Your life can feel like  a studio sometimes. Great things can come from a studio, and so can pure art. But when the production is a disaster, it can be a problem. Self-doubt can feel like that director who just isn’t satisfied. Depression can make you feel like the actor who doesn’t know their lines. A counselor can be the person who helps create order in the studio. 

Wilmington is known for having the biggest studio outside of California. While they are producing movies, you can create your own masterpiece. You just need to speak to a counselor and ask for help. 

This is Amber Barnett's avatar and link to their profile

Amber Barnett

Offering therapy in NC
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT) and I have been working in the counseling field since 2013. I started my practice in a community mental health agency in the state of North Carolina, gaining perspective and understanding how poverty, addiction, and trauma, can truly impact, both the individual and a family system. I have worked with individuals who have experienced anxiety, depression, family issues, stress, trauma, and overall difficulties in life. I would describe my approach as warm, empathetic, and goal-oriented. I use a person-centered approach, meeting the client were they are, while also utilizing Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. My goal is to help you help yourself be your best person. I truly believe each person is doing the best they can with what they've been given in life and sometimes, we all could use a little help to make sure we're being our best selves. My goal is to help you feel empowered to find the best version of yourself. I earned my Bachelors Degree at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in Psychology with a focus on Human Development and Family Studies. I went on to earn my Masters Degree from Pfeiffer University in Charlotte, North Carolina in Marriage and Family Therapy. I look forward to working with you. Let's chat!

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This is Crystal Scarborough's avatar and link to their profile

Crystal Scarborough

Offering therapy in NC
License: MA,LCMHC,LCAS-A
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoaching
5 years of experience

I have a background in working with children, adolescents, couples and families, providing individual, group, and family therapy. I have been practicing as a licensed professional for two years. My theoretical orientations include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Family Centered Treatment; however, I frequently use Client- Centered Treatment and Mindfulness interventions when deemed appropriate. In addition, I have received rigorous training in mental health wellness recovery, marital counseling, substance abuse assessment, systems and family assessment, depression, co-occurring disorders, suicide prevention, and anxiety. I am a member of the American Counseling Association and I am in full accordance with the ethical codes of this organization. I believe in providing an environment that will enable you to become self-aware and work towards achieving wellness, by developing a therapeutic working relationship with a focus on setting specific goals as they relate to your individual needs. Homework assignments may be given to assist in working on concerns outside of our sessions; completing and discussing these assignments honestly will be beneficial in accomplishing chosen goals. Hello, My name is Crystal Scarborough and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I have been in this practice for 5 years and I have worked in various settings such as hospitals, private practice, schools, and in the community. I currently focus on individual, couples, and family therapy. I've worked with many populations including the LGBTQ+ population. I have a dual Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Career Counseling. There are many factors that influence the processes and outcomes of counseling. The foundation necessary for effective counseling includes a supportive counselor-client relationship, openness, trust, and understanding. Building such relationships results in the development and implementation of a treatment plan. The client will explore and identify specific goals, in which he or she wishes to attain through counseling, a plan will then be cultivated by the counselor as a blueprint to his or her journey throughout counseling. The client is encouraged to be fully invested and motivated to carry out the plan of treatment, in order for it to be effective. As a mental health counselor, my interests include issues concerning anxiety, stress, self-esteem difficulties, relationship issues, women's, life transitions, behavioral issues.

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This is Hiwet Kendricks's avatar and link to their profile

Hiwet Kendricks

Offering therapy in NC
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I have 10 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with individuals that have experienced immense loss, been through a traumatic experience, or are trying to navigate things in their lives. I believe every person has a unique story, and I focus on creating a plan together that makes sense. I use a patient focused model that is realistic for day to day life, and provides skills that can be taken outside the sessions. I strive to create a safe environment where every individual feels accepted and are able to openly share their experiences and thoughts. I look forward to working with you.

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This is Jasmine Simmons's avatar and link to their profile

Jasmine Simmons

Offering therapy in NC
License: MS, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health therapist in North Carolina with 3 years of experience working as a outpatient therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, trauma, and adjustment issues. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I am certified in military and trauma. My therapy style is warm and interactive. 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 rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier 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!

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This is Dorothy Brooks's avatar and link to their profile

Dorothy Brooks

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepression
7 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, family conflicts, & intimacy related issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Porcha Reed

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. 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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This is Sara Ford's avatar and link to their profile

Sara Ford

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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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This is Courtney Allen's avatar and link to their profile

Courtney Allen

Offering therapy in NC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I have experience working with children, teens, adults and family units as a whole. I believe in allowing everyone to be the expert in their own life while treating them with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. We will process and collaborate together to create a treatment plan that meets 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.

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This is Queensly Onuzulike's avatar and link to their profile

Queensly Onuzulike

Offering therapy in NC
GriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping 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 in coping with grief and loss, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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.

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This is Alleyah Mason's avatar and link to their profile

Alleyah Mason

Offering therapy in NC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in North Carolina with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, self esteem, and going through 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. My therapy approach is more collaborative. I like to use the first 1-2 sessions to build rapport with my clients and get to know them on a more personal level. I'm also a strengths-focused clinician who will help you identify/utilize your strengths so that we can work collaboratively to problem solve and/or achieve any goals you've set for yourself. 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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How to find counseling in Wilmington

Finding the best therapist close by in Wilmington 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 Wilmington. 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 Wilmington, 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington, elsewhere in New Hanover, 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 Wilmington area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington, 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 28405 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington 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 Wilmington, 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.

Wilmington 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 Wilmington.

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

28401, 28402, 28403, 28404, 28405, 28406, 28407, 28408, 28409, 28410, 28412

Popular cities near Wilmington, NC

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