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

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

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Psychologist Felicia McGhee providing different types of therapy in Central

Felicia McGhee

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 6212
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
20 years offering treatment

Hello, my name is Felicia McGhee, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina with over 20 years of experience in the counseling field. Much of my career has been dedicated to working with adolescents involved in the Juvenile Justice system, as well as individuals served through the Department of Mental Health, Department of Social Services, and the South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Department. Over the past seven years, I have expanded my practice through contracted work, which has allowed me to support young adults, middle-aged adults, and older adults across a variety of life stages and challenges. My therapeutic approach is client-centered and collaborative. I integrate evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, grief counseling, and career counseling, tailoring treatment to meet each client’s unique needs and goals. I am passionate about helping, guiding, and supporting individuals through life’s challenges. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can build coping skills, gain insight, and work toward meaningful change. I look forward to helping you navigate whatever life has brought your way. Prior to our scheduled session, please feel free to share any information you believe would be helpful for me to know about you.

Psychologist Tanya Smith providing different types of therapy in Central

Tanya Smith

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 7676
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
15 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in South Carolina and Florida , I bring over 15 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on creating compassionate, affirming spaces for healing across diverse life experiences. I specialize in addressing challenges related to depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, anger management, and interpersonal dynamics. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding each person's unique journey. I'm particularly passionate about supporting individuals navigating social anxiety, life transitions, relationship complexities, and personal growth. With expertise in multicultural concerns, I strive to provide culturally responsive care that honors individual identities and experiences. I work collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful strategies for emotional wellness, emphasizing self-love, effective communication, and personal empowerment. My therapeutic style is warm, direct, and committed to helping you discover your inherent strengths and resilience.

Psychologist Linda Jarels providing different types of therapy in Central

Linda Jarels

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 2879
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in South Carolina, I bring over two decades of compassionate mental health experience to my practice. My professional journey has been dedicated to supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes, with specialized expertise in depression, anxiety, grief, and life transitions. I have a deep commitment to working with adults of all ages and providing a supportive, progressive therapeutic environment. My approach centers on understanding each client's unique experiences and helping them develop meaningful coping strategies. With particular sensitivity to challenges faced by individuals living with chronic health conditions I strive to create a safe, affirming space for healing and personal growth. My therapeutic style is collaborative and empathetic, focusing on building resilience, enhancing self-esteem, and supporting clients through significant life changes. I believe in meeting each person exactly where they are, offering gentle guidance and evidence-based support tailored to their individual needs and goals.

Psychologist Charlene Carr providing different types of therapy in Central

Charlene Carr

Clinician
License Type(s): CT LCSW 10740, SC LISW-CP 13319
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Connecticut and South Carolina with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, coping with grief, & coping with loss. I also have experience working with despression. 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.

Psychologist Barbara Austin providing different types of therapy in Central

Barbara Austin

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LISW-CP 4450
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
25 years offering treatment

I am licensed in South Carolina with 20 years of professional counseling work experience. Your story and how you experience your life is yours to share. My job is to witness it, and do my best to understand how you have made your life work for you so far. Then, together we can explore alternate perspectives, nuances, colors, flavors, shapes and constructs that you may (or may not) wish to include. I can help you re-create, add to, or re-envision the rest of your story. I want to help you discover and utilize perspectives and ideas and strengths that will assist you in creating new feelings and experiences; experiences that can be useful for replacing or challenging feelings or thoughts that distress you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards exploring possibilities. I hope to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Monique  Gilcrest providing different types of therapy in Central

Monique Gilcrest

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 7114
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist serving South Carolina, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. With a deep commitment to understanding each person's unique journey, I offer compassionate, culturally responsive care that honors individual experiences and strengths. My therapeutic approach is rooted in creating a supportive, affirming environment where clients can explore their emotions, develop healthier coping strategies, and rediscover their inherent resilience. I have extensive experience addressing diverse concerns including workplace stress, life transitions, social anxiety, trauma recovery, and women's mental health challenges. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with clients to develop personalized strategies that promote healing, self-understanding, and meaningful change. My goal is to empower individuals to cultivate self-love, improve communication, and move toward a more fulfilling life.

Psychologist Dr. Michelle Burns providing different types of therapy in Central

Dr. Michelle Burns

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 8902, GA LPC LPC013642
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Georgia with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, & anger management. 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!

Psychologist Katasha Harper providing different types of therapy in Central

Katasha Harper

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LISW-CP 16672
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in South Carolina, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on empowering clients to cultivate self-compassion, navigate challenging relationships, and develop resilient coping strategies. With extensive experience addressing depression, anxiety, grief, and life transitions, I create a compassionate space where healing and personal growth can flourish. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients explore deep-rooted emotional patterns, overcome social anxiety, heal from past traumas, and rebuild self-esteem. I understand the intricate dynamics of family relationships, women's unique challenges, and the profound journey of personal transformation. Drawing from a holistic, culturally responsive framework, I support individuals in rediscovering their inner strength and purpose. I am committed to walking alongside you with genuine empathy, respect, and understanding, honoring your unique experiences and helping you develop meaningful strategies for emotional wellness and personal empowerment.

Psychologist Karen Slaton providing different types of therapy in Central

Karen Slaton

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 10297
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepression
11 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in South Carolina & Florida, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My professional approach centers on compassionate, faith-informed counseling that addresses a wide range of emotional and psychological experiences. I have extensive expertise in helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and addiction. My practice focuses on supporting individuals through significant life transitions, including relationship challenges, caregiver stress, midlife shifts, and healing from traumatic experiences. I'm particularly committed to working with women, young adults, veterans, and older adults facing unique emotional challenges. Drawing from a Christian perspective, I offer a supportive environment that honors each person's spiritual journey while providing evidence-based therapeutic strategies. My goal is to help clients develop healthy communication skills, overcome isolation, process feelings of guilt and shame, and cultivate personal growth and resilience. I approach each therapeutic relationship with deep respect, understanding that healing is a personal and transformative process. Together, we'll work collaboratively to address your specific needs and support your path toward emotional wellness.

Psychologist Olivia  Smith providing different types of therapy in Central

Olivia Smith

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 9758
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
32 years offering treatment

I am licensed in South Carolina with 32 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with 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.

Psychologist Alonya Thompson providing different types of therapy in Central

Alonya Thompson

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 10105
Mental Wellness Specialties: Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist serving South Carolina, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, family dynamics, and personal healing. My practice centers on empowering clients through challenges like grief, trauma, self-esteem struggles, and relationship transitions. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach to therapy, particularly supporting families working through difficult emotional landscapes. My expertise spans diverse areas including family conflicts, life purpose exploration, and healing from challenging experiences. My therapeutic approach is rooted in understanding each person's unique journey. I create a supportive, affirming space where clients can explore their experiences, build resilience, and cultivate self-love. Whether you're managing life changes, processing grief, or seeking personal growth, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance.

Psychologist Shaven Smith providing different types of therapy in Central

Shaven Smith

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LISW-CP South Carolina 17608, LA LCSW 18500
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years offering treatment

Hello, and welcome. I'm Dr. Shaven Abney Smith, a licensed clinical social worker with a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) degree and experience supporting individuals through a variety of life's challenges. I specialize in helping individuals navigate depression, trauma, anxiety, and life transitions using proven, evidence-based approaches tailored to each person's unique needs and experiences. My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in evidence-based practices. I believe therapy is a partnership where we work together to identify your goals, build on your strengths, and develop practical tools to support meaningful and lasting change. I communicate in a clear and direct manner because I value transparency and believe in helping you get to the heart of what's going on, always with compassion, warmth, and sensitivity. I strive to create a space where you feel safe, seen, and never judged. Whether you are seeking healing from past experiences, support through current challenges, or personal growth, I am committed to meeting you where you are and walking alongside you on your journey toward greater well-being.

Psychologist Bonnie Rauch-Bouie providing different types of therapy in Central

Bonnie Rauch-Bouie

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LPC 9529
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist with extensive experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients address depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and challenges related to self-esteem and life transitions. I am deeply committed to creating a compassionate and collaborative therapeutic environment where individuals can explore communication challenges, discover life purpose, and work through feelings of guilt and shame. My approach emphasizes personal growth, emotional healing, and developing meaningful strategies for forgiveness and self-understanding. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I aim to empower clients to build resilience, enhance emotional well-being, and cultivate transformative insights. I believe each person has unique strengths and the capacity to create positive change in their life. My goal is to provide supportive guidance that honors your individual journey and helps you develop more effective coping mechanisms.

Psychologist Ann Marie Parker providing different types of therapy in Central

Ann Marie Parker

Clinician
License Type(s): SC LISW-CP 18958
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years offering treatment

Welcome! Reaching out for support takes courage, and I'm glad you're here. I'm a independently licensed clinical social worker with experience helping children, teens, adults, couples, and families navigate life's challenges. Over the years I've worked with individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship concerns, ADHD, life transitions, parenting challenges, foster and adoptive family issues, and the lasting effects of childhood adversity. My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical. I believe therapy should be a place where you feel safe, heard, and respected while also learning skills you can use in everyday life. Together we'll identify what's getting in the way of the life you want and develop realistic strategies to help you move forward. I draw from several evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), trauma-informed care, mindfulness, strengths-based therapy, solution-focused therapy, and attachment-based interventions. I tailor therapy to each person because no single approach fits everyone. One of my greatest passions is helping people understand how past experiences shape present emotions, relationships, and patterns of thinking. Healing isn't about pretending the past didn't happen—it's about learning new ways to respond so the past no longer controls your future. Clients often describe me as compassionate, encouraging, and easy to talk with. I strive to create an environment where you can be honest without fear of judgment while also feeling challenged to grow. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, grieving a loss, navigating relationship difficulties, or simply wanting to better understand yourself, I would be honored to walk alongside you. You don't have to have everything figured out before starting therapy. Sometimes taking the first step is the hardest part—and you've already begun.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Central, South Carolina

Finding a therapist near you in Central, South Carolina starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. South Carolina is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you. 

The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In South Carolina, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across South Carolina, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.

Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in South Carolina

Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In South Carolina, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.

Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in South Carolina

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. 

You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in South Carolina

BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in South Carolina through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.

Therapists near you in South Carolina

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across South Carolina, including residents in Central.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in South Carolina do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

Is online therapy effective?

Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.

How quickly can I start therapy?

You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy discreet?

Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.

Find a Therapist in Central, South Carolina

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Central and the surrounding SC area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

Find the right therapist for your needs
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