I'm wondering if it is in fact my starter that needs to be replaced.

When you say it "began to sound like the battery" did that mean that when it was cranking it was slow or hesitant to crank? The clicking noise does sound like a failed battery. A weak or aged battery can operate low amperage electrical loads like dash lights and such, but when the larger demands of the starter motor is needed, the battery has to have the available amps to run it. To be sure you need to have your mechanic check out the starting and charging systems.