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.
Kamay Gaboda
Congratulations You have taken the first step to recovery! Taking that step to ask for support to help when you are dealing with difficulties is a brave one. I am an North Carolina-based, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Supervisor, Certified Clinical Supervisor for Substance Abuse with nearly 20 years’ experience working with trauma, substance abuse, and addiction. Often, co-occurring issues include: depression, anxiety, panic attacks, bi-polar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive compulsive behaviors, and, of course, relationship challenges. My experience includes individual, couples and group therapy in residential and outpatient settings of a Community Mental Health Center and a private addiction mental health and substance abuse treatment facility. I would describe my approach to therapy as eclectic, as it depends on the client's needs and goal for treatment .The modalities that have proven and I have the most experience in are : Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy , Mindfulness-based Therapy, Motivational , and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I believe in a strong therapeutic relationship to support the client to facilitate the change they are looking for. I hope I can help you with this journey.
Tanya Smith
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.
Nancy Reali
I am a Mental Health and Addiction therapist licensed in Ohio , Michigan and South Carolina with over 15 years of experience . I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, self harm and family counseling. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I have worked with adolescents, those in addiction, and adults. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in humor in treatment as well. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and dialectal behavioral. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. My hours are 8 am to 4pm Monday through Friday . I have different hours for sessions and those include nights and weekends. Please visit my schedule. I have times and days blocked out for those who need special times like early morning, evenings and weekends. Please ask so I can open an appointment. I am very accommodating to scheduling. My schedule looks full but many times have been blocked to meet the needs of clients. Please ask. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a 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.
Amy Powers
I am a licensed professional counselor with over 17 years of experience. I counsel individuals, couples and families using mainly cognitive behavioral therapy. I have worked with clients with a wide range of issues from depression and anxiety to bipolar and personality disorders. I have training in trauma focused counseling to deal with abuse and neglect issues as well. I feel it best to be warm and respectful, but also forward and to the point. I will tailor your treatment plan to focus on your specific needs. I will provide a safe and accepting environment so that you feel comfortable and open. It takes a lot of courage and strength to seek help and I look forward to helping you progress and grow.
Lorene Godbold
As a licensed therapist in South Carolina, I bring over two decades of compassionate counseling experience to supporting individuals through life's most challenging transitions. My practice centers on helping clients navigate complex emotional landscapes, with a specialized focus on women's issues, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I offer a faith-centered, supportive approach that honors individual journeys of healing. My expertise spans stress management, grief counseling, family dynamics, and supporting individuals through significant life changes. Whether you're experiencing relationship challenges, processing loss, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I provide a nurturing, respectful therapeutic environment. My approach integrates compassionate listening with practical strategies, helping clients develop resilience, rebuild self-confidence, and rediscover their inner strength. I'm particularly committed to supporting women through transformative experiences like divorce, caregiving challenges, and personal reinvention. With a deep understanding of the intersections between emotional wellness and spiritual growth, I create a safe space where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past wounds, and move toward a more empowered future.
Talisha Telsee, MS, LPC, LMHC
Hi! I come with over 15 years of clinical professional work experience in the mental health field. For these years, I have dedicated my work to navigating clients of diverse backgrounds through difficult challenges in their lives-often caused by stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict/trauma, and transitional life issues. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I firmly believe in providing a safe environment for all of my clients-regardless of their diverse background. 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. Together, We Can!
Tereash Davis Keitt
I am licensed in South Carolina with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, despression, coping with life changes, concentration, & memory. I also have experience working with focus. 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.
Nettie Clarke
I am licensed in North Carolina with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & 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.
Frances Pope
I am licensed in New Mexico, North Carolina and South Carolina with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with grief, coping with loss, depression, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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.
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!
Sharon Smith
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 40+ years of experience working in the mental health field. The last 25 years I was practicing in an office setting and now I am offering the same services but in a virtual platform. I work with clients who have a wide range of issues and concerns, including depression, anxiety, adjustment concerns and phase-of-life transitions. My therapy style is warm and inviting and my biggest wish is to help you feel welcome and safe and comfortable as you discuss your most private emotions. My approach is respectful and non-judgmental and my years of experience have helped me learn to listen effectively and offer brief solution focused therapy approaches as necessary. I am aware of how hard it may be to reach out to discuss personal matters with a stranger but I assure you that I will help you to feel as comfortable as I can. If you are ready to make that step, please know that I am here to support and guide you.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Lamar, South Carolina
Finding a therapist near you in Lamar, 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 Lamar.
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 Lamar, South Carolina
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Lamar and the surrounding SC area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.