First and foremost, I am very happy that you have chosen Betterhelp and I look forward to being able to help you through this trying time in your life. I go by Nicole. Kristina is my first name and what is on my license so that is what is listed. I am a holistic counselor who focuses on all aspects of the body and mind and what is necessary to maintain a balance there. I've been in the counseling field for 19 years and I have been a licensed counselor for the past 9 years. I have worked in all aspects of the counseling field including Telehealth, inpatient treatment centers, Assertive Community treatment teams, and Community Health as well as in Primary Care Medical Offices and now Private Practice. I believe that each of these steps in my career built a small part of what I now use to make sure that I am treating the whole person rather than just pieces of a person when they walk in my door. I have been nominated for NC Counselor of the year on 2016 and 2017 and was voted one of Brunswick County Top 10 Young Professionals in 2016. I use different approaches tailored to the individual to assist them in meeting their goals on therapy while maintaining a comfortable relaxed setting to do so. I do not set limits on therapy. This is about you and over the years I have learned that therapy does not have a time frame, it is about the individual journey and I am excited to help you on yours.

For 25 years I have had the privilege to help people navigate difficult passages in their lives, in a variety of settings. Give yourself credit for reaching out, because a good therapist during these times can make a huge positive difference. In retrospect you may see that ill fortune, suffering and emotional pain helped you grow, and that without these challenges you may not have learned what you needed to progress. As Eckhart Tolle has said, suffering can be your greatest teacher. I did not become a therapist until midlife, and have had my own share of major life changes, transformations, suffering, and loss. These experiences have deepened my empathy and compassion, which I hope to bring to you. I have learned that creating trust in the therapeutic relationship is a vital part of the process, and like all therapists I am sworn to hold you with unconditional, non-judgmental positive regard. I have earned two Masters Degrees (in Psychology and Counseling Psychology), and hold two licenses – Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Whether you are seeking longer term therapy to illuminate hidden patterns, or solution focused brief therapy for a specific problem, we will tailor our work accordingly to your goals and wishes. I am committed to helping you discover your ability to heal and grow, to listen to your inner wisdom, and find peace, self-acceptance, and self-confidence instead of fear. I have expertise with relationship struggles of all kinds, including dating, and alternate lifestyles. Addiction is a special interest, having developed a comprehensive alternative addiction treatment program in India suitable for any addiction – alcohol, drugs, food, gambling, sex, polysubstance cocktails, internet addictions, and others. I am open minded and abide by the principles of Harm Reduction. As an EAP counselor, I enjoy helping people with workplace and career issues. Other areas of expertise include grief and loss, blended family issues, stress, coping with the narcissists in your life, mild depression, anxiety, social anxiety, procrastination, guilt, anger, self blame, PTSD, family conflict, highly sensitive people, spirituality (mindfulness) and existential issues. I wish you all the best in your journey, and should you choose me, I look forward to working with you.

Hi! I am so happy you're here checking out resources and looking for support! My name is Lori Brinkley. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 23 yeas of experience treating trauma/abuse, depression/anxiety, post partum issues from moms adjusting to their new roles to post partum stress and depression, anxious college students, adult children of alcoholics, co-dependency, parenting, co-parenting after divorce, boundaries, women going through the transition of divorce, "sandwich" generation (those caring for their children while caring for an aging/ill parent, busy professionals struggling with work life balance, adoptees who need help navigating the trauma of adoption, and couples feeling disconnected and isolated. I do a unique thing called "couple's counseling for one" which is when one partner is not ready, willing or doesn't believe in therapy. I meet with the willing participant to learn new tools and coping skills or boundaries to implement in their relationship with the goal of improving connection and communication. My approach is warm and nurturing, yet direct and confrontational as needed. I believe it is imperative to challenge patterns and make difficult connections but I know you can only push as much as you support. Humor is infused into sessions as it is a huge part of my personality, but it helps make therapy fun (and I believe therapy should be fun)! I am an advanced generalist who uses a variety of tools relying heavily n Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, strengths, and problem solving. I am a mom of two college aged kids (yikes when did that happen). I spend my time doing anything outside. especially the beach, but nature is such a healing and calming force in my life. I love to read a good suspense book or watch a good character driven movie. I have seen all of the Star Wars and Avengers movies, because my son loved them but I have to admit I fell in love with them too. I am a waterfall hunter, and love to travel. My bucket list mostly consists of places I want to explore. I did a Tough Mudder 7 years ago and it was one of the BEST experiences of my life, facing my fears head on, overcoming them one by one and evolving every step of the 12 mile/26 obstacle process! Life is short. It is filled with beauty and stress and joy and devastation and then some. Perspective is key, but we can only explore other perspectives once true understanding and validation has happened. I hope you will reach out so we can work together to reach your unique goals and cultivate more joy in your life.

Min. Cassandra Bell-Gash M.Div., MEd., LCMHC, LPC A native of Shelby, North Carolina, Min. Bell-Gash accepted Jesus Christ as her personal savior and was baptized at age 12, at the Light Oak Baptist Church by the Rev Johnny Browner. She has always had a zeal for the Lord and was licensed as a Minster of the Gospel in November 2007, under Rev. Zeno T. Borders. She has worked in Christian Education at Faith Missionary Baptist Church under Rev. Borders and later Rev. Dr. Anthony Negbenebor. Her unique gift of teaching and preaching has manifested itself in Sunday School and Bible Study, but has also produced specialized workshops and retreats for women, young adults, and youth. Her leadership conferences have generated new opportunities for her to consult with organizations in their strategic planning and development. She believes that empowering other organizations to provide care extends the available resources needed by so many. Drawn to the marginalized in our society, Min. Bell-Gash, became an entrepreneur to advocate on their behalf. Her philosophy of going “beyond the walls”, propelled her to gain the necessary academics and training to provide holistic solutions. Earning her B.S. in Psychology minoring in Sociology in 1995 from the Gardner Web University; she continued and earned her M.Div, and MEd. respectively. As a continuous learner, she did not stop there, but has garnered many certifications in the mental health counseling field and continues to study. One could see the “handwriting on the wall” because this has been her life work for over 15 years. Chaplin, Therapist, Mental Health Liaison, and Crisis Counselor are just a few of the titles she’s held; Caro Mont Hospital, Cleveland Regional Medical Center, Broughton, and Kings Mountain Hospital represent some of the places she’s practiced. While titles and places are important, Min. Bell-Gash asserts that it’s the nameless individuals whose lives have been impacted by the services that she provides that really matter, and that continue to be her focus. Her “multifaceted” approach extends the services she offers for individuals and families, and is the added depth required to meet the spiritual and mental needs of the communities she serve. She is currently CEO of Life Provisions with chapters in North and South Carolina. She is a proud mother, and daughter and enjoys times with her family. She humbly acknowledges and accepts her role as a citizen of the Kingdom of God.

Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North and South Carolina and a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. I have over 25 years of experience working with children, young adults, and families who have sought support for a variety reasons (ie stress, anxiety, life changes, parenting issues, ADHD, Autism, Intellectual Disabilities, caregiver issues, etc). My experience across the school and clinical settings will be an asset to our working relationship. I am originally from the mid-west. I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Sociology from Indiana University and my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Chicago. I have resided in the Carolinas for the past 15 years. My goal is to support you in your journey by providing you with a sounding board as well as additional tools and knowledge so you may accomplish the goals that you hope to achieve. During sessions we will take time to learn about each other, build a working relationship, and establish realistic and achievable goals. Life is a journey with problems to solve and lessons to learn. Most of all though, life is a journey with experiences to enjoy. I look forward to supporting you in your journey.

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with fourteen years of experience. I have worked with clients with a vast range of concerns including anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, and life changes. My therapy style is a non-judgmental and open approach to work together. I utilize an eclectic approach to include client centered, cognitive behavioral among other techniques to best match the needs of my clients. Our dialogue will be guided by your specific needs and goals. Don't stay locked up in your thoughts and allow them to control your mood, relationships and path in life. If you are ready to make the first step, I’ll walk with you on your journey. I look forward to working with you

Are you struggling to cope with everyday stressors? Are you feeling anxious, depressed or? Do you want to improve the way you handle problems? Do you want to increase your self-awareness? Whatever it is you may be experiencing, I can help you move beyond your struggles and guide you on a new path. We will work together to challenge the thoughts, beliefs, and patterns that prevent you from moving forward. I focus my work with my clients on creating long-lasting cognitive and behavioral changes. Together, we bridge the gap between mental health and physical health and take an integrated coaching approach to better improve your overall wellbeing. My clients are those who want to focus on creating healthier habits, both physically and mentally. I and clients believe that all of the parts of the self are interconnected, from physical symptoms to emotions, and social interactions. Living a healthy life means having a balance between your physical, mental, and social wellbeing. My education and background includes a MA in Professional Counseling and an EdD in Educational Leadership. Additionally, I have over 15 years experience counseling families and adults. You can trust that through your healing journey, I will treat you with compassion and respect. I use a supportive and nurturing approach in therapy. Individuals can come to me for support, guidance, and education. Let me help you to gain enjoyment, serenity and peace in your life.

I am licensed in North Carolina with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I am licensed in North Carolina and Illinois with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. My speciality skills include a certification in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), extensive training and experience working with self-harm issues in adolescents, skilled in mindfulness and self-compassion practices, trained in providing grief counseling to individuals who have experienced pregnancy loss, and trained in using yoga, mindfulness, and basic nutrition to treat trauma. I strive to use an integrative approach in my work with clients, with an emphasis on CBT and mindfulness, based on evidence-based practices and appropriate treatment for each client. I have an excellent ability to build therapeutic relationship and facilitate growth with my clients. I am well respected by my peers in the field and passionate about continuing to provide effective treatment. I believe 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.

Hello! Thank you for taking this step and looking for a therapist. You're on the right track! I have known since middle school that helping others was the job for me. In one context or another I have been in the counseling field for 15 years, from settings such as prisons, to drug and alcohol centers, in home therapy, counseling in public schools and the community office setting. My number one priority is the client. If you are questioning taking the step to call or email, I encourage you to do so! My hope is together we can explore issues and learn techniques to make your present and future the best you that you can be. My experience includes working with children, teens and adults to address concerns with depression, anxiety, PTSD, marital counseling and much much more. 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. 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. I will accommodate you in any way that I can, I offer daytime, evening and some Saturday appointments! I look forward to hearing from you!

I am licensed in North Carolina with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, intimacy related issues, anger management, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with career difficulties. 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!

I am licensed in North Carolina with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I am currently trained in level 3 Gottman Method and have done much research in working with couples. Positive parenting, ADHD parent support, and healing from traumatic experiences are a few other areas of expertise. 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.

I am licensed in North Carolina with 6 years of professional work experience as a therapist. I have experience in helping individuals and families with stress and anxiety, parenting, mindfulness, self-esteem and more. My primary experience is supporting individuals who are experiencing the impacts of trauma; current and past. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor treatment to best 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. EMDR option available

I am licensed in North Carolina with over 4 years of professional work experience in individual counseling; and 20+ years in the profession of social work and mental health services. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Have you ever wondered why certain things affect you so strongly or cause you to space out, shut down or avoid a situation altogether seemingly on autopilot? Maybe you're secretly asking yourself "why does this situation always happen to me"? The short answer: dysfunctional stored memory. I am a EMDR trained therapist who is licensed in Florida with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & 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. As an EMDR trained professional, my therapeutic approach differs from traditional talk therapy. EMDR stands for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. It is a "bottom up" type of therapy that focuses on the past, present and future through regulation of the disturbances going on within such as intense emotions or sensations, images or non supportive thoughts. From an EMDR perspective, these symptoms exist in the present because of an unresolved memory, experience or event that either occurred or did not occur (I.e. emotional neglect from a caregiver) during childhood typically. We begin by with identifying your symptoms in the present, understanding the root causes behind those symptoms by delving into the past and then prepare you to handle situations in the future! Whether you are curious or have seen potential of EMDR, I welcome the opportunity to work with you as we tune within and navigate the mind-body connection with the intention of being able of promoting wholeness from the inside out.