Dr. Damien Johnson
Greetings! My name is Dr. Damien Johnson and I am a counseling professional with over 17 years of experience in helping individuals manage presenting symptoms and difficulties using an eclectic style of therapy focusing on the connection between thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I have a B.S. Degree in Criminal Justice, a M.A. in Counseling and a Ph.D. in Human Services and am credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and a Licensed Addictions Counselor in South Carolina. I am also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist in North Carolina. I own a private counseling and community outreach agency specializing in mental health and substance abuse/co-occurring disorders. My counseling style is warm and engaging. I believe in a person centered approach to counseling that allows me to meet the client where they are as we work towards specified goals. I believe in the collaborative process of counseling that focuses on clients' strength to assist in overcoming deficits that may impede optimum functioning. My theoretical orientation of choice is Cognitive Behavior Therapy, which focuses on the connection between thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors. I also use Mindfulness and NLP principles to help guide clients effectively. This is an important step in your journey towards healing and I will do my best to assist you in reaching your counseling goals. SPECIALTIES Emotional Management (Depression, Anxiety, Anger) Mood Disorders Substance Use Disorders Trauma Services Offered Messaging Live Chat Phone Video
Tara Knight
Hi and welcome! You have taken the courageous step to a happier and healthier life...good for you! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 20 plus years of experience and am excited to work with you. Some of my specific areas of focus include depression and anxiety, family and relationship issues, trauma, grief and low self-esteem. My approach is simple and straight forward...I believe it is crucial to have a trusting relationship with your therapist. Through that relationship we will take a journey of discovery and transformation together. And along the way we will conquer the issues that are holding you back or simply stressing you out. In therapy I typically utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing with a general sense of Person Centered Therapy in which the therapeutic relationship is of utmost importance. I began my career working in Substance Abuse running several treatment programs in Florida and North Carolina. Eventually I started my own general counseling practice in North Carolina where I spent many years working with adults, children and families. Most of my time with clients was focused on stress related issues, depression & anxiety, trauma, and relationship and family dynamics. I look forward to starting this journey with you!
Maxine Sutton
Greetings! First let me say "Congratulations on the decision to make a change in your life". I give you applause because life can be difficult; heavy in fact. As a Master's Graduate from East Carolina University and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of North Carolina, my ultimate goal in life is to help alleviate some of that load. Through working with NC's Department of Social Services Reunification Program and specializing in Multi-Systemic Therapy (MST); an evidenced based program aimed at keeping families together and children from being displaced, it's clear to see that most of my background consists of working with families and couples in an effort to strengthen bonds and relationships. However, as an outpatient therapist, I also have an extensive background working with individuals who are having a difficult time adjusting to the stresses of the world and may be wondering what to do with their lives. Having worked years as a prison therapist, I believe in a strength based approach and meeting the client where they are; after all we are in this together., right? I have over eight years’ experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy; all that aim at highlighting the positives in your life and extending that to areas in which you'd like to see change. I am an active listener and believe in focusing on what you feel is most important and not the other way around. I also believe in "keeping it real" and addressing all mental health issues from a Reality Based approach. My availability is currently Monday-Thursdays, that time when we are counting down the days of the week, just trying to make it to Friday! Those crunch days when we've had to put on a face at work or school, but now desperately need someone to help make sense of it all so maybe... just maybe... this will be the night we get to sleep a little more soundly. If you feel that I could add any value to your life, please don't hesitate to reach out. I look forward to working with you!
Mildred Tillman
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 11 years of experience serving as a psychotherapist. I have worked with a variety of presenting concerns including anxiety, depression, family counseling, couples counseling, grief and loss, and trauma. My counseling approach is based upon the principles of Christianity, which may include scriptural references and prayer. I am multifaceted in my approach and utilize the most effective methods available to address your individual needs. With the combination of Christian counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, rational-emotive counseling, talk therapy, and trauma counseling, I will tailor a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I am empathetic, supportive, and provide a non-judgmental environment. I also provide Pastoral Psychotherapy and look forward to hearing from you.
Dr. Valerie Glass
(NOTE: Right now I am only accepting new clients that either can schedule during day time hours OR are text only clients) My name is Valerie Glass. I have worked as a therapist in a variety of settings for nearly 20 years. I currently hold a doctorate in marriage and family therapy and also work teaching students who are studying to become therapists. I have extensive experience working with clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship issues, and family issues. In addition, I specialize in LGBTQ clients and women's issues. Clients come to therapy for many different reasons. Some clients need a space to process life changes and challenges. Other clients seek direction and accountability. I meet clients where they are and provide a non-judgmental and collaborative space. I think of therapy as a journey to healing and becoming better - whatever that means to the individual. My role is to really understand where clients are coming from and to support their desired direction. I am quite humbled by my role as a therapist and the vulnerabilities I see and experience as part of this role. I project an open and honest atmosphere and respect the challenges brought to the space.
Heather Lail
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, Master Addiction Counselor, and Certified Clinical Supervisor. I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Lenoir-Rhyne College and earned my Master of Arts degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. I have a total of 18 years of experience working in the behavioral health field within various settings which include 6 years of inpatient psychiatric work and 12 years of outpatient behavioral health counseling. I utilize an eclectic counseling approach incorporating various counseling theories and techniques to include but not limited to Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing, Transtheoretical Model, CBT, DBT. National Academy of Sports Medicine certifications include Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Nutrition Coach, and Certified Group Fitness Instructor. Personal training focusing on behavior change and corrective exercise while utilizing the NASM Optimum Performance Training Model based on scientific evidence and principles. Nutrition coaching utilizing the latest and most up-to-date information on nutrition science, behavior change strategies, and nutrition coaching strategies. Ability to guide clients seeking to improve their body composition, athletic performance, and their health through carefully crafted nutrition coaching that takes age, culture, socioeconomic status, and more into account. Main focus of concept is to integrate behavioral health with physical health and nutrition to maximize client progress towards achieving their goals in life.
Christie Davis-Uwah
Hello! My name is Christie. I hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist with close to 15 years of experience providing direct care services to individuals with mental health and substance use disorders. I have a passion and clinical interest in working with women’s issues, multicultural intervention, grief, dual diagnosis, caregivers stress. I have an extensive history of assisting clients with the following issues: Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Issues, Coping Skills, Stress, Life Transitions, and Addiction. I use an eclectic approach when working with people as well as individually tailor treatment to the individual’s personal needs. I often use techniques that are derived from Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Trauma Focused Therapy.
Beverly Florence
I am licensed in North Carolina with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy related issues, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Deborah "Debbie" Aimone
I am licensed in Illinois and North Carolina with 30 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 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.
Tanya Lance
I am a licensed Mental Health Therapist in North Carolina with 20 years of professional experience. I practice a holistic approach to treating mind, body, and spirit. My passion is empowering others to rise above life’s circumstances and not define one’s self by current behaviors or past experiences but by embracing the power of being uniquely you just for today. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, confidence, depression, & substance use disorders. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming your challenges. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Surf City
Finding the best therapist close by in Surf City 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 Surf City 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 Surf City. 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 Surf City, 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 Surf City 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 Surf City 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 Surf City 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 Surf City 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 Surf City, elsewhere in Pender, 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 Surf City 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 Surf City 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 Surf City 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 Surf City 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 Surf City online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Surf City, 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 Surf City 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 Surf City 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 Surf City 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 Surf City?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Surf City 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 Surf City 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 Surf City 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 28445 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 Surf City counselor?
Before seeing your Surf City 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. Surf City 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 Surf City 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 Surf City 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 Surf City, 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.
Surf City 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 Surf City, 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 Surf City 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Surf City:
28443, 28445