This is Susan Shafer's avatar and link to their profile

Susan Shafer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Bakersville
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LCMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I am Susan Shafer, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor for the state of North Carolina, 500hr Certified Yoga Instructor and Certified Practitioner for Emotional Freedom Techniques, also known as tapping. I hold a Masters Degree in Community Counseling from the University of North Carolina-Charlotte and have been providing therapy for almost 15 years. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families in a variety of settings. My areas of specialty include working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief/loss, ADHD and trauma related hardships. I invite you to check out my website : shafer.services My counseling approach is eclectic and I use approaches that integrates effective wellness practices with traditional psychotherapy including CBT, Mindfulness and Emotional Freedom Techniques. I believe in creating a space that allows clients to express themselves openly and without judgement. My work focuses on helping clients to connect to their inner strengths and increase their awareness of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. At times, I combine yoga practices and psycho-educational techniques that allow clients to experience the power to connect the body and mind through breath and movement. Another form of treatment I highly encourage clients to consider is Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), also referred to as 'tapping', which is a scientifically researched method of using self-applied acupressure to reduce stress, shift negative emotions, change unwanted behaviors and work to resolve with trauma memories. I have been trained in these techniques and completed mentorship to become an Accredited, Certified EFT Practitioner through EFTi. It takes courage and trust to begin counseling and I appreciate your willingness to allow me to be a part of this journey. Together, we will identify your goals and skills to help you overcome the challenges you are experiencing or have experienced. One of my greatest joys as a therapist is to witness individuals resolve issues and gravitate toward a life fulfilled with inner peace and joy. When you are ready to begin, I am here to walk the next steps with you!

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Geoffrey Birch

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Bakersville
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Is the hurt of a traumatic past still weighing on you? Or maybe you’re struggling with a toxic relationship or can’t find the confidence to stand up for yourself. I can help you learn to let go of the past. Even if it’s been months, years or even decades, there is hope. The idea of rebuilding our life is daunting, but not impossible. Above all, I help people cope with anxiety, depression and substance abuse to get back to living life to the fullest and being the best version of themselves. I believe in being transparent and honest with my clients. Sometimes the message that we need to hear isn’t easy to hear. However, through honesty, I foster an environment of focused growth and progress. Therapy is a way to understand the challenges you face and develop ways to overcome them with the support of someone in your corner. Life can be full of ups and downs that often come without a warning. While it’s natural to attempt to attempt to overcome these challenges on our own, this can often lead to additional stress, isolation and anxiety. Change doesn’t occur overnight, but through therapy, I can support you to in your journey towards a different future.

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Christina LaBond

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Bakersville
Counselor License Type(s): MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
8 years of experience

Hello Better Help community! My name is Christina and I have been in the mental health field since 2012, providing outpatient therapy since 2014. I am fully licensed in North Carolina as a Clinical Social Worker. Prior to that I was practicing in Michigan, where I am originally from. I received my Masters degree from University of Southern California. My passion is to help empower people by assisting them in the process of overcoming personal barriers and discovering their own strengths so they can live a fulfilling and healthy life. I have experience working with a variety of populations affected by various mental health and interpersonal challenges. I take an eclectic approach which is trauma-informed and strengths-based. I have worked with individuals, couples, families and groups. I facilitated several weekly groups which were psychoeducational in nature including trauma, depression, anxiety, psychosis, and co-occurring substance use and mental health. I have extensive experience with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and incorporate many elements from Dialectal Behavior Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. My goals are to assist people in developing skills to manage symptoms more effectively while shifting their focus to accentuate their strengths to help them achieve life goals. I have worked in a variety of settings including community mental health, mental health clinics, primary care settings, work in the community, as well as work with the court system on guardianship cases. Many of my clients have a history of trauma which continues to negatively affect their sense of self-worth, their feelings of safety/security with others, and their outlook of their future. My therapeutic style often incorporates a trauma-informed perspective because past trauma often continues to negatively affect individual attachments later in life. I feel so fortunate that we live in a world where technology allows us the opportunity to connect with individuals that may have been outside our reach before. I strive to provide the support and empathy to help empower others to make difficult but positive changes in their lives. You have already taken the first steps toward making changes in your life and I will be here to walk side-by-side with you on your personal journey.

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Joyce Washington

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Bakersville
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LMFT
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesSelf esteem
14 years of experience

I am a family and marriage therapist licensed in North Carolina with over 11 years of experience working as a therapist for those of all ages. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including relationship issues, parenting problems, family discord, career challenges, assertivness, and an array of sexual functions and dysfunction. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is present and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, while also being honest. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. As a therapist, I hope to help motivate people in ascertaining their inner strengths and abilities and discovering what truly inspires them. I aim to provide a stimulating and supportive environment that encourages clients to take initiative in their own lives, while fostering confidence to realize their full potential. I am here

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Romia "Mia" Evans Baggs

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Bakersville
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
16 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social working licensed in North Carolina with over 13 years of experience working with clients with a wide range of concerns, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and compassion fatigue. I have also helped people who have experienced abuse and trauma (emotional, physical, sexual, and combat related). I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My therapy style is warm and interactive. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and collaborative language systems approaches. 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 look forward to working with you!

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Roger Hyman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Bakersville
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefIntimacy-related issues
25 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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 Chelsey Lee's avatar and link to their profile

Chelsey Lee

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Bakersville
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
4 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina and South Carolina with 4 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 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!

This is Alleyah Mason's avatar and link to their profile

Alleyah Mason

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Bakersville
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, self esteem, and going through 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. My therapy approach is more collaborative. I like to use the first 1-2 sessions to build rapport with my clients and get to know them on a more personal level. I'm also a strengths-focused clinician who will help you identify/utilize your strengths so that we can work collaboratively to problem solve and/or achieve any goals you've set for yourself. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Acquanita Pettis's avatar and link to their profile

Acquanita Pettis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Bakersville
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina and South Carolina with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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.

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Alexus Griffin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Bakersville
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

Greetings, I am licensed mental health counselor and national certified counselor in North Carolina with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse. In addition I also help with motivation, self esteem, confidence and perfectionism. 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Bakersville

Finding the best therapist close by in Bakersville 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 Bakersville 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 Bakersville. 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 Bakersville, 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 Bakersville region and in the state of North Carolina. 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 Bakersville 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 Bakersville 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 Bakersville 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 Bakersville, elsewhere in Mitchell, or in the greater state of North Carolina. 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 Bakersville 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 Bakersville 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 Bakersville 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 Bakersville 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 a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of North Carolina 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 Bakersville online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Bakersville, 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. 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 Bakersville 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 Bakersville 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 Bakersville 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 Bakersville?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Bakersville 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 Bakersville 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 Bakersville 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 NC, 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 28705 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 Bakersville counselor?

Before seeing your Bakersville 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. Bakersville 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 Bakersville 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 Bakersville 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 Bakersville, 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.

Bakersville 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 Bakersville, North Carolina

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 Bakersville 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 Bakersville.

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

28705

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