Struggling to Find a Psychologist in Myrtle Beach, SC? Here’s What You Need to Know
Living in Myrtle Beach comes with a unique blend of beauty and busyness. Whether you’re drawn here by the coast, family life, or a career in tourism, hospitality, or healthcare, there’s no denying that this area offers both comfort and complexity. But when it comes to finding mental health support—particularly a psychologist in Myrtle Beach, SC—the search can feel frustrating.
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In-person options can be surprisingly limited for a city this size. If you’re looking for someone with a specialty that truly fits your needs—like anxiety, burnout, trauma, or high-functioning stress—you may have noticed how few providers are available, and how hard it can be to find someone you actually connect with.
You may have a preference that your counselor has a religious background or that they are secular. Myrtle Beach seems to offer a variety of religious counselors but it can feel daunting if you are looking for secular options. Don’t be afraid to ask about this.
If you’re feeling discouraged or overwhelmed by the search for a therapist or psychologist in Myrtle Beach, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options.
What Kind of Help Do You Need? A Quick Guide to Therapy, Life Coaching, and Psychiatry
When you’re ready to get support, it’s normal to wonder: What’s the difference between therapy, coaching, and psychiatry—and which one do I need?
- Psychotherapy: A psychologist provides evidence-based mental health care. This often involves working through anxiety, depression, trauma, self-worth issues, or stress. They may use approaches like CBT, humanistic therapy, or psychodynamic therapy. Therapy is ideal if you’re looking for emotional healing, self-understanding, improved relationships, and long-term tools for mental well-being.
- Life Coaching: Coaching is typically more goal-focused and doesn’t address mental health conditions. It can be helpful for people who feel generally stable but want support around achieving life or career goals. Unlike therapy, coaching is not regulated, and coaches may not be licensed mental health professionals.
- Psychiatry: Psychiatrists are medical providers who specialize in diagnosing and prescribing medication for mental health conditions. For folks who want medication, they may benefit from working with both a psychiatrist and a psychologist for a comprehensive approach.
If you’re unsure which path is right for you, reaching out to a licensed psychologist for a consultation can help clarify your needs.
While I am using the terms “psychologist” and “therapist” interchangeably in this post, there are some differences. Learn more here about the difference between a therapist and a psychologist.
In-Person vs. Virtual Therapy in Myrtle Beach
While in-person therapy is a great option for those who prefer face-to-face connection, it’s no secret that there are fewer local psychologists in Myrtle Beach than in larger cities. This is where virtual therapy can be a game-changer.
Many psychologists in South Carolina (including myself) offer secure telehealth sessions, giving you more flexibility and a wider pool of providers to choose from—without sacrificing quality of care. This is especially helpful for those with busy schedules, chronic stress, or limited local access. If you are open to telehealth, it can help to broaden your search to psychologists in all of South Carolina.
How to Start Your Search
If you’re ready to find a therapist or psychologist in Myrtle Beach —whether in-person or virtually— here are some starting points:
- Online Directories: Sites like Psychology Today, Therapy Den, and GoodTherapy let you filter by specialty, insurance, and location.
- Insurance Portals: If you’re using insurance, check your provider’s website to see who is in-network. But keep in mind: not all psychologists accept insurance, and many offer sliding scale fees or superbills for reimbursement which can be a good alternative to insurance for many. If you do use insurance, you must have mental health diagnosis that will be added to your medical record.
- Word of Mouth: Asking trusted friends, family, or local support groups can sometimes lead to great referrals.
- Therapist Websites: Many psychologists have personal websites where you can get a feel for their approach and whether they might be the right fit for you.
Sorting through the Best Fit
It can be hard to find a therapist who you connect with and who has openings for new clients. So be prepared to do a little legwork. This is your life and mental wellness we are talking about! So you don’t need to see just anybody.
Find psychologists who will do a free consultation and interview several of them. Go with the one you connect with the most and don’t be afraid to change your mind. If you do change your mind, tell your therapist what isn’t working. They may be able to change their approach or offer you referrals to a better fit.
Looking for a Therapist or Psychologist in Myrtle Beach, SC?
If you’re searching for a therapist or psychologist in Myrtle Beach, SC, I’d be honored to help. I offer compassionate, personalized therapy for professionals, caregivers, women, and anyone navigating high-functioning anxiety or life transitions. Whether you prefer in-person sessions or the convenience of virtual therapy, my practice is designed to meet you where you are—with warmth, clarity, and evidence-based care.
If you’re ready to feel more grounded, empowered, and at ease in your life, I invite you to learn more about how I help — learn more about my services or schedule a free consultation.