Finding a therapist can be one of the most significant steps a person takes toward personal growth and self-improvement. Whether you need help addressing a mental health concern, managing a chronic illness, or striving for a personal goal, a therapist can likely offer support and guidance, helping to bolster overall wellness. 

If you are worried about potential threats to your mental and emotional well-being, it is likely that a therapist can help you overcome them. Mental health professionals use evidence-based techniques to help you imagine balance and peace within your life. It is likely they can help you substantially reduce the burdens of mental concerns. They also provide services that may help you overcome practical problems in your life or avoid adverse impacts from life’s challenges. You might also choose to wear your professional hat to therapy sessions and receive guidance related to career goals and professional development. 

Therapists also typically excel at teaching strategies for maintaining excellent relationships with romantic partners, friends, or family. They can offer support to couples looking to learn better communication skills, problem-solve more efficiently, or improve their sex life. Almost all concerns related to sexual wellness can be brought to a therapist or counselor, including important issues of self-discovery, like exploring your sexual orientation. 

If you’re ready to start working with a therapist, Hickory, NC, has plenty of options. As you start your search for a mental health provider, you may also want to consider online therapy among your options. Online therapy takes place remotely via a phone or computer, allowing you to attend sessions from home or anywhere quiet and comfortable. Online therapists have the same credentials as traditional therapists, and many practice both online and in person, meaning the same high-quality care you receive in an office can likely be obtained at home. The practitioners listed below are well-qualified online therapists who may be worth considering in your search. 

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Rikki Bullard

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Hickory
Counselor License Type(s): MS. LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

Welcome to Better Help! My name is Rikki Bullard I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in the state of North Carolina and have over 12 years of experience working as a therapist. I have spent several years dedicated to working in individual counseling, specifically in the areas of depression, anxiety, relationship issues, behavioral concerns, parenting, family issues, adjustment/transitions, and trauma. I believe in helping my clients find the joy and happiness in life that they deserve and providing clients with the skills and techniques to be able to manage the ups and downs of life and live a healthier and happier life. My approach in the counseling process is a client-centered approach. I believe in meeting the client where they are and guiding sessions based on what the clients needs are and change with the client by using reflective questions. This theoretical approach allows the counselor/therapist to apply components of several major counseling and psychological theories including, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Existential, Person-Centered Therapy, Reality Therapy, and other disciplines within the field of psychology and counseling to allow for maximal results upon the specific needs of the clients. Each of these approaches is well-established, researched, and respected therapies. I will have open and honest communications with clients and provide compassionate, empathic, and sensitive counseling that is specific to the experiences of your life. I look forward to working with you to help you get to a place of peace and happiness. Let’s take that first step together!

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Crystal Jarvis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Hickory
Counselor License Type(s): LCMHC,LCAS,CCTP
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesBipolar disorder
4 years of experience

I am a clinical licensed counselor in North Carolina who has been working in the field for almost five years. I am also licensed as an addictions counselor and a trauma professional. I have worked with a wide range of clients to assist them in learning to manage a variety of different barriers including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship problems, and sexual and intimacy problems. I have worked with those who have a history of physical and sexual trauma. I have also worked heavily within the LGBTQ+ community. My counseling style is warm and person centered. I provide a safe place for you to express your thoughts and emotions without judgment or preconceptions about who you are. I may be a professional in the counseling field, but you are the professional in your life. I want to be able to walk with you to discover the path to your best self and help you remove any barriers standing in your way. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, trauma focused therapy, and mindfulness, while always maintaining a person centered focus. I understand that each client is an individual and needs their treatment tailored to fit their specific journey and needs. Congratulations on being brave enough to be reading this today. If you decide that you are ready to take steps towards removing barriers in your life, I would be excited to walk that road with you. I want you to see the amazing and courageous person that you are!

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Shevene Bryant

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Hickory
Counselor License Type(s): LCMHCS
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesDepression
25 years of experience

Difficult times and unexpected life changes happen. Relationships struggle and sometimes end. Losses of all kinds happen. Hurt, stress, grief and anxiety are often a result. Counseling is a powerful asset to help you navigate these in order to reach healing and growth. You do not have to walk this alone. I can help you understand your situation, cope and move through it productively. My name is Shevene Bryant, and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor for North Carolina. My undergraduate degree was in Psychology. My graduate degree is in Counseling. My background is work in Mental health centers, hospitals, and private practice settings. I have over 25 years of counseling experience with individuals, couples, children, teens, and family. I am the author of a child's book called Emotions. I have a great passion for the work I do. I offer a warm and empathetic personality to help meet your goals. I specialize in working with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, stress, self-esteem issues, BDD, eating disorders, depression, grief, loss, life transitions, trichotillomania, abuse, and trauma. I use a person-centered, multicultural, and integrative approach in treatment. This means I begin where you are and tailor the treatment approach to your needs. I also use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

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Brittany Bridges

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Hickory
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

When working with me, you can expect a warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental space where you are truly heard and understood. I primarily focus on supporting women, helping them navigate issues like depression, anxiety, and life transitions. My approach is tailored to your unique needs, as I believe in the power of personalized, evidence-based therapy to foster growth and healing. I lead with empathy, always striving to create a therapeutic relationship built on trust and mutual respect, where we can work together to help you reach your goals at your own pace. My path to becoming a mental health provider started with a deep desire to help people. I've always been drawn to understanding others and providing support, which naturally led me to pursue a career in therapy. I've worked in diverse settings, from a university counseling center, where I supported college students through academic and personal challenges, to a community mental health clinic, where I worked with individuals facing mental health and substance use disorders. These experiences allowed me to connect with people from all walks of life, diagnoses, and ages, deepening my understanding and compassion for the struggles they face. What drives me most is seeing the progress my clients make. I’m incredibly proud of the results they achieve. My goal has always been to empower people to grow, heal, and thrive, and that’s what continues to inspire me every day."

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Lauren Burleson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Hickory
Counselor License Type(s): LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am a clinical mental health counselor licensed in North Carolina with 7 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, self-esteem/confidence struggles, relationship issues, & difficulties with life transitions. I tend to implement a combination of client-centered, strength-based, and cognitive-behavioral therapies. As a person, I am down to earth and have the ability to see all perspectives. My style as a therapist allows me to offer a comforting, empathetic, and supportive environment for clients to unpack the weight of a challenging/emotionally difficult situation. With an understanding, compassionate, and pragmatic approach, I strive to help clients gain clarity & work through the tough realities of life. I believe in my clients and work with them to uncover their own strengths and skills, allowing them to achieve their desired goals. There are many aspects of life that can be challenging to navigate, but you don’t have to do it alone! I would be honored to be a part of your healing journey.

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Regina Hughes

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Hickory
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
14 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression , relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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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Joy Miller-Kyle

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Hickory
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 4 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 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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James (Scott) Carpenter

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Hickory
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, intimacy related issues, & 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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Angelica England

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Hickory
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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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Audra Vance

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Hickory
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
27 years of experience

My passion is working with people and helping them to be the best they can be. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina and a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina with 27+ years of therapeutic experience. I help people with a variety of concerns to include stress, anxiety, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. My style is to lead with compassion and acceptance and tailor therapy to meet your needs. I believe your strengths will allow you to grow so you can be the best possible you. Life is difficult and often having support and learning some skills can lead to feeling better. You will learn how to advocate and solve problems for yourself. By creating a mutually beneficial relationship, this will allow you to set goals, healthy boundaries, and develop practical skills to deal your emotions and situations. 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 and watching you grow.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Hickory

Finding the best therapist close by in Hickory 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 Hickory 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 Hickory. 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 Hickory, 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 Hickory 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 Hickory 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 Hickory 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 Hickory 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 Hickory, elsewhere in Catawba, 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 Hickory 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 Hickory 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 Hickory 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 Hickory 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 Hickory online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Hickory, 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 Hickory 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 Hickory 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 Hickory 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 Hickory?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Hickory 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 Hickory 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 Hickory 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 28603 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 Hickory counselor?

Before seeing your Hickory 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. Hickory 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 Hickory 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 Hickory 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 Hickory, 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.

Hickory 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 Hickory, 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 Hickory 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 Hickory.

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

28601, 28602, 28603

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