
Phil D'Agostino
I believe that when it comes to being depressed, anxious/fearful, or if you are having real problems in your relationship, you want relief and you want it as soon as you can get it. People don't seek a counselor to talk, they go to find a way to feel better, be better and never need you again as soon as possible. That's why I use the methods and principles normally associated with Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), or Brief Therapy. My training was first as a scientist and science educator. Dealing with people from all walks of life, I came to realize we are far more alike than we are different and that we are all susceptible to being depressed, anxious and having relationship difficulties. I trained in hypnosis to help with obsessive thinking and behavior change (like smoking, overeating, social and other anxieties, etc.), and to become a psychological counselor through the UNC-G graduate studies program. In all that time (beginning to help others in 1989) I came to find that the fastest way to get your life back is to employ the principles and strategies studied and described as CBT. Whatever you call it (several names can be applies), taking a more practical, here-and-now approach with understanding what your problems are and creating a plan of action to make them better is the most direct and most successful way to make things better. It places the power of control and to heal right in the hand of the individual, not a therapist, not a drug...you. We all know that it isn't always easy. And being realistic means we acknowledge that sometimes it can be mighty tough. The wonderful part of it is that with the right therapist, this approach is tested and proven, and gives you a real reason to hope and be encouraged that, while it might take some time, you can get better. After years of practice, the passion to help others translated in my authorship of nearly two dozen training courses in subjects like gaining emotional control, resolving conflicts, dealing with people that are very hard to deal with, leadership, management, and others. I also authored Ready Access CBT for Working Professionals (Lorman Education) to share what I know with other therapists, and a book to bring these principles to the public titled, Naked Thinking. I focus my help for those who are suffering with depression and anxiety problems (which can include transitional issues like loss of a job, a relationship, speaking up for yourself, speaking to groups or just your boss, etc.) and relationship problems (which can include marital and couples problems, family issues, work and co-worker issues, etc.)

William Erwin
Hello! Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. My name is Billy and I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor in North Carolina. I have been working with those facing mental health challenges for 20 years. I have helped my clients face a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting challenges, career struggles, interpersonal concerns, LGBTQ issues, as well as grief and loss. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical and emotional trauma. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and rational-emotive counseling utilizing reality therapy techniques to develop goals. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek help for a more fulfilling and happier life. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I would consider it a great honor to be a part of your journey towards positive change. I look forward to working with you!

Leslie Mulligan
Hi, I'm Leslie. I help individuals ages 14-90, couples, families, and groups. I’ve been a mental health therapist for over 24 years. I help people find peace from mood instability; relationship, intimacy and family problems; health, sleep and career stress; aging, death, bereavement; sexuality, life-stage, and spiritual challenges. I provided military combat and sexual trauma recovery services to active, reserve, guard members and their families, and first responders for a decade. My counseling approach is warm, direct, present-centered, creative and interactive. I am an objective, non-judgemental therapist with wide experience to help you clarify this stage of your journey. My trauma-sensitive approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, mindfulness, wellness and art therapy tools. Our dialog, guided by your specific needs and goals, is to deepen your enjoyment of your life and empower your being. I value being human - with respect, honesty and cultural sensitivity. I am a holistic, body-centered practitioner. Mind, body, heart, thought, spirit and life experiences all contribute to life quality and meaning. My joy is to get you to your “there”. Let's connect to make it better for you. Leslie

Kara Snodgrass
Hello! My name is Kara Snodgrass and I am looking forward to this new way of counseling. I am licensed as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 10 years experience working as a therapist. Before becoming a counselor I worked as a family support worker for 5 years. My experiences include in-home work with families and children, substance abuse, child protective services, foster care and crisis work with the goal of reunification when possible. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including relationship issues, parenting problems, with a special focus in anxiety. I have a collaborative, client centered approach. I offer a variety of interventions depending on your needs. My approach is focused on you, I take your lead but can nudge if I think it will be helpful. I am empathetic and and believe we are all struggling in some area. You are welcome to message me anytime through Better Help. The frequency with which you can have access to a counselor to work through day to day emotions and problem solving is extremely beneficial for most and a nice change from traditional outpatient counseling. I usually check messages each day, five days per week. I offer messaging, live chat and phone sessions with limited availability in the evenings and weekends. Please note that what you see in my calendar may not reflect my only availability so you always want to check that out with me through messaging first. SPECIALTIES Stress/Anxiety Anger Management Domestic Violence Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy Years of Experience: 10

Dawn Discenza
My name is Dawn (she/her pronouns). I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor and have been licensed in North Carolina since 2014. I have worked in the mental health field for 20 plus years. I have really been enjoying my time working with clients here at BetterHelp. I began working on this platform in January of 2021 and I have to admit that I still am really happy working in this setting. Since being licensed I have been working with all age groups; starting with those at the age of 5. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I have worked with those who struggle with PTSD for many reasons; including but not limited to: domestic violence; rape/sexual abuse; physical abuse; neighborhood violence; disasters; military time and others. My counseling style is friendly and interactive. I am not passive and I am very communicative. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in focusing time on labels. My approach combines a combination of evidenced based therapies including cognitive-behavioral, dialectic behavioral, motivational interviewing and others. I will modify our time, discussions and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes a lot to reach out and ask for help. I am so glad that you did. I look forward to working with you!

Veronica Crawley
I feel a deep sense of respect and appreciation for each new person who decides to enter counseling with the courage and commitment to discover and make the changes that will give their life new meaning and direction. The opportunity to witness the growth of another is an honor and a privilege. When a person comes to therapy, it is because they want something different in their lives. My job is to help you find ways of seeing a problem and handling emotions, thoughts, and situations that might not have occurred to you by yourself. When we both understand what you want, I will help you devise various ways to get what you want. I will try to understand you and the difficulties you are experiencing holistically by paying attention to your body, mind, emotions, and spirit. The important thing to remember is that in the end, making changes in your life is up to you. For counseling to be effective, you must make a commitment of time and energy and take an active part in the process. Therapy is about equipping you with life-long solutions. My goal for you is to feel better and empower you to be better. I received a Bachelor's at Pembroke State University in Psychology and a Master's at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke in Service Agency Counseling. *Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), granted by the NBCLPC, September 2004 *Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate (LCAS) granted by NCSAPPB, January 2021 *Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS), granted by NBCC, July 2012 *National Certified Counselor (NCC), granted by the NBCC, April 2008 *Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist Certification (TFCBT) granted by the NCCTP, June 2010 *Certified Child and Family Forensic Interviewer (CFEP), granted by UNC-Chapel Hill CMEP, August 2012 *Chaplain, ordained by Warrior Family Ministries October 2019 I have 20+ years of clinical experience across a variety of mental health/clinical settings to include outpatient private practice, agencies, residential, and schools. I have held a variety of positions to include Psychotherapist, Clinical Director, School Counselor, BED/Lead Teacher, Program Administrator, Program Coordinator, Intensive In-Home Specialist, Teaching-Parent, and Legal Advocate. I provide clinical and administrative supervision to other Licensed Clinical Mental Health Clinicians. And I'm an ordained Chaplain. My approach to treatment is collaborative, holistic, integrative, and strength-based. My treatment techniques are tailored to meet the needs of the individual, family, and/or group.

Dr. Freda Shipman
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience in a Clinical Setting. I have a passion for helping individuals understand and help build on personal strengths while addressing their challenges. My areas of clinical experience are aging and geriatric issues, anxiety, anger, abuse, caregiver stress - coping with illness in the family, couples therapy, special needs planning, oncology, chronic and terminal illness, visual impairment, financial management, end of life planning, life challenges, career planning, work-life balance, retirement planning and adjustment. My therapy style is warm and engaging. I treat every individual with dignity, respect and compassion. I meet you where you are and I provide a safe environment to help you achieve your goals to address your life challenges. I acknowledge the courage it takes to take action and seek change. I will be here to listen, support and empower you in your journey. I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Lakeesha Jones
I am licensed in North Carolina with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with 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. 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.

Cassie Hatch
I am licensed in North Carolina with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. My approach is solution-focused. My goal is to support you as you identify your strengths and use them to navigate life's challenges. I know from experience that taking the first step in therapy isn't easy, but it is worth it. My earned my undergraduate and master's degree (MSW) at the University of Michigan. I am also currently in the process of becoming a Registered Dietician.

Katherine Johns
I have enjoyed working as a therapist for over 28 years and I am licensed in multiple states. My experiences have included (but are not limited to) helping clients with grief, life stressors, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, childhood abuse, marital problems, childhood behavior problems, and parenting concerns. I am comfortable working with adults, children, couples, and families. I would like our therapy sessions to be an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Throughout our work together, I will make every effort to honor and respect your input as we explore how to best help you in achieving the goals that you establish. As the client, you are a full partner in counseling. I believe that you are the expert on you. My personal model for counseling integrates a wide variety of theories and techniques—and this offers us flexibility in finding the most appropriate interventions to assist you in drawing on your personal resources and strengths to achieve your goals. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Find a therapist serving clients in North Carolina
What types of therapists are available to clients in Elkin?
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Elkin that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), therapeutic talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.
Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform
Mental health therapists in Elkin available through BetterHelp are accredited as psychologists to help individuals and couples. Elkin therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Elkin therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Elkin region and in the state of North Carolina.
How can a therapist help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want?
Therapists in Elkin can help clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist in Elkin may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment.
Is it better to find a mental health counselor or therapist in Elkin offering online therapy or in person?
Studies show online therapy can be just as effective as in-person counseling. Online therapy with licensed counselors is often more affordable, with BetterHelp pricing ranging from $65-$100 weekly, while in person therapy can cost up to $200 per session.