Approachable || Authentic || Nonjudgmental

Curious about therapy?

Tidewater Counseling Services offers individual counseling services to clients 18 years of age and older. I'm interested in learning about your mental health concerns and will tailor sessions to meet your unique and specific needs.

I meet you where you are and work collaboratively to assist you in achieving your goals. It really takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and I congratulate you on taking this first step. I am here to guide, support and empower you. I hope to instill a sense of hope from the minute you meet me.

About

About Me

Lisa Barnes

MSW, LCSW-C, LISW-CP, Founder

Since 1991, I have been working with adolescents and adults who want support and guidance in dealing with the trials and tribulations of everyday life.

My areas of specialty include:
• Substance Abuse/Addiction Disorders
• Family and Addiction Recovery
• Codependency
• Depression
• Anxiety Disorders
• Relationship/Marital Stressors/Divorce

Professionally, I began my career in 1991, working at The Johns Hopkins Center for Addiction and Pregnancy. I provided individual and group counseling services, as well as case management services to clients and their families. Over the course of the next 25 years, I spent time working in both residential and outpatient treatment programs, in both clinical and administrative roles.

In 2017, I decided to go into private practice and haven't looked back. I enjoy the autonomy private practice provides, the ability to focus on the clinical part of therapy and having the capacity to create more meaningful client relationships. I do realize that therapy is a process which can be both challenging and scary, so I will always use your comfort level as my guide to help you explore and work through life's struggles. My approach to therapy is individually tailored; I blend elements from different treatment approaches and will customize counseling sessions according to each client's needs.

I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Baltimore in 1991. My fascination with human behavior led me to pursue a master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Maryland. I completed my MSW with a concentration in clinical social work in 1995. Currently, I am licensed by the State of Maryland as a Clinical Social Worker and by the State of South Carolina as a Licensed Independent Social Worker-CP. I am also a Board Approved Clinical Supervisor for the Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners,
the Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists, and the Board of Social Work Examiners in South Carolina.

Outside of the office, I enjoy spending time at the beach, traveling, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Services Provided

Services

Biopsychosocial Assessment

A biopsychosocial assessment helps therapists and other behavioral health professionals learn about you on multiple levels so we can better understand your subjective viewpoints. Biopsychosocial assessments enable therapists to diagnose and effectively treat presenting issues.

Individual Therapy Sessions

I provide therapy sessions to individuals 18 years old and over. Initially, I meet with clients on a weekly basis; I realize that due to scheduling needs or other factors, this may vary. We can discuss frequency and what works best for you. Note that at this time, all sessions are conducted virtually.

Marriage/Relationship Counseling

It's not unusual that there may come a time when couples begin to question whether they are truly compatible. Perhaps you have felt a disconnect for some time, or you find yourself quarreling over the same issues. Has your relationship been affected by an injury in the past and you just can't move past it? During these times, it can be helpful to have a therapist involved. A therapist can help clarify the issues and assist you in figuring out the best route to take going forward in the relationship.

FEES

SERVICES & FEES if paying out of pocket:

15 Minute phone consultation: Free

Initial Assessment/Evaluation: $150.00

Individual Therapy Session, 55-minutes: $130.00

Conjoint Sessions: 55- minutes, $150.00

I am network with several insurance carriers including Cigna, United Healthcare/Optum, Aetna, BCBS of Massachusetts. Please contact me to determine if I am an in network provider with your insurance carrier. Superbills can be provided if I do not participate in your insurance plan. All intake paperwork is completed electronically.

Note:

Note that at this time, all sessions are conducted virtually.
Telemedicine or Telehealth means the delivery of health care services through the use of interactive audio; teletherapy is conducted using our HIPAA compliant platform through Simple Practice or Zoom.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked

How can therapy help me?

Good question! Therapists can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhance coping strategies for many issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, grief, stress management, or substance use issues. Many people also find that counselors can be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, marriage issues, and the hassles of daily life. Therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution.
What about medication vs. psychotherapy?

It is well established that the long-term solution to mental and emotional problems cannot be solved solely by medication. Instead of just treating the symptom, therapy addresses the cause of your distress and the behavior patterns that curb your progress. You can best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being with an integrative approach to wellness. It is sometimes recommended you work with your medical doctor or another mental health prescriber to determine the best course of action for you.
Do you take insurance, and how does that work?

I am in network with various insurance companies such as BCBS, Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare. Please feel free to contact me to determine if I am in network with your plan. I will gladly provide statements and/or superbills that you may take to your insurance company for reimbursement if I am not in network with your plan. Contact your insurance plan to ensure you have out of network coverage if this is the case.
How do I prepare for telehealth?

Telemedicine or Telehealth means the delivery of health care services through the use of interactive audio and video technology, permitting real-time communication between the client and the provider for the purpose of diagnosis, consultation, or treatment. Teletherapy is conducted using our HIPAA compliant platform through Simple Practice. Research to date shows mental health care delivered remotely is effective. In order to get the most out of your virtual therapy session, here are some guidelines to follow. 1. Find a comfortable & private space Getting ready to start teletherapy requires a slight adjustment from traditional therapy because now you are receiving services from within your own home. Your space may need a few alterations to match the privacy and comfort of a therapy office. First, you’ll want to designate a place to sit during your teletherapy sessions. Find a comfy chair and a background that won’t be distracting. If you share your living space with roommates or family members, make sure you find a place that’s private. If you’re worried about being overheard, try a white noise maker app or use headphones. If you have children, consider turning on a show to keep your kids occupied during your session. 2. Practice using the software When you sign up for your first teletherapy appointment, you will be told how to access the online platform for your session. You will need to log into a secure online platform that enables two-way video communication. Make sure your device has camera capabilities, and you are situated near a router for best connectivity. 3. Get in the zone Teletherapy, just like traditional therapy, is going to address some difficult things. It’s likely that you’ll start the session with some apprehension and finish it with some weariness. Opening up to someone may be the healthiest thing you do for yourself, but that doesn’t make it easy. Get yourself in a good headspace to be open before the session starts.

We Can't Wait to Meet You!

Lisa Barnes, MSW, LCSW-C, LISW-CP

843-732-0525

Charleston County, SC 29455

Currently accepting telehealth therapy appointments only; serving the State of South Carolina and Maryland.

Contact

Visit Us

Where we are

Located Charleston County, SC. Virtually serving the entire state of South Carolina and Maryland

Hours of Operation

Monday-Thursday: 9:00am-5:00pm

Friday/Saturday/Sunday: Closed