In life, safety is what matters. We want to be safe from other people, storms, and other dangers life throws at us. However, when we are mentally unwell, we may feel unsafe at all times, even though there is no danger. This is the power of anxiety, and those dealing with it know how powerful it can be. Luckily, a counselor based in Cary can help you. 

Cary is a safe town to live in, but when you're feeling mentally unwell, all the safety around you doesn't help. A counselor can help you feel safe both inside and outside, and can make you feel much better as a result. Speak to a counselor today. 

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Dr. Damien Johnson

Offering therapy in NC
License: PhD, MA, LPC, LCMHC, LAC, LCAS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
17 years of experience

Greetings! My name is Dr. Damien Johnson and I am a counseling professional with over 17 years of experience in helping individuals manage presenting symptoms and difficulties using an eclectic style of therapy focusing on the connection between thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I have a B.S. Degree in Criminal Justice, a M.A. in Counseling and a Ph.D. in Human Services and am credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and a Licensed Addictions Counselor in South Carolina. I am also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist in North Carolina. I own a private counseling and community outreach agency specializing in mental health and substance abuse/co-occurring disorders. My counseling style is warm and engaging. I believe in a person centered approach to counseling that allows me to meet the client where they are as we work towards specified goals. I believe in the collaborative process of counseling that focuses on clients' strength to assist in overcoming deficits that may impede optimum functioning. My theoretical orientation of choice is Cognitive Behavior Therapy, which focuses on the connection between thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors. I also use Mindfulness and NLP principles to help guide clients effectively. This is an important step in your journey towards healing and I will do my best to assist you in reaching your counseling goals. SPECIALTIES Emotional Management (Depression, Anxiety, Anger) Mood Disorders Substance Use Disorders Trauma Services Offered Messaging Live Chat Phone Video

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Dr. Thomas Davis

Offering therapy in NC
License: PhD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
44 years of experience

I am Dr. Tom Davis. I have a PhD in Counseling Psychology from Duke University and am a Licensed Psychologist with 44 years of clinical experience. I practiced in the same medical facility for 35 of those years and treated the entire age range from age 3 to age 94. A major benefit of practicing at the same facility for all that time was that I often treated the same clients from childhood up through adulthood. It was not uncommon for me to have treated three generations of the same family. This gave me a rare and highly valuable vantage point regarding the long-term development of a client as an individual and as a member of their intergenerational family system. It also allowed me to treat adults in individual, couples and family modalities as they developed over the years. In our therapeutic relationship, I view you as the expert and me as the professional. Your expertise is the wealth of self-knowledge and personal experiences that you bring to therapy. As the professional, my job is to help you organize this expertise into an actionable form that you can use to manage your life more effectively. Over my decades of practice, I have honed a treatment approach that I find produces the most efficient and effective method of improvement. During the first session, I work with you to define the problem(s) that need attention and devise a practical, problem-oriented treatment plan to resolve these problem(s). We will focus on your thoughts, behaviors and emotions, in that order. In general, thoughts determine how you behave and behavior determines how you feel. When thoughts become more organized, behavior becomes more productive and both contribute to more positive emotions. I use homework assignments to make the best use of treatment between sessions. With child and adolescent clients, I use an age-appropriate version of the above treatment plan and include family members as helpful change agents for the child. The remaining sessions are spent working through the identified problems and other issues that may surface. The ultimate goal is for you to feel secure in your ability to handle current and future problems. I have conducted psychological testing on over 5,000 individual clients. I have tested for depression, anxiety, dementias, brain injuries, personality development, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Learning Disabilities and clients’ ability to handle a variety of surgical interventions. Therefore, if you have had psychological testing, I am able to understand the test results and to provide guidance based on those results. My overriding goal for myself is for you to end each session with a better understanding of yourself than you had when you began the session. My overriding goals for you are 1.) to gain mastery over your life that in turn enhances your self-esteem, reduces worry and leads to more positive feelings; and 2.) to have improved skills to deal with the ups and downs of daily living. After each session, I send follow up notes that summarize what was covered/learned that day, what home work assignments were generated and what our future direction should include. My office hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8:00 AM until 5:30 PM. Specialties: Depression Anxiety Panic attacks PTSD Adolescent issues Marital and family issues Geriatric issues General adjustment issues

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Brandi Geddings

Offering therapy in NC
License: MA,NCC,LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
7 years of experience

Hi there! I am Brandi Geddings, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina. I am nationally certified through the National Board of Certified Counselors and am also active in the American Counseling Association (ACA) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). I desire to use my personal and professional skills to relate and meet where you presently are in life. This is done with empathy and curiosity using relaxed and practical methods. I believe strong rapport, nonjudgment, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard are of most importance when developing and maintaining a therapeutic relationship. My style of counseling involves taking a holistic approach to help you identify strengths within yourself, recognize any negative patterns or concerns, and develop improved thought patterns and coping skills. I tend to be easy going and talk without using a lot of clinical terms while taking a collaborative and equal position with you. I hope to walk alongside you and be supportive, non-judgmental, and open-minded as we navigate difficult areas of life. With many individuals, I use a strength-based person-centered integrative approach. This is often solution-focused and includes interactive CBT, DBT, techniques, psychoeducation, problem-solving skill-building, family systems, active/reflective listening, mindfulness, existential therapy techniques; with a general approach of holistic wellness (physical, emotional, social, intellectual, spiritual, environmental, occupational). You may also prefer a simple emotional outlet. I am here to listen and provide support for you. I have worked in an outpatient therapy setting with a diverse population of individuals that include children, adolescents, and adults across the lifespan as well as working across social and class lines. I provide counseling services through individual, family, group, and psychoeducational settings. Some areas of expertise and competence include teen and adolescence, anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, life transition phases, adult ADHD, adjustment/transition, executive functioning, family dynamics, effective communication skills, and self-esteem. I hope to assist in meeting your personal goals and create practical coping mechanisms to build on. I won't suggest interventions that are complex or that doesn't make sense for your current life. We will work together to create goals that are meaningful and rewarding throughout the therapy process. I always encourage open communication regarding what is helpful and not to ensure a positive therapeutic experience and move forward towards goals. I cannot wait to meet and begin working with you!!!

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Trina McDonald

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCMHC,LCAS,MAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I have experience working with those who have Mental Health issues as well as Substance Use Disorders and have worked with military personnel, those living with HIV/AIDS, the incarcerated, and in Private Practice. I use a strength-based, client-centered approach with a foundation in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; yet draw from an eclectic approach, to assist the client make therapeutic gains. I utilize my Spirituality and Christian belief implementing the tenets of faith, hope, and love to strengthen confidence, self-worth, and help one maintain their recovery and excel in their mental, physical, social, and emotional health.

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Tameka Drew

Offering therapy in NC
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has a passion for counseling and helping others. I have been counseling for 13 years and have addressed a variety of concerns with clients including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, stress, parenting issues, trauma, ADHD, relationship/marital issues, family related problems, academic issues, military and family life concerns, self-esteem, self-care, spirituality, and work related issues. I believe that building a positive therapeutic relationship is a key factor in helping others, so I make every effort to connect with my clients in a way that helps them feel comfortable in opening up about the issues they are experiencing. I love to operate from a strengths-based perspective which allows clients to tap into their inner strengths and use their natural abilities to overcome any barriers or obstacles they may be facing. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is another method I tend to use to help client's understand how changing their thoughts and mindset can influence their emotions and actions for the better. Exploring spirituality is another method that I tend to incorporate to help client's view their circumstances from a spiritual perspective. We all go through various challenges that may cause us to experience what I like to call "a rollercoaster of emotions," but the beauty is that we do not have to figure life out on our own. If you would like support as you attempt to sort through life's challenges I am here to help! I look forward to connecting with you!

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Debra Huntoon

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefBipolar disorderDepression
40 years of experience

I understand what it means to hit rock bottom, because I've been there too. But that experience fuels my passion for helping others rise above their own challenges. With me you'll find exploration of how you got to where you are as well as identification of options to help you get to where you want to be. Together, we'll turn your "I can'ts" into "I dids," because I believe in celebrating your victories, big and small, while pushing you to become the best version of yourself. I know the transformative power of therapy with a skilled guide because I've walked the path you are on. My journey began with a Master's in Social Work from UNC and advanced training at Duke's Department of Psychiatry. Since 1989, I've helped countless individuals – urban and rural, across cultures and incomes – navigate life's toughest challenges. I am licensed by the state of North Carolina as clinical social worker with over 40 years of experience. My commitment to growth never ends. Approximately 700 hours of continuing education and a passion for learning fuel my expertise in guiding you towards lasting change. Joining BetterHelp allows me to reach even more individuals seeking compassionate support. Are you ready to embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery? My proven methods and genuine understanding create a safe space for you to thrive. I am proud of you for moving forward!

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Shelly Jennings Jarrard

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionADHD
6 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 6 years of professional work experience as a therapist. I have worked in the mental health field for the past 20 years in other capacities. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression. I often use CBT, DPT and motivational interviewing to address these issues. I have worked with all populations in the areas. With therapeutic interventions, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression symptoms can be reduced. My goal is to help everyone I work with to reduce symptoms that create a barrier to living their best life. 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. I use evidence-based practices in a seamless fashion to apply them to everyday situations. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Jean Epstein

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in North Carolina with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with the reality we all deal life changes. 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!

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Sarah Banach

Offering therapy in NC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

I specialize in working with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, high conflict with others, and anger/aggression. I enjoy working with clients to help them find their voice and understand how to both identify AND effectively communicate their own emotions. In my work I focus on building healthy skills to be able to utilize and build self-esteem to assert your needs to others and build boundaries for unhealthy relationships. By joining me in therapy, we will work together to address the patterns that have you feeling stuck. I utilize CBT and DBT skills within sessions to help you become more self-aware and build emotional strength.

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Camilla Black

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
20 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find 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 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 Cary. 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 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. 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 Cary 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 Cary 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 Cary, elsewhere in Wake, 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 Cary area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Cary 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 Cary 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 Cary 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 Cary, 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 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 lead by a therapist in Cary 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 Cary 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 Cary 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 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 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 27513 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 Cary 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 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 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 Cary, 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.

Cary 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 Cary.

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

27511, 27512, 27513, 27518, 27519

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