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Melanie Hendricks

Offering therapy in SC
License: LISW-CP, ACSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
23 years of experience

Hi and welcome to BetterHelp! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LISW-CP, or Licensed Independent Social Worker-Clinical Practice, in the state of South Carolina) and a member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers. I have over twenty years of experience working extensively in outpatient mental health settings providing services to children, adolescents, families, and adults who are experiencing a wide range of mental health issues from adjustment disorders to serious and persistent mental illness. I also have significant experience and expertise in the areas of intimacy problems and sexual disorders; it is my belief that every adult has a right to a fulfilling and healthy sex life, and as such, it is a crucial component of our identities that may be discounted or overlooked in assessments of our emotional and physical well-being. I have worked successfully with individuals experiencing many types of these particular concerns, from compulsive sexual behavior and pornography addiction to painful intercourse and sexual dissatisfaction. I am a Fellow of the Association for the Treatment of Sexual Abusers, an international organization aimed at prevention of sexual abuse and the treatment of/research on those who abuse. With me, you will find no judgment or awkward pauses about whatever issues you are experiencing! Additionally, I have worked with countless survivors of sexual abuse and other traumas and am a nationally rostered trauma clinician; I have significant experience working with those managing PTSD, depression, and relationship/intimacy issues as a result of past sexual trauma or interpersonal violence. With my diverse clinical background and easy-going but caring, concerned, and direct style, I am confident that no matter what is troubling you, we can work together to ensure you become your best self! Although I utilize a variety of approaches depending on the issues and needs of those with whom I am working, I tend to rely most on two core theoretical frameworks. I often approach therapy from a cognitive-behavioral perspective, which entails (to put it simply) looking at thoughts and feelings and how they result in behaviors. When experiencing difficulty in your life, it is very likely that underlying faulty core beliefs are keeping you from achieving the emotional health and stability you desire; therefore, we will work on reframing and restructuring your negative thoughts and patterns into more positive, adaptive ones. In addition, I utilize a systems approach in conceptualizing your issues; in doing so, we will look at your role in each of the systems in which you interact to facilitate change. By gaining insight into the system of overlapping and intertwining relationships (i.e., the systems) in your life, you will reach a better understanding of your patterns of behavior and how to change those that are not working for you. No matter how we approach your identified needs, know that I am very passionate about my work helping others and it is my goal to provide you a therapy experience where you will feel heard, respected, and valued. Your feedback is crucial to our therapeutic relationship and remember, you are the key to your own success! I simply am going to help you open the door. I look forward to exploring the ways in which I can assist you in attaining your goals. Let’s get started today—you can do this!! And I’ll be with you every step of the way.

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Dr. April Bennett

Offering therapy in SC
License: Psy.D.
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersAnger managementDepression
16 years of experience

Hello I thank you for the opportunity to work with you. I have experience in providing psychotherapy for individuals, couples, families and groups. More specifically, I am certified in providing evidence-based psychotherapy for trauma, PTSD, depression and insomnia. I predominantly utilize a Cognitive Behavioral approach, but I also draw from my training in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, delineating the familial origins of issues; Health Psychology, clarifying the connection between the physical body and emotions; Solution Focused Psychotherapy, identifying existing strengths and coping skills; and Gestalt/Existential psychotherapy, making meaning out of loss/suffering.

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Kimberly Searcy

Offering therapy in SC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

Greetings, My name is Kimberly Searcy. I am a licensed clinical social worker, licensed in North Carolina and South Carolina, with over 10 years of experience working as a therapeutic coach and empowered living facilitator. I have worked with clients with various challenges, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, divorce, and life changes. I also work with adult survivors of toxic parents to help them break the cycle of toxicity in their lives. My mission is to equip the individuals I serve with the tools necessary to connect heart and soul, to achieve inner healing, self-actualization, and purpose. I can help you define where you are, understand how you got here, and create a plan to move you forward. If you're ready to step into your courage, face and conquer some difficult places in your life, let's do it together. I look forward to working with you!

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Deidre McLeod

Offering therapy in SC
License: LMHC ,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionADHD
15 years of experience

I am a mental health therapist licensed in Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia with 20 years of experience. I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, trauma, and ADHD. I specialize in trauma informed therapy and have helped many people who have experienced trauma, abuse or sexual assault. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic and trauma informed therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I believe that as individuals we are holistic beings with physical, mental and spiritual needs. We will encompass all of these dynamics in our sessions together to ensure your holistic healing and wellbeing. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards 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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Naterea Holley

Offering therapy in SC
License: LISW-CP,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
6 years of experience

“Everything that has breath, has purpose” My name is Naterea Holley, LCSW. Through a person-centered approach, I thrive in assisting people to address their areas of concern. You are the expert in you, and I use my skillset, experience, and knowledge base that I have acquired as a young clinical professional in the past 5 years to work with you. I can personally identify to the struggles and difficulties that can occur while navigating the modern world in regard to finances, relationships, and finding your purpose. I am a licensed clinical therapist in both North and South Carolina. I hold a master’s in social work from the University of South Carolina and spent majority of my career linking those with limited resources and support to services that offer them a better way of life. I have had the honor of working with adults, youth and families who have had difficulties with life's stressors dealing with relationships, trauma, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety and other concerns (direct client contact exceeds 6,000 hours). In my 5 year of clinical experience, I provided individual, group, and family therapy. I utilize a combination of theoretical approaches, including, solution focus, cognitive-behavioral , mindfulness and reality therapies. My goal is to collaborate with you to meet you where you are at. I specialize in the following areas, however, this list is not exhaustive, if you have a question please reach out. • Anxiety (social, generalized) • Bipolar & Depressive & Other Mood Disturbances • Psychosis ( including auditory/ visual hallucinations) • Adjustment Issues • Trauma & Stress Related Concerns • Substance Use • Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity • Anger/ Control Concerns • Problems related to family/interpersonal relationships I look forward to accompanying you on your journey to a healthier, happier 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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Christine Schaub

Offering therapy in SC
Trauma and abuse
7 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress to trauma and everything in-between. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts, feelings, and topics of faith can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.

This is Hope Buncum's avatar and link to their profile

Hope Buncum

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder. 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.

This is Robin Grace's avatar and link to their profile

Robin Grace

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

This is Alexandra "Alex" Dow's avatar and link to their profile

Alexandra "Alex" Dow

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issues
10 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina and South Carolina with 10+ years of professional counseling experience. I have worked in a variety of settings with a diverse client base, including children, adolescents, parents, singles, couples, blended families, and more. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I strongly favor therapeutic modalities that create immediate relief and powerful, lasting change. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and 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!

How to find counseling in New Ellenton

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed New Ellenton 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 New Ellenton 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 New Ellenton 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 New Ellenton, 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 New Ellenton 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 New Ellenton 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 New Ellenton 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 New Ellenton 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 New Ellenton 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 29803 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 New Ellenton 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 New Ellenton 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 New Ellenton, 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.

New Ellenton 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 New Ellenton.

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

29803, 29809

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