This is Laura Ellington's avatar and link to their profile

Laura Ellington

Offering therapy in SC
License: LCSW,LISW-CP,LCASA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
20 years of experience

You have taken an important step in reaching out to support your emotional health. My name is Laura Ellington and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North and South Carolina with over twenty years experience in mental health counseling, integrated care and hospice. My approach is based on your needs. We will explore what led you to seek counseling, identify your personal goals and explore together how to meet those goals. You determine the path, my role is to accompany you on this journey as your supporter, advisor and advocate. We will use a strengths based, solution focused, wellness model of counseling. Learning new coping skills is an essential part of the process.. You will find that I am relentlessly focused on your strengths and abilities and offer suggestions about 'thinking out of the box' Coping with life changes, depression, anxiety, health conditions, social isolation, employment related stress, substance use, and other challenges affect every part of our lives. Finding solutions that work for you will bring opportunities for growth and a better quality of life. What is your dream?? How do you want your life to be different? Let's explore together!

This is Linda Thomas's avatar and link to their profile

Linda Thomas

Offering therapy in SC
License: LISW-CP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker in Charleston SC. I graduated from the MSW program at Florida State University and did internships with the Public Defenders Office representing homeless schizophrenics and in a Addictions/detox facility. Since then I have worked for over 30 years assisting people with numerous live problems and psychiatric illnesses. In the early 1990's I started on of the first HIV support groups in Atlanta. Also have done some contracting work with the Department of Defense working with active duty military in bases in Germany, Norway, and Greenland! Also worked with the University here in Charleston in the Emergency Department doing psychiatric assessments. What a great career!

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Angelina Dawkins

Offering therapy in SC
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

Angelina completed her Masters degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. In 2017, she worked as an Addictions Counselor, serving individuals with substance abuse concerns in residential treatment. She works with the Veteran population, providing therapy focused on healing from past traumas, substances use concerns, and disruptive mood conditions. In her Army Reserves unit, she worked as a Victim Advocate, providing education regarding sexual harassment and assault prevention in addition to providing advocacy to soldiers and their families. Angelina is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker focused on a holistic approach in treatment, working together with clients to identify areas they would like to heal and strengthen in their mental, emotional , physical, and spiritual well-being for a balanced life. She focuses on actively listening to provide a space of support and compassion allowing for exploration of emotions, thoughts, and feelings. Her belief is every person deserves happiness, feeling empowered, and to love themselves for who they are. She utilizes a variety of techniques in her practice, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused problem solving. Angelina puts value into providing an eclectic approach in the treatment experience, allowing for an individualized approach to each person. Angelina enjoys working with individuals struggling with a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, low self-esteem, relationship issues, stress, trauma, and substance use concerns.

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Erica Brown

Offering therapy in SC
AddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Sandra Perks

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, adjusting to chronic medical conditions, coping with grief and loss, & career difficulties. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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.

This is Sophie Paquette's avatar and link to their profile

Sophie Paquette

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Hans Ruska's avatar and link to their profile

Hans Ruska

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed marriage and family therapist in North Carolina and South Carolina with 5 years of professional counseling experience with veterans and their families. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 to make change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

This is Christina Feathers's avatar and link to their profile

Christina Feathers

Offering therapy in SC
AddictionsRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

This is Nicole Schellinger's avatar and link to their profile

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

This is Kenyetta  Cooper's avatar and link to their profile

Kenyetta Cooper

Offering therapy in SC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina, South Carolina and Colorado with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & depression. 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.

How to find counseling in Waterloo

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Waterloo 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 Waterloo 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 Waterloo 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 Waterloo, 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 Waterloo 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 Waterloo 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 Waterloo 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 Waterloo 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 Waterloo 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 29384 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 Waterloo 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 Waterloo 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 Waterloo, 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.

Waterloo 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 Waterloo.

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

29384

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