This is Joshua McElroy's avatar and link to their profile

Joshua McElroy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Cary
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemADHD
10 years of experience

***Currently unable to accept new clients as my caseload is full*** “I like flaws and feel more comfortable around people who have them. I myself am made entirely of flaws, stitched together with good intentions.” Hi there! I am Joshua, a nationally certified licensed professional counselor who adores meeting new people! I truly love my job, and hope that this reflects in our sessions. As a neurodivergent and queer human, I find my work to be special and unique, and I seek to provide informed services to fellow neurospicy humans :) Formerly from the Southern US (Mississippi), I now reside in Denver, Colorado. I have approximately 10 years of involvement with the counseling profession. I acquired my degrees from Mississippi State University in Psychology and Clinical Mental Health Counseling and have multiple national certifications. I have experience working in various settings, including acute/inpatient, university-based, outpatient addiction, and most recently as a children's therapist. I am a specialist in LGBTQ+ issues, and incorporate a lense of Neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD) and Trauma-informed approaches to my practice. Domestically, I'm licensed to practice in the states of Mississippi and Colorado. I would describe myself as a very accepting and warm therapist, operating from a drive of empathy, multicultural competency, and compassion. I also view myself as alternative and non-traditional in most of my approaches. I tend to sway more towards a psychodynamic approach to therapy but also incorporate cognitive-behavioral, reality, existential, feminist, relational, culture-centered, and narrative styles. I’ve also taught and lectured in various psychology courses, with my favorite being Human Sexual Behavior. I like to incorporate my academic knowledge into my therapy practices, as I find psycho-education to be a magnificent tool in sustaining mental wellness. My primary goal is to be adaptable, accepting, and embracing. I love the experience of interpersonal connection that is provided by my career, and the ability to help empower others. I also love humor, and utilize it often! Therapy can often be portrayed as serious and 'stuffy' so I try to bring some joy into the room. I love the bonus of meeting international clients, as it provides the opportunity to learn more about each other's cultures! I feel honored to have the opportunity to provide my services to whoever is in need, and am eager to explore the journey of life with you!

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Dr. Kristina Thompson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Cary
Counselor License Type(s): PhD,LPC,CMHT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionADHD
11 years of experience

Hello! I am a licensed professional counselor and a certified mental health therapist in the state of Mississippi with 14 years of experience in the field of mental health with 11.5 of those years as a counselor/therapist. I have worked with every population of clients throughout my years of experience. I have diagnosed and treated various mental health issues, including depression, stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, anger management, ODD, and ADHD. Other areas of focus that I have addressed include adoption and foster care, attachment issues, Autism, personality issues, blended family issues, caregiver issues and stress, codependency, commitment issues, communication problems, intellectual disability, OCD, paranoia, DMDD, drug and alcohol addiction, and narcissism. In regards to my counseling style, I believe that the best way to form a therapeutic alliance is to build rapport with each of my client. Also, I am very open, sympathetic, empathetic, and non-judgmental. In my opinion, everyone needs someone to talk to because we all experience unexpected events that affect us negatively in life. The best way to overcome these unexpected events is to find positive coping mechanisms that help an individual to move forward without looking back continuously. Moreover, my clinical approaches include Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, and Narrative Therapy. I will utilize the most appropriate clinical approach with each of my clients based on his or her areas of need. Furthermore, being able to take the step to seek counseling is no small feat, and it shows that you are willing to change. I am here to support, direction, encourage, and motivate you to be a better you. Thank you for the opportunity to work with you!

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Angela Kent

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Cary
Counselor License Type(s): LPC, M. Ed., LSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
6 years of experience

Growing up in small rural area of the Mississippi Delta is easy for most people, but for people with anxiety and depression, as an adolescent, life can become difficult. I came from a good Christian home where morals and values were taught from the beginning. Anxiety and depression were issues that were not talked about in the home. It was not until I was in my late twenties that I learned that it was okay to talk about uncomfortable feelings and emotions and it was certainly nothing to be ashamed of. As I began to seek counseling, I was able to learn to become self-aware of my own feelings and to learn from my counselor’s guidance, that I could make positive changes in my own life. Counselors were able to provide valuable assistance to my emotional needs and help assist me in learning to express myself in a healthy way and to learn coping skills to function to the best of my ability in everyday life situations. This is how my journey began as a counselor when my passion for helping others began. My inclination towards the profession develop when I developed a personal aspiration to advocate and to help others through my own personal experiences. I wanted to be a part of my future clients’ journeys to become the most fulfilling versions of themselves. My background includes working with individuals with anxiety, depression, eating disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorders, general mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, borderline personality disorders and attention deficit disorders.

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Amy White

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Cary
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Hi there! My name is Amy White and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the states of Florida, Texas, Mississippi, and Alabama. I have over 4 years of private clinical work experience and over 10 years of field experience. I aim to help clients reduce experiences related to stress, anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, and a variety of other mental health concerns. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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. In our sessions we'll work towards meeting goals by utilizing specific strategies that work best for you. My approach is very individualistic and client-centered. We’ll work to "reshape" thoughts in a way that promotes your mental health and happiness. I’ll help you develop specific skills to be able to overcome the challenges that you are currently facing. I would love to be on the journey with you to find the happiest and healthiest you! I look forward to working with you.

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Monica Turner Lowery

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Cary
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, intimacy related issues, & 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.

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Shamekias Lampkin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Cary
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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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Anna Mercante

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Cary
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the States of Louisiana and Mississippi. I specialize in providing therapy to those with chronic medical illnesses, substance use disorders, anxiety disorders, mood disorders and those struggling with life transitions. I received my Bachelors in Psychology from Creighton University and my Masters of Social Work from Louisiana State University. Prior to entering private practice I have served as a clinical director for a behavioral health hospital, an addictions therapist, medical social worker, and a community mental health professional. Therapy is an opportunity for you to learn about yourself and to achieve personal growth. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, the treatment modalities I use are tailored to your individualized needs. I am here to help you work through your difficulties and to support you in achieving your personal goals. Everyone has a reason for seeking therapy, it could be to share your thoughts and feelings with a safe and non-judgmental person or to find solutions to the issues in your life.

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Dr. Jerrelda Sanders

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Cary
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Louisiana with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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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Celevia Evans

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Cary
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
28 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, 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.

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Demietrice Pittman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MS, Cary
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Mississippi with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, depression, & coping with life changes. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Cary

Finding the best therapist close by in Cary 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 with therapists in Cary that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Cary. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Cary, 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 for therapists. 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Cary region and in the state of Mississippi. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Cary or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Cary therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Cary area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Cary, elsewhere in Sharkey, or in the greater state of Mississippi. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Cary therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Cary due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Cary may not take health insurance, some in the state of Mississippi may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Mississippi you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Cary online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Cary, Mississippi 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Cary psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Cary 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 helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified 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.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Cary provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Cary?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Cary 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Therapists 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 Cary 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 Cary 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in MS, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 39054 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Cary counselor?

Before seeing your Cary therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Cary therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. 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 for therapy 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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Cary 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 with a Cary counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Cary, Mississippi 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.

Cary has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Cary, Mississippi

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 Cary 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 to customer service 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 Cary.

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

39054, 39159

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