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.
Evalee Smith
Hello, my name is Evalee and I am a licensed clinical social worker in Georgia and South Carolina with over 20 years of experience working in mental health and social services as a counselor. I graduated from Savannah State University with a Master's degree in Social Work with a clinical concentration. I have worked in a variety of settings with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, Bipolar disorder, relationship issues, parenting problems, life changes, OCD, ADHD, ODD, anger management skills, LGBTQ related issues, intellectual disabilities, women's issues, and caregiver stress. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma and abuse. 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 combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, mindfulness, solution focused, psycho-education, and psychodynamic counseling. I approach therapy from a person centered and strengths based perspective. Your treatment plan will be individualized to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek improved mental health. It is brave to take this step, and I am here to support you in a safe and understanding environment to empower you. I am able to work with children, youth, teens, adults, older adults and couples. I look forward to working with you!
Rebecca Hegwood
Welcome, I’m glad you are here! My name is Becky and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of South Carolina. Since graduating from the University of South Carolina’s Rehabilitation Counseling program in 2015, I have worked in different outpatient community and private settings. My experience includes working with people with severe and persistent mental illness, depression, anxiety, trauma, anger management, life transition and adjustment concerns, and relationship challenges. I feel that everyone can benefit from counseling due to the simple fact that life, while often beautiful, can also present many challenges. Change in and of itself is not always easy, and it can be difficult to process our emotions and determine next steps at times. Whatever has brought you here, it is important to me that you feel heard without judgement and supported as you determine the course of your life. By reaching out, you’ve taken a courageous first step toward harnessing your own power to find or return to a place of fulfillment and inner peace in your life. My counseling style is nurturing, encouraging, and supportive, and my theoretical approach is integrative, meaning that I draw from many different theoretical perspectives and techniques based on your unique needs and goals; however there are a couple of modalities that I find especially helpful and widely applicable. First and foremost, I always take a person centered approach to counseling, and believe in meeting you where you are and helping you to identify and utilize your own strengths to promote self empowerment and growth. One of my favorite quotes is this one by Carl Jung: “Your vision becomes clear when you look inside your heart. Who looks outside, dreams. Who looks inside, awakens.” I am a firm believer that you already possess the qualities and tools that you need to navigate difficult situations, and we will work together to unlock your full potential! I have also found cognitive and dialectical behavioral approaches to often be effective in identifying and changing thoughts and behaviors that no longer serve your life well. Regardless of modality, I will always work collaboratively with you to establish and amend goals as needed in order to ensure that your therapeutic needs are being met. I look forward to meeting and beginning this journey with you!
Bola Alimi
I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of South Carolina and Georgia .My background includes working with issues regarding : infidelity, depression, and relationships. My accomplishments exhibit helping individuals eradicate symptoms of anxiety, learned helplessness and trauma. Modalities of treatment incorporated during this auspicious process includes: humanistic, solution focused brief therapy, and cognitive behavior therapy. Each client is welcomed with dignity, self respect, and warmth. It takes perseverance and determination to work towards a healthier life. If you are ready to take your life to another level I am here for it! I look forward to speaking with you in the next days ahead.
Carla McKenney
As a licensed therapist serving South Carolina, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, personal growth, and emotional well-being. My practice centers on empowering adolescents, young adults and women through compassionate, strength-based counseling. My expertise is providing support for clients to build self-esteem, develop effective communication skills, and work through challenges related to life purpose and personal identity. My therapeutic approach is rooted in understanding each person's unique journey, with a particular focus on addressing abandonment concerns, managing anger, and supporting healthy emotional adaptation. I create a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I am committed to walking alongside my clients as they discover their inner strength, heal from past experiences, and create more fulfilling lives. My work is guided by a deep respect for individual experiences and a belief in each person's capacity for growth and positive change.
Dr. Montgomery Prescod
I provide individual, couples, and family counseling to adults and adolescents. Working from a cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, and interpersonal approach, the goal of his work is to assist individuals identify and change maladaptive life patterns (thoughts and/or behaviors), and develop a more balanced approach to oneself, others, and their surroundings. With these approaches, I assist in developing more satisfying relationships to improve one’s ability to better manage stress. I am a military veteran with more than 28 years of military services, who connects very well with the veteran community for he truly understands the military culture. I am a Board Certified TeleMental Health Provider, South Carolina Licensed Professional Counselor, and a PREPARE/ENRICH assessment facilitator for premarital and marital couples. I work with people experiencing anxiety, and/or depression, and employ mindfulness techniques to provide effective individualized treatment. I am a Childhood Emotional Neglect (CEN) trained Therapist, and can help you target mental, behavioral and emotional symptoms like depression, anxiety, or relationship problems. The effects of CEN on a child are not limited to walling off his/her feelings which negatively impact ability to adapt and cope, becoming devoid of rich resources in adulthood. I look forward to working with you!
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.
Bernetta Moore Sutton
I am licensed in North Carolina with 7 years of professional work experience. I am also licensed in South Carolina, effective 12/11/2024. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & 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.
Deanna Dillard
I am licensed in Georgia with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping clients with anger management, stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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.
Chrissy Mobley-Gilmore
I am a professional counselor licensed in the state of South Carolina with over 15 years of experience working as a professional counselor and registered nurse. I have been fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to work with clients of various ages as well as a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, anger management, personality disorders, relationship issues, bullying, school disciplinary problems, family conflicts, substance use disorders, dual diagnosis, grief, and life changes. I have also had the privilege of helping many people who have experienced domestic violence, physical trauma, and/or emotional abuse. My therapy style is client-centered and interactive. I am a compassionate therapist who believes in meeting people where they are in life and treating everyone with respect. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, holistic, and rational-emotive therapy. Sessions with me will consist of dialog and an individualized treatment plan that is customized to meet your unique and specific needs. 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. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of strength and it shows that you have the courage to seek change and a more fulfilling life. When you are ready to take the first step, I am here to motivate and empower you in that journey. I look forward to working with you!
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!
Acquanita Pettis
As a licensed therapist serving North and South Carolina, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering clients through challenges related to stress, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, and interpersonal dynamics. I bring a deeply compassionate approach to working with LGBTQ+ individuals, young adults, and those experiencing social anxiety, relationship difficulties, and personal growth transitions. My therapeutic style emphasizes creating a safe, affirming space where clients can explore their experiences, heal past wounds, and deepen their self-understanding. I'm particularly passionate about supporting individuals working through issues of identity, discrimination, attachment, and personal transformation. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I help clients build resilience, improve communication, and cultivate self-love. Whether you're dealing with panic attacks, relationship challenges, or seeking to understand your life's purpose, I'm committed to walking alongside you with respect, understanding, and genuine care.
Sheila McGee
As a licensed therapist in South Carolina with two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal transformation. I bring a compassionate, culturally-informed approach to therapy, particularly focused on supporting Black individuals seeking understanding and healing. My work emphasizes self-love, meaningful communication, overcoming isolation, and rediscovering life purpose. I understand the nuanced emotional journeys that shape our experiences and am committed to creating a supportive, affirming therapeutic space. My therapeutic approach integrates evidence-based practices with deep empathy, helping clients work through social anxiety, shame, guilt, and personal growth. I believe in the power of forgiveness—both for oneself and others—as a pathway to emotional wellness. Together, we'll explore your unique strengths and develop strategies that honor your individual journey.
Stacey Brown
Great to meet you! Thank you for considering me for your counseling needs. I am dedicated to providing a safe, confidential, and compassionate environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and life experiences. My approach is client-centered and tailored to your unique goals, whether you are seeking support for anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, life transitions, or personal growth. A bit about my approach to therapy I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients understand and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, build coping skills, and manage emotions. My approach is practical, collaborative, and focused on empowering you to achieve meaningful change and personal growth. What you can expect from our first session From the moment you step into our session, you’ll be welcomed into a safe and confidential space where your feelings and experiences are honored. My approach is deeply client-centered—I listen with empathy and genuine care, tailoring our sessions to your unique needs and goals. Whether you’re seeking support for anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or personal growth, you can expect kindness, respect, and a commitment to your well-being. Together, we’ll work collaboratively to help you feel heard, understood, and empowered on your journey toward healing and personal growth.
Find a Therapist Near You in Trenton , 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 Trenton.
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.