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Katie Smith

Offering therapy in NC
License: NCC,LPC,LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

**An important note before we get started: I am currently living overseas and am offering messaging ONLY services to new clients due to the time difference. In the future we may work towards a phone or video session if schedules allow.* Hello and welcome! If you’re here, it’s probably not because you’re feeling great about life at the moment. You might be feeling pretty miserable. Maybe you aren’t sure what steps to take or how to talk about it. That is okay! Change can be scary and challenging. That is why it can be helpful to have someone in your corner to provide support and help you figure out where you are and where you want to be. I am Katie Smith, a licensed professional counselor (LPC/LCMHC) in North Carolina. I have experience working with adults, teens, and families in both individual and group settings. I have enjoyed working with a variety of clients, including survivors of trauma, domestic violence and sexual assault, military spouses, and those experiencing anxiety, depression, and borderline personality disorder (BPD). As a therapist intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, I have worked extensively with clients experiencing chronic suicidal thoughts and chaotic interpersonal relationships. My approach to counseling is grounded in person-centered and cognitive behavioral theories. All that really means is that I have respect for your individuality and ability to direct your own path. I believe that, even if you don’t feel like it right now, you are the expert on your life. My job is to collaborate with you on determining your goals and individual needs. My hope is to empower each client to take charge of their narrative and determine their own path. My role as counselor will be to provide support through unconditional positive regard and a strong client-counselor therapeutic relationship as we explore thought and behavior patterns. Let's get started on developing more productive ways to handle the issues that are standing in the way of your goals. "It's not a matter of letting go—you would if you could. Instead of 'let it go' we should probably say 'let it be.'" ~Jon Kabat-Zinn

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Tonja Price

Offering therapy in NC
License: MS,LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefBipolar disorderDepression
20 years of experience

Hello, My name is Tonja Price and I enjoy spending time with my family, working outside, and walking my dogs. I am a Licensed Clinical Counselor in the state of North Carolina, with 20 years of clinical experience, since I graduated from Eastern Illinois University. I have experience in a variety of settings, such as private practice, public mental health, community-based mental health, hospital therapy, inpatient therapy, crisis center, court systems, and correctional settings. I have experience with clients who have a wide range of concerns, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, relationship issues, parenting problems, OCD, and ADHD. I am also trained in EMDR therapy, as it is my passion to help those who have suffered from trauma, to reclaim their strength and power that was taken from them. I would describe my style as eclectic, supportive, goal-oriented, and client-focused. I feel that it is very important to communicate openly and work together to help come to a solution. My goal is to meet where you are now and help you get to where you want to be. Seeking help is the first step in creating a better life and becoming the happiest version of yourself, let me help you on this wonderful journey. I look forward to working with you!

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Mary Hales

Offering therapy in NC
License: MA, LPC, LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
22 years of experience

Hello! I am Mary Hales, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I obtained my Masters in Mental Health Counseling from Medaille College in NY. I have over 15 years of experience in various settings such as outpatient clinics, hospitals, residential settings, community-based agencies, and private practice. My specialties include anxiety, depression, PTSD, mood disorders, substance and other addictions, trauma, and abandonment, couples, and grief therapy, to name a few. I believe that each individual is unique, and it is important to address each client’s issues with an individualized personal approach, one that is relevant to the person and their current presenting problem. I approach counseling in a manner that empowers individuals to create positive change in their situations. My approach is to use a range of therapeutic modalities, to focus on the clients and their needs. I believe in creating a therapeutic relationship in which clients can feel safe while discussing and exploring their problems. Counseling should be considered a journey of personal exploration, which may lead to major changes in your life perspectives and decisions. It takes courage to take the first steps towards seeking this journey of personal exploration for a more fulfilling and happier life. So, if you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you to achieve your personal goals. I look forward to working with you!

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Lesia Lancaster

Offering therapy in NC
License: MA, LCMHC, NCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), and a National Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I have worked with client's experiencing trauma, grief, and life transitions that have resulted in increased anxiety, self-doubt, relational issues, and difficulty finding purposeful and meaningful living. While we do not push people beyond readiness, we challenge clients to explore readiness to process thoughts and feelings, such that they can explore new ways of living. In world where things change rapidly, unexpected things are happening that can cause acute stress or even trauma, the struggle to adjust can be extremely stressful, overwhelming, isolating, and often times frightening. The good news is, you are not alone with these feelings. I offer a safe environment where you can verbalize your thoughts and feelings and move towards healing. This is the first step to helping you regain a sense of power and transform your life. I am here to walk with you on this journey! I look forward to hearing from you soon!

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Talia Scott

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 3+ years of professional work experience as a Psychotherapist with 16 years experience in the field of mental health. I'm a working Artist as well and am always willing to engage your imagination & creativity into our sessions at your discretion. As a Board Certified Registered Art Therapist in addition to Clinical Mental Health Licensure, there is a whole colorful & fulfilling world of approaches to explore. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, anxiety, trauma, increasing motivation, building self-esteem & confidence, career exploration, as well as severe & persistent mental health diagnoses. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and wellness plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I'll warn you now, we may laugh alot. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I'm Solution-Focused and work best with individuals who are contemplating or ready for change.

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Hali Calcutt

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoaching
5 years of experience

Welcome! I am so glad you are here! Licenses I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), licensed in North Carolina, Maine, and Utah. In addition, I hold a certificate in Substance Use Disorders and Addictions. I have been working with Clients and families in various roles since 2014. Clients I have extensive experience diagnosing and treating Client's with diverse acute and severe mental health needs. Some of my Client's have included active duty military, physicians, high profile Client's, clergy, instructors, CEOs, lawyers, and even other Therapists. I have worked within family conservation programs, therapeutic boarding schools, wilderness camps, the public school system, children's homes, public health, clinical research, simulation labs, university chaplain services, and the private practice sector. In private practice I provide individual therapy, parent coaching, marriage therapy, and consulting. Approach I particularly practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (Mindfulness), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy. I will work with you to identify your goals, working together to structure a lifestyle that closely aligns with your values, interests, and aspirations. I am passionate about helping you cultivate realistic skills that will empower you in fostering independence and confidence, through intentional living. In my free time, you can find me spending time on the coast, kayaking local rivers, and exploring the beautiful North Carolina mountains. Let's get started!

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

Kenyetta Cooper

Offering therapy in NC
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.

This is Teresa Elliott's avatar and link to their profile

Teresa Elliott

Offering therapy in NC
Trauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Jennifer Lippel's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Lippel

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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.

This is Karen Bryant's avatar and link to their profile

Karen Bryant

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find counseling in Oakboro

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Oakboro 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 Oakboro 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 Oakboro 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 Oakboro, 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 Oakboro 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 Oakboro 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 Oakboro 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 Oakboro 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 Oakboro 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 28129 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 Oakboro 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 Oakboro 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 Oakboro, 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.

Oakboro 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 Oakboro.

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

28129

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