Raleigh, NC is an early example of a planned city in the US, home to almost half a million people. North Carolina State University resides in Raleigh, as well as Research Triangle Park, a hub for thousands of jobs in science and technology. It’s one of the fastest growing cities in the US, and with its fast-paced academic and professional environment can be a home for stress for many of its residents. And yet finding therapists in Raleigh, NC is not always an easy task.

When it comes to finding the right therapist, Raleigh, NC can seem like an optimal spot. But even in a populous city, it’s not always so simple to find mental health services. There are a number of therapeutic approaches in the mental health field, and each may be more or less effective on different mental health conditions. What you personally need in counseling services may not be available in your area. In addition, it’s essential to consider the importance of therapeutic alliance. For therapy to be successful, you need to feel comfortable speaking with your therapist. 

When in Raleigh, find therapists through online therapy platforms like BetterHelp to streamline the process. BetterHelp offers over 30,000 mental health care providers, with professional experience in treating everything from panic attacks to post-traumatic stress disorder. By filling out an online questionnaire, you’ll be matched with a therapist that meets your needs. If you don’t feel a connection with your chosen therapist, you can switch at no additional cost.  It’s also easy to fit appointments into a busy schedule, and with video chat, phone, and text messaging options you can attend your therapy sessions from the comfort of your own home or office. 

Mental health care is important for all ages, and therapists can provide support as well as offer a number of tools to help shift you into a more positive mindset. While mental health is one of the more popular searches online, it’s not always easy to take that first step. Simplify the process by reaching out to one of the licensed providers at BetterHelp, and get started on the path toward mental health and wellness. 

 

This is Dr. Latasha McIlwaine's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Latasha McIlwaine

Offering therapy in NC
License: EdD,LCMHCS,LPCS
AddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
18 years of experience

Hello, I am Dr. Latasha McIlwaine, a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPCS) in the states of South Carolina and Georgia and also a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS) in the state of North Carolina. I am also have a license and certification in Addictions (LCAS/CCS) and I am certified in Domestic Violence. I earned my graduate degree in Mental Health Counseling and went on to study Counseling Psychology to earn my Doctorate degree (EdD). I have been in practice for over 18 years across North and South Carolina and Georgia. I have extensive training in a range of modalities including, person/client-centered, brief solution focused, reality, family and cognitive behavioral therapies. I also have experience in Anger Management and Marriage and Family Therapy. I am an educator too with undergraduate, graduate and doctorate students who are pursuing their goal of becoming a therapist. I am also an author and my first book is Fragile Brokenness: The Unspoken Secrets That Shaped A Pretty Unprotected Girl Into A Practicing Clinician And Therapist. My book speaks to my experiences with life and mental health issues and how I coped and learned to deal, made pivotal moves and developed plans for successful overcomes. My book also speaks to how I found my calling to become a clinical therapist helping and teaching others. I have extensive experience providing quality services for adults, children, couples as well as families on a wide range of areas including depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, relationships, interpersonal dynamics, communication, self-esteem, school/career issues, anger management, stress management, parenting and addictions. I am also in private practice providing tele-therapy, Insightful Options, PLLC. I have two websites: https://www.insightful-options.com and https://www.drlatashamcilwaine.com; https://www.greenemcilwainefoundation.org I look forward to working with you!

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Sarah Davidson

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW
Relationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

Hi! I'm Sarah, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, in North Carolina. I have over 9 years experience working in the behavioral and mental health field. While I have experience working with a variety of diagnosis and populations, I enjoy working with adults and couples that are struggling in areas such as parenting, marital concerns, interpersonal relationships, anger management, major life changes, anxiety and depression. I approach therapy by first building relationship and understanding what you want to get out of this. Therapy is not a one size fit all, therefore I tailor sessions to best meet your unique needs. I believe setting goals are valuable in order to have clear direction and keep the momentum of therapy going. I believe that I am here to serve you, so if you need immediate problem solving and support, we can do that too! I use evidence based practices to guide my work, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and problem solving therapy, all with a trauma informed lens. I am patient and kind, gently honest when you need accountability, and easy to talk to. When you are ready to take the next steps, I am here. I look forward to meeting you!

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Dr. Brian Esterling

Offering therapy in NC
License: MBA,PhD
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoaching
30 years of experience

Hello! My name is Brian and I am a Licensed Psychologist with over 30 years of experience in the field. I began my career on the faculty at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, NC where I saw clients and supervised psychiatric interns completing their outpatient rotations. I have also served as the Clinical Director for a national managed care organization, where I was responsible for monitoring and ensuring best practice treatment planning and therapeutic techniques from over 5,000 practitioners across the United States in a wide range of therapeutic settings including inpatient hospitalization, partial and intensive outpatient care, and outpatient settings. I am currently serving as the Chair of the Graduate Psychology program at a major online university in Florida. Clinically, I work with clients affected by depression, anxiety, self-esteem/motivation, and career challenges. Originally from the mid-west, I currently reside in south Florida. I received my undergraduate degree in Psychology and Biochemisty from Rutgers College in New Brunswick, NJ and my Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Miami in Coral Gables, FL. I also returned to school following my Doctoral degree to obtain an MBA from Pfeiffer University in Charlotte, NC as I am also interested in looking at financial models that promote greater quality of care in behavioral health settings. My approach to therapy is both client-centered and solution-oriented. I strongly believe that clients are the experts of their lives and can be empowered to make changes that allow them to reach their goals. I assist clients in identifying areas of focus (i.e., a roadmap to what they want to achieve in therapy) as well as the steps necessary to take to make the positive changes that they desire. This is accomplished through Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques where I assist clients in exploring relationships among their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that may be contributing to barriers to their short- and long-term goals, ultimately creating a path to positive outcomes. Outside of my work, I am a competitive rower and devoted father of two wonderful children. I enjoy spending time with my wife and children, traveling, home improvement projects and restoring and maintaining my classic sports car.

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Giovanni Bass

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social-Worker with experience treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders, and borderline personality. I also provide marital counseling and family consultation. I provide treatment plans that address problems associated with impulse control, anger management, communication, self-awareness, self-esteem, perspective, and negative thought patterns. I have over 5 years of experience and I have treated individuals in various parts of the world, including the U.S., Europe, and Asia. I have experience treating addiction, including drug, alcohol, and sex addiction. I have experience treating victims of sexual assault, sexual abuse, and childhood abuse. I provide spiritually integrated psychotherapy where the focus is on gaining knowledge of self and developing a relationship with a higher power. I have military experience and I am honored to have had the opportunity to treat many veterans and active duty soldiers suffering from various forms of trauma and adjustment disorders. My approach and treatment modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, rational emotive therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. Each treatment plan is tailored to meet the needs of each soul I interact with. I will support you and help you discover the strength, from within yourself, to fulfill your purpose and to live the life you want to live. Take that first step, and I will take the rest with you!

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Lena Jackson

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
17 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Ariel Phelps

Offering therapy in NC
Family conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Virginia and have several years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Robert Brown

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
30 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in North Carolina with 30 years of professional work experience where I have and continue to own and outpatient group practice service families and adults. I have experience in helping clients with depression and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem and confidence, personality disorders, and bipolar disorder. I have been trained in cognitive behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, DBT and acceptance and commitment therapy. My approach tends to be client centered and based upon your needs, where we create a safe and nonjudgmental environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared openly. I look forward to getting to know you and joining you on your journey to being the best version of you possible.

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Darrell Patterson

Offering therapy in NC
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
12 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. 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.

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Suzanne Lowe

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW
Family conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
24 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, ADHD, depression, anxiety & 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!

This is Joshua May's avatar and link to their profile

Joshua May

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
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, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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.

How to find counseling in Raleigh

Finding the best therapist close by in Raleigh 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 Raleigh. 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 Raleigh, 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh, elsewhere in Wake, 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 Raleigh area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh, 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 27620 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh 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 Raleigh, 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.

Raleigh 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Raleigh.

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

27601, 27602, 27603, 27604, 27605, 27606, 27607, 27608, 27609, 27610, 27611, 27612, 27613, 27614, 27615, 27616, 27617, 27619, 27620, 27621, 27622, 27623, 27624, 27625, 27626, 27627, 27628, 27629, 27634, 27635, 27636, 27640, 27650, 27656, 27658, 27661, 27668, 27675, 27676, 27690, 27695, 27697, 27698, 27699

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