Our therapists in Columbia, SC offer counseling for loneliness

Tara Lane is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 16 years of experience. She has worked in outpatient, residential, and public school settings. Tara treats a wide range of mental health conditions, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Her ideal client is motivated to create change and explore underlying issues affecting their lives. She offers a supportive and structured approach to therapy and will be with you each step of the way.

Tara earned her Master’s in Mental Health Counseling and Applied Psychology from Rowan University. She uses empirically validated treatment strategies tailored to client needs. Her approach is direct, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based care to support personal growth and healing.

Tara creates a safe, supportive environment that encourages healing and meaningful change. She builds strong connections with clients to empower them in their mental health. Tara encourages you to reach out to schedule an appointment today!

Jennifer Brown is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who, after more than 23 years in the profession of counseling, still looks forward to teaching a person how to fish. Her approach to counseling is this; Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day; show him how to catch a fish, and you feed him for a lifetime. Jennifer will equip you with the skills you need through a cooperative and collaborative relationship that focuses on your strengths that already exist. Her approach is that of a wellness model as she believes most people hold their own answers and solutions to their challenges but simply need a safe place in which to share experiences, improve insight and self-awareness and explore solutions. Jennifer’s favorite part of her job has always been helping people cope with their pain and guiding them through the process as they work through issues. Even better, she gets to witness their transformation as they them come out on the other side so much stronger mentally and confident in their ability to cope. She has often said to clients “I wish you could witness your change from beginning to end in the same way that I can see it.” Jennifer views it as a privilege when people allow her to be a part of their life in the valleys as well as on the mountaintop. She believes there is such gratification in knowing that people come into her office truly feeling that it is a safe environment where they can “come apart” if they need to and they will not be judged, interrupted, or invalidated. Jennifer understands that many times it is that people need that “safe zone” where it is all about them and just “being” with them is hugely therapeutic. She recognizes that everyone has a story. She doesn’t believe in putting clients where SHE thinks they need to be but, rather, in meeting them where they are. She serves as a guide to help you discover your own solutions. Jennifer is comfortable with silence and recognizes sometimes profound therapy can occur when nothing at all is being said. Jennifer believes that she has been honored to see people make huge strides towards being mentally healthy. Jennifer provides individual and couples counseling, serving persons ages 18 and older. Her applications of therapeutic techniques include cognitive, affective, behavioral and systemic approaches. Her areas of specialty include depression, (including post-partum depression), anxiety, stress, unanticipated life events, grief counseling, interpersonal discord, career issues, life transitions and personal/social adjustment. Certified in The Developmental Model of Couples Therapy Certified Mental Health Professional in Collaborative Law – The South Carolina Collaborative Law Institute (SCCLI) Certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Kathleen Horn is a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) who has a love for dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). She is passionate about helping people and reducing mental health stigma and feels that DBT is a great tool to have in anyone's toolbox. Kathleen has experience helping those experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, life transitions, and borderline personality disorder. Kathleen completed her Master of Social Work at the University of Maryland School of Social Work after first pursuing and falling in love with social work at the University of Maryland Baltimore County.

Kathleen understands that life can have a habit of throwing unexpected curveballs and that it is easier to manage them when you are supported. She appreciates a strength-based, dialectical-behavioral approach along with the use of cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoanalysis, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing.

Every person faces their own challenges. Kathleen is here to support you through your unique journey and is committed to helping you create a toolbox full of skills to help you navigate life's twists and turns.

Dominique Darby is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 11 years of experience in the mental health field. Dominique is intentional about helping others live the life they've imagined. She demonstrates compassion throughout her work with adolescents and adults, and actively supports them as they address their unique challenges. Dominique specializes in depression, anxiety, relationship issues, major life problems, women's issues, ADHD/ADD, and parenting issues.

Dominique completed her Master of Arts (MA) in Professional Mental Health Counseling at Webster University. She has worked in many capacities, once serving as a counselor in a level 2 state prison and as regional director of a private rehabilitative behavioral health organization. Dominique understands the complexities of life, which enables her to provide support and guidance to all clients seeking help. She utilizes multiple treatment approaches including mindfulness, positive psychology to include the use of positive affirmations, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), cognitive processing, and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).

Life will bring many challenges and oftentimes we face them suddenly and unexpectedly. Dominique is confident in her ability to support each client as they embark on a journey of healing, restoration, and forgiveness. She utilizes the person-centered approach to therapy and tailors all techniques and skills to suit your individual needs so that you can cope with whatever you might be faced with.

Alex Farley is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate (LPCA) with 2 years of experience in the mental health field. He works with children, teens, adults, and seniors dealing with anxiety, depression, marital conflict, loss, social isolation, trauma, and relationship challenges. He believes that growth and change occur when people feel heard and can start to view their challenges from a different perspective.

Alex has a Master of Education in Clinical Counseling from Winthrop University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of South Carolina. He uses various approaches with his clients, including cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, person-centered therapy, and play therapy.

Alex knows from personal experience that life can be challenging, and that asking for help can be the bravest and best decision a person can make. He is committed to ensuring every client in every session feels empowered to live a healthier and happier life.

Aaron Brown is a Licensed Master Social Worker with 10 years of experience supporting individuals managing anxiety, personality disorders, substance and alcohol use, and mood disorders. He has worked extensively with veterans, first responders, individuals living with severe mental illness, and those facing employment challenges. Aaron also brings experience in nonprofit management and community-based support, with a strong focus on mental health recovery and readiness.

Aaron earned his Master’s in Social Work from the University of South Carolina. He uses cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, the Socratic method, and dialectical behavior therapy to help clients navigate complex emotions and improve mental wellness in a safe, supportive space.

Aaron understands how trauma and mental illness impact daily life and relationships. As a veteran, parent, and community member, he meets clients with humility and compassion, encouraging healing through radical acceptance. He believes everyone is the expert of their life and deserves to live it fully.

Kierstan Ellis is a Licensed Master Social Worker with 1 year of experience specializing in supporting children with disabilities, postpartum mothers, families, and individuals facing depression, anxiety, grief, relationship challenges, and behavioral concerns. She brings experience from child advocacy and hospice care, offering compassionate, authentic support to clients ages 5–18, families, and caregivers.

Kierstan earned her Master’s in Social Work from Liberty University. She is trained in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and problematic sexual behavior group cognitive behavioral therapy, as well as body safety education. Her approach is positive, understanding, and empathetic, encouraging clients to grow into the best version of themselves.

Kierstan believes therapy should inspire change, challenge perspectives, and build resilience. As a mother with a disability, she understands adversity firsthand and stands ready to walk alongside clients in their journey. She invites you to take the first step toward a better quality of life today.

Alexandria Gibbs is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 6 years of experience working with adults ages 18 and up who are navigating concerns related to depression, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, and personality disorders.

Alexandria received her Master’s in Clinical Counseling Psychology from Brenau University and, through her experience throughout her career, has utilized a wide range of evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy.

Alexandria fosters an environment that promotes a strong therapeutic relationship, which contributes to the client's ability to achieve therapeutic goals and provides them with the skills they need to improve their quality of life. If you are ready to begin your journey, Alexandria encourages you to reach out today!

Brittany Aiken is a Licensed Professional Counseling Associate with more than 3 years of experience in mental health. She currently specializes in helping people dealing with symptoms of depression and anxiety due to various life changes. She creates a safe environment for you to talk about the things that are going on, assists you in determining what your goals for therapy are, and, through collaboration, helps you figure out changes that will work to accomplish those goals. During your time together, you and Brittany will build a rapport that will make you feel comfortable sharing, supported, and enthusiastic about the changes you've made.

Brittany utilizes a holistic approach, incorporating different techniques that may be beneficial to your personal needs. Additionally, she implements cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, person-centered techniques, and culturally sensitive therapy techniques.

Therapy is not a "one size fits all" type of situation. You are unique and your needs should be addressed based on you only. In order for therapy to be effective, you must be committed to the process and open to trying new things.

Jessica Brown is a dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of nursing experience in general and behavioral health care. She specializes in working with adolescents and adults facing anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. Jessica is committed to increasing access to care through telemedicine and provides compassionate, evidence-based treatment aimed at symptom relief, emotional stability, and long-term resilience.

Jessica earned her Master’s in Nursing from Clemson University. She uses a holistic, client-centered approach to support adolescents and adults. Her goal is to deliver empathetic, evidence-based care that promotes healing and sustainable mental wellness.

Jessica believes seeking help takes courage. She creates a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and valued. She invites those struggling with mental health to take the first step toward healing and looks forward to supporting them throughout their wellness journey.

Matthew Leazer is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 6 years of experience helping clients reclaim their narrative and prioritize their well-being. He believes that therapy is a collaborative space where clients are empowered to be the protagonists in their stories. Matthew strives to create a non-judgmental environment that fosters openness, empathy, and meaningful change for those navigating anxiety, trauma, depression, and life transitions.

Matthew earned his Master’s in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University. He incorporates evidence-based approaches to support clients in identifying their goals, developing personalized strategies, and overcoming challenges. He has experience working with adolescents, adults, and individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Matthew helps clients recognize their strengths and use them to reach personal goals. He empowers individuals to define their own path, supporting them as they work toward the quality of life they deserve. His warm, collaborative style encourages self-discovery and lasting growth through active participation in the healing process.

Marta Carvahal is a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over 20 years of clinical experience. Originally from Brazil, her experience spans crisis stabilization, psychiatric care, and behavioral health therapy for cancer patients. Marta is passionate about working with college students, young adults, veterans, and individuals navigating complex medical or emotional challenges.

Marta earned a Master’s in Social Work from the University of South Carolina. She integrates neuroscience-informed methods and a holistic mind-body-spirit approach into care. She also draws from Christian principles when requested, creating personalized plans that reflect clients’ values, goals, and healing preferences.

Clients describe Marta as warm, energetic, and deeply compassionate. She is passionate about guiding individuals toward their goals through empathy, tailored support, and evidence-based strategies. Marta works especially well with college students, cancer patients, veterans, and young adults navigating life transitions. Reach out today!

Shekina Adams is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate with 4 years of experience providing compassionate mental health care. She has worked extensively with individuals in crisis, hospital settings, and emergency situations.

Shekina’s expertise spans working with children and adults, addressing a range of concerns, including ADHD, autism, grief, loss, oppositional defiance disorder, conduct disorder, anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, relationship difficulties, family dynamics, and behavioral challenges.

Shekina earned her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. She integrates cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, psychodynamic theory, solution-focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and applied behavior analysis to meet each client’s specific needs.

Shekina is passionate about helping others recognize their inner strength, heal from past experiences, grow through life’s challenges, and achieve greater success. Shekina looks forward to supporting you on your journey toward healing and personal growth.

Michele “Mickie” Husted is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 25 years of experience helping individuals navigate emotional challenges and life transitions. After 2 decades serving as a Hospital Corpsman in the U.S. Navy, she felt called to focus more personally on emotional healing and growth. She specializes in supporting those experiencing depression and anxiety, guiding clients to manage thoughts, emotions, and behaviors with compassion and resilience. Her approach encourages clients to build on their inner strengths.

Mickie holds a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Montreat College. She works one-on-one with clients to explore their experiences, gain clarity, and develop tools for lasting well-being. Her therapeutic space is grounded in empathy, trust, and respect.

Mickie believes therapy should feel like a conversation, not a performance. She offers a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients are heard and empowered. With a listening ear and a focus on your comfort, her goal is to help you get the most out of every session while supporting healing through honest connection and collaborative growth.

Stephen Tuttle is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of South Carolina who since 2017 has been providing clinical assessment and therapeutic care to children and adolescents seeking help with anger management, self-esteem, impulsivity, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, family issues, and sexual offending behaviors. He has a strong desire to continue working with today’s youth while also engaging in therapeutic care with adults, couples, and families with a variety of needs who are motivated for treatment and searching for a fellow traveler in their journey towards a meaningful and purposeful life.

Stephen completed his Bachelor of Arts in Clinical Psychology and his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, both at the Franciscan University of Steubenville. Stephen utilizes a variety of modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, strength-based, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing to best meet the needs of his clients and to aid them in defining and achieving their goals. He is also certified in TF-CBT (trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy) in order to help his younger clients lift the weight of their trauma and gain the freedom they desire.

Stephen recognizes each client as a unique individual who is capable of realizing their inherent worth and of achieving their goals. He seeks to develop a healthy, trusting working relationship with you and to journey with you as you work through your challenges and obstacles, guiding and encouraging you where he can so that you live the meaningful life you have been striving for.

“As a woman of color finding my footing in a chaotic world, I understand the importance of finding a safe space to express yourself without shame or worry.”

Jordin Flemming is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate with 4 years of experience supporting adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, ADHD, OCD, stress management, career and college concerns, relationship struggles, racial or social issues, and women's issues.

Jordin graduated from Clemson University with a Master's in Counselor Education. She uses a holistic approach, recognizing that mental health impacts every aspect of life and, as such, requires a special level of care. Believing that no particular approach works for each client, she embraces an eclectic style, drawing from different therapeutic theories.

With a deep commitment to confidentiality and a warm, nonjudgmental approach to therapy, Jordin strives to create an atmosphere that will make clients feel comfortable and empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Jordin looks forward to meeting you and embarking on this journey with you!

Amanda Bentley is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 12 years of experience in the mental health field. She specializes in working with teens, adults, and seniors who are struggling to cope with women's issues, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, BPD, stress, adjustment-related issues, OCD, and much more.

Amanda completed her Master's Degree in Nursing with a focus on Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioning from Walden University. Her love for this field prompted her to further her education to a position where she can provide medication management, counseling, and various forms of therapy. Amanda has experience incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and person-centered (PCT) techniques into the care she provides for her clients. Her patient advocacy and ability to meet patients where they are emotionally and mentally are among her strongest skills.

Life can not only be challenging but can feel almost impossible at times to manage. Amanda is confident that she would be able to work with you as a partner in reaching your goals. This may come in the form of therapy, counseling, medication management, or all three. If you feel as if you could use just one person to listen, help and support you, schedule an appointment with Amanda today.

Leanee Marsh is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate with 1 year of experience in counseling and 6 years of experience as an educator. Her ideal clients are individuals and couples who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, struggle with self-worth, or are navigating the emotional complexities and adjustments in life. Her clients seek compassionate support to regain confidence, develop coping skills, and build a healthier, more balanced mindset. They grow within a safe, nonjudgmental space, where Leanee provides them with a supportive environment to explore their feelings and challenges, allowing them to flourish.

Leanee earned a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University and is also a National Certified Counselor. Her counseling sessions incorporate mindfulness, motivational interviewing, coping skills development, and emotional regulation to help clients build resilience and self-awareness.

When you're ready to take the first step towards improving your well-being and personal growth, reaching out for support can make all the difference. Let's connect and begin your journey toward healing and empowerment because you deserve support that meets you where you are.

Susan Boykin is a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over 40 years of experience in helping people live a fulfilling life. Susan completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology at Drew University and her Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) at the University of South Carolina. Personal life experiences and years of practice have made her a seasoned therapist.

Susan believes therapy is a partnership based on warmth, compassion, and kindness. Her focus is on providing a safe and nonjudgmental relationship in which difficult thoughts and feelings are listened to. Susan knows a wide range of mental health approaches and uses these to design the best care for each person.

She enjoys sharing her skills with persons who are wanting to make positive changes in their life and realize their full potential. Susan believes personal growth and fulfillment is something we can all achieve, no matter our age. Schedule your initial session with her to start addressing the issues that matter.

Wanda Mayse is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 25 years of experience in behavioral health. Their expertise spans a variety of primary practice areas, including ADHD, autism, adjustment disorder, couples work, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, major depressive disorder, and general anxiety. Wanda has worked as a program director in a residential treatment facility for adolescents with intellectual disabilities and mental health disorders and co-directed camps for survivors of traumatic brain injuries.

Wanda has a Master of Science in Counseling from Webster University. They utilize evidence-based treatment modalities such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy. Wanda offers a personalized approach to therapy that treats the whole person within their environment.

Wanda understands that finding the right solution can be overwhelming, but she is here to make the process easier. With a commitment to listening and understanding, Wanda offers support every step of the way. If you're ready to take the next step, she invites you to reach out and start a conversation. Your needs matter, and she is here to help.

Heather is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Addictions Counselor (LPC, LAC) who has 15 years of experience working with adults, adolescents, children, and families. She specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and major life transitions. Heather has experience working in a variety of settings which include school-based programs, outpatient mental health clinics, integrated health care, and private practice.

Heather earned her Master’s in Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She uses several treatment approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy (SBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and client-centered therapy.

Heather knows that passionate mental health care involves providing empathetic support, actively listening to clients, and working collaboratively toward achieving their goals. It's about creating a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can feel heard, validated, and empowered to make positive changes in their lives.

Dr. Dalicia Watson is a Licensed Master Social Worker with over 6 years of experience. Dr. Watson began her social work career as a case manager at the Department of Social Services, working with abused and neglected children and adults. Dr. Watson had the opportunity to work with clients who suffered from depression and/or anxiety, victims of domestic violence, and clients with ADHD. Dr. Watson also has experience working with clients who experience grief, self-esteem, suicidal ideations, stress, and time management.

Dr. Watson's goal for all of her clients is to help them to maintain a mentally healthy and safe lifestyle. Dr. Watson allows the clients to be the experts in their sessions, which helps the clients be in charge of what they would like to fix and work on. She feels that having the clients as the experts helps the clients to see the growth within themselves.

Dr. Watson helps make therapy a safe space for clients to come and let it all out. Dr. Watson meets clients on their level and grows with the client as the client improves through treatment.

***Kimberly only provides EMDR in-person at the Rock Hill location.***

Kimberly (Kim) Cannon is a Licensed Individual Social Worker of Clinical Practice with 15 years of experience. She specializes in assisting adolescents, adults, and seniors who experience symptoms related to traumatic events resulting in but not limited to anxiety, depression, flashbacks, sleep disturbances, and relational issues. Kim also has experience with a variety of mood disorders, psychotic disorders, crisis intervention, and substance use disorders.

Kim received her Master's degree in Social Work from Winthrop University. She utilizes various clinical approaches, including eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectic behavior therapy, and mindfulness-based methods.

Kim believes in meeting patients where they are and helping them learn where they want to be. Her favorite quote is by Joshua Graham: "I survived because the fire inside me burned brighter than the fire around me." We are resilient and can develop the skills needed to face challenges that may come our way. Get started with Kim today!