This is Katrice Rankin Ward's avatar and link to their profile

Katrice Rankin Ward

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
17 years of experience

Life can often be a challenge no matter who we are or where we come from. Some of these challenges present themselves at times when we least expect them and can cause great difficulties in all areas of our lives. As a Clinical Counselor, my desire is to help clients reach their goal of increased mental health/wellness as well as achieve overall improvement in functioning. For over 15 yrs., I've worked with individuals regarding personal, family and work related issues. I also work with our Military service members as well as their families on a variety of issues specific to military culture and lifestyle. Although, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person Centered are my primary approach, I believe in an eclectic approach to treatment. It has always been my belief that no one therapy fits all. It is my goal to engage in a collaborative therapeutic relationship with each client to create the best opportunity for lasting change and improvement. I am very appreciative to have the opportunity to engage with clients meeting them where they are and joining in a collaborative therapeutic relationship to assist them in their journeys toward a better and more fulfilling life. The use of person -centered and strength-based approach is essential in my interactions with and in the treatment of clients. Moreover, I am a system thinker and it is necessary for me to view individuals as part of a larger collective of relationships and to beware of the reciprocal effects on the person and the system in which they operate. Thus, I strongly believe that the foundation for effective treatment must include focusing on the whole person.

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Tawnya Thompson

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor in the state of North Carolina. I having been working in this field for over 24 years. I am fortunate to have been afforded the opportunity to work in a variety of settings. These settings include substance abuse treatment, mental health crises, domestic violence, critical incidences, youth corrections, individual, couples and family counseling. I have worked with clients who have had issues with depression, anxiety, stress and psychsocial problems. While I have benefitted greatly from these experiences, I believe myself to be most effective in individual counseling. I have taken the benefit of all these experiences and combined them to be the best counselor I can be. No matter the initial presentation of my clients, their issues tend to fall into one or more of the areas of my experience. As a therapist, my theoretical approaches tend to be solution focused, reality based with an emphasis on how my client views him or herself and the world around them. I believe we all make decisions and exhibit individual behaviors based on what we perceive is happening to us and the world around us. My goal is to help my clients determine if their beliefs, as well as their actions, are helping them be the best they can be. In addition to that, I work to ensure that my clients have the emotional tools they need to appropriately and effectively manage the emotional ups and downs of life. As I see it, life is "a continuum of temporary circumstances that we all must navigate the best we can with the skills we have". My calling is to serve others, with the hope that I can contribute in some way to helping them make their lives better..

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Dr. Edward Lurey

Offering therapy in NC
License: Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSleeping disordersSelf esteemDepression
40 years of experience

“It has been said, time heals all wounds'. I do not agree. The wounds remain. In time the mind protecting its sanity, covers them with scar tissue and the pain lessens. But, is never gone.” Rose Kennedy I have been helping wounded people for over 40 years. I have helped many to find purpose and reason in their future, and peace and acceptance with their past. I teach coping skills which empowers the person to take responsibility for where they are now, and the skills to make the future better. Currently, accepting a limited number.

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Erin Muniz

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW
GriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
14 years of experience

Hello! My name is Erin and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been a practicing social worker for 14 years. During that time I have had experience working with many different populations. I started my career working in the field of addiction. I then moved to work with children and families in the setting of adoption and foster care. I worked with families of young children around behavioral issues and parenting techniques. I now practice in the field of hospice care and provide support to patients and caregivers as they experience their end of life journey. I consider myself to be a non judgmental therapist My wide range of experience has led me to meet many different types of individuals and families. I like for my clients to be an active member of their care and allow me to walk alongside to explore strengths and how to build upon those.

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Dana Hiatt

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCMHC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

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

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Wendi Nixon

Offering therapy in NC
License: NCC,LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
27 years of experience

Hello! My name is Wendi D. Nixon, Ph. D., NCC, LCMHC, and I am a National Certified Counselor #54448 and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor #4201 with the state of North Carolina. I received my Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling in 1989 from Regent University and have worked for over 27 years to help individuals, families, adolescents and children recover from trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, abuse, and neglect. More recently, I graduated from Regent University with my doctorate in Counseling and Psychological Studies with a concentration in Trauma and Crisis Counseling in May 2023. I received additional training to be a rostered provider of Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in 2008 from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I received certification as a Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI) in 2013 from the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, International, and since then have been helping children and adults recover from trauma and other mental health issues with my therapy horses at my in-person practice. I believe a client-centered approach is the most effective as you are the expert in how you think and feel. Finding the root of negative thoughts and feelings can be key to rising above places you may feel stuck or want to change. I am passionate about helping others find peace and healing through unconditional support on the journey to recovery. I have also focused on working with family issues such as parenting support, blended family issues, and adoptive family issues. I provide services that are psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral in approach, and (as needed) from a family systems approach, individualized to each persons’ needs. I look forward to helping you on your journey to wholeness.

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Wanda Clark

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCMHC,LPC,LCAS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor/ LPC. I have been working in the mental health field for over a decade. My specialties include anxiety, depression, and women issues. I enjoy working with people and am dedicated to helping others create the very best possible outcome for their lives. My counseling style is client-centered, in which I focus on the person in front of me, giving them my sole attention, and total respect. I primarily use two modes of therapy, which are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness. For those individuals that seek counseling, you are brave .... and your bravery will be met with a kindness and a fortitude that allows for the exploration and discovery of one's self in the here and now, and one's future self.

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'Marni' - Margaret Cahill

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteem
31 years of experience

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina, with Certifications in Life Coaching, Trauma Treatment and Compassion Fatigue. I have over 30 years’ experience helping people, including Health Professionals, to overcome challenges and live healthier, more fulfilling lives. I work with clients who are dealing with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addictions, health issues, trauma, abuse and neglect. My therapy style is compassionate and interactive. I bring in a combination of approaches based on the clients’ individual needs and preferences. My approach is informed by my training in neuroscience, humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, trauma and body focused therapies. I believe in treating everyone with dignity and respect, and in honoring peoples’ individual differences. I understand that it takes courage to make changes in your life, and I would be honored to help you take the steps you need to take to have the healthier, more fulfilling life that you desire.

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This is Deedra Bryant Serieux's avatar and link to their profile

Deedra Bryant Serieux

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
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, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Sharonda Ocean

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

Hello Beloved, Thank you for stopping by. Let me share some information with you about myself that will help you determine if I am good fit to support you in your journey of self-discovery and healing. So here we go, I am a licensed clinical social worker in North Carolina with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, with the last 6 years practicing as a licensed clinical social worker. My specialization lies in the art of self-love. Through my work, I've discovered that practicing self-love and prioritizing oneself are key components in the journey of self-discovery. Which supports individuals in addressing their own trauma, challenges and problems that may be newly developed or rooted in childhood. In doing this work, I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, confidence & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your own story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming challenges. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! If you believe that we can be a good fit and I can support you as you navigate your journey, I welcome you to my virtual therapeutic couch—a safe space where you can be seen, receive empathy, and find the support needed to navigate life's challenges.

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How to find counseling in Topsail Beach

Finding the best therapist close by in Topsail Beach 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 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 in Topsail Beach. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Topsail Beach, 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. 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 to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Topsail Beach or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. 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 Topsail Beach area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy 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 Topsail Beach, elsewhere in Pender, or in the greater state of North Carolina.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Topsail Beach therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Topsail Beach due to a higher cost of living. 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 Topsail Beach 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 BetterHelp or clinicians 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).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Topsail Beach, 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. They 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, they 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Topsail Beach 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 lead by a therapist in Topsail Beach helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Topsail Beach 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.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

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 Topsail Beach therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

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.

A psychologist 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 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 Topsail Beach 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 lot of people in NC, providers 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 28445 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Topsail Beach counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy 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, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. 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 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 therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Topsail Beach 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 through therapy 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 Topsail Beach, 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.

Topsail Beach has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy 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?

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

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 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 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 Topsail Beach.

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

28445

Popular cities near Topsail Beach, NC

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