A river side spot with a view of the city is a West Columbians typical experience. Here in West Columbia you can have the best of both worlds: a small town feel with big town access to Columbia which sits right across the river.
But not every Columbia resident is taking full advantage of this quaint lifestyle. Many people suffering from poor mental health, can’t enjoy West Columbia like it should be because internal struggles get in the way. If you’re one of these people, or you just need someone to talk to, please reach out to a Columbia-based mental health professional today.
Kristina Bell
Hello! My name is Kristina and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over five years of experience providing therapy services. I have worked for several public agencies providing social work services, school-based mental health services, community mental health services, & now private practice. I work with clients affected by depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship challenges. I was born & raised in Charleston, South Carolina. I received my undergraduate degree in Sociology at Newberry College in Newberry, South Carolina & a Masters degree in Counseling at Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri. My theoretical orientation is eclectic, as I integrate various techniques to benefit each individual client. The majority of my work has focused on working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, oppositional disorder, and family/relationship issues. My areas of practice/specialization are Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused-CBT, & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Outside of my work as a therapist, I enjoy spending time with my husband & family, exercising, reading, & traveling.
Kafayat (Ayoka) Hannah
I am a licensed clinical social worker in South Carolina with over 10 years of experience working with people of all ages and backgrounds who are experiencing issues such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, grief and loss and mood disorders. I've also worked with individuals experiencing parenting concerns and self esteem concerns. Within the therapeutic relationship, we will work to develop goals to support your individual needs and move towards change. We will work toward positive change by implementing an number of evidenced based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solutions Focused Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Through self-reflection, therapy can help you develop your capacity to be more self-aware, challenge negative thoughts and build towards a more safe and healthy life functioning. I believe that prioritizing one's mental health is an investment in self, it is an active step towards your healing journey. I look forward to working with you.
Anchetta Sutton
I am an Education Specialist and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and Ohio. I am also a Christian who believes that one of the greatest counseling verses in the Bible is found in Revelation 12:11: we overcome by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of our testimony. I believe talking things out is helpful for so many reasons, so I do my best to create a safe space to allow you to feel comfortable saying whatever you need to say. I have been in helping professions in some manner for over 20 years. I have experience with stress, depression, anxiety, postpartum depression/anxiety, and couples. I use Christian Counseling techniques, cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, strengths-based, and mindfulness techniques. I believe awareness of our thoughts and how we choose to process them can change the trajectory of our outcomes. I would be honored to be a part of your journey as you work to achieve your goals.
Miltonjha Grier
Hello there! My name is Miltonjha Grier (pronounced Mill-tawn-juh) and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina and a Licensed Independent Social Worker in South Carolina with years of professional work experience. I obtained a Bachelors degree in Rehabilitation Studies and Human Services from Winston Salem State University in Winston Salem, NC (Go Rams!) and I obtained a Masters degree in Social Work from Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, NC ( Go Golden Bulls). I have experience in helping teens/adolescents, adults and families with stress and anxiety, life changes, motivation, self esteem/confidence, & depression/anxiety mostly in the outpatient setting. Those are just a few of my favorites but, I have experience with helping individuals with other mood disorders as well. I implement a variety of therapeutic interventions based on your specific needs but just to name a few, I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Solution Focused Therapy. I prefer to tailor the therapy modalities to your needs. 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. 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. The partnership between therapist and client is essential in developing and strengthening coping techniques that are EFFECTIVE! I like to think of myself as down to earth, understanding, goal driven and compassionate. I enjoy spending time with family, nights out on the town, traveling, 90's R&B and fashion, and trying new restaurants. My favorite color was pink but as I have gotten older, I find myself liking more things gray! I do not have any pets but I enjoy talking about animals and fur babies. My style of therapy is more of a listener but when it's my turn to share, I am coming with all the guidance to help you find your own solutions, in efforts to help you leave every session feeling motivated, determined and empowered! This journey is not easy, but if you made it this far to reading this profile that means you have a thought to maybe start therapy and start healing. Everything we do starts with a thought. So I say to you, don't stop here. Think about what you want and let's get to work! I'm here for you. Happy healing!
Antonia Graves
I am licensed in South Carolina with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & 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. 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.
Dr. Latasha Rivers
I am licensed in South Carolina and Tennessee with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with PTSD, trauma and abuse, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Trish Miller
Hi, my name is Trish Miller and I am a Master's Level Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider for the state of Tennessee. I currently have over 18 years experience in a wide array of mental health and relationship issues in which I am also SYMBIS Assessment Certified. Whether you are experiencing everyday anxiety, life stressors or have been through a traumatic experience, it is my mission to give you a safe place to work on you. For individuals who have experienced a traumatic experience and/or loss, I have worked extensively in the Trauma Field for over 10 years, specializing in trauma, suicide, homicide, complicated grief/loss, domestic violence, abuse, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It has been my passion to help people who have experienced a traumatic event regain a sense of self and help them go from victim to survivor. It is through the integration of different therapy styles and techniques that together with you, that I work to build on your strengths and achievements towards personal growth. This collaboration of techniques will give the opportunity to more effectively work through past and/or present issues that may be causing pain and hardship. It is through these combined efforts, that together and at your pace, we are able to gain insight and understanding into the difficulties so that you may overcome emotional hurdles and experience a more fulfilling life. It is important to remember that making changes in one’s life takes time, energy, and effort. As an agent of change, I am committed to supporting, empowering, and helping you through the challenges you may be facing. I do not believe in a "one size fits all" in life and in counseling. I plan each session based on what works for you and feel that it is my job to create a safe environment, free of judgment, as we work together through the difficult times. I am a graduate of DeSales University, with a Bachelors of Science Degree in Psychology; and have earned a Master's of Science Degree in Clinical and Counseling Psychology with a Certificate of Advanced Study in Trauma Counseling from Chestnut Hill College.
Shawanda Cobb
I am licensed in South Carolina with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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.Once you respond to this message, I will send you some additional general information about how this online counseling process works, and then we can get started. Should you feel in need of urgent help or that you are in crisis at any time during our work together; please call 1-800-273-TALK 24 hours a day; or 911. This forum does not provide any type of emergency services, so I want to be sure you know who to contact if you need immediate help. You are not alone. Things can and will get better. I'm really looking forward to working with you! Warm regards, Shawanda
Tavares Bostic
As a therapist, I understand the bravery it takes to be completely vulnerable with another individual. My role in the counseling room is to meet you right where you are with respect, compassion, and non-judgement. I find it a privilege to journey with a client. Hi, I’m Tavares Bostic, I am a licensed clinical social worker in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. Best known for my down-to-earth and very sound approach, I look to help people marry the discontent they may feel in their lives, with proven coping mechanisms focusing on reducing symptoms related to their mental health diagnosis. With over a decade of experience, I have long been an advocate for helping remove the stigma attached to mental illness, helping couples renew their love and focus to one another, and ensuring that older adults in assisted living and retirement communities become educated on symptoms which are directly related to mental health diagnoses and become motivated to address them by engaging in psychotherapy and most appropriate psychotropic medication. I was blessed enough to earn my master’s in social work with a certification in clinical mental health from The University of Pittsburgh and my bachelors of social work from North Carolina A&T State University. I believe that the combination of cognitive behavioral therapy and Reality therapy is one of the most effective ways of empowering individuals to become their best. I have had the opportunity to work in multiple settings over the past 10 years and I’ve covered mental illness across the spectrum. Let’s sort out what troubles you in healthy ways by exploring your individual experience, and uncovering your unique strengths. I want to empower you to find your best path through this life as you heal from past hurts and search for meaning, purpose, and direction.
Christy White
I am licensed in South Carolina with 20 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 that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
How to find a therapist for counseling in West Columbia
Finding the best therapist close by in West Columbia 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 West Columbia 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 West Columbia. 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 West Columbia, 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 West Columbia 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 West Columbia 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 West Columbia 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 West Columbia 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 West Columbia, elsewhere in Lexington, 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 West Columbia 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 West Columbia 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 West Columbia 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 West Columbia 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 West Columbia online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in West Columbia, 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 West Columbia 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 West Columbia 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 West Columbia 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 West Columbia?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a West Columbia 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 West Columbia 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 West Columbia 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 29171 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 West Columbia counselor?
Before seeing your West Columbia 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. West Columbia 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 West Columbia 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 West Columbia 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 West Columbia, 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.
West Columbia 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 West Columbia, 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 West Columbia 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 West Columbia:
29169, 29171