This is Amanda Polk's avatar and link to their profile

Amanda Polk

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Pelion
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LISW-CP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

Amanda D. Polk, MSW, LISW-CP is a licensed independent clinician with more than 5 years in the mental health field. Mrs. Polk has a master’s degree in Social Work from Walden University and a bachelor’s degree in Criminology from the University of South Carolina. Mrs. Polk has dedicated her life to the service of others by serving for 25 years in the Army and the South Carolina Army National Guard and is a veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan. In addition, she has served her community as a Guardian Ad Litem for abused and neglected children, and is currently a licensed Therapeutic Foster Parent. She currently works at her Alumni High School as their Senior Army Instructor in the JROTC program. Mrs. Polk is a therapist in the field of mental health and has previously provided in-home therapy services for the South Carolina Youth Advocate Program. Mrs. Polk's specialty is in treating borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, and parenting skills. Mrs. Polk’s treatment approach is set on the foundation of having a therapeutic relationship, to include using theories such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), solution focused, mindfulness, and being patient centered.

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Dr. Diane O'Brien

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Pelion
Counselor License Type(s): PhD,LPC, LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

Do you often find yourself struggling to sort out your thoughts and feelings about events in your life? Have there been times in your life when you have wondered if you have made the right choices or if there are other possibilities for you? We have all experienced life changing experiences that have shaped us into the people we are today. Sometimes, a listening ear is all we need. Other times, more in-depth exploration of thoughts and feelings is needed before you can feel better. Whichever situation fits for you, I am here to help. I have been in practice for over 20 years and have had experience working with a diverse group of individuals, couples, and families. Together, we have explored trauma events and their impact on individuals and families, family relationships, couples’ issues, and depression, anxiety, infidelity, spiritual dilemmas, and other experiences that have an effect on day-to-day living. My experience extends to adults of all ages, including an older population and caregivers. I am open to working with couples who are experiencing issues, particularly in the area of communication. Working with individuals who are in the early stages of dementia or Alzheimer's Disease are a new and interesting population for me. For me, counseling is a passion. Being a counselor is a calling, it encompasses me as a person and as a professional. It is my hope that you will contact me for counseling so that I can be your companion on your journey to a more peaceful and satisfying future.

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Dr. LaShonda Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Pelion
Counselor License Type(s): Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
21 years of experience

I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of experience. I completed my doctoral training in the field of clinical psychology and have worked with clients of all ages who are challenged by a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, school struggles, health problems, and financial stress. I believe all people are deserving of dignity and respect and no one can be defined simply by their struggles. It's my mission to bring mental health care to those who have been reluctant to seek care or have not had means or access. My approach is mostly cognitive-behavioral combined with person-centered and solution-focused features. However, I understand that all clients are individuals, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to counseling. We will work together in finding an approach that is the best fit for your needs. There's no doubt that making personal change can be scary, so congratulate yourself on taking the first step! The journey may not always be easy, but I am here to support you as you build a better you. I look forward to working with you!

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Catherine Mishoe

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Pelion
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
16 years of experience

I am a licensed professional therapist licensed in South Carolina with over 16 years of experience working. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, alternative lifestyle choices, anger management, and impulse control. I have also helped many people who have experienced grief and trauma. In addition, I understand consensual kinks, fetishes, and BDSM and see this as a normal, healthy parts of life. By establishing trust and rapport with me, a kink friendly therapist, we can work through emotional and psychological issues. You can focus on non-kink related and kink related issues, without worrying about explaining terminology or ‘shocking’ me. I am here to help you explore and process your feelings and emotions in a supportive, safe and non-judgmental way. My therapy style is caring and interactive. With sensitivity, compassion, and respect, we will work together to accomplish your goals. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness and rational-emotive therapy. As we build our therapeutic relationship and your goals are discussed, my technique will be catered to reaching those goals. 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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Rhonda Cox

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Pelion
Counselor License Type(s): LPC, CAC_III, LCPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
21 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.

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Jennifer Strickland

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Pelion
Stress, AnxietyGriefCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, career difficulties, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Kayla Ernst

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Pelion
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

Imagine that little voice in your head telling you you're not good enough. That it’s all your fault. Making you relive the worst days of your life. The intrusive thoughts that cause you to question your every movement and tell you to participate in seemingly odd behaviors - or else. Notice how you have tried so hard to make it go away, but you can’t seem to shake the feeling of being stuck. My goal as your therapist is to help YOU run the show. Not your inner dialogue, your past, or your fears. I specialize in IFS, guiding clients to reconnect with and nurture their wounded parts in a safe environment. By utilizing EMDR for trauma processing, I help clients reclaim their narratives and build resilience. I also incorporate ACT to assist clients in identifying core values and taking aligned actions for a more fulfilling, meaningful life journey. Each session is a collaborative process, tailored to your unique needs and goals. Clients often leave feeling relieved and empowered, equipped with new skills or fresh perspectives that transform how they approach challenges. This shift can open new possibilities for personal growth and understanding, helping you navigate your circumstances more effectively.

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This is Amanda Jordan's avatar and link to their profile

Amanda Jordan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Pelion
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
27 years of experience

I am licensed clinical social worker with 25+ years of professional work experience, currently licensed in Indiana and South Carolina but living in Hawaii and working full-time with active duty military personnel and their families. I have experience working stateside and overseas. My experience includes helping clients with stress and anxiety; coping with grief and loss, even when not death related; career difficulties: trauma; coping with life changes and transitions; and multiple other mental health and/or behavioral issues. I believe the # 1 coping skill we can learn and use is self-regulation and I work with clients in developing self-regulation skills thru multiple evidence-based approaches. I also have experience with, and enjoy working with pre-teens and teens and have several years of experience working with adolescent clients in various settings, as well as youth/adult clients in diverse cultures and populations. I will tailor our dialog and your treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I believe in the courage and importance of vulnerability, support, and positive connection. I am here to support you in taking steps on the journey toward change and healing, empowering you in creating the life you want to be living, and respectfully providing a safe and non-judgemental place for self-expression and growth.

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This is Ashley King's avatar and link to their profile

Ashley King

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Pelion
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
9 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I 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!

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This is Andrew Newhouse's avatar and link to their profile

Andrew Newhouse

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Pelion
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
13 years of experience

I am a marriage and family therapist who is licensed to practice in the beautiful states of Hawaii, Florida, and South Carolina. For the last 13 years, I have been working with clients from incredibly varied backgrounds dealing with a wide range of concerns. My most frequent work has been with people struggling with substance use issues, anxiety, trauma, depression, grief, and interpersonal and family relationship concerns. When I was 17, my mother passed away and I struggled with the grief and life-changes that followed. I sought the help of a marriage and family therapist and it was through her compassion and wisdom that I was able to navigate this difficult time. This therapist inspired me to want to help others in the way I had been helped and so I began my extensive studies in the world of marriage and family therapy. Over the last 20 years, I have learned and drawn from such modalities as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Structural Family Therapy. Just as my family had to encourage me to seek treatment after the death of my mother, I want to encourage you to reach out to someone who can help you with whatever you are struggling with. If that person is me, I would be honored to listen to your concerns and work with you to achieve a positive outcome.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Pelion

Finding the best therapist close by in Pelion 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 with therapists in Pelion that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Pelion. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Pelion, 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 for therapists. 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Pelion region and in the state of South Carolina. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Pelion or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Pelion therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Pelion area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Pelion, elsewhere in Lexington, or in the greater state of South Carolina. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Pelion area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Pelion therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Pelion due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Pelion may not take health insurance, some in the state of South Carolina may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of South Carolina you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Pelion online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Pelion, 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Pelion psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Pelion 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 helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified 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.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Pelion provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Pelion?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Pelion 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Pelion 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 Pelion therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in SC, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 29123 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Pelion counselor?

Before seeing your Pelion therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Pelion therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Pelion 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 with a Pelion counselor can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Pelion, 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.

Pelion has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Pelion, South Carolina

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of Pelion therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Pelion.

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

29123

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