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.

This is Michael Pfisterer's avatar and link to their profile

Michael Pfisterer

Offering therapy in SC
License: LCSW,LISW CP
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepression
12 years of experience

I look to help you identify your strengths and utilize them so that you can achieve your desired outcomes. My approach is to utilize multidimensional psychodynamic tools based upon your life course and inherent difficulties. In conjunction with the client, goals will be developed and guidance will be provided in order to achieve the optimal short term gains and long term objectives. Change is achieved through solution focused and task based theories to help achieve change. These tools can be particularly helpful for those coping with negative thought patterns, depression, anxiety, developmental differences, executive functioning difficulties and challenges associated with trauma and transitions. My practice has entailed work with a wide variety of individuals and focused upon the needs of each person. I have also engaged in practice with individuals with autism, those impacted by a wide range of environmental challenges as well as those having difficulty making life transitions. I have also participated in family based crisis management, helped families develop a range of techniques to improve relationships with their significant others and acted as a conduit between family members coping with trauma. I live with my wife, daughters and two dogs and have a passion for helping others. I look forward to getting to know you and helping you have your aspirations align with your actions!

This is Terry Massey's avatar and link to their profile

Terry Massey

Offering therapy in SC
License: CRTC, LCSW, LISW-CP, CCSOTS, LPHA,Forensic Psychotherapist
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

Thank you for checking out my profile! My name is Terry L. Massey and I graduated from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 1996 with a B.A. in Psychology. In 1997, I began studying with the International Association for Applied Control Theory, and after completing an advanced two-year program, was certified in the counseling techniques known as Applied Control Theory (more commonly linked to Reality Therapy). In that same year (1999) I was accepted into the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Social Work Program (with a concentration in Clinical Direct Services to Children and Families) and was honored in 2000 as the first recipient of the UNCSSW Social Justice Award. In 2002, I completed my graduate studies and earned my MSW, with 75% of my work at the Honors level. I have worked in the mental health and early childhood fields since 1994 (Charter Pines, American Daylight Treatment, Volunteers of America, Thompson Children’s Home, and United Family Services) and continue to practice as an Individual, Couple, Family and Group Psychotherapist. I have worked with a diverse population set, with ages ranging from four through adulthood, and continue to attend various trainings on a routine basis to ensure that I am offering professional and competent support to clients. My practices are rooted primarily in the Cognitive Behavioral, Rational Emotive, Family and Systems, and Existential approaches to Psychotherapy. I am licensed in both North and South Carolina (LCSW and LISW-CP), hold an internationally recognized certification in Applied Control Theory, and is certified nationally as a Clinically Certified Sex Offender Treatment Specialist (CCSOTS) through the National Association of Forensic Counselors and the American Academy of Certified Forensic Counselors (accredited through the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, the accreditation commission of the National Organization for Competency Assurance). I have chaired the University of North Carolina at Charlotte Social Work Community Advisory Board and serve as a consulting advisor for local mental health agencies providing Community Support Team and Intensive In-Home Services. I am recognized nationally as Clinical Supervisor (certified through the National Association of Social Workers) and provide routine supervision to both LCSW-A and LPC-A practitioners. In addition, I provide Clinical Supervision to Master’s level students through internship in various clinical agencies, including the C.W. Williams Community Health Center, where I served as the Director of Behavioral Health Services for many years. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship between the psychotherapist and the client is a partnership through which the conditions for change are created in a holistic environment. I use multiple approaches to help a client system make a connection to their own strengths that will give them the resources to meet their challenges with more success. I am a firm believer in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, and I especially love working with systems from the Experiential and Existential approaches to psychotherapy. I believe that change is constant and should be embraced and as we reinvent ourselves in healthy ways, we re-create our lives. As we re-create our lives, we learn to respect and embrace change to continually reinvent ourselves. It's an awesome cycle, isn’t? That is my concept of healthy movement in human development. In essence, my approach to providing services is for the client to eventually not "need" me, but for them to move through the change process where I can transition from being the "emergency mechanic" to the "tune up guy". A few of my specialties are: Stress, Anxiety Family conflicts Anger management Self-Esteem and Self-Image Depression I'm also highly experienced in: Coping with life changes Abandonment issues Aging Issues Codependency Communication challenges Family challenges Impulsivity issues Clinical approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT) Motivational Interviewing Narrative Therapy Solution-Focused Therapy Experiential Therapy Existential Therapy Years of Experience: 23

This is Angela Bowser's avatar and link to their profile

Angela Bowser

Offering therapy in SC
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
4 years of experience

I am a solution based therapist in South Carolina. I have worked as a counselor for 3 years with ages ranging between 7-60. I have worked with individuals, families, and groups experiencing a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression and life changes, I am a certified trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapist rostered in South Carolina. My therapy is person centered, warm and validating. My approach combines cognitive behavioral and solution based therapy. I will focus on your needs and treatment goals at each session. It takes bravery to ask for support toward a happier more fulfilled life. You are taking that brave step and I am here to encourage you along your journey. Can’t wait to meet you!

This is Lois Durrah's avatar and link to their profile

Lois Durrah

Offering therapy in SC
License: L,P,C
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCareer difficulties
3 years of experience

My name is Lois R. Durrah and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor residing in Spartanburg, SC. I was drawn to the helping profession through my love for helping others. Seeing others recognize their full potential and live the most meaningful and fulfilling life possible is amazing. I have an intrinsic drive to help others realize the possibilities of a purposeful life by working with them to reconsider how they think, speak and live. Seeing dreams come to fruition is a driving force and brings me tremendous satisfaction. I approach clients from a person-centered solution focused approach with inclusive cognitive behavioral therapy strategies. My goal is to serve others and truly make a difference as I walk alongside them to navigate life’s many challenges and discover peace. Currently, and for the past 30 plus years, I have worked with a non profit organization that provides an array of services and supports to persons with disabilities. Working in this profession has taught me the value of maximizing every opportunity and discovering what else life has to offer beyond obstacles. Life and career experiences have afforded me a wealth of empathy for the need to embrace emotional healing and live a life free of strife. I am passionate about family and enjoy being the wife, mom and Mimi to my beautiful gifts. I graduated from the University of South Carolina Spartanburg with a Bachelors in Psychology. I went on to Liberty University with dual Masters degrees in Professional Counseling and Human Services-Executive Leadership. I am a Nationally Certified Counselor through the National Board of Certified Counselors. I am a licensed minister and am certified in Principles of Servant Leadership. I am also a Certified Advanced Grief Counseling's Specialist. My interactions are warm and encouraging. I believe life brings enough challenges and having a welcoming haven to share, process and grow is essential to the healing process. Specialties: Anxiety Depression Self-Esteem Coping with Life Challenges Grief License: SC 8139 (exp 8/31/2025)

This is Rhonda Cox's avatar and link to their profile

Rhonda Cox

Offering therapy in SC
License: LPC, CAC_III, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
19 years of experience

Hello and thank you so much for taking the 1st step in enhancing your life, it takes much courage to be here! There are a few things you may want to know about my approach, along with those things you may inquire on about the person they will be trusting while you embark on your journey to better health. I have been practicing mental health since 1999 from a psychiatric units, out patient community mental health centers and actively in practice from my solely owned private office (established 2013). After being a non-traditional student (started higher education later in life) I have enjoyed this 20 year experience of support encouragement and gentle guidance through non-judgmental, unbiased care. With my range of experience and diversity of clientele, It has been my pleasure to witness the positive outcomes clients have had through the practices of; CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), SFBT (Solution Focused Brief Therapy) and Client Centered therapy all of which are evidenced based best outcome practices. In working with my clients I have had the thrill to watch them grow, develop, and enhance their lives and on occasion, return for fine-tuning. It's exciting when treatment goals are achieved and life improves - I invite you to be part of the process of either enhancing your life or perhaps creating a new life that is stronger and more bold with grace, confidence and direction.

This is Shenelle Hanley's avatar and link to their profile

Shenelle Hanley

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 2 years of professional work experience. Master's: I earned my M.A. in Psychology from the University of Arizona Global Campus, formerly known as Ashford University. I completed additional training in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at South University. Bachelor's: I received my B.A. in Psychology from Ashford University. Diverse work experience with teenagers and adults. I help clients work through stress and anxiety, trauma, cope with grief and loss, depression, impulse control issues/anger management, 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 move towards a more fulfilling and happier life. I am here to support and empower you on that journey.

This is Melissa Williams's avatar and link to their profile

Melissa Williams

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Marketa Winfield's avatar and link to their profile

Marketa Winfield

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseEating disordersDepression
3 years of experience

The decision to come to therapy can be scary. There are so many unknowns, especially if you have never done this before. I am here to stand and walk with you through every step of the process of change and healing- It gets better. My goal in my relationship with you is to make sure that you feel safe and comfortable enough to be yourself. I have a passion for working with children and adolescents; ages 10 to 17 with feeding and eating disorders. I welcome adults of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image concerns, anger management, and trauma. You are not alone. It gets better. I look forward to hearing from you. Let's start today.

This is Dr. Jill Calderon's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Jill Calderon

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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 Lamar

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Lamar 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 Lamar 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 Lamar 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 Lamar, 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 Lamar 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 Lamar 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 Lamar 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 Lamar 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 Lamar 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 29069 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 Lamar 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 Lamar 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 Lamar, 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.

Lamar 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 Lamar.

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

29069

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist