This is Barbara Leigh's avatar and link to their profile

Barbara Leigh

Offering therapy in SC
License: M.S.Ed., LPC-S, NCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersSelf esteemCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

With over 30 years of experience as a therapist, I offer a seasoned combination of wisdom, current relevance and flexible interventions. I have seen trends come and go in the fields of psychology and counseling, so I like to identify your particular needs and tailor treatment modalities to your unique circumstances and expectations. I enjoy helping people discover their true needs/desires and pursuing their dreams, potential and meeting their life goals. I specialize in helping you overcome life's speed bumps - being stuck, restlessness, grief, depression, anxiety and trauma (I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional). I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, families and with partners/marriages. I have worked in multiple settings - inpatient, outpatient, day treatment, residential, in-home, private practice and, of course, virtual! My "pet topics" are neuropsychology, PTSD/ADHD and media psychology. My pioneering work with online counseling in the 90s (pre-Google!) was featured on Oprah's network and in Glamour Magazine, so I come to you with the highest of standards in the field. I typically use cognitive-behavioral therapy, skills-building from dialectical-behavioral therapy and neurotherapy (teaching about how your mind-body chemicals spur your feelings which lead to thoughts, behaviors and habits). I believe that people change when they're ready - my goal is to help you get ready to change and then to support you through change. You know you can't directly change others, but you CAN change yourself - and by doing so, you help change the world for the better, one step at a time. And it all starts with you! Let's create a treatment plan that is both realistic and challenging for you - one that involves a precise balance of safety and risk, comfort and courage. My clients say I'm easy and fun to work with because of the combination of my personality, professional and personal experience...and thus I use a balanced combination of compassion, reality and humor...and because I'm real. Change is hard enough - why not make it fun, meaningful and enjoy the journey? I look forward to working with you! Ready? Set....Grow!!

This is Darlinda Banda's avatar and link to their profile

Darlinda Banda

Offering therapy in SC
License: EdS,LPC-S,RPT-S
Anger managementADHD
8 years of experience

Hello! My name is Darlinda and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-S), Registered Play Therapist (RPT-S), and National Certified Counselor (NCC) licensed in South Carolina and North Carolina with over 8 years of counseling experience. I also provide supervision for LPCI and have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, foster care/adoption, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, ADHD and ODD. I also help people who have experienced physical, sexual or emotional abuse and trauma. My counseling style is warm, interactive, and sometimes playful when needed. I believe in treating everyone as I would like to be treated, with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I believe in the inherent worth and value of others and that nutritional deficiencies underlie many of the lingering issues. My approach combines person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, motivational, and dialectic behavior counseling. If you would like to schedule a time to talk, go to my schedule and select a day and time that is convenient for you. In addition, you can always let me know if there are no convenient times for you. Congratulations on taking the first step to a more fulfilling and happier life. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support you. I look forward to working with you! Darlinda

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Aldric Browne

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionADHD
10 years of experience

I've been a certified professional mental health counselor in South Carolina for eight years and a behavior management specialist for nine. I've worked with people suffering from depression, anxiety, parenting issues, ADHD, and trauma. My counseling style is upbeat and friendly. Labels should not be stigmatized; everyone should be treated with respect, consideration, and compassion. In my treatment, I employ a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and person-centered therapy. I enjoy establishing trusting relationships and tailoring treatment plans to your specific needs. We can determine the type of counseling most beneficial to you by getting to know you. I'm very excited to work with you!

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Ebony Wright

Offering therapy in SC
License: LCSW,LISW-CP
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hello! I am a License Clinical Social Worker licensed in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Pennsylvania with 8 years of experience. I received my Bachelor of Psychology at Emory and Henry College and Masters in Social from Savannah State University in Savannah, GA. I have had the pleasure of treating clients aging from 4-93 years old in multiple settings such as military, school, community mental health center, in-home, hospital, and nursing, assistant, and independent living facilities. Through my work in multiple setting, I have address concerns and/or issues with depression, anxiety, grief, adjustment issues, physical and emotional abuse, family conflict, relationship issues, and communication. My counseling style is interactive, motivational, solution-focused, and empathic. I believe that you are the expert of your own life, and I would like to be your guide in assisting and/or processing current issues and/or concerns that may occur. It is important to be treated with respect and dignity to find the appropriate interventions and treatment that will provide the outcome you strive for when addressing your needs. You have taken the first step of towards a happy and satisfying life and I will be honored with assisting you in your journey. I look forward to collaborating with you!

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Kaneka Hall

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia with over 7 years of experience working as a psychotherapist and over 12 years working in the social work and mental health field. I have worked with a variety of clients, ranging from child/adolescent to the geriatric population as well as civilian and military with concerns including: anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, challenging family dynamic, poor communication styles, career difficulties and anger management. My counselor style is warm, interactive, client-centered and strengths-based. I believe in treating everyone with dignity, respect and compassion. My approach combines client-centered therapy, CBT and solution focused while relying on the strengths that one already possesses to reach and maintain goals. It takes immense courage to acknowledge that help is needed and then to actively seek out support from a professional to assist with bringing about the change one wants to see in his/her life. If you are ready to take the next steps in taking back control over your life and working towards the goals you desire, I am her to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

This is Mitzie Hopkins's avatar and link to their profile

Mitzie Hopkins

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina and South Carolina with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, & 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.

This is Christine Schaub's avatar and link to their profile

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 Jalissa Newton's avatar and link to their profile

Jalissa Newton

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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 Dr. James Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. James Smith

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & 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.

This is Dr. Elliot Sanchez's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Elliot Sanchez

Offering therapy in SC
License: PhD,LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
8 years of experience

I received a Master's Degree in Professional Counseling, from Grand Canyon University in 2016. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina license number 12968. I practiced as an LPC-Intern at Davis Regional Medical Center Psychiatric Unit for a total of 6 months from June 2016 to December 2016. In addition, I have been practicing counseling from a pastoral perspective under a ministry since 2012 for a total of 5 years in that arena of pastoral counseling. I have also been working in the profession of counseling from a substance use disorder perspective since 2013 license number CADC 2108 for a total number of years of 4 years of substance abuse counselor. Prior to working as a counselor, I worked in the capacity of a pastor since 2003. The National Christian Counseling Association licenses me as a Pastoral Temperament Counselor LN-16647 since 2013. As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I have a broad background in services to encompass adolescence, adults individuals, and couples. I work with individuals with a variety of issues including emotional, spiritual, relationship, or behavioral challenges; making difficult life decisions; dysfunctional eating, divorce; or those simply wanting to glean a deeper understanding of themselves. My specialties include relationship counseling, anxiety, stress and anger management, and sexual disorders.

How to find counseling in Smyrna

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Smyrna 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 Smyrna 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 Smyrna 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 Smyrna, 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 Smyrna 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 Smyrna 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 Smyrna 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 Smyrna 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 Smyrna 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 29743 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 Smyrna 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 Smyrna 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 Smyrna, 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.

Smyrna 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 Smyrna.

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

29743

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