Barbara Leigh
With over 30 years of experience as a therapist, I offer a seasoned combination of wisdom, current relevance and flexible interventions. I have seen trends come and go in the fields of psychology and counseling, so I like to identify your particular needs and tailor treatment modalities to your unique circumstances and expectations. I enjoy helping people discover their true needs/desires and pursuing their dreams, potential and meeting their life goals. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression. trauma and neurodiversity (autism, ADHD, traumatic brain injury, etc.). I enjoy working with individuals of all age and work mostly with longer-term clients who are interested in lasting, life growth work. I own an autism consulting business and am a Certified Autism Specialist, a Board Certified Telemental Health Provider, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Clinical Supervisor (for AL). I have worked in multiple settings - inpatient, outpatient, day treatment, residential, in-home, private practice and, of course, virtual. My pioneering work with online counseling in the 90s (pre-Google!) was featured on Oprah's network and in Glamour Magazine, so I come to you with the highest of standards in the field. I typically use cognitive-behavioral therapy, skills-building from dialectical-behavioral therapy and neuroeducation (teaching about how your mind-body chemicals spur your feelings which lead to thoughts, behaviors and habits). I believe that people change when they're ready - my goal is to help you get ready to change and then to support you through change. You know you can't directly change others, but you CAN change yourself - and by doing so, you help change the world for the better, one step at a time. And it all starts with you! Let's create a treatment plan that is both realistic and challenging for you - one that involves a precise balance of safety and risk, comfort and courage. My clients say I'm easy and fun to work with because of the combination of my personality, professional and personal experience...and thus I use a balanced combination of compassion, reality and humor. Change is hard enough - why not make it fun, meaningful and enjoy the journey? I look forward to working with you! Ready? Set....Grow!!
Jean-Michael Bouciquot
Welcome! Are you experiencing a major life transition? Are you feeling stressed hopeless, or overwhelmed? If so, I'm here to help. At some point in our lives we all go through some challenges and need support. Therapy can be that support. I am committed to providing a safe nonjudgmental environment where clients can explore their feelings and learn about the issues they are dealing with in order to grow and transition into who they would like to be. I have a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Florida International University. I graduated in 2013 with a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from St. Thomas University. I am also a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. I believe therapy is a collaborative process where we can set attainable goals and achieve success through different therapeutic techniques such as solution-focused, cognitive behavioral, and narrative therapy. I have experience in individual, couples, and family therapy. Along with depression, anxiety, anger management, goal setting, and life transitions. Helping my clients to develop communication skills is one of my specialties.
Alfred (Al) Thomas
I'm Al, Licensed Professional Counselor located in South Carolina. I know it is not easy to take those initial steps to reach out to someone to address things that have been going on in your life, so I commend on doing so. I appreciate your ability to be self-aware and realize that seeking out a professional could be beneficial. I'm here to meet you where you are and discover what you would like to accomplish while you and I work together. I pride myself on building strong relationships with everyone I work with. I see this as a partnership. A partnership which must start with you and I building strong rapport. I believe the relationship between you and I is the most important part of the process. If I show an ability to be open, honest and transparent, you will be more receptive of my recommendations and feel far more comfortable opening up about the things that brought you here. My approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This is having an understanding of how our thoughts, emotions and behavior are all linked. Even though most times we are not aware of our thoughts because they happen automatically. We are only aware of how we respond and how we feel emotionally. We will definitely explore this in greater detail in the future. I also utilize Motivation Interviewing and elements of Clinical Hypnotherapy in addition to CBT to help address the emotional subconscious parts of us that are impacted by our life experiences as we navigated life from childhood. Please do not hesitate to ask any questions. I'm an open book. I'm excited to have this opportunity and I'm looking forward to hearing back from you! Talk to you soon. Al
Mary Mathis
Every life story is filled with all kinds of moments—those of success and laughter and those of struggles and loss. In those moments when you are hurt, angry, lonely, scared or overwhelmed, it can be hard to know where to turn for direction. My passion in life is helping people to find the direction and support they need to move forward in those difficult times. I am a licensed professional counselor in South Carolina. My educational background includes a BA from Purdue University in Individual and Family Development and a MA in Clinical Counseling from Columbia International University. I have worked as an Multisystemic (MST) therapist for HIV+ teenagers, a School based Mental Health Counselor, and as a Military and Family Life Counselor. I have been helping individuals, families, and children to become aware of their inner strengths, and then, use those strengths to bring change to their current situation for over 13 years. Since every person’s story is unique, I use a variety of counseling techniques, including but not limited to, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Brief Solution Focused Therapy. It takes courage to ask for help and seek change. If you are ready, I am here to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in life.
Robert Bryant
My experience with individual and couples counseling began in 1979 and I am currently practicing. I have established a therapeutic relationship with many different types of clients. Certifications: Neurolinguistic Programming and Advanced Hypnotherapist. I possess an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) license in SC. MA Degree in Counseling Psychology. Training: Structural Strategic Methods with families and couples. I have an easy going, relaxed style that does not pressure the client. My Belief is that the clients are involved in their own treatment. I also believe in various terms of therapy and guiding clients to symptom relief and reaching their goals. My focus involves many modalities/styles. I do refer clients as necessary. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that first step, I am here to support and guide you. I look forward to working with you!
Edward Middleton
I was licensed as a professional counselor in July, 2000. I did my graduate work at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine and in 2006 was awarded their Graduate Alumni of The Year Award. I performed my internship at the WJB Dorn VA Medical Center in Columbia SC. I am also a veteran of the US Navy Nuclear Submarine Service and hold a Meritorious Decoration from them. Most of my work has been in a hospital environment, but also a large amount has been in private practice and forensic counseling working with probationers. And, I've worked as a line therapist as well as a clinical team and center manager. I do best with difficult problems relative to Anger, Trauma, Substance Abuse, Domestic Violence, Family Systems and SMIs (Serious Mental Illnesses). I'm also qualified in career counseling and able to provide career interest testing and guidance.
Bethany Tschappat
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in South Carolina, a Licensed Professional Counselor/Supervisor (LPC/S) Candidate, a National Certified Counselor (NCC), Owner/Clinical Counselor of Better Mind - Better You, LLC counseling services in SC, a certified clinical trauma professional (CCTP) and a certified clinical anxiety treatment professional (CCATP). I have 6+ years of professional counseling work experience and over 20 years of mentoring/volunteering/working with various populations in various stages of life. I have experience in supporting clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse including complex trauma, motivation, self-worth, communication, career options, confidence, and depression. In addition, I have specific therapy training and first-hand experience with the military population. I am trained in various therapies such as Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy, and use various interventions from other therapies such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), person center, and motivational interviewing. It’s important to be versed in several therapies to help ensure each client is getting individualized treatment that is tailored to their specific needs. In addition, I have experience with co-occurring and facilitating various therapy groups. I believe that you are the expert on your story and that you already have skills and abilities you are using that will benefit you on this journey. Reaching out for support takes strength, it’s not easy, just taking time to read this indicates you are wanting to work on positive change!
David Steinman
I am licensed in North Carolina, Ohio and South Carolina with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.
Madison Smith
I am licensed in South Carolina with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.
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 Ward
Finding the best therapist close by in Ward 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 Ward 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 Ward. 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 Ward, 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 Ward 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 Ward 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 Ward 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 Ward 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 Ward, elsewhere in Saluda, 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 Ward 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 Ward 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 Ward 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 Ward 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 Ward online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Ward, 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 Ward 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 Ward 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 Ward 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 Ward?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Ward 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 Ward 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 Ward 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 29166 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 Ward counselor?
Before seeing your Ward 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. Ward 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 Ward 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 Ward 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 Ward, 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.
Ward 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 Ward, 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 Ward 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 Ward:
29166