Central, South Carolina is a small town that’s halfway between the two great cities of Atlanta, Georgia and Charlotte, North Carolina. If that isn’t awesome enough on its own, Central is just a half hour’s drive from the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains, Lake Hartwell, Lake Keowee, and Lake Jocassee. None of these wonders are surpassed by the genuine caring people who call Central home. With so much beauty around every corner, you may be wondering why it’s difficult to see the beauty in life sometimes.

Mental health and wellness can be a difficult thing to figure out. Make it easy on yourself and match up to begin working with a Central area mental health professional who can help you make sense of how your feeling.

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Shamika Scott-Carson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Central
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC,LAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

Hello! My name is Shamika Carson and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as Licensed Addictions Counselor with over 17 years of experience providing Counseling and Mental Health Services to individuals with a variety of concerns to include: Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse and Anger-Management. My counseling style is Client Centered as I believe that the client would benefit from services designed to meet their individual needs. With a theoretical approach of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Mindfulness Techniques, I am confident in my ability to assist you in working toward your desired outcome. If given the opportunity I look forward to guiding and supporting you through this process. Take care in the mean time! Therapy over Silence!

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Michael Pfisterer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Central
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,LISW CP
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepression
14 years of experience

I look to help you identify your strengths and utilize them so that you can achieve your desired outcomes. My approach is to utilize multidimensional psychodynamic tools based upon your life course and inherent difficulties. In conjunction with the client, goals will be developed and guidance will be provided in order to achieve the optimal short term gains and long term objectives. Change is achieved through solution focused and task based theories to help achieve change. These tools can be particularly helpful for those coping with negative thought patterns, depression, anxiety, developmental differences, executive functioning difficulties and challenges associated with trauma and transitions. My practice has entailed work with a wide variety of individuals and focused upon the needs of each person. I have also engaged in practice with individuals with autism, those impacted by a wide range of environmental challenges as well as those having difficulty making life transitions. I have also participated in family based crisis management, helped families develop a range of techniques to improve relationships with their significant others and acted as a conduit between family members coping with trauma. I live with my wife, daughters and two dogs and have a passion for helping others. I look forward to getting to know you and helping you have your aspirations align with your actions!

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Mary Dellinger

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Central
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
10 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) who has experience working with diverse populations and a wide range of mental health challenges. I provide integrative counseling services. My approach involves a mix of techniques from multiple therapeutic theories including: neuroscience, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychodynamic. Treatment is individualized based on each client's specific needs and goals. I strive to provide a safe, judgment free space for clients to heal, grow, and thrive.

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Andrew Michaels

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Central
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementDepression
20 years of experience

I have thirty years experience in the mental health field. I have extensive knowledge and experience working with people suffering from anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, OCD, trauma, PTSD, domestic violence, complicated grief and relationship issues. I also work with LGBTQ+ population around the issues of sexual identity, relationship issues and coming out to famililes and peers. For 17 years I have worked in a day treatment program where I provided individual, group and family counseling targeting clients suffering with range of issues from ADHD , physical/sexual abuse and substance abuse. I am currently devoted to clients suffering from Schizophrenia, Schizo-Affective Disorders and Major Depression where I provide them with psychoeducation regarding , symptomatology, and connecting them to community services to optimize their functioning in the community. I am a highly trained clinician who enjoys working with a multicultural population where I treat all my clients with sensitivity and respect. I incorporate a vast range of clinical interventions into my practice: CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Person-Centered, Anger Management, Relaxation Training and Psychoanalytic Treatment. Listening to others in a caring and empathetic manner has been crucial in my ability to develop trusting relationships with others. I maintain a nonjudgmental stance with awareness of one's cultural beliefs and values and provide an atmosphere where one has the ability to cope through difficult times within their lives. Being able to reach for help is a crucial step in your decision to make a change in your life. Regardless what comes across in our lives, we have the ability to choose one’s way, to challenge ourselves through our struggles and become stronger individuals. I am looking forward to working with you.

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Shawnta Cohen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Central
Counselor License Type(s): LISW-CP
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
21 years of experience

Hello, my name is Shawnta Cohen and I am licensed clinical Social worker in South Carolina, Texas, and Michigan with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping teenage and adult clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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.

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Chantel Martin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Central
Self esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in South Carolina with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with 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.

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Laura Arnold

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Central
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC, LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesGriefDepression
8 years of experience

Welcome to Better Help! By reading this you have taken a step toward healing. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the states of South Carolina and Arizona, and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Nevada with over 7 years of experience as a psychotherapist. I have also completed additional training in the areas of Depression and Anxiety at the Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy in Philadelphia, PA. I believe in an individual’s emotional and behavioral health. I have helped clients in private-practice settings, as well as substance abuse inpatient, partial hospitalization, outpatient facilities, and correctional facilities. My clients have come to me with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, and stress-related issues. Additionally, I have worked with individuals challenged by substance abuse, behavioral and personality disorders, and human sexuality. I bring compassion and empathy to my work as a therapist. I maintain unconditional positive regard in creating a warm and open therapeutic environment of acceptance. My counseling style is conversational and interactive. I utilize multiple models of psychotherapy including cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, and dialectical behavior therapy. Establishing a therapeutic relationship is a vital step and trust is key. The relationship that you have with your therapist, according to research, will provide the most healing over time than any technique or theory. I am here to meet your needs, support, encourage, and empower you as you work on making positive changes and improvements in your life. If you are ready to move in a new direction in your life or want guidance through a life challenge, let’s start your journey. “Loving ourselves through the process of owning our story is the bravest thing we will ever do.” Brené Brown.

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Ruby Gordon

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Central
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a licensed professional in both North Carolina and South Carolina, bringing over 15 years of diverse experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with a wide range of clients, helping them navigate challenges such as stress and anxiety, depression, and issues related to the LGBTQ+ community. I firmly believe that each person is the expert of their own story; you possess unique strengths and resilience that will aid you in overcoming obstacles in your life. My approach to therapy is collaborative, emphasizing your insights and experiences while providing support and guidance. I understand that reaching out for help can be a significant step, often requiring a great deal of courage. I commend you for taking this initiative and embarking on a journey toward healing and self-discovery. Together, we can explore your challenges and work towards creating a fulfilling and balanced life.

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Betsy Clark

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Central
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesCareer difficultiesADHD
40 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia and South Carolina with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety & bipolar disorder. I have helped people to cope with career or parenting challenges. I have extensive experience working with those who have serious chronic or acute health problems. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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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Maxine Sutton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in SC, Central
Counselor License Type(s): MSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

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!

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Central

Finding the best therapist close by in Central 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 Central 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 Central. 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 Central, 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 Central region and in the state of South 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 Central 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 Central 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 Central 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 Central, elsewhere in Pickens, or in the greater state of South 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 Central 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 Central 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 Central 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 Central may not take health insurance, some in the state of South 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 South 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 Central online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Central, South 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 Central 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 Central 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 Central 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 Central?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Central 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 Central 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 Central 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 SC, 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 29630 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 Central counselor?

Before seeing your Central 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. Central 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 Central 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 Central 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 Central, South 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.

Central 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 Central, South 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 Central therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Central.

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

29630

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