Leah Pavela-Mullins
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience in helping people find solutions to their problems. Over the years, I have been told by clients that they really feel that I am listening to them and trying to understand what is going on in their lives and how they feel. Clients have also told me that they do not feel any sense of judgment, but rather that I accept them for who they are and where they are in their life’s journey. My style is empathetic and solution focused. I will spend time asking you questions in order to get to know you and try to find out what is at the heart of your issue. Together, we will talk about possible avenues you may want to take, or changes you may want to consider. I may give you some “homework” assignments…things to write out or think about, worksheets to complete, or even techniques/exercises to practice in your own time so that some of what we discuss in our sessions is reinforced. Most of all, I will be an objective listener, helping you to gain insight into what is going on with you, so that you are able to make the choices and changes you want to, in your own time. I look forward to working with you!
Margaret Paine
Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, or grief? You're not alone—and you don’t have to navigate these challenges by yourself. I specialize in helping adults work through life’s difficulties with compassion, clarity, and practical support. A central focus of my work is helping you cultivate self-esteem and self-compassion. I believe healing begins with how we speak to ourselves, and I'm passionate about helping you reconnect with your best self. My approach is warm, non-judgmental, and grounded in evidence-based practices. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Strengths-Based approaches to help you better understand your story, develop healthier patterns of thinking, and build on the inner strengths you already have. Whether you're ready to make a change or just beginning to explore therapy, I’m here to support you with empathy, insight, and encouragement. I graduated with a MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and I am licensed in NY State as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC). I am licensed in SC as Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I am also licensed in NC with LCMHC. I am also a National Certified Counselor (NCC). My professional life has included working in community Mental Health clinics with people of all ages and backgrounds. In this role I have encountered a variety of life stages and situations, such as depression, anxiety, stress and trauma related issues, career exploration, caregiver fatigue, developmental disabilities, anger management, self-esteem issues, and substance use issues. I am available through messages which I will check daily, along with live chat, video sessions or phone sessions. My calendar is available for you to schedule appointments with me. My schedule may not accurately reflect all available sessions, so please message me if you need something other than what's available. I look forward to working with you!
Amanda Polk
Amanda D. Polk, MSW, LISW-CP, is a dedicated and compassionate licensed clinician with over eight years of experience in the mental health field. Holding 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 combines her academic knowledge with a wealth of life experience to provide exceptional care to her clients. A proud veteran with 25 years of service in the Army and The South Carolina Army National Guard, including a deployment in Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan, Mrs. Polk has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to serving others. Her passion for helping her community extends beyond her military service. She has worked as a Guardian Ad Litem, advocating for abused and neglected children, and as a licensed Therapeutic Foster Parent. Mrs. Polk specializes in treating a variety of mental health challenges, including borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma, anger management, and parenting skills. Additionally, she has extensive experience working with couples, helping them improve communication, resolve conflicts, rebuild trust, and strengthen their emotional connection. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in building strong, trusting relationships with her clients. Mrs. Polk integrates evidence-based techniques such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and mindfulness to provide patient-centered care tailored to each individual's or couple's unique needs. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, Mrs. Polk is committed to helping her clients find hope, healing, and practical tools to navigate life’s challenges and build fulfilling relationships.
Muma Azeh
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina with five years of experience in the United States and 23 years of experience in marriage and parenting in Cameroon, Africa, with the Worldwide Marriage Encounter and the Catholic church. I am accredited to counseling the military and their families. I have vast experience and knowledge in this field and am currently a Military and Family Life Counselor at a military base in South Carolina. I served with the faith-based organization as a parenting coach for 12 years. I served as a Behavioral Health Consultant at Brookland Medical Practice, Cayce, South Carolina, and a Qualified Mental Health Professional at the South Carolina Department of Corrections. I am a Military Family and Life Counselor in Columbia, SC, and an online Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I hold a master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and a National Certified Counselor. I am currently in the dissertation phase of my Ph.D. in psychology. In a few months, I will graduate. I work as a behavioral health consultant at Eau Claire Cooperative Health. Before, I worked at a Crisis Stabilization Unit in a penitentiary department. I invite you to read about my education, background, experience, and counseling approach by clicking on my name above our messages. I generally check messages a few times daily, Mondays to Fridays, and respond as quickly as possible. During the weekend, I might take a bit longer time to respond. I will appreciate your patience during such times. It takes longer during the weekend because I might be helping other clients or carrying out their duties and responsibilities. My profile's availability is tentative, so I can arrange an appropriate time with my client if requested. There are many stressful issues on earth now, including COVID–19 and all its ramifications, the vaccine fight, and people acting in response to these incidences. The world we now live in is strange. Life situations like the above can cause significant worry for some and overwhelm others. It is our place as counselors to help humanity with these issues. I welcome the client to the counseling session with a smile and encourage them to tell me their difficulties, problems, or constraints. I like counseling clients from 13 years and above. I encourage clients not to see themselves as the problem or the disorder but as people with difficulties or suffering from an illness. I treat my client with respect, sensitivity to their core beliefs, and empathy for their issues. I also handle relationship issues and other life experience issues. My core counseling approach is cognitive-behavioral therapy, but I combine this approach with person-centered, humanistic, psychodynamic, and narrative counseling. I mostly used open-ended questions when dialoguing with clients. These questions are tailored based on the client's needs. I have understood that in the helping profession, you have to love your career, and I love my career. The helping profession needs courage and determination from the counselor and the client.
Donald McRae
Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Addictions Counselor (LAC) in South Carolina. I am also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in the state of North Carolina. I have been licensed for more than twenty years and have provided therapy in a number of settings to include a mental health clinic, military bases and not-for-profit agencies. I have a wealth of knowledge and experience working with individuals, families and couples. I have facilitated psychotherapy groups and provided individual therapy. I am certified in Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT) and I am grounded in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) as well as Trauma Focused CBT. I genuinely enjoy working with others and have been successful helping people attain their goals. In addition to DBT and CBT, I have a rich background in Mindfulness, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) , Motivational Interviewing and Brief Solution Focused Therapy. I believe that it takes courage and commitment to confront oneself and bring about change in a therapeutic relationship. I am nonjudgmental, empathetic, compassionate and sensitive to the effort it takes to engage in therapy. I welcome the opportunity to work with individuals that are genuinely committed to self examination and change.
Linda Jarels
As a licensed therapist in South Carolina, I bring over two decades of compassionate mental health experience to my practice. My professional journey has been dedicated to supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes, with specialized expertise in depression, anxiety, grief, and life transitions. I have a deep commitment to working with adults of all ages and providing a supportive, progressive therapeutic environment. My approach centers on understanding each client's unique experiences and helping them develop meaningful coping strategies. With particular sensitivity to challenges faced by individuals living with chronic health conditions I strive to create a safe, affirming space for healing and personal growth. My therapeutic style is collaborative and empathetic, focusing on building resilience, enhancing self-esteem, and supporting clients through significant life changes. I believe in meeting each person exactly where they are, offering gentle guidance and evidence-based support tailored to their individual needs and goals.
Oluwakemi Babatunde
My name is Kemi Babatunde, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina with seven years of experience. I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults across diverse backgrounds. I provide individual therapy, group therapy, psychological assessments, and therapeutic interventions, specializing in concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma (PTSD), family and relationship dynamics, self-esteem, anger management, stress, and identity development. My professional background includes work in residential treatment programs, outpatient and inpatient facilities, private practice, and school-based services. I have also served with organizations such as Correct Care Solutions, the Department of Mental Health, Justice Works, the Department of Corrections, and New Beginnings Counseling Firm. I believe in meeting clients where they are and creating a safe, supportive environment that fosters healing and growth. My approach is client-centered and integrative, designed to help individuals gain insight, build resilience, and achieve their personal goals.
Teresa Nesmith
I am licensed in South Carolina with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Monique Gilcrest
As a licensed therapist serving South Carolina, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. With a deep commitment to understanding each person's unique journey, I offer compassionate, culturally responsive care that honors individual experiences and strengths. My therapeutic approach is rooted in creating a supportive, affirming environment where clients can explore their emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and rediscover their inherent resilience. I have extensive experience addressing diverse concerns including workplace stress, life transitions, social anxiety, trauma recovery, and women's mental health challenges. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized strategies that promote healing, self-understanding, and meaningful change. My goal is to empower individuals to cultivate self-love, improve communication, and move toward a more fulfilling life.
Vernell Brown
I am licensed in South Carolina with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with despression. 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.
Brittany Edelbrock
I am an Independently Licensed Therapist from Ohio with 3 years of professional work experience. My strongest area of expertise is helping parents with children of special needs and assisting those who have been impacted by the child welfare system- including foster care. I have also worked with many clients struggling with stress, anxiety, addiction, and trauma. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion and am very passionate about helping people the way they want and need to be helped.
Michelle Robbins
I am licensed in Maine and South Carolina with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. 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.
Cynthia Watson
As a licensed therapist in South Carolina, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, grief, and relationship dynamics. I'm particularly passionate about working with older adults, women, and young professionals experiencing transitions, isolation, or seeking deeper self-understanding. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and collaborative, focusing on communication, self-love, and personal growth. I draw from evidence-based practices to help clients explore workplace challenges, family dynamics, sexuality, and life purpose. Whether you're processing a significant life transition like divorce, managing workplace stress, or addressing family-of-origin experiences, I'm committed to creating a supportive, affirming therapeutic environment. I believe each person's journey is unique, and my role is to walk alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional guidance as you discover your inner strengths and navigate personal healing.
Allese Scott
My style includes an eclectic mixture of evidence-based with spiritual/humanistic. I have been and am a client, as I have had challenges in life too. Thus, I like to think of myself as relatable. I also practice Art Therapy and Recreation Therapy. I have worked with kids 6 y.o. through geriatrics, and a range of presenting issues from addictions, disabilities, marriage/couples, etc. My goal is to help you to do your healing work for however long we are supposed to cross paths. I am a mixed-Black woman in America. I am from the east coast but have traveled around. I love animals!
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Piedmont, South Carolina
Finding a therapist near you in Piedmont, South Carolina starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. South Carolina is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In South Carolina, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across South Carolina, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in South Carolina
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In South Carolina, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in South Carolina
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in South Carolina
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in South Carolina through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in South Carolina
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across South Carolina, including residents in Piedmont.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in South Carolina do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Piedmont, South Carolina
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Piedmont and the surrounding SC area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.