Columbia, SC Therapy, Psychiatry, and Counseling

Lauren Lollar is a Licensed Master Social Worker with 3 years of experience in mental health care. Lauren is a certified trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy specialist and enjoys working with others to process their trauma. She has extensive knowledge of early childhood development and wants to support children and families experiencing both mental health and life changes. She is well-versed in working with depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders and passionately advocates for those with substance use disorders and their families. Lauren completed her master’s in social work (LMSW) at the University of South Carolina.

Through her work with children and families, Lauren has built extensive skills utilizing family systems therapy. She is certified in early diagnostics for children 0-5. Lauren is also certified in motivational interviewing and uses it in a wide array of therapeutic areas including mood, substance use, and other disorders.

We all go through challenging life experiences and need support. Lauren is confident in her ability to support you through these times and gain new coping skills to assist you through it. If you want to be supported and find new ways to take on your life's challenges, please reach out to schedule an appointment today.

My name is Tamekia Ruff, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) dedicated to evidence-based mental health care. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, stress-related concerns, and life transitions. I work with individuals seeking clarity, emotional balance, improved coping skills, and support navigating personal, academic, or professional challenges. My goal is to create a safe, collaborative environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered in their mental wellness journey. 

My approach to care is collaborative, supportive, and individualized to each client's unique needs and goals. I combine evidence-based treatment, thoughtful medication management, and therapeutic support to help clients understand their mental health. I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable and involved in their care. 

I understand that reaching out for support can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to navigate life's challenges alone. Healing and growth are possible, and taking the first step toward care is a meaningful act of strength and self-investment. I welcome the opportunity to work alongside you toward a healthier, more balanced, and fulfilling life.

Dr. Dalicia Watson is a Licensed Independent Social Worker - Clinical Practice 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.

Lee Edwards obtained his Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts and his Master’s in Counseling from the University of North Texas. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas, Georgia, and South Carolina with 12 years of experience as a Counselor helping individuals overcome the barriers presented by depression, anxiety, anger issues, and vocational dissatisfaction. He has also assisted couples in managing the complexities of relationships and aided Law Enforcement Officers in contending with the difficulties encountered because of their vocation. Lee utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Existential Psychotherapy, relaxation & meditation techniques, and anger management processes to aid individuals and couples with movement toward their goals. As a military veteran and former law enforcement officer, he also has a good understanding of individuals who have chosen professions with unique challenges. Lee seeks to create a safe and trusting environment for you so that you can identify and move toward your goals, allowing you to pursue a life that is meaningful to you.

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.

My name is Tamekia Ruff, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) dedicated to evidence-based mental health care. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma, stress-related concerns, and life transitions. I work with individuals seeking clarity, emotional balance, improved coping skills, and support navigating personal, academic, or professional challenges. My goal is to create a safe, collaborative environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered in their mental wellness journey. 

My approach to care is collaborative, supportive, and individualized to each client's unique needs and goals. I combine evidence-based treatment, thoughtful medication management, and therapeutic support to help clients understand their mental health. I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable and involved in their care. 

I understand that reaching out for support can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to navigate life's challenges alone. Healing and growth are possible, and taking the first step toward care is a meaningful act of strength and self-investment. I welcome the opportunity to work alongside you toward a healthier, more balanced, and fulfilling life.

Melissa is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). She has worked to manage a wide variety of mental health concerns such as crisis intervention, depression, anxiety, ADHD, school and social issues, personality disorders, adjustment disorders, caregiver's fatigue, and addiction disorders. She is easy to talk to and helps you feel comfortable with sharing to best manage your mental and emotional health. She is compassionate in providing comprehensive mental health services to all ages. Melissa's role as a PMHNP includes medication manager, therapist, educator, and mental health advocate.

Melissa holds a Master's in Nursing (MSN) from Walden University and a Bachelor's degree in psychology from Campbell University. With more than 18 years of counseling and nursing experience, Melissa provides clients with medication management, incorporates various therapeutic techniques to improve mental health, and stays updated on current trends.

"Life is a challenge. It’s okay not to be okay. You have faced things that you never thought you would have to face over the last few years," says Melissa. She can assist you with managing or balancing your life's expedition, to create or reconnect with your better self. If you are ready to take the next steps to wellness, schedule an appointment with Melissa today!

Celeste Perry is an accomplished, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Nurse Practitioner with a diverse skill set involving therapy, medication management, Christian counseling, marriage counseling, and expertise in a range of mental health conditions, including ADHD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and various mood disorders. Beyond being a healthcare provider, Celeste is a loving mother of two children and finds immense joy in her faith, being actively involved in her church and community. Her spiritual beliefs serve as a foundation for her compassionate care and understanding of the human experience.

Celeste is dedicated to providing holistic care that addresses not only the physical aspects of health but also the spiritual and emotional dimensions. Her empathetic approach, combined with evidence-based treatments, fosters a trusting and supportive therapeutic environment where individuals can embark on their healing journey.

Celeste also embraces an active and healthy lifestyle, placing a strong emphasis on physical fitness and well-being. Her dedication to her own health sets a positive example for her patients and reinforces her holistic approach to mental healthcare.

I'm a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with experience in both medical and mental health care, including HIV care. I take a holistic, patient-centered approach and work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and stress. I also support individuals navigating life transitions, chronic conditions, and identity-related challenges, and strive to create an inclusive, supportive environment for all. 

I focus on creating a "brave space" where you feel safe, respected, and empowered to share openly. Together, we'll identify your goals and begin developing a personalized plan that supports your mental and emotional well-being. My goal is that you leave your session feeling heard, supported, and confident in the direction we're taking together. 

You don't have to have everything figured out before getting support. My goal is to meet you where you are, help you feel heard, and work with you to create a plan that feels right for you. When you're ready, I'd be honored to work with you. 

I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with 3 years of experience providing evidence-based, person-centered care. I work with adults and young adults experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma-related concerns, and life transitions. I partner with clients to thoughtfully integrate medication management with education and collaborative support to promote emotional stability and meaningful progress.

I earned my Doctor of Nursing Practice from Clemson University. My approach is collaborative, culturally responsive, and grounded in evidence-based practice. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, individualized treatment planning, and medication education with a focus on safety, transparency, and shared decision-making.

Reaching out for support can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to navigate it alone. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and respected. Together, we will develop a personalized plan to help you feel more balanced, confident, and supported as you move forward.

Lauren Lollar is a Licensed Master Social Worker with 3 years of experience in mental health care. Lauren is a certified trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy specialist and enjoys working with others to process their trauma. She has extensive knowledge of early childhood development and wants to support children and families experiencing both mental health and life changes. She is well-versed in working with depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders and passionately advocates for those with substance use disorders and their families. Lauren completed her master’s in social work (LMSW) at the University of South Carolina.

Through her work with children and families, Lauren has built extensive skills utilizing family systems therapy. She is certified in early diagnostics for children 0-5. Lauren is also certified in motivational interviewing and uses it in a wide array of therapeutic areas including mood, substance use, and other disorders.

We all go through challenging life experiences and need support. Lauren is confident in her ability to support you through these times and gain new coping skills to assist you through it. If you want to be supported and find new ways to take on your life's challenges, please reach out to schedule an appointment today.

As a licensed master social worker (LMSW) with 4 years of experience, I've worked in a variety of settings where I’ve helped people navigate a range of issues including trauma, anxiety, relational conflict, and depression. From an intensive outpatient program to a major medical hospital, I’ve sat with people on some of the worst days of their lives, accompanying them through immense grief and loss, chronic stress, vicarious trauma, and major life transitions. I work with preteens to older adults using a flexible, integrative approach that weaves together evidence-based practices with each client’s individual needs and preferences.

I earned my master’s in social work from the University of Tennessee. I use tools like acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions, but above all my priority is to show up as just another human in the room, navigating this hard, messy, beautiful life alongside my clients. 

In our work together, I will sit with you in your pain, your confusion, your anger, or whatever you’re bringing into the space, and help you be with it, make sense of it, and ultimately, transform it. Therapy can be hard. Life is hard. And yet here you are, because you know there’s something better waiting for you. Let’s find out what it is.

Elizabeth Chatman is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who is passionate about her work in the mental health field. Elizabeth has experience working with children, teens, and adults, as well as integrating family therapy when it is appropriate. She specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, emotional regulation, and behavioral issues.

Elizabeth completed her Master of Education (MEd) with a concentration in Mental Health Counseling at Winthrop University. She is a wife and mom with personal experience in navigating the stressors and challenges that come from being a parent with love and empathy. This, coupled with her professional experience, enables Elizabeth to provide the guidance and support her clients are seeking. She utilizes multiple treatment approaches including mindfulness, solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and person centered therapy. Elizabeth creates a warm, inviting atmosphere for therapy, and believes the clinician/client relationship is unique and sacred.

Living in today's world is difficult for us all. We are experiencing new stressors daily and are constantly bombarded with information and opinions everywhere we look. Elizabeth takes pleasure in being able to assist you with meeting the goals you have for yourself, while teaching you the tools needed to live a happy and fulfilling life. She is confident that she would be able to support you on your journey to gain new perspective and techniques that allow you to cope with whatever you may be struggling with. If you are ready to do the work, schedule an appointment with Elizabeth today!

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and nationally certified counselor (NCC). I received my Bachelor of Science in psychology from Charleston Southern University and my Master of Science in clinical mental health counseling, including a Graduate Certificate in Contemporary Theory in Mental Health Services, from Capella University. I have worked in the mental health field since 2013. I have worked with military/veterans, geriatrics, teens, children, LGBTQ community, PTSD, anxiety, grief, eating disorders, neurodevelopmental disorders, schizophrenia, substance abuse, first-time mothers, job development, and anger management. 

I foster a client-centered CBT and DBT approach. I am certified in CBT for depression and suicide, DBT, CAMS-Care, ASIST, IPS, and anger management. I believe creating a safe and nonjudgmental space and building a genuine rapport is essential to aiding individuals in reaching personal goals. I base my services on the ACA Code of Ethics and state laws. 

I look forward to working with all potential clients and sending a warm welcome to each of you.

I am Jessica Hutchison, a licensed professional counselor associate (LPC-A) with almost two years of professional experience. I have worked mainly with children ages 4 to 18, providing family therapy and parenting sessions, though I am trained to work with all ages. My clients have faced ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, substance abuse, ODD, suicidal ideation, self-harm, stress-related disorders, and mood disorders — wanting to manage symptoms, learn to love themselves, become more successful, or simply "not be sad anymore." I want to help all of my clients become the best and happiest versions of themselves. 

The main techniques I have used with my clients are play therapy, CBT, DBT, solution-focused therapy, client-centered therapy, mindfulness training, psychoeducation, reflective listening, and goal setting. I believe in clear, honest, open communication between therapist and client to help build a healthy and trusting rapport. 

Sometimes the world can seem like too much. If you have ever felt struggling, unhappy, or not where you want to be, come talk to someone who has struggled and can teach you how to manage. I will help you discover underlying issues and learn to love yourself again. Please come see me, Jessica Hutchison, your fellow neurodivergent who understands the struggle. 

Healing Starts Here – Therapy for Kids, Teens, Families & Women. Hi, I’m Tina. I specialize in helping children, adolescents, families, and women navigate life’s challenges in a supportive, practical, and compassionate way. With nearly 30 years of experience in mental health, I provide evidence-based, personalized therapy to support clients through any life challenge.  

For Children & Teens: anxiety, overwhelm, and big emotions, emotional outbursts or shutdown ,trauma and grief, school and peer struggles, self-esteem and identity. For Women: anxiety, stress, and burnoutlife transitions (parenting, relationships, career changes) ,grief, loss, trauma, narcissistic abuse recovery, feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected.  

I use a blend of trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT),EMDR (for trauma and anxiety),DBT-informed skills (emotional regulation, coping, communication), Developmentally appropriate and practical strategies. Sessions are tailored to the individual—whether that means working through emotions, building coping skills, or creating real-life tools for everyday challenges.

I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Gonzaga University, a Master of Professional Studies in Public Relations & Corporate Communications from Georgetown University, and a Master of Arts in School Counseling from the University of Denver. This past year, I completed courses at Clemson University's Clinical Mental Health program for my LPC-A in South Carolina. I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and hold an Initial School Counseling Certificate in South Carolina. While I primarily work with children and teens, I enjoy supporting clients across all stages of life. 

I will listen and support you in a warm and nurturing environment and will be a positive support on your journey. I frequently incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and a strengths-based approach to support clients experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma. I can use Play Therapy to address emotional and behavioral challenges in younger clients. 

I will create a therapeutic, supportive, and safe space where clients can be themselves, express their emotions, and work toward meaningful goals that support a fulfilling life. Feel free to schedule an appointment with me so that I can be a support for you on your journey!

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 7 years of counseling experience, including 5 years providing telehealth services. I work with adolescents and adults navigating grief, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and emotional overwhelm. Many of my clients seek clarity, coping skills, and a safe space to process pain while working toward healing, balance, and renewed purpose.

My approach is trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and collaborative, integrating TF-CBT, DBT, person-centered therapy, and play therapy techniques. I help clients build emotional regulation skills, strengthen self-awareness, and develop healthier coping strategies. Clients can expect an affirming, structured, and supportive environment for growth.

Healing takes courage, and you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re navigating loss, stress, or life changes, I offer a supportive and affirming space where you can begin again. If you’re ready to take the next step toward emotional wellness, I would be honored to walk alongside you.