Golden Rule Therapists in North Carolina

Finding a therapist who accepts Golden Rule insurance can make mental health care more affordable and accessible. With 485 verified therapists in North Carolina who accept Golden Rule insurance, you can filter by therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and motivational interviewing to address concerns like anxiety, mood disorders, or personal growth. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist is currently welcoming new clients and has availability within the next 30 days, ensuring timely access to quality support that aligns with your Golden Rule insurance coverage.

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Charlotte

Availability updated: 10/23/2025

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Charlie Counselman

LCSW, 5 years of experience

New to Grow

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Depression
+6
Hi, I’m Charlie Counselman, a therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion and practical support. I specialize in working with clients dealing with anxiety, addiction, and depression, using evidence-based approaches like CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and 12-step facilitation. I also have extensive experience treating men's issues, agoraphobia, and trauma. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can build resilience, find clarity, and move toward lasting growth.
Virtual
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Traci Abernethy

LCSW, 14 years of experience

New to Grow

Warm
Intelligent

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Trauma and PTSD
My name is Traci Abernethy. I have been a therapist for 14 years. My background is in Mental health as well as Substance abuse and dual-diagnosis. I have helped many improved their mental health and restore confidence. I graduated with a Bachelors of Social Work in 2010 at the University of North Carolina Greensboro and with a Masters of Social in 2011 from the Joint Masters of Social program at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical University and The University of North Carolina at Greensboro.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 9 ratings

Kimberly DePue

LCSW, 16 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Empowering

Specialties

Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Peer Relationships
Welcome! I am a warm, non-judgemental and real person. One of my basic tenants is we, as people, are doing the best we can, and sometimes our conscious or subconscious "plan" to take care of ourselves is just not working anymore. Sometimes we need to develop a new “plan” but that can be difficult and we need help. The relationship with ourselves, family, friends and our community is a pillar to good health and well being. However things get in the way….like trauma, substance use, addiction, depression, anxiety, loneliness, illness, & fear. I want to support your concerns and help you improve your sense of wellbeing.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 5 ratings

Shannon Simpson

LMFT, 15 years of experience

Empowering
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Trauma and PTSD
+5
Hi, I am a Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in North Carolina. I received my degree from Saybrook University in California and have been practicing for the past 15 years. I have specialized training in Somatic Experiencing and Attachment Therapy. I work with adults to resolve symptoms of stress, shock, and trauma that accumulate in our bodies and nervous systems transforming patterns that get stuck and impact our daily life. I support clients in bringing their nervous systems back into balance getting out of fight, flight and freeze to strengthen one's sense of safety, resourcefulness and resilience in the world. Some of the techniques I use are helping clients slow down and attune to what is happening in their bodies. I also work with clients on "resourcing" or finding tools to help them self soothe when they are feeling emotionally overloaded.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 108 ratings

Latonya Badger

LCMHC, 5 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Humorous

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Depression
Hello, Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or like life is taking over? It's completely natural to experience these emotions from time to time, but you don't have to navigate these challenges alone. My name is Latonya Badger, and I'm an experienced and compassionate mental health provider here to support you on your journey towards well-being and happiness. I have 4+ years of experience in the mental health field, I am a licensed therapist dedicated to helping individuals like you find balance, resilience, and inner strength. My approach is client-centered, meaning I tailor each session to your unique needs and circumstances. Together, we'll work collaboratively to address your concerns and develop personalized strategies to cope with life's stressors.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 49 ratings

Casey Smith

LCSW, 12 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Empowering
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Family Conflict
Life Transitions
+9
A banana takes nine months in a bag in another country to be ready. Give yourself the grace to get ripe and be ready! Part of who the willingness to talk about the 1%. I believe it's crucial to talk about the thing that stays late at night, when the door closes, something that as a neurodivergent therapist, I understand that feeling deeply and recognize that there is no such thing as a "crazy thought." I believe therapy should be about both meticulously breaking down the smallest things that weigh on you and equipping you with concrete steps to reclaim your zest for life. My passion lies with those whose stories often go untold.You might notice my fedora, which is my own way of letting my zest shine. It's different, it's loud, and it reminds me of my own journey. This is therapy for those who want to silence the voices that have held them back, embrace their unique journey, and become fierce advocates for themselves and the causes they believe in. If you're tired of feeling unheard, unfulfilled, or disconnected from your purpose, my hope is that we can collaborate and reclaim your power, communicate confidently, set boundaries, and rediscover your joy. This journey is especially transformative if you're an advocate for social justice, inspired by a family legacy of activism, or seeking to integrate your personal experiences with passion. Are you ready to reclaim your story and rediscover your zest for life?
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 14 ratings

Lori Breland

LCMHC, 7 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Empowering
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Child or Adolescent
Coping Skills
+10
Hello, I am Lori Breland MA, NCC, LCMHC, C-DBT. My primary focus is working with juvenile females/ at risk youth aged 11-17 with significant behaviors and/or involved in the court system. I am a MA (Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling), NCC (National Certified Counselor), LCMHC (Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor), and C-DBT (Certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I am a member of ACA, ACES, Chi Upsilon Chi Honor Society, and Southern ACES.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 50 ratings

Stephenie Wolford-Ward

LCMHC, 10 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Addiction
Bipolar Disorder
Anxiety
+4
Over 22 years of actively working with others to support their holistic healing journey has formed my practice to include multiple different modalities. These modalities include Cognitive behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, DBT, Mindfulness techniques and somatic therapeutic interventions. I work with Substance Use Disorder OP Treatment including MAT as well as other mental health concerns. From Acute Stress to Chronic and Complex PTSD my experiences and training can support you on your journey to long term wellness and development of the life you've always known you were capable of growing.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 13 ratings

Tristan Thomas

LCSW, 5 years of experience

Open-minded
Humorous
Authentic

Specialties

Career Counseling
Men's Issues
Self Esteem
+6
Hello, my name is Tristan Thomas, a dedicated mental health professional committed to guiding individuals on their journey to wellness. With a passion for helping others and years of experience in the field, I provide compassionate support and evidence-based interventions to empower individuals to overcome challenges and thrive. Let's work together to prioritize your mental well-being and achieve your goals.
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Rated 3.7 stars out of 5, 10 ratings

Marilea Moore

LCSW, 15 years of experience

Warm
Open-minded
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Post Partum
Trauma and PTSD
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) base in North Carolina. I earned my Master's Degree from East Carolina University and have accumulated 15 years of experience in the social work field, with 9 years of practice. I specialize in providing support to young adults and women going through various life transitions, particularly motherhood. I thoroughly enjoy assisting individuals during the perinatal to postpartum stages. I also specialize in guiding clients through their healing journey from past traumas, grief and loss, and burnout.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 12 ratings

Kalyn Goudreau

LMFT, 6 years of experience

Solution oriented
Open-minded

Specialties

Anxiety
Couples Counseling
Depression
+7
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in North Carolina and South Carolina and have a Master of Science in Human Development from Virginia Tech. I have a background working with various ages including children aged 7+ to pre-teens, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I have experience working with various issues, including communication, conflict, depression, anxiety, anger management, self-esteem, emotional regulation, ADHD, relational problems, family issues, and phase of life concerns.
Virtual
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 32 ratings

John Dyson

LCMHC, 8 years of experience

Empowering
Challenging
Direct

Specialties

Anxiety
Career Counseling
Depression
+7
Welcome — I’m John Dyson, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC), based in the foothills of North Carolina. Take a moment to acknowledge that you’ve already taken the first step toward bettering your mental health. Let’s be honest — starting therapy can feel empowering, confusing, or even scary — sometimes all at once. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you can explore concerns related to anxiety, depression, and self-care. I focus on helping clients build assertive communication skills and healthy boundaries, both with themselves and with others, in ways that support a more balanced, fulfilling life. Therapy is an opportunity for personal growth in whatever way you're seeking — whether that means navigating specific challenges or building the life you deeply deserve. If that’s what you’re looking for, I’m here when you’re ready. Together, we’ll clarify the challenges you’re facing and identify where you want to be — a month, six months, or a year from now. Then, we’ll explore actionable strategies to help you move forward. You'll leave each session with a clearer understanding of your situation and a set of “next steps” you can begin right away. There will always be space for feedback and collaboration in our work — including holding each other accountable as we walk this path together.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 6 ratings

Paula Patterson

LCSW, 20 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Open-minded
Solution oriented
Empowering

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Autism
+8
Are you in search of completing your puzzle? The puzzle we call life? Look no further, together we can find the missing piece(s) and bring the function back into the dysfunction and chaos. Navigating through your thoughts, feelings, and actions to create the unique YOU, you have always wanted and needed. The power is yours! I, Paula Patterson, MSW, LCSW look forward to the opportunity to be a part of your journey. Please feel free to reach out and make your dream life of healthy, happy relationships become a reality,
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 5 ratings

Ally Rizol

LCSW, 6 years of experience

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anxiety
Coping Skills
Life Transitions
+6
Hello! I’m Ally (she/her), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. It can be difficult to navigate all the changes and pressures that come with adulthood. You might feel overwhelmed by anxiety, stuck during a life transition, or just not like yourself. These challenges can make it hard to feel confident or connected in your daily life. Whether you're managing stress, developing coping skills, or exploring who you are, therapy can be a supportive space to gain clarity and feel more grounded. I’m here to walk alongside you as you work through what’s holding you back. I use a collaborative, warm, and direct approach, respecting that you’re the expert on your own life. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Somatic awareness, Strengths based therapy. With the right support I believe you can grow more in tune with your emotions and find the right coping skills that genuinely work for you. You deserve a space where you can feel truly seen, heard, and empowered to be yourself.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 23 ratings

Nelson Richardson

LCSW, 16 years of experience

Warm
Humorous
Open-minded

Specialties

Addiction
Anxiety
Men's Issues
+10
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience working with all ages in both community and residential settings. I completed professional training at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I helped individuals and families move through the grief process when I chaired and provided clinical expertise to a hospice program. I champion diversity! I help clients manage depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use, and adjustment type issues.
Virtual
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Debbie Howard

LCMHC, 15 years of experience

New to Grow

Specialties

Anger Management
Child or Adolescent
Family Therapy
+10
Hi, I'm Debbie Howard, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). Reaching out for support takes courage, and I would be honored to walk alongside you! I have 15 years experience helping individuals, families and youth work through challenges such as life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and parenting. I also specialize in helping children and teens build resilience, confidence, and coping skills that support lasting change at home and school. My approach is warm, client-centered, and collaborative. I believe therapy should feel empowering, supportive, and tailored to your unique needs and goals. I integrate a variety of evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavior Therapy(CBT), Alternative Family CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) , mindfulness, trauma-informed care, and solution focused therapy. Together, we'll focus on building self-awareness, resilience, and lasting positive change in a safe, nonjudgmental space.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 229 ratings

Jonathon Payne

LCMHC, 20 years of experience

Authentic
Humorous
Open-minded

Specialties

ADHD
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Hi, my name is Jonathon Payne and I am a practicing Licensed Clinical Mental Health Clinician, LCMHC, with the State of North Carolina with over 18 years of experience. Most of my work experience has come from working with individuals in crisis settings and or situations. The work has always been challenging, humbling, and rewarding. It has taught me the value of true genuineness and the importance of being able to connect with people and build working relationships. I love therapy. I respect the therapeutic process and value the hard work and introspection it requires. Therapy is something that I am passionate about. Everyday it provides me an opportunity to help others and learn from others. I am proud of the things I have learned, but even more humbled and optimistic of things that I continue to learn. One thing I would tell you is that a have a real passion and commitment to counseling and the therapeutic process. It is and has been what I love to do. I put tremendous value on the importance communication, language, and building a good therapeutic relationship or rapport. Its important to me that you, the patient feel safe, heard, and valued. My counseling style is very laid back and supportive, with a very non-judgmental stance. However, I am not afraid to roll my sleeves up and work hard. I believe in being supportive, motivating, and challenging. Its important that you have the opportunity to work hard, learn, grow, while developing realistic attainable and measurable goals.
Virtual
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 44 ratings

Linda Ferguson

LCSW, 16 years of experience

Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Addiction
LGBTQ
Military/Veterans
+10
I'm a licensed clinical social worker who has practiced for over fifteen years, working with diverse populations with various issues. I have always seen it as an honor and privilege that you have chosen me to be on this journey of self-discovery and self-mastery of whatever challenges you face. I believe you are not a "billing code" but an individual who dares to seek help to improve the quality of your life
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 31 ratings

Chip Palmer

LCSW, 30 years of experience

Authentic
Intelligent
Open-minded

Specialties

ADHD
Depression
Substance Misuse
+5
Hi! I'm a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and licensed clinical addiction counselor (LCAS.) I went to graduate school at the University of Vermont and have provided therapy services for more than 30 years in outpatient mental health settings as well as in inpatient psychiatric and addiction treatment settings. I'm in long-term recovery from alcohol and opiate dependence. Fun fact: I worked on an offshore lobster boat in the Gulf of Maine for 4 years.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 64 ratings

Carmen Villate

LCSW, 29 years of experience

Frequently rebooked

Warm
Authentic
Solution oriented

Specialties

Anger Management
Anxiety
Depression
+10
Hola! I am a Hispanic, Bilingual (Spanish/English), licensed clinical social worker in North Carolina. I received my Masters from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and I have 40+ years of experience providing therapy services and social work services to the NC community. I have helped clients suffering with difficulty managing their stress and communication styles, relational difficulties- parenting, marital, family-, occupational, and emotional problems such as mood disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and much more. I have a non-judgmental style and treat my clients with respect, empathy, sensitivity, and compassion, and I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support and empower you during that journey.
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Rated 5.0 stars out of 5, 8 ratings

Dora Eller

LCSW, 6 years of experience

Empowering
Intelligent
Authentic

Specialties

Coping Skills
Life Transitions
Women's Issues
+9
Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in North Carolina. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work with an Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology/ Minor in Criminal Justice. I began my professional career working with at-risk children, teens and their families. I then expanded into working with adults providing individual and group therapy. My professional career is roughly 15+ years. I've worked within homes, schools, residential facilities, military installations, and community based programs. I'm currently focusing on providing individual therapy within a variety of mental health disorders.
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Karen Herbert

LCSW, 20 years of experience

New to Grow

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Women's Issues
+3
I’m a warm, down-to-earth therapist with 20+ years of experience supporting clients navigating life changes, relationship challenges, and stressful times. I provide a judgment free space where you can be yourself. Together, we’ll explore what’s holding you back and build personalized skills and coping strategies that work for you. In our work together, I use evidence-based therapy approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), client-centered, and strength-based practices, all tailored to support your unique journey. Together, we’ll explore your inner world with compassion and curiosity, helping you gain insight, build self-trust, and move forward with clarity and intention. I believe that feeling safe and seen is the foundation of good therapy.
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Rated 4.7 stars out of 5, 15 ratings

Wanda McWilliams

LCSW, 13 years of experience

Warm
Empowering
Authentic

Specialties

Anxiety
Depression
Spirituality
+10
I am a fully licensed clinical social worker. I live helping individuals identify their Wirth and strengths they possess to achieve their goals. I have successfully helped women, especially, to work through relationship and parenting issues. I enjoy assisting individuals in settling healthy boundaries and in developing skills needed to effectively and productively be present in their lives. I believe it is impotant to listen to what clients need and want. My clients report feeling comfortable and heard in mu sesions. Some were in counseling prior to working with me and state I have been very beneifical.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 20 ratings

Cherie Covington

LCSW, 10 years of experience

Authentic
Warm
Empowering

Specialties

Coping Skills
Depression
Spirituality
+7
Welcome and congratulations on taking the first step in your healing journey! First, my name is Cherie and I am originally from New York. My journey to becoming a therapist began while serving in the Army and having the opportunity to help Soldiers and their family members with personal issues/concerns. My experience led me to pursue formal schooling and training to be more of a service through therapy and providing much-needed resources to the people in need. This path has been rewarding for me, and being able to experience lives being transformed and people empowered continues to be an honor.
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Rated 4.9 stars out of 5, 62 ratings

Heidi Troutman

LCMHC, 22 years of experience

Solution oriented
Warm
Authentic

Specialties

First Responders/Healthcare Workers
High Clinical Acuity
Military/Veterans
+9
Hello, I'm a counselor with a background in Forensic Psychology, having worked in the field since 2004. I have the privilege of serving a diverse range of clients from various ethnicities, racial backgrounds, and socioeconomic classes. My approach is non-judgmental, patient, and easy-going, creating a safe space where you can feel heard and understood. With many years of experience working in correctional settings, particularly with individuals in acute crisis, I am passionate about helping you navigate challenges, find solutions, and work towards lasting positive change. My goal is to empower you to take control of your well-being and move forward with confidence.
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Frequently asked questions

Why filter by North Carolina rather than a city like Charlotte?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in the state. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across North Carolina from Raleigh to Greensboro! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in North Carolina.

Will my therapist take Golden Rule?

Yes! If you use Golden Rule you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have Golden Rule you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

How does the Specialty Filter work? Can I find a therapist that focuses on a specific issue?

The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need.

What are the "Clients say I'm" badges?

Grow Therapy asks patients about their experience with therapists after they have had a certain number of sessions. After enough responses, we add those characteristics to their profiles to help you find the best online therapists for you. We're still working on collecting this information from all our therapists.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

What to expect during your first session?

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs.

Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center. Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.