Amanda Polk
Amanda D. Polk, MSW, LISW-CP, is a dedicated and compassionate licensed clinician with over eight years of experience in the mental health field. Holding a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Walden University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology from the University of South Carolina, Mrs. Polk combines her academic knowledge with a wealth of life experience to provide exceptional care to her clients. A proud veteran with 25 years of service in the Army and The South Carolina Army National Guard, including a deployment in Operation Enduring Freedom – Afghanistan, Mrs. Polk has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to serving others. Her passion for helping her community extends beyond her military service. She has worked as a Guardian Ad Litem, advocating for abused and neglected children, and as a licensed Therapeutic Foster Parent. Mrs. Polk specializes in treating a variety of mental health challenges, including borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, trauma, anger management, and parenting skills. Additionally, she has extensive experience working with couples, helping them improve communication, resolve conflicts, rebuild trust, and strengthen their emotional connection. Her therapeutic approach is rooted in building strong, trusting relationships with her clients. Mrs. Polk integrates evidence-based techniques such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and mindfulness to provide patient-centered care tailored to each individual's or couple's unique needs. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, Mrs. Polk is committed to helping her clients find hope, healing, and practical tools to navigate life’s challenges and build fulfilling relationships.
Stephanie Greene
I have twenty years of psychotherapy and clinical social work experience. I work with individuals, couples and families. My primary areas of focus s include adjustment issues, stress, anxiety, family and interpersonal dilemmas, professional exploration, and life coaching. I am very experienced in working with people who have eating-related issues, I.e. binge eating, bulimia, anorexia, obesity and pre-operative and post-operative bariatric surgery (WLS- Weight Loss Surgery) procedures. The majority of my clients continue to work with me for “health maintence” purposes. In other words, primary issues are ameliorated and focus transitions to maintaining healthy coping skills. I have been in private practice since 2002. I have also been the lead psychological editor for column in a national surgical journal, taught several collegiate courses as part of adjunct faculty, and maintained affiliations and memberships with numerous professional organizations. My practice focuses on working through the issues at hand and to maintain healthy coping skills for self-awareness and personal growth in various contexts. I am straightforward and personable while keeping in mind boundaries. I will do my best to work with a client, however, it is ultimately up to the client to do the real work.
Felicia McGhee
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.
Tameka McFarland
My name is Tameka McFarland. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Human Development and Family Studies from UNC Greensboro in2004. I earned my Master of Science degree from Capella University in 2017. I am also a certified proficient life coach. I own and manage a thriving private practice in North Carolina. I have been licensed since December 2017. I treat individuals, couples who are dating, planning to get married, currently married, or are considering divorce. I will treat emotional concerns that are affecting intimacy between a client and their partner. I provide support to families who have concerns about parenting. I will see any client ages 18 and up of all ethnicities and sexual orientations. My ideal client would be a couple or family, however, I see many individuals in therapy as well. I specialize in treating couples and families. I also provide Cranial Electrotherapy to treat anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders, and chronic pain. My preferred theoretical modalities are Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I treat adults of all ages.
Allison Nitschke
I am a graduate of Cincinnati Christian University, with experience in women’s issues, severe mental health disorders, early childhood mental health, marriage and family therapy, depression and anxiety, addictions, body image and self awareness, among others. I prefer a psychodynamic and person centered approach. I enjoy solution focused approaches with clients who are motivated, but also enjoy the relationship of those who need services for a longer duration. My heart is to heal and restore the broken. “Come to me all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Barbara Jane Barker
I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker, having practiced since 1994. I have a Master's in Social Work from an accredited program. Further, I have advanced training in Family Systems. I have worked with various populations including adults, teenagers, and children. The areas of service include anxiety, mood issues, abuse and neglect, abandonment, mid-life issues, grief, chronic illness, trauma, attachment and adoption, trauma, My therapy style is supportive, open, direct, and treating people with respect and compassion. My theory of practice is Family Systems, with additional theories deemed important to facilitate change. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and joyful life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower 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.
Teresa Nesmith
I am licensed in South Carolina with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & 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.
Monique Gilcrest
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.
Kialeah Sumpter
As a licensed therapist in Wisconsin, I bring nearly two decades of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering young adults navigating life transitions, self-discovery, and personal growth. I specialize in addressing depression, relationship dynamics, addiction challenges, and self-esteem development with a compassionate, culturally responsive approach. My therapeutic work deeply honors individual experiences, particularly for LGBTQ+ communities and people of color. I create affirming spaces where clients can explore their authentic selves, overcome isolation, and cultivate meaningful connections. Whether you're wrestling with seasonal mood shifts, body image concerns, or seeking greater life purpose, I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine understanding and professional expertise.
Katasha Harper
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.
Phoebee Sharpe
I am licensed in South Carolina with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy related issues, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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!
Stacey Tenbrink
I am a licensed mental health counselor in Rhode Island and South Carolina with over 5 years of experience working in clinical practice. I am also a licensed chemical dependency professional in Rhode Island. I work with clients who experience a wide range of symptoms and concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, life changes/transitions, OCD, ADHD, substance abuse and other addictions, personality disorders, and schizophrenia type disorders. I have also worked with many people who have experienced trauma. I'm particularly passionate about supporting individuals exploring self-love, communication skills, and personal growth. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and collaborative, designed to create a safe space where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for healing. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, acceptance and commitment, and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I bring a deep commitment to understanding each client's unique journey, drawing from evidence-based practices to help individuals build resilience, improve self-understanding, and create positive life changes. My goal is to empower clients to develop stronger coping mechanisms, enhance self-esteem, and move toward more fulfilling personal and professional lives. I am here to support and empower you when you are ready to take steps towards happiness and fulfillment I look forward to working with you!
Yolanda Welbon
As a licensed therapist with over eight years of experience, I am dedicated to supporting individuals navigating life's complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on creating a compassionate, affirming space where clients can explore their challenges and cultivate personal growth. My professional background includes specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, grief, and self-esteem concerns. I bring a deep understanding of how these interconnected experiences impact mental wellness, and I'm committed to walking alongside my clients with empathy and genuine care. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I offer a holistic, culturally responsive approach that honors each individual's unique journey. My goal is to empower clients to develop resilience, gain meaningful insights, and create sustainable strategies for emotional healing and personal transformation. As a therapist of color, I understand the importance of representation and cultural sensitivity in the therapeutic relationship. I strive to create a welcoming environment where clients feel truly seen, heard, and supported.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Gaston, South Carolina
Finding a therapist near you in Gaston, 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 Gaston.
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 Gaston, South Carolina
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Gaston and the surrounding SC area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.