Therapists in Waynesville, NC
Mark Wayne Wester
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28785
Sometimes, life can be extremely difficult and feel out of control. Many of us have been taught that asking for help is a sign of weakness, but I believe that we need to challenge that thought. The ability to be vulnerable, to say we are not okay and to reach out for support, is the bravest step we can take. I have personally witnessed individuals who had experienced years of trauma, addiction and mental health challenges create meaningful lives that brought them a sense of joy and peace. They found a new sense of purpose and created the healthy loving relationships. They realized the laughter they heard was once again their own.
Sometimes, life can be extremely difficult and feel out of control. Many of us have been taught that asking for help is a sign of weakness, but I believe that we need to challenge that thought. The ability to be vulnerable, to say we are not okay and to reach out for support, is the bravest step we can take. I have personally witnessed individuals who had experienced years of trauma, addiction and mental health challenges create meaningful lives that brought them a sense of joy and peace. They found a new sense of purpose and created the healthy loving relationships. They realized the laughter they heard was once again their own.
Jessica Gruber
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, LCAS
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786 (Online Only)
I work with adults seeking to change their lives. I have considerable experience helping people alleviate anxiety and depression, as well as, other mood disorders. I find creative ways to help people heal from trauma they have experienced and to connect with the present. I enjoy helping people who need help to tackle substance use issues such as alcohol or other drugs. I also work with couples using EFT to rebuild the bond between partners and create a healthier relationship with emotions.
I work with adults seeking to change their lives. I have considerable experience helping people alleviate anxiety and depression, as well as, other mood disorders. I find creative ways to help people heal from trauma they have experienced and to connect with the present. I enjoy helping people who need help to tackle substance use issues such as alcohol or other drugs. I also work with couples using EFT to rebuild the bond between partners and create a healthier relationship with emotions.
Crossroads Biblical Counseling
Pastoral Counselor, MACCS, MAPCLC
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
All of us can get stuck living in a comfortable default mode. Nothing is wrong, but some things aren't quite right. Biblical counseling helps you to become unstuck and to live more intentionally. You can achieve a clearer picture of your potential, with all the joy and hope that offers.
All of us can get stuck living in a comfortable default mode. Nothing is wrong, but some things aren't quite right. Biblical counseling helps you to become unstuck and to live more intentionally. You can achieve a clearer picture of your potential, with all the joy and hope that offers.
Darlene Sowa
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, PhD
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786 (Online Only)
Has anxiety and panic impacted your life and emotional well-being? Have you been avoiding doing certain things in your life out of fear? Has this affected your overall quality of life?
Has anxiety and panic impacted your life and emotional well-being? Have you been avoiding doing certain things in your life out of fear? Has this affected your overall quality of life?
I enjoy working with people to identify new ways to cope or ways to solve the challenges life brings us. I encourage bringing your strengths as coping tools while joining in problem solving or problem identification. Sometimes having someone to listen provides an opportunity to see things from a different perspective. As each person is an individual, we can work together to find what works best with you. Expressive arts, dream work, and Sandplay are also ways that I work with those who prefer to approach problems differently.
I enjoy working with people to identify new ways to cope or ways to solve the challenges life brings us. I encourage bringing your strengths as coping tools while joining in problem solving or problem identification. Sometimes having someone to listen provides an opportunity to see things from a different perspective. As each person is an individual, we can work together to find what works best with you. Expressive arts, dream work, and Sandplay are also ways that I work with those who prefer to approach problems differently.
Raymond C Turpin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28786
Waitlist for new clients
After 24+ years of practicing in community mental health agency settings and supervising and training clinicians, I am transitioning into private practice in order to more directly serve individuals who are struggling with issues of functionality, relationships, identity, self-esteem and other manifestations of life challenges. I have extensive experience working with trauma, mood disorders and behavior disorders and I work exceptionally well with young adults although I feel comfortable working with adults of all ages. When you want to better understand your particular challenges and make positive changes, I can assist with your healing/growth process.
After 24+ years of practicing in community mental health agency settings and supervising and training clinicians, I am transitioning into private practice in order to more directly serve individuals who are struggling with issues of functionality, relationships, identity, self-esteem and other manifestations of life challenges. I have extensive experience working with trauma, mood disorders and behavior disorders and I work exceptionally well with young adults although I feel comfortable working with adults of all ages. When you want to better understand your particular challenges and make positive changes, I can assist with your healing/growth process.
Steph Koenig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, JD, Esq
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28786 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My experience spans various settings, including crisis intervention, inpatient facilities, partial hospitalization programs (PHP), intensive outpatient programs (IOP), jails, community-based outpatient clinics, and college counseling centers. I’m passionate about helping individuals navigate mood disorders, psychosis, addiction, and trauma, often while addressing complex relationship dynamics.
My experience spans various settings, including crisis intervention, inpatient facilities, partial hospitalization programs (PHP), intensive outpatient programs (IOP), jails, community-based outpatient clinics, and college counseling centers. I’m passionate about helping individuals navigate mood disorders, psychosis, addiction, and trauma, often while addressing complex relationship dynamics.
Dana J Hicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, MA, RYT 200
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28786 (Online Only)
After that horrific humiliating work experience, you constantly feel so misunderstood, left behind, and stupid at work, no matter how affirming your current boss and coworkers’ intentions are. You know you have potential, but you are doubting it will ever be played out, much less recognized due to the constant blockage of self-doubt. You’ve almost given up on ever getting enough sleep or family time, much less yoga class or lunch with friends, for worrying so much about being suddenly busted for another unintended mess up at work.
After that horrific humiliating work experience, you constantly feel so misunderstood, left behind, and stupid at work, no matter how affirming your current boss and coworkers’ intentions are. You know you have potential, but you are doubting it will ever be played out, much less recognized due to the constant blockage of self-doubt. You’ve almost given up on ever getting enough sleep or family time, much less yoga class or lunch with friends, for worrying so much about being suddenly busted for another unintended mess up at work.
Maria A Averza
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
Thanks for taking the time to consider me for potential counseling. You must be experiencing a time of significant distress during this part of your life. I’d like to help if I am a good fit for you! Mental health counseling is an investment in the quality of your life. That’s what we are trained to do, assist persons who can’t seem to find a way out of their suffering and negative circumstances. It offers a combination of human support, professional guidance and evidence-based psychoeducation.
Thanks for taking the time to consider me for potential counseling. You must be experiencing a time of significant distress during this part of your life. I’d like to help if I am a good fit for you! Mental health counseling is an investment in the quality of your life. That’s what we are trained to do, assist persons who can’t seem to find a way out of their suffering and negative circumstances. It offers a combination of human support, professional guidance and evidence-based psychoeducation.
Dr. Acheson has been in private practice for more than 20 years. He has been based in Asheville, North Carolina for the last 5 years providing forensic neuropsychological services to clients all over the country. AFNPC was founded with the goal of making neuroscience and psychology accessible to judges, juries, attorneys and insurers who may not have an in-depth understanding of these complex matters.
Dr. Acheson has been in private practice for more than 20 years. He has been based in Asheville, North Carolina for the last 5 years providing forensic neuropsychological services to clients all over the country. AFNPC was founded with the goal of making neuroscience and psychology accessible to judges, juries, attorneys and insurers who may not have an in-depth understanding of these complex matters.
Kylie Yacuzzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes we hit a point in our lives where we realize we need the support of a non-biased person to manage difficult thoughts, feelings, and experiences. If you are ready to make a positive change in your life and take back control, we may be a good match. I have experience working alongside children, adolescents, and adults to support them with this journey. I work with each person to prioritize and support in creating small manageable goals to meet their end goal. Sometimes change feels impossible or overwhelming, but I am available to process your next steps to create a sense of wellness and increase your happiness.
Sometimes we hit a point in our lives where we realize we need the support of a non-biased person to manage difficult thoughts, feelings, and experiences. If you are ready to make a positive change in your life and take back control, we may be a good match. I have experience working alongside children, adolescents, and adults to support them with this journey. I work with each person to prioritize and support in creating small manageable goals to meet their end goal. Sometimes change feels impossible or overwhelming, but I am available to process your next steps to create a sense of wellness and increase your happiness.
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Melanie Norman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786 (Online Only)
You are doing life--going to work, to school--but it's not easy! And it's exhausting presenting as if all's OK all the time: to put on the smile, to muster the energy. But that little voice still whispers negativity in the back of your head: All. The. Damn. Time. You don't know how to take appreciation, much less see it in yourself. You don't know how to say no. And you just want some peace and the sense that you exist outside the needs of others.
You are doing life--going to work, to school--but it's not easy! And it's exhausting presenting as if all's OK all the time: to put on the smile, to muster the energy. But that little voice still whispers negativity in the back of your head: All. The. Damn. Time. You don't know how to take appreciation, much less see it in yourself. You don't know how to say no. And you just want some peace and the sense that you exist outside the needs of others.
Are you dealing with grief and loss? Sometimes, it’s challenging to know where to turn. In times like these, it is invaluable for mental health to have someone who truly listens and offers support. A caring, understanding, and open space to share emotions and thoughts would help. Together, we can explore needs and values while finding ways to navigate and understand these uncomfortable thoughts and feelings.
Are you dealing with grief and loss? Sometimes, it’s challenging to know where to turn. In times like these, it is invaluable for mental health to have someone who truly listens and offers support. A caring, understanding, and open space to share emotions and thoughts would help. Together, we can explore needs and values while finding ways to navigate and understand these uncomfortable thoughts and feelings.
Navigating life and work transitions, trauma, and grief can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Caring for others, whether at home or professionally, can be emotionally, mentally, and physically depleting unless you prioritize self-care. I compassionately hold a safe space for you through expressive art-making and attuned listening to process emotions and difficult experiences, release fears and limiting beliefs, heal old wounds, re-awaken joy and ritual, and reclaim your dreams. You do not need to have artistic skills, just be curious and willing to work with the art-making process as your wise inner guide.
Navigating life and work transitions, trauma, and grief can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Caring for others, whether at home or professionally, can be emotionally, mentally, and physically depleting unless you prioritize self-care. I compassionately hold a safe space for you through expressive art-making and attuned listening to process emotions and difficult experiences, release fears and limiting beliefs, heal old wounds, re-awaken joy and ritual, and reclaim your dreams. You do not need to have artistic skills, just be curious and willing to work with the art-making process as your wise inner guide.
Jennifer Graves Belham
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waynesville, NC 28786
Not accepting new clients
*NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* Struggling within yourself, or in relationship to a partner, child, friend, or family member can leave you exhausted. Finding answers to questions about what to do next, who to trust, and how to manage the resulting anger, sadness, guilt, or loneliness consumes your energy. You wonder if anyone truly understands and can help you make sense of it so you can build a life you love. Helping people feel at ease to make concrete, powerful change is my strength. I can help you find your way through the struggle toward resolution and relief while finding your stronger, more confident self.
*NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS* Struggling within yourself, or in relationship to a partner, child, friend, or family member can leave you exhausted. Finding answers to questions about what to do next, who to trust, and how to manage the resulting anger, sadness, guilt, or loneliness consumes your energy. You wonder if anyone truly understands and can help you make sense of it so you can build a life you love. Helping people feel at ease to make concrete, powerful change is my strength. I can help you find your way through the struggle toward resolution and relief while finding your stronger, more confident self.
Our lives can be full of wonderful experiences that we hope to never forget and awful experiences that we would love to forget. Learning to live a life to the fullest with these contrasting experiences can be so emotionally draining. It is so easy to get stuck in a dark hole of depression and anxiety and start to believe that your situation will never get better. However, it is my belief, that when someone chooses to pay attention to their thoughts, emotions and their actions, a positive change can happen. Remember…you are not your thoughts!
Our lives can be full of wonderful experiences that we hope to never forget and awful experiences that we would love to forget. Learning to live a life to the fullest with these contrasting experiences can be so emotionally draining. It is so easy to get stuck in a dark hole of depression and anxiety and start to believe that your situation will never get better. However, it is my belief, that when someone chooses to pay attention to their thoughts, emotions and their actions, a positive change can happen. Remember…you are not your thoughts!
Leslie Y Badalucca
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
...Life often involves challenges effecting the journey toward personal and professional objectives. There are times when it is only the support of genuine listening, empathy, and guidance that desired outcomes are achieved. Whether you are trying to cope with anxiety, depression, self-esteem/confidence, relationship challenges, communication skills, impulse control concerns, life-transition issues (e.g., military/vet, divorce, job loss, retirement), trauma, grief, physical/sexual abuse, or other life challenges. Life is difficult and requires growth and change that are not always easy or comfortable.
...Life often involves challenges effecting the journey toward personal and professional objectives. There are times when it is only the support of genuine listening, empathy, and guidance that desired outcomes are achieved. Whether you are trying to cope with anxiety, depression, self-esteem/confidence, relationship challenges, communication skills, impulse control concerns, life-transition issues (e.g., military/vet, divorce, job loss, retirement), trauma, grief, physical/sexual abuse, or other life challenges. Life is difficult and requires growth and change that are not always easy or comfortable.
Mary Martin-Looman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
With a high value placed on each client as an individual and their experiences I recognize that your needs are as unique as you are. Entering therapy offers an opportunity to process out our needs/stressors in a non-judgmental, objective, caring and professional setting with a focus on improving emotional wellness. Drawing on 20 years of experience in the field of mental health I integrate cognitive behavioral interventions, mindfulness practice, dialectics, strengths and solutions focused intervention and EMDR to support clients in meeting their treatment goals. I am a certified EMDR therapist through EMDRIA (www.emdria.org).
With a high value placed on each client as an individual and their experiences I recognize that your needs are as unique as you are. Entering therapy offers an opportunity to process out our needs/stressors in a non-judgmental, objective, caring and professional setting with a focus on improving emotional wellness. Drawing on 20 years of experience in the field of mental health I integrate cognitive behavioral interventions, mindfulness practice, dialectics, strengths and solutions focused intervention and EMDR to support clients in meeting their treatment goals. I am a certified EMDR therapist through EMDRIA (www.emdria.org).
Nicole Conner
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAEd, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Waynesville, NC 28786
Waitlist for new clients
You are not alone! Many folks today are feeling stuck... or overwhelmed by anxiety, loss, and confusion. Others are trying to make meaning of early life events or current relational strife with partners, children, or parents. I enjoy working with a variety of populations including: helping parents navigate difficulties with children who are struggling with anxiety or possible neurodivergence, adolescents struggling to belong or with unhealthy coping skills, young adults balancing college and work, adults navigating transitions such as divorce, retirement, and grief, and those who are in recovery.
You are not alone! Many folks today are feeling stuck... or overwhelmed by anxiety, loss, and confusion. Others are trying to make meaning of early life events or current relational strife with partners, children, or parents. I enjoy working with a variety of populations including: helping parents navigate difficulties with children who are struggling with anxiety or possible neurodivergence, adolescents struggling to belong or with unhealthy coping skills, young adults balancing college and work, adults navigating transitions such as divorce, retirement, and grief, and those who are in recovery.
For 30 years I've provided a listening ear to my clients. Sometimes, that's all one needs. Other times, we may need a little more direction, a new insight, a gentle push. I strive to recognize and respect the uniqueness of each individual. If you have a child with ADHD or other behavioral or adjustment issues, are an adult having relationship issues, depression or anxiety, or are someone struggling with the pain and confusion of addiction, my experience has prepared me to help you.
For 30 years I've provided a listening ear to my clients. Sometimes, that's all one needs. Other times, we may need a little more direction, a new insight, a gentle push. I strive to recognize and respect the uniqueness of each individual. If you have a child with ADHD or other behavioral or adjustment issues, are an adult having relationship issues, depression or anxiety, or are someone struggling with the pain and confusion of addiction, my experience has prepared me to help you.
See more therapy options for Waynesville
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How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Waynesville, NC
90+
Average cost per session
$130
Therapists in Waynesville, NC who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
84% | Depression |
81% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Self Esteem |
72% | Coping Skills |
68% | Relationship Issues |
66% | Stress |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
85% | Aetna |
56% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Waynesville, NC see their clients
69% | In Person and Online | |
31% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
22% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Waynesville?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.