Ayden, North Carolina sets a prime example of how a town can transform its image. Once called Ottertown, Ayden was once home for troublemakers, outcasts, and misfits. The railroad brought new life to the town and plenty of honorable residents made their home in Ayden. Today, Ayden bills itself as “A Hometown to Love.” Struggles with mental health may keep you from appreciating Ayden’s annual Collard Festival and the nearby outer banks of North Carolina.

Struggles don’t have to last for long. Professional counselors in the Ayden area can help you transform your distress into feeling your best. Matchup with an Ayden area counselor and start your journey to recovery now.

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Kristi Rakes

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

Life is hard and everyone deserves to have an outlet to talk about their feelings. I approach my practice with compassion, empathy and nonjudgmental understanding. With my holistic mindset, I seek to help people navigate stress, mental health issues and "life" in general. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have been working in the field of mental health for 15 years. I have extensive training in mental health diagnosis, end of life care, and Women's issues. I am also certified in Trauma Focused CBT. I value anyone who is brave enough to seek help, and I attempt to help people identify their strengths in times of vulnerability and pain. I utilize strength based practice modalities, CBT, TFCBT, Motivational Interviewing techniques, Mindfulness and Self Esteem building to help people achieve their goals for wellness. My hope for all encounters, either personal or professional is to bring something positive to the lives of people I meet. I want to help you heal, help you see your worth, and help you find a better future in your strengths and abilities.

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Amanda Wentz

Offering therapy in NC
License: MSW,LCSW,CCTP
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
7 years of experience

I have been a therapist since 2014 when I graduated with my masters degree in social work from North Carolina State University in Raleigh, NC. After graduating with my bachelors in social work in 2012 and working for a year at a homeless shelter, I knew there was more that I wanted to be doing, which led me back to school to continue my education. I finished all of my clinical hours for licensure in April of 2018, which is when I became an LCSW. I have worked at three different outpatient mental health centers during my time of practice, all which served different ages, diagnoses, and stages of life. The majority of my experience comes in working with individuals learning to cope with anxiety, stress, depression, addictions, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, life transitions, relational issues and grief and loss. I may be the “therapist,” but no one knows you like you do, and that is why I make it a priority to make sure we use my expertise, as well as yours to make sure we get you where you want to be! I traditionally come from a strengths based background/approach for this reason. I have taken certified courses in Trauma Focused CBT, and in treating Anxiety. I can’t promise I won’t respectfully try to challenge you throughout this process, but you have the power to choose what feels right for you. I understand that this is a difficult spot to be in, and that the thought of needing “therapy” can sometimes seem unnecessary, but I really hope that you can look at this like a partnership where I can provide you with certain tools that will help you on your journey. There is no such thing as a stupid question, a ridiculous thought, or a reason to be embarrassed. Everyone handles stress and life transitions differently, and if it weren’t for that we wouldn’t have the uniqueness that helps us all accelerate at different things. I am honored to get to hear your story, and to be your sounding board at this time of transition.

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Justina Janda

Offering therapy in NC
License: MA,LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

Welcome! I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a certification in Expressive Arts Therapy. In general, I work with clients from a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and person-centered perspective. When you feel seen and heard, healing and growth happens much more easily. I see each individual as unique, so therapy will be uniquely tailored to meet your specific mental, emotional, and/or spiritual needs. I often teach mindfulness to help facilitate awareness of thoughts and behavior patterns. Additionally, I often use Existential Therapy to help you create a meaningful and fulfilling life, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help you recognize and change negative thought patterns that are stopping you from experiencing inner contentment and happiness. Occasionally, I offer Expressive Arts Therapy to individuals interested in exploring themselves through any artistic modality. I believe that when we open ourselves to growth, healing, and change, we can finally live our best life. It is my pleasure to walk with you as you find your way into a healthier, happier life.

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Craig Hales

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW (Florida),LISW-CP (South Carolina)
Stress, AnxietyGriefCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in North Carolina, South Carolina and Florida. I have over 15 years of experience working as a counselor. I have worked in hospital, private practice, law enforcement and military settings with individuals, couples and families. I am a veteran and have worked with a wide range of clients with different concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, traumatic incidents, PTSD and adjustment issues.

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Sara Roesler

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW (NC) ,LCSW (ME),LICSW (MA)
Stress, AnxietyCareer difficultiesDepressionCoaching
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with individuals who are managing depression, anxiety, chronic illness and life changes. I received my social work degrees from the University of Kansas where the Strengths Perspective paradigm was developed. The Strengths Perspective recognizes the human capacity for resilience, courage and thriving. I also have a Masters in Public Health from Boston University. My MPH has given me more skills to help people with health prevention. My approach to therapy and coaching, is to focus on your strengths to help identify where you want to change and grow. I look forward to working with you!

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Yazmin Coleman

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & 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.

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Tiffany McCullough

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

Anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and trauma are all issues that keep a person from living the life that they truly want to live; or keep a couple from connecting on a level that maybe they use to; or keep a family from relating and understanding each other. Whatever issues arise, I pride myself in helping people navigate through these issues which can help them create and step into the life they desire. ​ I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and completed my Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Mercer University in Atlanta and received my Bachelor’s in Psychology for University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. My passions include helping couples, families, and adults who may be struggling with a variety of issues. Counseling is nothing to be ashamed of. Everyone needs help at some point in life. I would be honored to assist you on your journey to a fulfilling life.

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Lori Ivey

Offering therapy in NC
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Something that I feel makes me unique is that my approach to counseling is to empower you to begin to heal. We all face challenges in life and need someone to assist us with unlocking our power to self heal. I was fortunate in being able to be both the counselor and client. That experience gives me the ability to understand how hard and scary it is to ask a stranger for help. I love and believe in what I do and I would love to help you!!! My treatment is based on individual needs because depression, anxiety, or other mental health concerns are individual. No two people experience things in the same way so I don't treat them in the same way. Counseling is a unique journey I want someone to feel confident that I have their best interests at heart. If you feel I may be able to help please contact me!

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Dr. Lynda Black

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
28 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with over 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. I believe you have unique strengths and skills and we can build upon these to create growth. While each therapeutic relationship is different, my style tends to include gently challenging you to consider new ways of showing up in your life and at other times, teaching new skills. I may suggest "homework" between sessions to support your growth. This happens in a collaborative therapeutic relationship where you are heard and supported as you move toward the vision of the life you want to create. Together, we will celebrate your successes and address areas that challenge you. It takes courage to seek change in your life. Signing up for therapy is a first step and I am here to support you in your journey.

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Britney Hill

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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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How to find counseling in Ayden

Finding the best therapist close by in Ayden 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 Ayden. 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 Ayden, 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 Ayden 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 Ayden 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 Ayden, elsewhere in Pitt, or in the greater state of North Carolina.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Ayden area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Ayden 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 Ayden 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 Ayden may not take health insurance, some in the state of North 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 North 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 Ayden, North 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 Ayden 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 Ayden 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 Ayden 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 Ayden 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 Ayden 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 NC, 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 28513 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 Ayden 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 Ayden 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 Ayden, North 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.

Ayden 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 Ayden.

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

28513

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