Life is like a train. Sometimes it chugs along to your destination. Other times, it needs to stop and refuel. There are times where your train feels like it’s going off the rails. Who can help in this situation? A counselor based in Matthews can be the one to help you. 

Matthews is named after a railroad director. In the old times, railroads were important to connect people and goods, and still are. You can connect to a counselor and they can help you reach your goals and live a better life. Talk to one today if you want to get started. 

This is Tracie Hillard's avatar and link to their profile

Tracie Hillard

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCMHC-S
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
15 years of experience

Hi! My name is Tracie. I have been working as a counselor since 2001. I have my BA from UNCW, my MS from ECU and a MDiv from Campbell. I love helping people work through stressors and problems so that they are able to move forward into the future that they are wanting. I provide individual counseling and family counseling for a wide variety of issues such as parent/child relationship issues, ADHD, depression, anxiety, self esteem building and improving communication within the family. Thank you for taking this step towards the future that you are wanting! I look forward to talking more with you!

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Dr. James Kowalski

Offering therapy in NC
License: EdD,MS ,MAC(Master Addiction Counselor)
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefAnger managementDepression
30 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been in the helping profession for over 30 years. I am licensed in four states which are Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and West Virginia. The journey has been both professionally and personally rewarding! My professional experiences have helped me build a distinctive and solid skill set to facilitate clients in developing life-long well being. I have extensive experience and certifications working with clients that have substance abuse related challenges. I am certified as a Master Addiction Counselor. I have training and expertise working with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety and stress challenges. I am a certified Anger Management treatment provider. I also work with the geriatric population. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating every one with respect, dignity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, motivational interviewing techniques. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life. I believe that persons change and grow only when they decide to do so. Take the first steps towards a change is a courageous undertaking. I offer help to support and empower you. It is at this time when we experience a growth that helps us thrive toward being our personal best. To your wellness, I look forward to hearing from you soon!

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Shirley Southard

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCMHC LCAS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementDepressionADHD
20 years of experience

I have worked in the human service field for approximately 20 years. I have had the pleasure of working with mental health, developmentally disabled and substance abuse populations. I have worked with Assisted Medication Management and active military members and their families. My greatest reward as a therapist is helping my clients explore ways to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to look forward to the future with hope. I believe that we all need someone to talk with who will really listen and accept us as we are, without judgment. I provide my clients with that warm, nonjudgmental environment—a safe place to explore the issues that may be preventing them from living the life they want. I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Substance Abuse Supervisor. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Therapy and psycho-education extensively. My experience includes working with clients dealing with divorce and single-parenting, addictions, grief, women’s issues, and mood disorders, among other challenges. I find that my great passion is working with individuals and children.

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Franklin Moore

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCMHC,LCAS-A,NCC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

My name is Franklin Moore, and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina. I am also a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate in the state of North Carolina as well. I have experience counseling adolescents and adults in a community health setting for the past 5 years. I have over 16 years of mental health experience as a Qualified Professional in the same setting. I believe my passion for people and their ability to effect change in their lives is my motivation to learn grow and change as a professional counselor. I always strive to provide a client focused and supportive therapy experience for my clients. My theoretical orientation is a person-centered approach combined with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). These approaches work well together and allow the use of other techniques and skills as needed. I also utilize interventions and assignments from other approaches such as, Reality and Existential Therapy. CBT frames client issues through cognitive functioning. Faulty or false thoughts lead to problematic behavior and the supporting of false thoughts. CBT is present focused and assist clients in identifying and overcoming faulty thinking and therefore changing unhealthy behavior. Person-centered counseling provides unconditional acceptance for clients. I view healthy communication and the therapeutic alliance between client and counselor as a major catalyst to desired outcomes for the client. I look forward to taking your journey with you!

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Denise Owen

Offering therapy in NC
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
33 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been licensed since 1993; however, I've worked in the field of Social Work since 1986, starting with an undergraduate internship with DSS. My formal experience, however, officially started in 1990 after receiving a Masters in Social Work. I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings, including a state psychiatric hospital in NC, a medical hospital in SC, on a military base in VA and at several outpatient agencies in PA. Due to my husband's job, I have moved to and worked in four states over the past 29 years. I have worked with children with behavioral issues; long-term psychiatric males; hospice patients; children with developmental issues; State and Federal Inmates; Military service men, women, children, couples and families; domestic violence; addictions; and people dealing with grief, anxiety and PTSD. I continue to attend a variety of seminars to keep my SW License current and have attended many medical, psychological, social work and ethics conferences in order to become more socially & culturally diverse and to enhance my knowledge outside of my typical wheelhouse, which is long-term psychiatric patients; however, I am not currently working in an inpatient setting. I look forward to learning about my clients' needs and typically operate with "client goals" in mind, using a variety of clinical techniques. I prefer to assess the individual first and then include them in the decision-making for which therapeutic work to engage. If that doesn't work, we move to something else. It's important to build rapport with a client before jumping into therapy. As Stephen Covey would say, "Diagnose before prescribing." Fun facts about me: I have been teaching for the past 11 years in the Home School network in SC, and have taught many different classes, from Creative Crafting to Egyptology to Basic Sign Language to Creative Writing to The Solar System and a few others (I have many interests). I have also taught Psychology 101 and Sociology 101 at a community college in NC. Lastly, I have published two children's books: "Turtle Gliding" in 2009 and "Why Does God Pull Teeth?" in 2018, with each book being inspired by one of my children. I respect anyone who has the courage to seek counseling, because none of us can do life without other people and sometimes their help. Therapy is like going to the gym. Sometimes you dread the thought of going, but once you get there, you're glad you went!

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Mindi Koczot

Offering therapy in NC
License: MS,NBCC,LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionADHD
7 years of experience

My vision as a professional counselor is to assist clients in finding and becoming their best selves. I believe that with support each person can reach their greatest potential and truly live a life on purpose as their best selves. I utilize the theory based on Existentialism, which is focused on one finding a purpose and meaning in life that will propel them forward toward the ideal self. Within that philosophy I lean on Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma informed strategies to dispel distortions that are so easily created in our mind’s eye. The use of meditation, breathing exercises, positive affirmations, as well as yoga can be found in my counseling tool belt and are used with nervous, anxious and/or depressed clients. I also use Emotional Freedom Technique as well as Somatic strategies to align body, mind and spirit. When my clients come to visit me I want each one to feel safe and comfortable to be whom they are in the moment and together we can navigate the road to wellness and strength.

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Donna Thomas

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in NC with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, sleeping disorders, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Vanessa Britton

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

Hello! Thank you for taking this step and looking for a therapist. You're on the right track! I have known since middle school that helping others was the job for me. In one context or another I have been in the counseling field for 15 years, from settings such as prisons, to drug and alcohol centers, in home therapy, counseling in public schools and the community office setting. My number one priority is the client. If you are questioning taking the step to call or email, I encourage you to do so! My hope is together we can explore issues and learn techniques to make your present and future the best you that you can be. My experience includes working with children, teens and adults to address concerns with depression, anxiety, PTSD, marital counseling and much much more. 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. 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. I will accommodate you in any way that I can, I offer daytime, evening and some Saturday appointments! I look forward to hearing from you!

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Kristin Harding

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Alexandra Buck

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
4 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I am passionate about helping clients problem solve as well as improve their confidence, independence and self-esteem. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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.

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How to find counseling in Matthews

Finding the best therapist close by in Matthews 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Matthews. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Matthews, 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. 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 to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Matthews or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers 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 Matthews area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy 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 Matthews, elsewhere in Mecklenburg, or in the greater state of North Carolina.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Matthews area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Matthews therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Matthews due to a higher cost of living. 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 Matthews may not take health insurance, some in the state of North Carolina may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of North Carolina you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Matthews, North Carolina working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They 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, they 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Matthews 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 lead by a therapist in Matthews helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Matthews 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.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

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 Matthews therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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 are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist 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 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 Matthews 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 lot of people in NC, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles 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 28105 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Matthews counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy 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, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. 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 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 therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Matthews 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 through therapy 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 Matthews, North Carolina can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Matthews has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy 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?

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

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 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 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 Matthews.

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

28105, 28106

Popular cities near Matthews, NC

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