Wayfinder Therapy Services

Hi, I’m John Bates, a Licensed Professional Counselor, but before I was a therapist, I was a teacher, a salesman, and a retail manager. Raised in South Carolina—both on the coast and in the Midlands—I bring a blend of laid-back warmth and practical thinking into my work. While my career has taken different paths, one thing remained constant: my passion for helping others. That passion led me to counseling, where I now have the privilege of walking alongside people as they navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, and couples who struggle with anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Narrative Therapy, I help my clients develop real, actionable skills to work through life’s difficulties. Our first few sessions will focus on getting to know one another, ensuring we build a strong working relationship, and beginning to develop tools that will empower you to move forward. My approach is conversational, non-judgmental, and relaxed, but that doesn’t mean I won’t challenge you. Growth happens when we push beyond old, unhelpful thought patterns—and I’ll be there to help you do just that. I believe we all have the potential to become the best version of ourselves. If you’re ready to take that step, I’d love to support you on the journey. Let’s get started.