Dr. Latasha McIlwaine
Hello, I am Dr. Latasha McIlwaine, a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPCS) in the states of South Carolina and Georgia and also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS) in the state of North Carolina. I am also have a license and certification in Addictions (LCAS/CCS) and I am certified in Domestic Violence. I earned my graduate degree in Mental Health Counseling and went on to study Counseling Psychology to earn my Doctorate degree (EdD). I have been in practice for over 18 years across North and South Carolina and Georgia. I have extensive training in a range of modalities including, person/client-centered, brief solution focused, reality, family and cognitive behavioral therapies. I also have experience in Anger Management and Marriage and Family Therapy. I am an educator too with undergraduate, graduate and doctorate students who are pursuing their goal of becoming a therapist. I am also an author and my first book is Fragile Brokenness: The Unspoken Secrets That Shaped A Pretty Unprotected Girl Into A Practicing Clinician And Therapist. My book speaks to my experiences with life and mental health issues and how I coped and learned to deal, made pivotal moves and developed plans for successful overcomes. My book also speaks to how I found my calling to become a clinical therapist helping and teaching others. I have extensive experience providing quality services for adults, children, couples as well as families on a wide range of areas including depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, relationships, interpersonal dynamics, communication, self-esteem, school/career issues, anger management, stress management, parenting and addictions. I am also in private practice providing tele-therapy, Insightful Options, PLLC. I have two websites: https://www.insightful-options.com and https://www.drlatashamcilwaine.com; https://www.greenemcilwainefoundation.org I look forward to working with you!
Steven Mason
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Master Addictions Counselor (MAC) licensed in South Carolina with over 18 years of experience working as a VA Social Worker, Life Coach and a Mental Health Therapist. My work has been with Individuals from all walks of life and with a wide range of concerns - including depression, anxiety, addiction issues, OCD and ADHD and career challenges. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach to therapy is holistic in nature and combines CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy), ACT, psychodynamic, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness Therapies. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you on your journey toward self-discovery and your better life. I look forward to working with you!
Sarah Mathis
I am a licensed social worker from South Carolina and enjoy working with teens and adults through various challenges. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns to include but not limited to: depression, anxiety, addiction, severe persistent mental illness, antenatal/postpartum and parenting concerns, trauma, and relationship stress. My early training included working with school aged children to address conditions such as ADHD, ODD, and ASD. I have not found it easy to work with young children through online methods of therapy, but I am open to working with parents to help them navigate such concerns with their children. My therapeutic style is one of warmth and positive regard. With a patient-centered approach, I see each client as the expert on his or her life and myself as a facilitator to help uncover skills and knowledge to solve life's concerns. I believe in the ability of everyone to grow and change. I look forward to working with you!
Abreia Epps
I am a licensed professional counselor, and I have been providing individual and family therapy for the past 4 years. I graduated from the University of South Carolina with my counseling education specialist degree with a concentration with couples and families. My approach is Emotional focused and Attachment, and systemic based. I focus on emotions and attachments that individuals have and continue to experience. I work through emotions with my clients and help them find their sense of self, vulnerability, and emotional balance. I help the individual understand their experiences and feelings that they have, and I sit in those moments and process and grow with them. I validate, I normalize and I walk alongside my clients as we process together the emotion and experiences that have caused anxiety, trauma, depression, relationship problems exc. I am here to provide a service to individuals who are seeking growth, because they have been stuck in the same place for so long. Maybe you understand why, maybe you don't. Together we will get you out of that stuck place so you can grow and be whomever you want to be, and seek positive and healthy relationships in your life.
Cindy Penn
I am licensed in South Carolina with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, CPTSD (complex post traumatic stress disorder), coping with addictions, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, LGBTQI-related issues, & parenting issues. I also have extensive experience with BPD and other personality disorders. 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.
Cassaundra (Casey) Reagan
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbt-related issues, coping with grief and loss, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, intimacy related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. Together we can work to identify your unique skills that will help you meet your goals. 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.
Jennifer Malkin
Counseling provides opportunities to gain understanding of your behavior, choices and patterns. Most of us deal with emotional, intellectual, social, physical and spiritual needs. It's important to choose positive behaviors which affirm us in a safe, non-judgemental environment. **Please read NOTE at bottom, Thank You** Jennifer Malkin is a Licensed Professional Counselor in addition to a Nationally Certified Counselor. Jenn has a Masters degree in Counseling from Western Connecticut State University. Jenn has her first Master's degree in Education as well as a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, both from Hofstra University. Jenn is certified in B-R-I-E-F Mediation Specialization Training Therapy is a joint effort between therapist and client. "The relationship between us is collaborative, empathetic, and supportive. I'll seek to understand your perspective, help clarify goals, and help you find your strengths to make positive changes. Although I commit to make every effort to provide effective care, your commitment is needed as well to achieve success. Together we will discuss progress and challenges in an honest, trusting and confidential manner in order to achieve your desired outcome." In the 15 years Jenn's been practicing, She has helped numerous individuals and couples find greater happiness and harmony in their lives. Jennifer is skilled and broadly trained in a range of therapeutic approaches, but she finds Choice Theory to be especially helpful. Together, we will discuss a treatment plan and use it to guide you on your journey. "I will challenge you and hold you accountable for your behavior, particularly when a person fails to do what he or she has expressed an intention to do." SPECIALTIES Individual psychotherapy Couples issues Improved communication skills Blended families Family Therapy Parental Boundaries Reconciling differences in parenting styles Divorce Custody Abusive relationships Anxiety Depression Grief Stress management Goal clarification/Goal setting Utilization of strengths Self-defeating belief systems Career and life transitions Confidence/awareness LGBT counseling ******PLEASE NOTE******* I do work for BetterHelp part time, and I live in the EST zone. I have a second job and am a Full Time Mom to a toddler. I love being a therapist and working to guide clients towards their goals! However, I am busy. I work for BetterHelp.com Monday through Friday, and the hours vary. If I sign on at 10am, and you write me at 4pm.....you may not hear back until the following day. I do try to reply within 24-48 hours on THOSE days. That's also BetterHelp.com's recommendation on response times. Saturday and Sunday I am off but can usually be available to write back if message is marked urgent! I am not continuously online at BetterHelp. I log in, as you do. I am also available for "Live" sessions; real-time typing and live phone sessions, which are a scheduled appointments. I do hope to be able to fit into your schedule. If it doesn't, I understand and wish you the best on your way to finding a counselor that can meet your needs :)
Lindsay Mays
Welcome! My name is Lindsay Mays I am a LCSW (licensed clinical social worker) & LAC (licensed addiction counselor). I run a small private practice called Moonrise Wellness based in Northern Colorado. I received my undergraduate degree in Psychology & Anthropology from Bloomsburg University in 2014 & my master's degree in Social Work from Millersville University in 2017. I believe that everyone deserves a safe and welcoming environment to tackle life's issues! The Beatles once said, "we get by with a little help from our friends" & I am looking forward to helping you along your life's journey! My practice is rooted in a client-centered approach, mindfulness-based strategies, & motivational interviewing techniques to assist you in connecting with your highest self. I also love to utilize Acudetox & other holistic-based approaches! I am looking forward to connecting with you & building a partnership for you to achieve your goals! *I am located in Colorado & work in MST time zone.
Patrick Barrett
I am licensed in North Carolina and South Carolina with 12 years of professional experience. My approach to therapy includes the use of models such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), as well as others depending on what appears to be most appropriate for your needs and preferences. Some of the topics we may address in therapy include managing stress and anxiety, life purpose, drug and alcohol addictions, anger management, motivation, and self-esteem issues. I believe that we all have areas where we can learn from one another as well as areas to work on each day to try and improve ourselves. Therapy can be a wonderful place to learn and improve, and I am here to support you in that process.
Sharon "Kristen" Gregory
I am licensed in South Carolina with 3 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 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!
How to find a therapist for counseling in Cottageville
Finding the best therapist close by in Cottageville 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 Cottageville 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 Cottageville. 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 Cottageville, 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 Cottageville 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 Cottageville 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 Cottageville 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 Cottageville 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 Cottageville, elsewhere in Colleton, 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 Cottageville 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 Cottageville 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 Cottageville 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 Cottageville 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 Cottageville online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Cottageville, 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 Cottageville 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 Cottageville 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 Cottageville 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 Cottageville?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Cottageville 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 Cottageville 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 Cottageville 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 29435 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 Cottageville counselor?
Before seeing your Cottageville 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. Cottageville 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 Cottageville 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 Cottageville 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 Cottageville, 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.
Cottageville 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 Cottageville, 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 Cottageville therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.
If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Cottageville:
29435