Edisto Beach counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.
Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?
Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Edisto Beach, 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.
Edisto Beach 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 during telehealth appointments?
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 for Edisto Beach, South Carolina
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 to customer service 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 Edisto Beach:
29438