This is Dr. Damien Johnson's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Damien Johnson

Offering therapy in SC
License: PhD, MA, LPC, LCMHC, LAC, LCAS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
17 years of experience

Greetings! My name is Dr. Damien Johnson and I am a counseling professional with over 17 years of experience in helping individuals manage presenting symptoms and difficulties using an eclectic style of therapy focusing on the connection between thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I have a B.S. Degree in Criminal Justice, a M.A. in Counseling and a Ph.D. in Human Services and am credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and a Licensed Addictions Counselor in South Carolina. I am also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist in North Carolina. I own a private counseling and community outreach agency specializing in mental health and substance abuse/co-occurring disorders. My counseling style is warm and engaging. I believe in a person centered approach to counseling that allows me to meet the client where they are as we work towards specified goals. I believe in the collaborative process of counseling that focuses on clients' strength to assist in overcoming deficits that may impede optimum functioning. My theoretical orientation of choice is Cognitive Behavior Therapy, which focuses on the connection between thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors. I also use Mindfulness and NLP principles to help guide clients effectively. This is an important step in your journey towards healing and I will do my best to assist you in reaching your counseling goals. SPECIALTIES Emotional Management (Depression, Anxiety, Anger) Mood Disorders Substance Use Disorders Trauma Services Offered Messaging Live Chat Phone Video

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Laura Zabel

Offering therapy in SC
License: LISW-CP
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

Greetings!!! My name is Laura Z. and my passion in life is empowering and guiding people through their own therapeutic journey, to find happiness, peace, and a better quality of life. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (Clinical Practice) in the State of South Carolina with over 8 years of experience as a clinician in a variety of settings, where I have worked with individuals, families, and facilitated psycho-educational and recreational groups. I have experience working with people of all populations, from children to seniors, with varying degrees of mental illnesses. My character is empathetic, down-to-earth, and honest. Clients have reported that I am approachable yet professional, which makes others feel at ease especially when delving into sensitive trauma histories. That said, I am straight-forward and genuine. I enjoy working with an integrative therapy style, incorporating elements from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Problem-Solving Therapy, to name a few. I especially like to empower clients to take back their power and control over their lives, develop boundaries, and accomplish their therapeutic goals. It is my hope that I can meet you where you are in your journey, to encourage and guide you toward positive change. I do not believe therapy looks the same for everyone, so I am happy to work with you on a plan that will meet your needs. It is time to make strides toward feeling better and feeling more content in and with your life. I look forward to working with you, Laura Z.

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Tanya Smith

Offering therapy in SC
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of South Carolina with over 10 years of experience working as a mentor, therapist, and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. 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 rational-emotive 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!

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Dawnavese Sadler

Offering therapy in SC
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Dawn Sadler is dedicated to providing those in need with the highest quaility of mental health, relationship & life care. Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Relational Conflict, Marital Discord and Anger Management are a few of the areas Dawn is equipped to help clients navigate toward wellness. Please don't hesitate to reach out and begin your healing journey.

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Jeffrey Gayken

Offering therapy in SC
License: LPC,ADC,NCC
AddictionsFamily conflicts
8 years of experience

I offer a wide variety of counseling, assessment, clinical supervision, and consultation services, and employ a variety of therapy techniques tailored to your specific needs. My style of therapy usually includes some form of homework aimed at maximizing your therapy dollar! One of my underlying beliefs is that… “the problem is not the problem — it is actually a symptom of what really is the problem.” I will work with you to enhance your strengths and abilities so as to address the symptoms that are adversely affecting your life. Most issues that bring people into therapy stem from grief and loss, whether through traumatic circumstances or otherwise. I specialize in working with folks who are coping with life in ways that are NOT healthy for them, and work on assisting them in learning new ways of improving the quality of their lives. Another way to think of this is… “harmful behaviors are not the problem –it’s really why you are driven to engage in these troublesome behaviors that is the real problem.” The work that needs to be done centers around finding effective alternatives to help deal with the distressing circumstances you are facing. I work on identifying your strengths and aim at maximizing those strengths for positive change.

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Monika Scott-Rogers

Offering therapy in SC
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

There are times when our past can creep up into our present and take charge. Doing the best we can with the skills we have, we attempt to triumph over pain, heartache, trauma, fears, etc. However, there are times when we feel broken no matter how hard we try to put the pieces back together. Although we cannot change the past, we can put the pieces back together and still be beautiful; different yet beautiful. I like to think of therapy like the art of kintsugi, putting our broken pieces back together with a gold bond. I hope to offer you a space to process thoughts and to add to your current toolbox of coping skills. Practicing since 2010, I am trained in various evidenced based practices. I believe that treatment needs to be individualized in order to focus on the whole of the person (the individual and the systems (i.e., family, peers, etc.) that surround that person). There is a passion to provide a service to those who are in need and desire to be a willing participant in their wellbeing. I hope to be a service where you feel that you can heal, grow and learn.

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Jarene Moore

Offering therapy in SC
License: NCC,LPC,LPC/S
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

I am licensed as a Professional Counselor (LPC) and Counselor Supervisor (LPC/S) in South Carolina, and a Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Maine. I currently have 40 years in the field. My mission is to help you achieve your optimal functioning and direction in life. I want you to realize your tremendous potential, and celebrate the wonderful possibilities your life holds. If you are going through a period of transition or loss, dealing with feelings of depression, anxiety, self-doubt, or relationship concerns, you have the opportunity for growth and fulfillment. It is not easy to ask for help, but taking this important step will give you the tools, information and resources to thrive. I will help you tap into your key strengths, and overcome obstacles. We will explore thoughts, feelings and behaviors that contribute to distress and dissatisfaction (mental, physical and emotional distress provide important clues). Positive change occurs by practicing new skills with awareness and encouragement. You will become your own best detective and advocate over time. You will also come to appreciate your unique contribution to others.

This is Martrell Kelly John's avatar and link to their profile

Martrell Kelly John

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
6 years of experience

At times life experiences are overwhelming, compromising, and/or traumatizing. No life is without challenges or cookie cut. This can include physical/mental illness or disability, severed relationships or divorce, death, abuse, assault, or accidents. Challenges may occur from simply trying to manage expectations, performance demands, self-confidence, or self-identity. I am passionate about helping individuals grow through challenging experiences. I have over ten years of experience engaging with families, children, adolescents, and adults in behavioral/mental health, hospice, bereavement, foster care, adoption, disability, and educational settings. It is my belief that every individual has unique strengths and resiliency. By utilizing a holistic and diverse approach, together, we can navigate the process of adjustment, exploring, and learning techniques that are specific to your needs in a safe, caring, and non-judgmental environment. My goal is to help you achieve emotional and mental wellness and increased awareness of your needs and values for an improved daily functioning and meaningful life.

This is Ruby Gordon's avatar and link to their profile

Ruby Gordon

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Rodney Sturgis 's avatar and link to their profile

Rodney Sturgis

Offering therapy in SC
AddictionsRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 5 years of professional work experience with 17 years of addictions. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find counseling in Elgin

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Elgin 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 Elgin 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 Elgin 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 Elgin, 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 Elgin 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 Elgin 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 Elgin 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 Elgin 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 Elgin 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 29045 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 Elgin 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 Elgin 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 Elgin, 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.

Elgin 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Elgin.

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

29045

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