Psychologist Karen Kavaloski providing different types of therapy in Sylva

Karen Kavaloski

Clinician
License Type(s): LPC,MBA,D-Min
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years offering treatment

Hello, my name is Karen Kavaloski and I am a LPC in New Mexico, North Carolina and in Missouri. I was originally licensed as a counselor in 2009 while working in Arizona by the State of North Carolina after making a career change from a almost 30 year history in nursing. My passion since I was a young adult was counseling and it took me almost 30 years to achieve my goal of becoming a counselor. I was a Marine wife for almost 30 years and have traveled allot, I have 3 children and 5 grandchildren. My youngest, a son, and one of my grandchildren are severely autistic so I can identify with the stress and struggles some families have with managing special needs within their family. I am also a cancer survivor. I believe we all have an ability to heal the body, mind and soul and I consciously strive daily to be an active participant in my life and support and encourage others to do the same. My education beyond my nursing and counseling includes a Masters in Business Administration and a Doctorate in (Christian) Ministries. I have worked primarily over this past 15 years with trauma and substance abuse in the adult population with about 3 years working with the teenage population in these areas. I also have worked about 5 years total with prison reentry and counseling individuals and families with histories of incarceration in state and federal prison. I believe in working with individuals and families to achieve their highest goals. I believe the client is the expert in his/her own life and I fully encourage one to strive to work towards building a strong foundation within themselves and their families whatever that looks like to them, to that end I use focused solution therapy, internal systems therapy, mindfulness/compassion therapy, cognitive and cognitive behavioral, dialectical therapy, emotional freedom techniques and/or neurolinguistic techniques . Outside my therapy practice, I spend my leisure time reading. meditation/praying and gardening. I do light exercise daily.

Psychologist Melanie Griffin providing different types of therapy in Sylva

Melanie Griffin

Clinician
License Type(s): LCSW
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsBipolar disorderDepression
12 years offering treatment

No matter what kind of challenges or difficulties or painful situations you go through in your life, we all have something deep within us that we can reach down and find the inner strength to get through them. Alana Stewart My name is Melanie Griffin and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), practicing in North Carolina (#C11127). I am also licensed and have done extensive work as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Connecticut (#007008). I have been a Therapist/ LCSW for over 12 years and take pride in the fact that I have worked with a diverse population/culture of people. I received my Master of Social Work (MSW), from Southern CT State University, I also hold a Bachelors (BS) in Public Health. I have done work in such areas as Forensics, Community Services, Crisis Intervention, Trauma, Mental Health and Addictions, Geriatrics, Adolescent Services and Family Reunification. I firmly believe in “Meeting the client where they are”. This, I believe has enhanced my role as a truly empathetic therapist and has helped me to understand the importance of Person-Centered Therapy. CBT is another theory which I strongly believe really works in therapy. I understand that reaching out for help can not only be scary, but for many it still holds a realm of stigma and shame, this is why I am so conscious of the therapist’s role of engaging with their client for the purpose of opening up the gates of trust, empathy and understanding. If I can help you in anyway, please reach out to me.

Psychologist Sarah Bradley providing different types of therapy in Sylva

Sarah Bradley

Clinician
License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionADHD
10 years offering treatment

I am a licensed clinical social worker, licensed in North Carolina. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, the last 10 years as a licensed therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, trauma, motivation, self-confidence and self-esteem issues as well as OCD and ADHD. I particularly enjoy working with individuals to find the meaning in their struggle, as I am a big believer in post-traumatic growth! I am also a COVID/long-COVID survivor myself and have a unique perspective to offer many cannot. There can be purpose in our suffering if I can help others. My approach focuses on the tenants of transparency, compassion and kindness. I believe in treating everyone with respect, and I like for my clients to help me understand what that means for them as we all define respect in different ways. My counseling style utilizes a solution-focused, client-centered approach and I also utilize cognitive behavior therapy as well as dialectical behavior therapy approaches. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Seeking help for yourself is such a brave, important first step. I consider it an honor and a privilege to get to bear witness to another person's growth and transformation. I often say to clients, nothing changes if nothing changes, so I commend you for taking the first step to a new life! I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Carla Williams providing different types of therapy in Sylva

Carla Williams

Clinician
License Type(s): M.S.W. ,L.C.S.W.
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

I have 17 years of experience in adult mental health with concentration in mental health. I utilize a strengths perspective, changing perspectives on stale thinking, and focusing directly on the client as part of a larger system. I am eager to navigate through life's challenges and changes along with you. Your journey is individualized, as will be the approach to therapy with you. My current availability is as follows: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. with my last session of the day beginning at 1:30 p.m., unless a prior arrangement has been made. There is some availability for evenings and weekends on a case by case basis. Please be aware, I hold a clinical social work license and am only able to serve individuals who are physically located in the state of North Carolina at the time of his or her session. If you are outside of the state of North Carolina, I am unable to provide therapy at this time. If you travel frequently for work or pleasure and travel is outside of North Carolina, we are only able to communicate via text and not a live session by video, messaging or, audio. Please feel free to ask any questions or express any concerns as you see fit! Thanks!

Psychologist Joseph Barnes providing different types of therapy in Sylva

Joseph Barnes

Clinician
License Type(s): Joseph Wallace Barnes
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
4 years offering treatment

I currently specialize in relationship counseling not limited to intimate relationships, but also everyday interactions i.e. working, organizational, non-traditional, casual, mutually beneficial, and structural. I am able to assist with communication which is a common underlying issue within relationship dysfunction. Whether a relationship exists in a professional or private setting, I am competent in adjusting a persons understanding of the situation to bring out the best outcome. I have lived in over 7 areas of the world and am open minded. The preferred methodologies for my treatment consist of but are not limited to Gestalt Therapy, Autogenic Training, CBT, Existential Therapy, and Grief Counseling. My strengths lie in understanding, compassion, and experience. I am able to channel superior levels of comprehension in the following areas: Abandonment Depression Jealousy Lack of Trust Anger Management Insecurity Relationship Strain Everyday Challenges Forgiveness I am a firm believer in meeting the client where they are. I have worked with veterans for over 10 years. I have experience with newlyweds and those wishing to maintain a healthy relationship. I believe that every relationship is different and that they are constantly evolving over time.

Psychologist Jacqueline Worthington providing different types of therapy in Sylva

Jacqueline Worthington

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
18 years offering treatment

As a therapist and advocate for women's wellness, I specialize in helping women navigate challenges such as self-doubt, unresolved trauma, health-related stress, and work-life balance. With personal and professional insight, I provide a safe space for healing and growth. Together, we’ll work through challenges to cultivate resilience, confidence, and a fulfilling life. My therapeutic tailored whole-person approach combines evidence-based methods with compassion and understanding. By integrating techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and strength-based interventions, I empower women to explore their inner resilience, build confidence, and redefine their paths. In our sessions, we’ll explore the layers of your experiences, acknowledge the struggles, and work together to create a path toward self-compassion, clarity, and fulfillment. Whether it’s breaking free from the cycle of self-doubt, healing from emotional scars, or finding harmony in the roles you juggle, I am here to guide and support you every step of the way.

Psychologist Carmen Villate providing different types of therapy in Sylva

Carmen Villate

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepression
27 years offering treatment

I am a Hispanic, Bilingual (Spanish/English) licensed clinical social worker in North Carolina with 27 years of post graduated professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & bipolar disorder. 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.

Psychologist Brandi Cotten providing different types of therapy in Sylva

Brandi Cotten

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years offering treatment

I am licensed in North Carolina with 13 years of professional work experience as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and over 19 years experience working in the mental health profession. I hold certifications as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and a Dual Diagnosis Specialist. I have experience working with ages 5 and up with various emotional and behavioral challenges. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflict, motivation, self esteem, confidence, and depression. I also have experience working with individuals with intellectual disabilities. 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.

Psychologist Laurie Kaufmann providing different types of therapy in Sylva

Laurie Kaufmann

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
15 years offering treatment

I am licensed in North Carolina with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Carla Moore-McNeil providing different types of therapy in Sylva

Carla Moore-McNeil

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
27 years offering treatment

I am licensed in North Carolina with 27 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.

How to find a licensed therapist serving clients in Sylva, North Carolina

Finding the best therapist close by in Sylva can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area. You can get connected with a clinician 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing. 

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. 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, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp

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 clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained able to treat individuals and couples, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Sylva 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 professional working through their own in-person therapy practice in Sylva or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A  may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers 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 Sylva area offering therapy for:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use
  • Couples

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 Sylva, elsewhere in Jackson, 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 licensed therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Sylva area can be found below:

How does the cost of an in-person therapist compare to BetterHelp?

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 Sylva 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:

  • With a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • With therapists: $100-300
  • With a clinician: $100

While many psychologists in Sylva 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 sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

Read more about this cost related question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

How are therapists on a Sylva online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in 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. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Sylva psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

Read more about this license question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

How does BetterHelp online therapy work?

BetterHelp clinicians 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 Sylva 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 for in person sessions.

Through BetterHelp, 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, and more. Get matched today.

Read more about this question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

What mental health issues can a therapist address?

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.

Sylva therapists' specialties available through the BetterHelp platform

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 provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain.us, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists.

Read more about this psychotherapist question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

Is BetterHelp right for me?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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 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 therapy in Sylva 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 therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of 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 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 28779 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 around or in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

Read more about this family question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Sylva therapist?

Before seeing your therapist near you, 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. therapists near you 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 how to best help and support you.

Read more about this first session question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

Should I find a Sylva 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 Sylva 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 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.

Read more about this question here. Contact us now for help, and supportive personalized mental health services. BetterHelp will help you find and connect to a licensed professional counselor helping people. Get started today to book a personalized consultation appointment online.

Is therapy 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. An experienced clinician 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 licensed clinician in Sylva, 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.

Counseling with an online Sylva provider

Sylva 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 trying it online, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change 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 treatment.

Do therapists judge you in therapy?

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 BetterHelp, the leading therapist platform serving the population of North Carolina

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

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to BetterHelp 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.

  • Thehotline.org - National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
  • Suicidepreventionlifeline.org - National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
  • Crisistextline.org - Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
  • Veteranscrisisline.net - 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.
  • Thetrevorproject.org - Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386 
  • Samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline - SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
  • Nationaleatingdisorders.org/help-support/contact-helpline - National Eating Disorder Association Helpline :1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
  • Childhelphotline.org/resources-for-teens/ - Child Help Hotline:  Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
  • Fraternallaw.com/help-us-stop-hazing - National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293) 
  • Physiciansupportline.com - Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
  • Rainn.org - Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673

 

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Finding therapy in Sylva can change your life. Expert therapy provides valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapist serving clients in your area, you can gain tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online counseling services. Seeking expert guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address emotional challenges effectively while gaining insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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