Your life can feel like  a studio sometimes. Great things can come from a studio, and so can pure art. But when the production is a disaster, it can be a problem. Self-doubt can feel like that director who just isn’t satisfied. Depression can make you feel like the actor who doesn’t know their lines. A counselor can be the person who helps create order in the studio. 

Wilmington is known for having the biggest studio outside of California. While they are producing movies, you can create your own masterpiece. You just need to speak to a counselor and ask for help. 

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David Spann

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW,LISW,LCAS
AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefCoaching
29 years of experience

Welcome to the process! Mr. Spann has a unique blend of education and experience providing opportunities for those he serves to experience emotional and spiritual growth and change, and freedom from obstacles to growth due to trauma, mental health, anxiety, persistent mental illness or chemical dependency disorders. He obtained his undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia in Psychology and his Master's degree from Florida Gulf Coast University. His clinical experience in outpatient, residential and hospital setting, including Naval Hospital with Active Duty Marines, helps clients understand the relationship between the stressors on the family system due to trauma, mental illness and addiction and the impact on quality of life. Mr. Spann also has significant experience in management, marketing, leadership development, personal coaching, and an understanding of relational dynamics in corporate and agency settings. Specialties: Process for developing greater relationship intimacy, Maximizing individual and relational potential, Clinical experience with clients and families who struggle with the effects of trauma, addiction, and mental illness. (Dual Diagnosis Co-Occurring Disorders). Interventions include Trauma Focused CBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy , Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing and mindfulness. A strength based solution focused holistic philosophy is a basis for the therapeutic process. * Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT * Mindfulness * DBT Dialectical Behavior Therapy * Motivation Interviewing * Family Systems Therapy * In addition, for the last 24 years, personal experience includes crisis intervention training CIT) for law enforcement, State trainer for teachers in NAMI Family to Family Program, leadership training, program development, small group leadership and seminar presentations on Grieving the Losses of Life, Relational Enrichment, Communication, Anger Management, Boundaries, Spiritual Awakening, public speaking and advocacy. * Session availability Tuesday- Friday 6:30 am to 17:30 EST and other hours as agreed

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AnnMarie Worcester

Offering therapy in NC
License: NCC,LMHC,LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
29 years of experience

Hello! My name is AnnMarie Worcester and I am a licensed counselor in the sunny state of Florida as well as in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina. For 27 years I have been fortunate to live my passion of counseling, teaching, mentoring, coaching, consulting, and supervising. I have worked for hospitals, residential facilities, crisis units, juvenile evaluation centers, rape crisis centers, youth shelters, Boys and Girls Clubs, child abuse councils, YMCA, community mental health centers, Social Services, and private counseling agencies. My theoretical orientation is very person centered and relationship based, focusing on providing encouragement and fostering empowerment while teaching mindfulness through reality based and CBT therapy techniques. I offer my services to clients who have the willingness and ability to resolve their own problems with my assistance through the use of practical solutions and tools that can be applied in all aspects of life and any situation that may come up! Counseling involves your active participation both in and out of the counseling sessions, as well as a genuine desire and continual effort to change your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. YOU determine the progress of the counseling process. Change and growth will be at your pace.... sometimes it will be easy and swift, sometimes it will be slow and deliberate, sometimes it will be painful.....its all up to you and the time and effort you put in. Success is being able to face life's challenges in the future without my support or intervention by intentionally and consistently using the solutions and tools we’ve discussed and you've practiced on your own. Are you ready? I am here to help!

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Nicole Garza

Offering therapy in NC
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 12 years experience working with people. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I am a Veteran of the Army and married to a Veteran, therefore I have worked in several different states with lots of amazing clients. I have extensive knowledge and experience treating individuals with anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. My expertise also includes addiction, relationship problems, abuse, domestic violence, and adjustment difficulties. I have worked with individuals experiencing other challenges to include caregiver burnout, divorce, and custody concerns. I am trained in multiple evidence informed modalities to include Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and others. Therapy is based on trust and relationship, therefore I believe in building a strong foundation which allows honesty and vulnerability. I use Family Systems Theory and Psychodynamic Theory as basic building blocks of our alliance. Asking for help can be difficult and I am excited that you have made a decision to do so. I look forward to taking the next steps of identifying goals and assessing progress with you. We will do this together. I look forward to working together!

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Hamidah Winston

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

My name is Hamidah Winston. I am a Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina with close to 20 years of experience. I work with clients on a wide range of concerns including: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting problems, and coping techniques. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. While I often combine cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused techniques, my approach will be on an individual basis. As we progress we will find what works best for your therapeutic goals and I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to reach out for help, when you are ready, I will be here to assist you through your journey.

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Cynthia Jones

Offering therapy in NC
License: MS, CRC, LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
15 years of experience

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

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Bethany Ramos

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hi, I am Bethany Ramos and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work. I have over ten years providing mental health therapy in hospitals, schools, outpatient settings, and in homes. I have had the honor to work with people across the life span from children to teens, to parents, adults and older adults. I worked with people facing many different challenges including: postpartum mood disorders, stress, anxiety, life transitions, end of life, grief and many more. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to work through whatever changes and challenges that you may bring. I use a variety of modalities and interventions to make sure that we are working as a team to develop the best plan to get you where you want to go. Please know how brave you are for taking this step and I am honored to have the opportunity walk with you during this time. I am so excited to meet you and start working together!! Thanks, Bethany

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Sarah Powell

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

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

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Arkatheia Thomas

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Nathalie Mizelle-Johnson

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

I am licensed in North Carolina and Virginia with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Michelle Thompson

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota with 13 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. 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 counseling in Wilmington

Finding the best therapist close by in Wilmington 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 Wilmington. 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 Wilmington, 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington, elsewhere in New Hanover, 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 Wilmington area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington, 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 28404 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington, 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.

Wilmington 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 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 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 Wilmington.

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

28401, 28402, 28403, 28404, 28405, 28406, 28407, 28408, 28409, 28410, 28412

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