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.
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.
Cameron Williams
My name is Cameron Williams and thank you for taking a moment to read about me. In doing so you have already taken a critical first step in the therapeutic process which is making the decision to seek out help. I have a Bachelor's of Science from Charleston Southern University and a Master's of Social Work from the University of South Carolina. I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of South Carolina with nearly 20 years of experience working with primarily adolescents and adults with various life challenges. While most of my experience is working with depression, anxiety, parent-child relationships, self-esteem, stress and anger management, I also have experience with various other life issues. I have a no nonsense approach to counseling meaning that my job is not to fix you but rather to help give you the tools to fix yourself. I believe everyone has the power to improve their situation with the right guidance and motivation. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy as well as motivational interviewing, DBT, and solution focused techniques because I don't believe there is such a thing as a cookie cutter approach to fit a cookie cutter client. I believe life's challenges affect us all differently and look forward to being a part of assisting you to make the positive changes necessary to heal yourself and live your best life. I look forward to working with you!
Sara Klahr
Hello my name is Sara P Klahr, I am proud that you are seeking professional counseling to overcome obstacles and create positive changes in your life. I have gathered 30 years of counseling experience working with individuals, couples and families in a variety of settings. I must admit I was not initially comfortable offering teletherapy until our recent national shutdown. I was not sure that genuine care and concern would not translate well. I have been nicely surprised to learn that it does! My counseling style is genuine, direct and non-judgmental. My counseling approach is client centered. Together we identify root causes of stressors and optimum coping techniques to bring about a long lasting changes. It takes courage to live this life we have been given. I would be honored to walk a part of it with you!
Stacey Floyd
As a licensed therapist in South Carolina, I bring 25 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex life challenges. My practice centers on creating compassionate, culturally responsive spaces for healing, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship dynamics. I am particularly passionate about working with diverse populations, including older adults, young professionals, and LGBTQ+ individuals. My approach honors each person's unique journey, focusing on building self-love, improving communication, and navigating personal transformations. My therapeutic work emphasizes holistic healing, addressing challenges like workplace stress, midlife transitions, family dynamics, and personal growth. I strive to create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, process complex emotions, and develop meaningful strategies for wellness. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I offer a warm, affirming approach that centers your individual strengths and supports your path toward emotional resilience and personal empowerment.
Donna Cummings
Hello! My name is Donna Cummings and a I am Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate. I received my Master's Degree in 2015, after having worked in the mental health field for 9 years. I have experience working with addiction issues, depression, anxiety, building life skills, and promoting self esteem, self compassion, and other self worth behaviors. I utilized Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy. I believe in providing support, compassion, and therapies, as well as understanding diversity and cultural awareness in assisting my clients in reaching your life goals. I also provide life coaching to clients who do not feel they need therapy, just someone to talk to and work on life skills and other topics. I began my career in mental health after realizing the lack of mental health services available in my community. I feel that there is a need and that everyone deserves to be able to access these services that can enhance their daily living activities and self care. I also feel that there needs to be a move towards normalizing counseling and removing the stigma historically associated with counseling . I will provide a confidential and nonjudgmental setting to assist you in moving towards your goals. I look forward to working with you.
Dr. Doris "Dee" Hann-Morrison
I am versed in the management of women's issues, specifically women of color. I served this population for more than two decades and written several books where the focus has been on women of color coming into their own. Notable is my book titled 'Even Superwoman Needs To Cry Sometimes'. I am direct in my approach, with the expectation that you come ready to grow and make change in your life. As such I am focused on where you (the client) want to go (your goals) and utilizing the strengths/assets you have at your disposal to promote healing and growth. I will support your growth even as I challenge your thinking. I am respectful of your cultural values and give credence to his in our clinical engagements. Spirituality, hence, (not necessarily religion) is often a component of treatment, however, this is at your discretion. Our time together is your time; this is your platform. This is your space to share without fear of reprisal or judgment.
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.
Cassandra Bell-Gash
Min. Cassandra Bell-Gash M.Div., MEd., LCMHC, LPC A native of Shelby, North Carolina, Min. Bell-Gash accepted Jesus Christ as her personal savior and was baptized at age 12, at the Light Oak Baptist Church by the Rev Johnny Browner. She has always had a zeal for the Lord and was licensed as a Minster of the Gospel in November 2007, under Rev. Zeno T. Borders. She has worked in Christian Education at Faith Missionary Baptist Church under Rev. Borders and later Rev. Dr. Anthony Negbenebor. Her unique gift of teaching and preaching has manifested itself in Sunday School and Bible Study, but has also produced specialized workshops and retreats for women, young adults, and youth. Her leadership conferences have generated new opportunities for her to consult with organizations in their strategic planning and development. She believes that empowering other organizations to provide care extends the available resources needed by so many. Drawn to the marginalized in our society, Min. Bell-Gash, became an entrepreneur to advocate on their behalf. Her philosophy of going “beyond the walls”, propelled her to gain the necessary academics and training to provide holistic solutions. Earning her B.S. in Psychology minoring in Sociology in 1995 from the Gardner Web University; she continued and earned her M.Div, and MEd. respectively. As a continuous learner, she did not stop there, but has garnered many certifications in the mental health counseling field and continues to study. One could see the “handwriting on the wall” because this has been her life work for over 15 years. Chaplin, Therapist, Mental Health Liaison, and Crisis Counselor are just a few of the titles she’s held; Caro Mont Hospital, Cleveland Regional Medical Center, Broughton, and Kings Mountain Hospital represent some of the places she’s practiced. While titles and places are important, Min. Bell-Gash asserts that it’s the nameless individuals whose lives have been impacted by the services that she provides that really matter, and that continue to be her focus. Her “multifaceted” approach extends the services she offers for individuals and families, and is the added depth required to meet the spiritual and mental needs of the communities she serve. She is currently CEO of Life Provisions with chapters in North and South Carolina. She is a proud mother, and daughter and enjoys times with her family. She humbly acknowledges and accepts her role as a citizen of the Kingdom of God.
Chelsea Ostop
My name is Chelsea Ostop and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. In both my personal and professional life I value the importance of building and sustaining consistent and trusting relationships. It is my passion to cultivate a safe and reliable environment for my clients to meet their full potential. As an LISW I have experience working with individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, low self esteem, domestic abuse and life transitions. In addition, I have ten years experience working with the intellectually disabled community. I typically utilize CBT and Motivational Interviewing but am certified in Nurturing Parenting and Trauma Focused CBT. I admire your willingness to begin your therapeutic journey. My desire is to assist you in meeting your goals in a compassionate and empowering clinical experience. Please let me know how I may assist you in this journey.
Chantel Martin
I am licensed in South Carolina with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Tamara Wright
I am a LISW-CP in South Carolina with over 8 years of experience as a social worker. I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, stress, relationship issues, self-esteem, confidence, and depression. Offering a space grounded in curiosity, compassion, and genuine connection. I strive to create a space where you can show up fully as yourself. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or emotionally exhausted, you will be met with empathy, respect, and understanding. At the same time, I am not a passive listener. I engage actively in our sessions by asking thoughtful questions, offering reflections, and helping you make connections between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Using a blend of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and a strengths-based approach, I gently challenge unhelpful patterns while also highlighting the resilience and strengths you may not always recognize in yourself. My goal is to help you gain clarity, not confusion, to feel supported and empowered. You can expect a collaborative and conversational experience where your voice matters. I will meet you where you are, while also helping you move toward where you want to be. Therapy with me is a balance of validation and growth—offering both a safe place to land and a space to build new insight, confidence, and direction. I look forward to speaking with you.
Paulette Plummer
As a licensed therapist in North Carolina with over two decades of experience, 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 therapy, with deep expertise in addressing multicultural concerns, young adult issues, and the nuanced experiences of marginalized communities. My work focuses on healing from isolation, shame, and interpersonal challenges while empowering clients to develop stronger communication skills and self-understanding. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I provide a supportive environment where individuals can explore their unique stories, work through difficult emotions, and develop resilient coping strategies. Whether you're dealing with mood disorders, relationship transitions, or seeking to build greater self-love, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Olivia Smith
I am licensed in South Carolina with 32 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. 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.
Shnita Lee
Everyone has issues, right? Well, there are times when you just need to talk to someone, and then there are times when those issues become personally overwhelming, affecting your ability to function at work, home or school. When your mind becomes filled with negative thoughts and it becomes a struggle to manage, this is where I can help you sort through and process what you are feeling and thinking. Together, we’ll work on the best way to help you understand, cope and conquer what you’re feeling, in order to achieve emotional wellness and personal peace. I offer you a safe and supportive experience on your journey to healing. For many years I have worked in the mental health field, providing therapeutic support to a variety of individuals. I understand and respect the complexities each individual may experience. I offer person-centered solutions through therapy and counseling services, tailored for the client’s treatment needs and personal goals. Most people would rather not ask for help. ‘I can deal with this on my own’, we tell ourselves. If this is you, then you know that the longer we allow our problems to linger, the longer it takes to heal. Allow me to offer you a light in the darkness. Know that you are not alone, I am a caring and supportive therapist…..I am here to help.
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.