A river side spot with a view of the city is a West Columbians typical experience. Here in West Columbia you can have the best of both worlds: a small town feel with big town access to Columbia which sits right across the river.
But not every Columbia resident is taking full advantage of this quaint lifestyle. Many people suffering from poor mental health, can’t enjoy West Columbia like it should be because internal struggles get in the way. If you’re one of these people, or you just need someone to talk to, please reach out to a Columbia-based mental health professional today.
Leah Pavela-Mullins
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience in helping people find solutions to their problems. Over the years, I have been told by clients that they really feel that I am listening to them and trying to understand what is going on in their lives and how they feel. Clients have also told me that they do not feel any sense of judgment, but rather that I accept them for who they are and where they are in their life’s journey. My style is empathetic and solution focused. I will spend time asking you questions in order to get to know you and try to find out what is at the heart of your issue. Together, we will talk about possible avenues you may want to take, or changes you may want to consider. I may give you some “homework” assignments…things to write out or think about, worksheets to complete, or even techniques/exercises to practice in your own time so that some of what we discuss in our sessions is reinforced. Most of all, I will be an objective listener, helping you to gain insight into what is going on with you, so that you are able to make the choices and changes you want to, in your own time. I look forward to working with you!
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.
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.
Felicia McGhee
Hello, my name is Felicia McGhee, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina with over 20 years of experience in the counseling field. Much of my career has been dedicated to working with adolescents involved in the Juvenile Justice system, as well as individuals served through the Department of Mental Health, Department of Social Services, and the South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Department. Over the past seven years, I have expanded my practice through contracted work, which has allowed me to support young adults, middle-aged adults, and older adults across a variety of life stages and challenges. My therapeutic approach is client-centered and collaborative. I integrate evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, grief counseling, and career counseling, tailoring treatment to meet each client’s unique needs and goals. I am passionate about helping, guiding, and supporting individuals through life’s challenges. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can build coping skills, gain insight, and work toward meaningful change. I look forward to helping you navigate whatever life has brought your way. Prior to our scheduled session, please feel free to share any information you believe would be helpful for me to know about you.
Suzanne Snyder
As a licensed therapist in North and South Carolina, I bring over two decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate emotional wellness, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and self-esteem concerns. I am deeply committed to creating a supportive therapeutic environment where individuals can explore personal growth, heal from past experiences, and develop meaningful strategies for positive change. My approach honors each person's unique journey, with a particular focus on supporting older adults, women's experiences, and individuals facing workplace or midlife transitions. My clinical work emphasizes understanding complex emotional landscapes—including issues of isolation, guilt, shame, attachment, and personal purpose. I strive to help clients build stronger self-compassion, improve communication skills, and develop resilient coping mechanisms that empower personal transformation. Through a collaborative and empathetic approach, I aim to walk alongside my clients, offering professional guidance while respecting their individual strengths and inherent capacity for healing and growth.
Beverly Bennett
Thank you for reading my profile! My name is Ms. Beverly P. Bennett, MA, LPCS, NCC. I am a native of the Caribbean and hold two (2) Master's degrees from Oral Roberts University in Christian Counseling, magna cum laude. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Supervisor (LPCS) for aspiring LPC candidates in South Carolina and Oklahoma. I hold a Board Certification as a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and is a Certified PREPARE/ENRICH Facilitator, the leading relationship inventory and skill-building program for couples. I am also a Certified Batterer's Intervention Program Facilitator (BIP) for domestic violence or partner abuse. I connect easily with clients and offer immediate, exceptional, and long-term solutions. I am passionate about helping adults and couples live healthier and meaningful lives. I have extensive leadership and clinical experience in a variety of settings including community mental health centers, psychiatric hospitals, group/residential homes, juvenile and adult criminal justice, therapeutic foster care, and intensive outpatient programs for substance abuse (IOP). In my spare time I enjoy spending time with family and friends, laughing, singing, reading, traveling, cooking, baking, dancing, and board games. I typically check messages within 24 hours, but the only exception is the weekend when I usually take off. If there is a message you would like for me to respond to sooner, please mark it as urgent and I will get back to you as quickly as I can.
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.
Monique Gilcrest
As a licensed therapist serving South Carolina, 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 growth. With a deep commitment to understanding each person's unique journey, I offer compassionate, culturally responsive care that honors individual experiences and strengths. My therapeutic approach is rooted in creating a supportive, affirming environment where clients can explore their emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and rediscover their inherent resilience. I have extensive experience addressing diverse concerns including workplace stress, life transitions, social anxiety, trauma recovery, and women's mental health challenges. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized strategies that promote healing, self-understanding, and meaningful change. My goal is to empower individuals to cultivate self-love, improve communication, and move toward a more fulfilling life.
Angela Greene-Junior
I am a Christian therapist who is compassionate about helping individuals understand how God plays the most important role in our lives. I am licensed in mental health and addictions in both South and North Carolina with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have an extensive background helping clients experiencing depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues, anger management and many other behavioral and mental health related issues. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Vernell Brown
I am licensed in South Carolina with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with despression. 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.
Damara Israel
As a licensed therapist in New York, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, personal growth, and emotional challenges. My approach centers on empowering clients to develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome barriers that prevent personal fulfillment. I bring expertise in addressing workplace dynamics, women's issues, career difficulties, and the nuanced emotional experiences of professional and personal life transitions. My practice focuses on helping clients work through feelings of isolation, shame, and impulsivity while building stronger self-understanding and resilience. Drawing from a trauma-informed and culturally responsive framework, I create a compassionate space where clients can explore their unique experiences. Whether you're struggling with body image, financial stress, relationship challenges, or seeking greater life purpose, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.
Beth Kaminsky
As a licensed therapist in Pennsylvania, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients address challenges like depression, grief, life transitions, and self-esteem concerns. I'm particularly passionate about creating compassionate spaces where people can explore personal growth, heal from past experiences, and develop stronger communication and coping skills. My therapeutic approach focuses on understanding each individual's unique journey. I work closely with clients experiencing social anxiety, relationship difficulties, and emotional struggles related to identity, purpose, and personal empowerment. Whether you're dealing with life changes, interpersonal challenges, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance. I draw from evidence-based practices to support clients in developing resilience, self-compassion, and meaningful strategies for personal transformation. My goal is to help you build inner strength, reconnect with your authentic self, and create positive pathways forward.
Nicole Caldwell
Hello, I’m Nikki Caldwell, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I work with adults who feel overwhelmed, burned out, or stuck and want practical tools to feel more in control of their lives. Many of my clients are navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, chronic stress, or emotional exhaustion. You may find yourself overthinking, struggling to stay focused, or feeling mentally drained from work, relationships, or daily responsibilities. I also support adults with ADHD, autism, and executive functioning challenges, focusing on improving organization, follow-through, and emotional regulation in a realistic, manageable way. My approach is collaborative, supportive, and focused on real-life change. I use evidence-based strategies like CBT, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and strengths-based techniques to help you better understand your patterns and build skills you can actually use day to day. Our work is focused on helping you feel more grounded, capable, and confident in handling challenges.
Yolanda Welbon
As a licensed therapist with over eight years of experience, I am dedicated to supporting individuals navigating life's complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on creating a compassionate, affirming space where clients can explore their challenges and cultivate personal growth. My professional background includes specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, grief, and self-esteem concerns. I bring a deep understanding of how these interconnected experiences impact mental wellness, and I'm committed to walking alongside my clients with empathy and genuine care. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I offer a holistic, culturally responsive approach that honors each individual's unique journey. My goal is to empower clients to develop resilience, gain meaningful insights, and create sustainable strategies for emotional healing and personal transformation. As a therapist of color, I understand the importance of representation and cultural sensitivity in the therapeutic relationship. I strive to create a welcoming environment where clients feel truly seen, heard, and supported.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in West Columbia, South Carolina
Finding a therapist near you in West Columbia, South Carolina starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. South Carolina is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In South Carolina, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
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 can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in South Carolina
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In South Carolina, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in South Carolina
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in South Carolina
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in South Carolina through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
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 West Columbia.
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 near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
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 discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in West Columbia, South Carolina
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving West Columbia and the surrounding SC area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.