South Charleston is home to the Criel Mound, an Indian burial ground dating back to about 200 BC. Many say that the burial mound is haunted, but it is a favorite place for residents and tourists alike to view the city. Like some places, people too can sometimes feel haunted by the past. If your past is holding you back from the great things of the future, you might need help to work past it.

Counselors in the South Charleston area can help you work through your past and become healthier for the future. Past events, traumas and relationships do not have to cloud your present or future paths. If you are looking for a way to move beyond the past, contact a therapist to get started.

This is Dr. Barbara Romfo's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Barbara Romfo

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, South Charleston
Counselor License Type(s): PhD,MDiv
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
34 years of experience

ABOUT ME Hello. My name is Barbara. I have been practicing as a clinical psychologist for over 33 years in both metropolitan and rural settings. I believe everyone has strengths they can bring to resolving the problems they face. Our primary source of strength and direction is God. Your faith is an important component in lasting healing. I believe in treating individuals with respect and dignity; I seek to understand your unique perspective on life and identify the best ways to achieve the change you desire. I have formal training and experience in the practice of clinical psychology. I also bring my background in Christian ministry and pastoral care to the work I do. I use a variety of different approaches and I will remain sensitive to what does and does not work for you as an individual. I am comfortable with incorporating prayer, spiritual reading/devotions, and other spiritual practices within the context of your therapy. ________________________________________ Specific areas where I enjoy working include: * addictive behaviors and how they limit our spiritual growth * obsessive thoughts and compulsive behavior patterns *overcoming past experiences of trauma and abuse Also experienced in: Depression, Anxiety disorders, Adjustment issues, Relationship issues, Family conflicts , Anger management , Career difficulties , Chronic Pain Illness and Disability , Guilt and Shame. Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy Years of Experience: 34

Get started View profile
This is Rebecca Boardman's avatar and link to their profile

Rebecca Boardman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, South Charleston
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
14 years of experience

It takes a great deal of courage to reach out for help when struggling emotionally, physically, and or behaviorally. Let me introduce myself. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), who has been working as a therapist, with a variety of clients, for the last 15 years. It is important to me that everyone be treated with respect and dignity no matter what they are dealing with in their life. I achieved a Masters Degree in Social Work at West Virginia University and have completed 70 hours towards Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Certification. As a therapist it is my goal to provide compassion, understanding, and support without discrimination, stigmatization, and or judgement. I have worked effectively with clients who are dealing with Addiction, ADHD, Anxiety, Anger, Bipolar, Career Challenges, Depression, Domestic Violence, Medical Issues/Diagnoses, Parenting Problems, PTSD, Stress, Trauma, and Weight Loss. Your struggle is real no matter how difficult or what others may think is not important. My therapy style is interactive and client centered. My therapeutic approach consists of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral (DBT), Impact, Gestalt, and Solution Focused along with therapeutic techniques and activities, based on individual needs, to help you to achieve your goals. I am straightforward but also empathetic to the needs of my clients. If you are ready and able to commit to taking the first step, we can work together to help you to achieve a happier and more fulfilling life through a commitment towards change. I am here to support and empower you throughout the process. I’m excited and looking forward to be working with you!

Get started View profile
This is April Lucas's avatar and link to their profile

April Lucas

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, South Charleston
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience

Hello, I am April, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC/LPCC ) in KY and WV with over 10 years experience working in an array of counseling settings. I offer individual, child, and family counseling. I have worked with clients with a range of concerns, emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, parenting problems, career challenges and relationship issues. My approach to counseling is Cognitive Behavioral. I will support you while addressing your mental, emotional, and social needs. Therapeutic modalities I use include cognitive-behavioral, emotionally focused, solution-focused, psychoeducational, acceptance and commitment therapy, mindfulness, and more. I hope to offer you a therapeutic experience where you feel accepted and validated. I look forward to working with you!

Get started View profile
This is James Rusk's avatar and link to their profile

James Rusk

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, South Charleston
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am a New York State Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 16 years of clinical experience serving diverse populations in various agency, private practice, and medical settings. I am primarily a Narrative Therapist and use principles from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to inform my work with clients. I believe that one of the central tasks of one's life is to make meaning out of experience, regardless of whether that experience is perceived to be "good" or "bad." How we feel about our life's path depends a great deal on the stories we tell ourselves about our past and our future. Even though these elements of past and future are important, how we feel about ourselves in the present, and in fact our ability to be willingly present with whatever circumstances come up for us, is a powerful predictor of feelings of competence and well-being. Many times we struggle "against" our own experience, causing needless suffering for ourselves and even for those around us. In my experience, the only prerequisite for meaningful change is a willingness to believe that it can be possible. Even if you question whether you're willing to believe this, I believe that we can work together to influence factors that ultimately lead to willingness and a meaningful excursion into a change process. In my therapeutic process, we are partners - you're the expert on you, and I bring the Narrative, Psychodynamic, and ACT focus to train different lenses on your situation, all with respect and compassion, and without advancing an agenda of "shoulds." If you're courageous about digging into the rich material of your inner life (even if you're anxious about it too), we'll be a good fit.

Get started View profile
This is Amy Bragg's avatar and link to their profile

Amy Bragg

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, South Charleston
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuse
5 years of experience

Hello! I’m a licensed professional counselor in West Virginia and I have worked primarily with victims of violence, loss, and trauma. Aside from trauma work, I have helped clients with depression, anxiety, parenting, and relationship concerns. My therapy style is inviting and interactive; I enjoy problem solving with my clients to find the best solutions to any concerns. My approach to therapy is based in cognitive-behavioral theories and I am trained in EMDR. As a therapist, I will create a treatment plan that is specific to a client’s needs and goals. Contact me today if you desire a genuine and positive connection with a responsive and caring provider.

Get started View profile
This is Donna Borders's avatar and link to their profile

Donna Borders

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, South Charleston
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in West Virginia with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.

Get started View profile
This is Elizabeth Williams's avatar and link to their profile

Elizabeth Williams

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, South Charleston
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSleeping disorders
3 years of experience

I am licensed in West Virginia with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & sleeping 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Get started View profile
This is Erica Graham's avatar and link to their profile

Erica Graham

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, South Charleston
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

Hi, I’m Erica. If you’re feeling stuck in a negative spiral dealing with past trauma, anxiety or depression, I’m here to help you experience the change work that makes a real difference in the lives of individuals and children that I see. I’ve worked with so many people who were struggling with difficult conditions which they have learned to overcome with the help of evidenced-based treatment.

Get started View profile
This is Kimberly Mundy's avatar and link to their profile

Kimberly Mundy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, South Charleston
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in West Virginia with 7 years of professional direct counseling and 30 total years of related work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Get started View profile
This is Dr. Daniel Cifarelli's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Daniel Cifarelli

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WV, South Charleston
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Dr. Cifarelli was originally trained in medicine and seeing the effects of COVID-19 on the nation’s mental health he then went on to complete Master’s degrees in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling. Throughout his life Dr. Cifarelli has been around many people faced with traumas and personal handicaps which has increased his desire to help those with medical and mental struggles. He specializes in treating those with post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, personality and mood disorders. He treats adolescence, adults, and seniors. Additionally, he offers specialized treatment to members of the LGBTQ and medically disabled communities. Dr. Cifarelli practices dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and mindfulness. He currently, is licensed as a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and a national certified counselor (NCC). On a personal note Dr. Cifarelli enjoys spending time with his niece Olivia, his Cavachon “Rocky” and going to live concerts. He stresses to his patients the importance of balance between work, family, and friendships.

Get started View profile

How to find a therapist for counseling in South Charleston

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

Therapists in South Charleston, West Virginia 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 South Charleston 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 South Charleston 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 South Charleston 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 South Charleston?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a South Charleston 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 South Charleston 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 South Charleston 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 WV, 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 25309 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 South Charleston counselor?

Before seeing your South Charleston 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. South Charleston 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 South Charleston 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 South Charleston 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 South Charleston, West Virginia 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.

South Charleston 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 South Charleston, West Virginia

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

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

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

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

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

25303, 25309

Popular cities near South Charleston, WV

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist