In life, you need to learn how to do your business. Your business can come in the form of caring and providing for yourself, or the others around you. However, depression and anxiety can certainly interfere with your business. There is hope, and that hope comes from a counselor based in Sumter. 

Sumter is known for being a business hub in South Carolina. If you're here, you're surrounded by business. Just remember to make your business number one. A counselor can help you with this, but you must speak to a counselor to learn more. 

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Dr. Valerie Quarles

Offering therapy in SC
License: PhD,MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience

My name is Dr. Valerie Quarles. I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and hold licensures in three states; Connecticut, Georgia and South Carolina. I received my bachelor’s degree in Human Services from Springfield College in Springfield, Massachusetts and Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW), with a Clinical Specialization in Children/Families, from Fordham University in Manhattan, New York. In 2012, I received my Doctorate of Philosophy in Human Services with Specialization Social and Community Services from Capella University in Minneapolis, MN. I am a veteran in working with individuals, children and families and have over thirty years of experience to offer you. Some of my experiences include working with populations such as: children/youth/families, elderly, juveniles, and adults with issues of substance abuse, HIV/AIDS, mental health and domestic violence prevention and intervention. I have also worked with complex trauma, depression, family issues involved in divorce, custody, and family violence situations. Some of my skills involve the use of the DSM-V, crisis intervention, co-parenting issues, mediations, and empowerment skills to assist individuals in becoming self-sufficient. It is my aim to empower individuals to use their strengths and skills in attaining and maintaining their goals, personal growth, and self-sufficiency. I contend that it is important to positively role model and to teach others the value of caring for themselves and others. I am very eclectic in my therapy approach in which I combine Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Problem Solving, Task-Centered, Solution Focus, Narrative, and Crisis. I will personalize our discussion to create a customized treatment plan to assist you in your success. Lastly, I live by four recipes for a “Happy Life” that are simply….First, “To thy own self be true”…..Secondly, “Be impeccable with your words”. Thirdly, “Don’t take anything personally”. Fourth, “Always, do your best, because the best is yet to come”. Therefore, with each moment, we come closer to reaching our goals. I look forward to working with you! Specialties Stress, Anxiety Relationship issues Family Conflicts Parenting Issues Depression Trauma Coping with Life Changes Life Coach Also experienced in: Addictions , Trauma and Abuse , Grief/Loss , Intimacy-related issues , Anger Management , Self Esteem , Career difficulties , Bipolar Disorder , Coping with life changes , Coaching, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Years of Experience: 30

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Steven Mason

Offering therapy in SC
License: MSW, LISW CP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSleeping disordersSelf esteem
19 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Master Addictions Counselor (MAC) licensed in South Carolina with over 18 years of experience working as a VA Social Worker, Life Coach and a Mental Health Therapist. My work has been with Individuals from all walks of life and with a wide range of concerns - including depression, anxiety, addiction issues, OCD and ADHD and career challenges. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach to therapy is holistic in nature and combines CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy), ACT, psychodynamic, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness Therapies. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you on your journey toward self-discovery and your better life. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Donald Strauss

Offering therapy in SC
License: Licensed Independent Social Worker CP,ACSW,BCD,Ph.D
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
52 years of experience

I have had the opportunity to practice with clients with a wide variety of issues. In recent years my primary focus has been with clients with deteriorative neurodegenerative disorders( ALS and MS) life altering burns,bipolar disorders and chronic mental health issues. In addition I have treated helping professionals suffering from compassion fatigue. I have a MSW from Florida State University and a Ph.D from The University of Maryland in Clinical Social work. I am a member of the Academy of Clinical SocialWork( ACSW) and a Board Certified Diplomat in Social Work(BCD). My primary treatment modalities are Cognitive Behavioral, Behavioral Health Intervention guided by Evidence Based findings. I employ a process that provides alternatives to life approaches and strategies that no longer serve the individual by offering new ways to address life issues within the safety of a helping relationship.The approach includes problem solving and adopting new cognitive approaches to guide thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Evidence-Based generated findings add specific interventions that are productive in helping with issue resolution.

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Lois Durrah

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

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

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Monique Guffey

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
15 years of experience

If you have reached this site you are already one step closer to your wellness goals. Clients who collaborate with me wish to attract better health, wealth, relationships, or purposeful living. This setting offers a relaxed, collaborative, and solution-focused approach that emphasizes self awareness and accountability. There are many creative and motivating ways to help create a great life and achieve your heart's desires. Set your compass, be present and show up for yourself. As Emerson encouraged, "hitch your wagon to the stars"! You are the one that you have been waiting for.

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Rhonda Cox

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

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

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Jessica Lonzi-McVay

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Pennsylvania and South Carolina with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. *I am only able to accommodate chat sessions at this time*

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Spring Richardson

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSleeping disordersCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maryland, South Carolina and Virginia with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBTQ+ related issues, relationship issues, & sleeping disorders. 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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Carol Fletcher

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to 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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Nicole Schellinger

Offering therapy in SC
License: LPCC-S,LICDC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

Hello my name is Nicole and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Ohio and a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of South Carolina, and I have been working as a counselor since 2006. I look forward to the possibility of getting to have the opportunity to work with you, and being able to be part of your mental health journey. I feel that my counseling style is warm and inviting while trying to remain focused on my clients individual needs. I believe that the sessions are for the client and I try work to meet clients were they are by approaching the counseling sessions with understanding and compassion. I use techniques from many different theoretical counseling approaches and some examples of the commonly used approaches would be cognitive behavioral (CBT), solution focused therapy, and/or motivation interviewing approaches to work with my clients to determine their treatment goals and needs. I have been offering session using BetterHelp for the last 2 years and before my time with BetterHelp I had practiced for 15 years (2006 to 2021) in a community behavioral health setting. I have had the opportunity to work with clients experiencing issues related to addiction, depression, anxiety, coping with stressors, life changes, relationship and/or family issues, trauma, ADD/ADHD, to name a few. I have completed my undergraduate program in addictions studies from University of Cincinnati and have also completed a Masters in Education program from Lindsey Wilson College majoring in Mental Health Counseling. Thank you for taking the time to read about me and I look forward to getting to work with you, Nicole Schellinger M. Ed, LPCC-S, LPC

How to find counseling in Sumter

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Sumter 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 Sumter 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 Sumter 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 Sumter, 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 Sumter 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 Sumter 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 Sumter 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 Sumter 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 Sumter 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 29151 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 Sumter 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 Sumter 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 Sumter, 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.

Sumter 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 Sumter.

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

29150, 29151, 29152, 29153, 29154

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