Oak Ridge is home to the third-oldest military academy in the country, and it is designated as the state’s military academy. Military academies are often places where troubled teens learn discipline and valuable life skills. Sometimes though even adults need help learning how to cope with life in general, or with personal situations and problems specifically.

When you find yourself in need of this type of assistance, counselors in the Oak Ridge area are available to help. These confidential therapists can teach you coping and life skills and set you on the path to personal growth. Contact a counselor today.

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Sarah Stevens

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Oak Ridge
Counselor License Type(s): LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
12 years of experience

Hello! My name is Sarah. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina. After seeing a therapist for myself back in the 1990s, I realized how utterly beneficial it was to be able to speak openly with an objective listener who knew how to be empathic! For about 10 years, I dabbled in searching for a true career. I then decided that I would like to be a counselor and provide the comfort and relief to others the way that my first therapist did for me. I have been a practicing psychotherapist since 2012, and I have treated mostly individual adults and sometimes couples. I have helped people deal with depression, stress and anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, relationship struggles, and life transition struggles. I utilize a mixture of Client-Focused Therapy, CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Grief Therapy, and Couples Therapy when I'm treating my clients. I customize these therapies depending on each client's needs. Here is my firm belief of my purpose as a therapist: Everyone can benefit in some way from talking to an objective listener. I have always believed and experienced that. I’m surprised sometimes when I realize that some of my clients have never been able to express their concerns or even their excitement to friends and family without being criticized, laughed at, or invalidated. That’s such a shame, because every person deserves to be heard and respected for what he or she has to say. I strive to be a non-judgmental ear and to guide my clients toward discovering their innate abilities to improve tough life situations. I look forward to our work together!

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Cynthia Jones

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Oak Ridge
Counselor License Type(s): MS, CRC, LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
15 years of experience

Hello! My name is Cynthia Jones, a clinician with a master level degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Winston-Salem State University (May 2012) and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from High Point University (2003). I am currently a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Clinician (LCMHC). I have devoted most of my career to the field of Human Services, beginning in 2002 as a Behavioral Modification Technician at a Level III group home for adolescent females. I have over 15 years of working experience with Children, Adolescents, Adults, Couples, and Families in individual and group settings; including experience working with Veterans and their families. My interests include working with all populations to overcome adversities and obstacles which may include:  parents and their children  individuals coping with role changes, job loss, career changes  persons coping with grief, anxiety, stress, and depression  youth adjusting to functional deficits and life challenges My belief is that therapy provides an opportunity for growth, self-discovery and insight in the context of a safe, supportive environment. Therapy often leads to better relationships, solutions to specific problems, significant reductions in feelings of distress and an overall improved well-being. Psychotherapy has been shown to have many benefits. However, it is difficult to predict what will happen in terms of therapeutic outcomes or to provide a clear estimate of time required for each client to reach his or her personal goals. One of the best indicators for success in therapy is the motivation level of the client such as being open to the process of change, being consistent with attending sessions and working on goals outside of sessions. Also, my belief is that each client is unique and presents with his or her own counseling needs and concerns. Utilizing one therapeutic approach may not work best for everyone. Therefore, I will utilize integrative models involving insight oriented, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Brief Strategic Family Therapy, Solution-Focused, Person Centered and System of Care. In our work together, it is expected that you will participate in the formation and completion of counseling goals so that our sessions will be meaningful and helpful to you. I may occasionally assign homework as a means of providing you with further reinforcement of concepts discussed in sessions and to prompt further insight and self-exploration. There are many reasons why people seek counseling. The fact that you are seeking counseling demonstrates your commitment to your mental and emotional health as well as your inner strength in identifying when seeking support is necessary. I believe that clients have the capacity to learn, change, and grow so that they may experience more meaningful, healthier, and happier lives. Whatever your reasons are for seeking services, I look forward to partnering with you on addressing whatever counseling needs you may have.

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Kathy Rubendall

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Oak Ridge
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefBipolar disorderDepression
30 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of North Carolina with over 30 years of experience providing compassionate clinical care to clients coping with a variety of concerns. These concerns include coping with depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, bariatric support (pre and post surgery) , anxiety related to sports performance, and career transition. In addition, I’ve successfully worked with clients who struggle with bipolar disorder, trauma, attachment related to international adoption, and issues related to military service. My counseling style is warm and interactive, based on mutual respect, acceptance, and compassion. My counseling approach is client centered, using a combination of cognitive behavioral, humanistic, and problem solving strategies specifically designed to meet your goals. Congratulations on your decision to seek help. It is truly one of the best decisions you can make for yourself and those you care about. I look forward to the honor of walking with you on your journey to positive change.

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Chelsea Banks

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Oak Ridge
Counselor License Type(s): MMFT,LCMHC,LCASA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

Hey! Thank you so much for considering me to partner with you. My name is Chelsea Banks and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC),a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate (LCASA),and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional(CCTP). I believe myself to be an accepting and open individual with a drive for professionalism and limitless compassion for others. I have a long history of working with individuals, families, and children in a variety of settings and have been working in a clinical setting for the last 5 years. I believe in patient-driven goals and utilize Cognitive Behavioral and Motivational Interviewing techniques to aid the patient in addressing obstacles head-on. I have an extensive background in working with individuals suffering from a variety of diagnoses and symptoms including mood disorders, anxiousness, personality disorders, and adjustment to day-to-day stressors. I am known for my ability to connect with various populations. I would love the opportunity to work with you. Talk soon!

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Dana Hiatt

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Oak Ridge
Counselor License Type(s): LCMHC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor. I have been practicing for over 15 years. I was trained under a forensic psychologist and developmental psychologist who were my professors at Wake Forest University in North Carolina. I meet clients where they are and use the approaches that help the client address their issues or meet their goals. I offer both therapy and coaching. I have a variety of individual issues. I also work with workplace issues including improving performance all the way to gaining new skills for job promotions. I am currently working on my PsyD.

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Nia Rose

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Oak Ridge
AddictionsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina with 30+ years of professional work experience. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I believe that It takes courage to seek out therapy and work toward creating a more fulfilling and purposeful life by taking the steps toward creating healthy changes and getting rid of thoughts/behaviors and patterns that no longer work for you. I am here to support you in your journey and assist in empowering you to create the life you've always wanted.

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Sarah Powell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Oak Ridge
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina. I have over 17 years of experience working with children, teenagers, and adults in a variety of environments. I have supported clients who are dealing with with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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James Johnson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Oak Ridge
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
13 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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!

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Justen Gross

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Oak Ridge
Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & depression. 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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Kiersten Jones

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Oak Ridge
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Oak Ridge

Finding the best therapist close by in Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge. 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 Oak Ridge, 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 Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge, elsewhere in Guilford, 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 Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Oak Ridge, 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 Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge 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 27310 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 Oak Ridge counselor?

Before seeing your Oak Ridge 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. Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge, 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.

Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge, North Carolina

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of Oak Ridge 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 Oak Ridge.

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

27284, 27310

Popular cities near Oak Ridge, NC

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