This is Stephanie Bigham's avatar and link to their profile

Stephanie Bigham

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Star
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
20 years of experience

It is often said that courage is found in unlikely places. Welcome to Better Help! I applaud your courage today! I know that this approach is quite different from a traditional in person therapy setting. I frequently tell the individuals that I work with that if "Plan A" doesn't work to just remember that the alphabet has 25 more letters! In other words, don't ever stop seeking life changes or asking for HELP when needed. There is often more than one solution to a problem and it is all about collaboration with that "just right" professional. I'm sure you're wondering if this approach will be a good fit for you, too. A little bit about me. My name is Stephanie Bigham. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the beautiful state of North Carolina. I grew up in Florida but have resided in N.C. for over 15 years. I attended the University of Florida (Go Gators!) where I earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree with a Major in Sociology and Minors in Psychology / Education. I went on to receive my Master of Social Work Degree from Florida International University. I am also a Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator. I have worked in many settings including a mental health clinic for individuals with developmental delays, a hospital / NICU, a respite program, a private practice office and a classroom. I have been a full time "stay at home mom" and also worked as a substitute teacher for grades K-5. My perspective is unique in that my career path has expanded outside of the traditional Mental Health pathway. I use a mindfulness/ acceptance based cognitive behavioral therapy approach to treatment in order to guide individuals to become more self- aware and resilient. I help individuals to notice their thoughts, feelings and attitudes in a direct but nonjudgmental way. By tracking and noticing dysfunctional thoughts one may obtain relief from feelings of stress, anxiety, depression or conflict by developing acceptance of what cannot be controlled. I require active participation as well as collaboration and often give homework to explore between sessions. I also take a psycho-educational approach to treatment as information also leads to awareness and helps individuals learn better techniques for coping with stressful life situations. My specific areas of expertise include: Stress/Anxiety, Parenting Issues, Family Conflict, Relationship / Divorce Issues, Motivation/ Self-confidence, Coping with life changes, Depression and Grief /loss. I also work with individuals experiencing career difficulties or seeking Professional Coaching. I leave you with one final quote from the great Vince Lombardi, "It's not whether you get knocked down, it's whether you get up!" I look forward to working together with you on this journey of introspection, growth and change.

Get started View profile
This is Jacqueline van Arnold's avatar and link to their profile

Jacqueline van Arnold

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Star
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

My name is Jacqueline and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Western North Carolina. I have had a wide range of experience with individuals, couples, and families. I have found that the relationship I share with my clients is critically important for developing trust and creating a space where clients feel heard and supported. My clients would describe me as friendly, warm, and laidback. I tailor my approach to the needs of my clients and I am always open to feedback. Some of my favorite treatment modalities include ACT, CBT, Mindfulness, and EMDR. I have found that incorporating a variety of methods and strategies helps my clients solve the problems they are experiencing now, while also addressing and understanding the deeper roots that led them to where they are today. I have a had a lot of experience working with clients going through significant life changes and stressors. This may include individuals struggling with identity challenges, relationship issues, life phase changes, and more. These challenges are often exacerbated for individuals with a history of trauma and I am always mindful to help my clients identify and address the wounds of the past so they can move forward with their lives. It takes work to make positive change in your life, but I hope to help make that work a little easier for my clients and provide them with tools they can use for the rest of their lives.

Get started View profile
This is John Reid's avatar and link to their profile

John Reid

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Star
Counselor License Type(s): LCMHC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
22 years of experience

Hi, my name is John Reid and welcome to the BetterHelp platform. Thank you for allowing me to provide you with Professional Counseling Services and thank you for considering me as your Therapist/Counselor. The five most important personal and professional characteristics that I consider necessary for a successful Counselor are: to be a good listener, to be non-judgmental, to genuinely care about people, to be professionally trained, and to be experienced. Yes, experience is necessary. I began Pastoring in 1968 while in college. I have pastored two churches and served as a Director of Missions for a Baptist Association of 50 churches for more than 20 years here in Western North Carolina. Afterwards, I began being a Professional Counselor for the next twenty-four years at a Counseling Agency, a Baptist Residential Cottage serving teen age boys and their families, as a Therapist with two different Mental Health agencies, as a therapist in public schools, and as a BetterHelp Counselor working with Clients in the US from the Pacific to the Atlantic and working with International Clients in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, the Caribbean, and from Canada to Mexico in North America. Yes, education is necessary. I earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling in 1976 and used the Counselor training in my church work. I became a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2007 and recently completed a five year training program in Gestalt Therapy with Appalachian Gestalt Training Institute in Asheville, NC. While education, training, and experience are important, nothing replaces a willingness and an ability to listen at a deep human level and relate one to one. Along life’s journey I have made some mistakes. Out of these experiences I have learned that everyone, no matter who you are or what station in life you are, makes mistakes. Experiencing forgiveness is important. One can recover from mistakes and move forward. And I learned not to be judgmental. I will not judge you. All of my life experiences have taught me to genuinely care for others and the concerns they have in their lives. I have helped many people, adults and children, with a variety of Mental Health issues included but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, various Mood Disorders, ADHD, Low Self-Esteem, Marriage and Divorce, Divorce Reaction, Blended Families, and Anger Management issues to mention a few. My wife and I have been married for forty-eight years. We have two successful daughters and a beautiful granddaughter. When doing Christian counseling, I use the Bible as a text but not as a weapon. I do not believe in using the Bible to beat people over the head. I believe that love in all its expressions heals.

Get started View profile
This is Ida Ham's avatar and link to their profile

Ida Ham

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Star
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LCMHC,LCAS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
20 years of experience

I am pleased that you have chosen me as your counselor. The following information is available to help inform you of the counseling process and ensure that you are aware of the professional relationship. My Qualifications: I received a B.A. in Psychology and a M.A. in Counseling. I have continued skill building with varied graduate level courses/workshops and have a Graduate Certificate in School Counseling. I have completed the nationally approved Stephen Ministry training for faith based lay counseling and support through my church. I am a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist. I am experienced with 20+ years of practice. I am credentialed by local mental entities and am an approved provider. A future with innovative supports. Your personal, professional and spiritual goals are achievable. Enhance self- awareness with acceptance of strengths, limitations, desires, and fears. Learn the importance of whole health: physical, psychological and spiritual wellness. Assessment with situation determined services and counseling. My training and work experiences have allowed me the opportunity to coordinate treatment and services utilizing varied therapies such as cognitive, behavioral, acceptance, commitment, strengths based, decision making, problem solving and solution focused. I will work with you to develop a treatment plan specific to your situation.

Get started View profile
This is Laura Sotillo's avatar and link to their profile

Laura Sotillo

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Star
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

Get started View profile
This is Bailey Fassler's avatar and link to their profile

Bailey Fassler

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Star
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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.

Get started View profile
This is Laura Moore's avatar and link to their profile

Laura Moore

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Star
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the narrator, creator & editor 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.

Get started View profile
This is Cheryl Hall's avatar and link to their profile

Cheryl Hall

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Star
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

Taking the first step for therapy takes courage. Be proud of yourself for getting started. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety and trauma utilizing modalities EMDR, CBT and DBT. Areas of focus include assisting individuals coping with addictions and substance abuse. I provide guidance in developing motivation, self-esteem and confidence for clients in addressing their needs. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity and compassion. I tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.

Get started View profile
This is Teresa Flake's avatar and link to their profile

Teresa Flake

Clinical therapist offering therapy in NC, Star
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor licensed in North Carolina with 4 plus years of professional counseling work experience. I graduated from South University in High Point in 2018 with a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling. My preferred treatment approach is Cognitive Behavior Therapy better known as CBT. My experience as a licensed counselor has afforded me to work with clients dealing with stress, depression, anxiety, trauma, anger management, self esteem and self- confident issues. 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. There are challenges and hard truths when one take(s) the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life. I am here to support you as you take those steps to change and/or enhance this process.

Get started View profile
This is Maura Carroll's avatar and link to their profile

Maura Carroll

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

I am licensed in North Carolina with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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.

Get started View profile

How to find a therapist for counseling in Star

Finding the best therapist close by in Star 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 Star 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 Star. 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 Star, 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 Star 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 Star 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 Star 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 Star 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 Star, elsewhere in Montgomery, 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 Star 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 Star 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 Star 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 Star 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 Star online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Star, 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 Star 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 Star 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 Star 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 Star?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Star 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 Star 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 Star 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 27356 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 Star counselor?

Before seeing your Star 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. Star 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 Star 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 Star 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 Star, 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.

Star 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 Star, 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 Star 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 Star.

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

27356

Popular cities near Star, NC

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist