This is Whitney O'Connor's avatar and link to their profile

Whitney O'Connor

Offering therapy in SC
License: MA,NCC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Hello there and welcome! I am a licensed professional counselor in South Carolina offering counseling services for adults. I believe that investing in yourself is the best way to better handle the inevitable challenges that come our way and work our way towards happiness. Isn't that what this whole life if about? To be happy? Since obtaining a Master's Degree in Community Counseling in 2012, I have worked with clients seeking help handling and overcoming their depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and family/relationship issues. I have done this in an array of settings including community programs, residential treatment, hospice counseling, and crisis stabilization. I am also a 2x breast cancer survivor and can relate to the mental health challenges that present themselves with medical conditions. I have learned (and relearned) over and over again, this truth: struggle is guaranteed, but success is not. In other words, it is possible to be successful in various areas of our lives (i.e. personal, work, relationships, finances) but if we can't learn how to embrace the inevitable challenges that are going to get in our way, we will not find happiness and healing consistently. Because of this, my goal is to collaborate with my clients by using a humanistic approach. A lot of times, the reasons why we struggle is because we lack clarity and we don't feel purpose in our lives. It is important to me to support my clients in finding clarity so that they can maximize their potential and be their best selves. In order to do this, I utilize solution-focused and cognitive behavioral interventions to help clients work towards their goals and create their ideal life. I believe when clients start to see their own strengths and abilities, they will be able to gain confidence in working towards their own goals and become clear as to what they want for themselves. Through our therapeutic relationship, it is my role to help clients process their emotional "growing pains" that may come up during our time together and develop a plan to ease stress, uncertainty, and personal growth. All of us have our own journeys that we are trying to figure out. The number one thing I have learned being a therapist is that anyone can experience a mental health challenge from time to time, whether we have a mental health diagnosis or not! After all, we are all just humans trying to figure out how to manage everything that's on our plate! Life will always fluctuate between good and difficult seasons. However, I have seen people overcome these seasons by acknowledging their capacity for resiliency and building courage to keep moving forward. Therapy is about exploring the patterns in our life that create these challenges in a safe and supported place. Remember, YOU can do this. WE can do this. I look forward to helping you embrace the inevitable chaos and support you while you move closer and closer to personal fulfillment.

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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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David Pryor

Offering therapy in SC
License: MSSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesDepression
29 years of experience

I am an individual and couples counselor licensed in Indiana with over 23 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, sexuality issues, career issues, couples, veterans issues, and Borderline Personality Disorder. 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. I also believe in being very frank and honest with my clients. I am that therapist that will challenge you and you will never be bored or underwhelmed while in session with me. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, solution focused, brief, and narrative therapy. 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. If for whatever reason you feel that I am not a good match for you, be assured that I will make every effort to find you that connection. I look forward to working with you!

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Nora Black

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

Welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in South Carolina with 6 years of professional experience. I have worked with clients on a wide range of concerns including relationship and family issues, anxiety, depression, and coping with addictions, trauma, and substance use. My therapy style is warm and collaborative. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I take a client-centered, cognitive behavioral approach to therapy and create personalized treatment plans based on your goals. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I applaud you for getting started. If you are ready to take that first step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Susan Strain

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefAnger managementDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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. 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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Angela Greene-Junior

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesAnger managementDepression
13 years of experience

I am licensed in both South and North Carolina with over 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients experiencing depression, stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & anger management along with many other behavioral health related issues. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Mark Forbes

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefAnger managementDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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.

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Dr. Deborah Harris-Sims

Offering therapy in SC
License: LPC,NCC,DMHC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Hello and welcome to the first step toward empowering your life. My name is Dr. Deborah Harris-Sims (I go by Dr. Sims) and I have over 20 years of clinical counseling experience in a variety of settings. My preparation to serve you includes a PhD in Psychology, MS Counseling, MA Behavioral Psychology, and BS in Clinical Psychology. I am licensed by the Washington, DC Board of Health as a Professional Counselor (LPC) and Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) by NBCC. I have spent many years in training to ensure that I am able to provide the most relevant, researched, and solution driven counseling services to you. I have worked with clients exhibiting a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, personality disorders, transitional life changes, military life issues, and caregiver challenges. I have also helped many people who have experienced trauma and emotional abuse. My counseling style is attentive and genuine. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and solution-focused counseling in an environment of holistic growth. I am to provide the support needed to cultivate unconditional respect and open communication. My primary objective is to guide clients toward emotional wellness and peaceful restoration of the soul. I look forward to engaging upon this journey with you. -Dr. Deborah Harris-Sims, NCC, LPC, DMHC

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Bianco Holmon

Offering therapy in SC
License: LCSWS,LCAS-A
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

Hi!! Glad to see you!! My name is Bianco Holmon and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker as well as Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist-Associate. I graduated from Boston University with an MSW in 2014. I have been in the Human Service field for over 21+ years. I counsel on several issues to include substance abuse, dual diagnosis, depression, anxiety, marital discord, domestic violence, self-esteem, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder and anger management issues, to name a few. The treatment approaches that I utilize include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client Centered Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Congratulations on making the decision to take care of yourself!!! I look forward to "speaking" with you and together, working toward a better tomorrow. See you soon!!

This is David Steinman's avatar and link to their profile

David Steinman

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina, Ohio and South Carolina with 3 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 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.

How to find counseling in Johnston

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Johnston 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 Johnston 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 Johnston 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 Johnston, 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 Johnston 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 Johnston 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 Johnston 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 Johnston 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 Johnston 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 29832 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 Johnston 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 Johnston 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 Johnston, 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.

Johnston 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 Johnston.

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

29832

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