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.
Michael Pfisterer
I look to help you identify your strengths and utilize them so that you can achieve your desired outcomes. My approach is to utilize multidimensional psychodynamic tools based upon your life course and inherent difficulties. In conjunction with the client, goals will be developed and guidance will be provided in order to achieve the optimal short term gains and long term objectives. Change is achieved through solution focused and task based theories to help achieve change. These tools can be particularly helpful for those coping with negative thought patterns, depression, anxiety, developmental differences, executive functioning difficulties and challenges associated with trauma and transitions. My practice has entailed work with a wide variety of individuals and focused upon the needs of each person. I have also engaged in practice with individuals with autism, those impacted by a wide range of environmental challenges as well as those having difficulty making life transitions. I have also participated in family based crisis management, helped families develop a range of techniques to improve relationships with their significant others and acted as a conduit between family members coping with trauma. I live with my wife, daughters and two dogs and have a passion for helping others. I look forward to getting to know you and helping you have your aspirations align with your actions!
Jessica Sawyer Horne
Jessica Sawyer Horne, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS, CCS, DCSW, ACSW, is a licensed independent clinician with nearly 16-years of experience in the behavioral health field and overall 18-years in the social work/human services field. Mrs. Sawyer Horne has a Master’s Degree of Social Work, with a specialization in Health/Mental Health, from Clark-Atlanta University, of Atlanta, GA. She also has a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology/Social Welfare from Winston-Salem State University, Winston-Salem, NC. Mrs. Sawyer Horne has worked in different treatment setting to include but not be limited to: outpatient behavioral health, emergency services, inpatient psychiatric services, residential substance use program, integrated care, community based services, etc. The populations she has worked with range from children to geriatrics. Mrs. Sawyer Horne’s theoretical orientation is diverse (eclectic) and individualized, to include but not be limited to: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family Systems Therapy, Psycho-dynamic Approaches, Behavioral Based Therapies, Seeking Safety, Psycho-Education, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused, Supportive Psychotherapy, etc. I am honored that you have chosen to work with me. Please know that I value the counseling relationship. I consider this relationship to be one of mutual, sacred trust.
L M (Loretta) Hartley-Bangs
As a licensed therapist in South Carolina with three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice focuses on addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction, with a compassionate approach to healing. I have extensive expertise in working with young adults, caregivers, women's issues, and older adults experiencing life transitions. My therapeutic approach centers on understanding each person's unique journey, helping clients navigate communication challenges, family dynamics, and personal growth. I bring deep empathy and professional insight to support individuals dealing with posttraumatic stress, codependency, and substance use challenges. I am committed to creating a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and move towards meaningful personal transformation. My goal is to walk alongside you, offering guidance and support as you work through life's most challenging moments.
Bertha Myers
As a licensed therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate stress, relationship dynamics, family conflicts, and personal growth. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach to addressing issues like social anxiety, self-love, communication barriers, and workplace challenges. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering individuals to develop resilience, heal from past experiences, and cultivate meaningful connections. I have extensive experience supporting diverse populations, including young adults, caregivers, veterans, and individuals facing significant life changes. My approach is collaborative, trauma-informed, and deeply committed to honoring each client's unique journey and strengths. I understand that seeking support takes courage, and I'm dedicated to creating a safe, affirming space where you can explore your experiences, develop coping strategies, and move towards personal transformation. Together, we'll work to understand your challenges and build pathways toward healing and growth.
Terrence Wyatt
Are you hurting from ordeals and stressors in life? Have you struggled to experience success in an area but don't know where to begin? Do you need someone to listen to you with understanding and without judgement? From personal experience, I understand how life's obstacles can hinder us from living the life we want to live. I am here to support you on your journey to becoming a better you. My own personal experiences in life have motivated and equipped me with a desire to assist you through your own personal journey. My goal is to support and encourage you to identify and channel your inner strength to promote a better quality of life. Life's challenges can make it difficult to seek assistance from a stranger. I will respectfully meet you where you are in your journey. Allow me the opportunity to work with you to create understanding and to develop solutions to assist you in regaining control of your life.
Nicole Schellinger
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
James Barrett
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and an Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 10 years of experience working in both fields; a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with 1 year of experience as well as studied to obtain my Master's Degree in Marriage, Couples and Family Therapy at the University of Central Florida. I have worked with a wide range of clients from individuals to couples to families over my past 9 years of counseling. I specialize in depression, anxiety, relational issues to include couples who are dating, engaged, are married, or going through the beginnings of divorce as well as substance use disorders and families impacted by substance use disorders, career challenges, and parenting issues. My therapy style is genuine and interactive with my goal to help others achieve the change they desire. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, unconditional positive regard and compassion. I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines Motivational Interviewing w/Cognitive-Behavioral, Rational-Emotive and Solution Focused Therapy to explore issues, discover strengths, motivate change and find solutions that enable a person to live a healthier lifestyle. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am here to help you through your challenges and offer a safe place for you to be open and honest without fear of judgment, blame, shame or ridicule. Deciding to get assistance for what is concerning you is the first and most important step for making healthy changes in your life. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life by taking the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. My passion in my career has always been and will continue to be having the ability to walk along side those and assist in experiencing exploration and discovery of ways to progress, making change in a healthy way to live a more fulfilling lifestyle. I look forward to working with you!
Candice Schalit
Hello, I'm Candice Schalit (she/her), a licensed therapist and PhD student based in Atlanta, Georgia. Growing up in the Bronx, New York, as the child of immigrant parents, I learned the importance of resilience and the beauty of diverse perspectives. These early experiences have deeply influenced my approach to therapy and my commitment to helping others navigate life's challenges. With over 13 years of experience providing clinical services, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients, including adults, families, and children. My passion lies in creating personalized plans that guide my clients towards betterment and fulfillment. I believe that life can be beautiful if one allows it, and my goal is to help you uncover that beauty in your own life. My therapeutic approach is nurturing yet challenging. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings, but I also encourage you to push beyond your comfort zone to achieve meaningful growth. Whether you're dealing with ADHD, anxiety, depression, anger management, eating disorders, family or romantic relationship issues, life transitions, OCD, phobias, sleep disorders, stress, or trauma, I am here to support you every step of the way. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am dedicated to providing high-quality care through remote sessions, making therapy accessible and convenient for you. Together, we can work towards your goals and help you build a more fulfilling and balanced life. If you're ready to take the first step towards positive change, I invite you to reach out. Let's embark on this journey together.
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.
Dr. Stephen Gunsallus
I am licensed in South Carolina with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with concentration, memory and focus (adhd). I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I earned my Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)in Pastoral Community Counseling in 2017, a Master of Sacred Theology (STM) in 1999, and a Master of Arts in Counseling (MA) in 2003. I also have seven units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) of which four were done as a residency. I am also a recipient of an award for Community Organization by Adapt Advocacy Association (aaa+) in 2011. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
David Diana
I am licensed in South Carolina with 25+ years of professional work experience working with adults and teens. I often work with people who find themselves at a crossroads. In those moments, you may be feeling depressed, unhappy, overwhelmed, bored, anxious, or “stuck” and are looking to break free from your present experience. My practice is focused on helping people find a renewed sense of meaning and empowerment in their lives. Initially, we may work on relieving your presenting symptoms by exploring new perspectives and through the use of helpful exercises, however, the core of my work has an eye towards deeper and more meaningful change. The day-to-day stressors of everyday life, coupled with our past experiences, lead all of us to live life largely unaware of the vast psychodramas playing out beneath the surface. We will explore these inner dimensions and callings so that you may engage with life in more meaningful ways.
Tamika Tucker Melette
I am licensed in South Carolina with 6 years of professional work experience, with over 15 years as social worker. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.
Lexus Lewis
I am licensed in South Carolina with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, coping with loss, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.
Tracey Julius
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience in various settings. I am dedicated to supporting clients by fostering a collaborative, trusting and empathetic environment. Approaches are always personalized! I utilize evidence-based and integrative modalities: CBT to help clients identify and change negative thought patterns, solution focused therapy to set and achieve short term goals, mindfulness-based techniques to enhance present moment awareness, person-centered therapy to foster a supportive environment and psychodynamic approaches to explore unconscious processes influencing behavior. My goal is to help you identify challenges, improve coping and determine the next steps toward meaningful, lasting change.
Find a Therapist Near You in Sumter , South Carolina
Finding a licensed therapist near you in South Carolina can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
South Carolina is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in South Carolina, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in South Carolina (SC). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
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 on BetterHelp support adults across South Carolina with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in South Carolina
When searching for a therapist near me in South Carolina, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across South Carolina, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across South Carolina.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in South Carolina want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in South Carolina
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in South Carolina without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in South Carolina (SC)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
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 Sumter.
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 vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
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 private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.