Steph Furness-Kraft
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in North Carolina. I received my Master of Social Work degree from Rutgers University in 2007 and have practiced social work (mainly a combination of behavioral health counseling, case management, and other services) since then. I help my clients feel heard, seen and understood. From our first session, I engage them in creating their own vision for therapy. Therapy with me is collaborative and relational.
First session
I will send forms for you to complete beforehand so I have an initial understanding of what your needs are. I'll introduce myself, go over privacy practices and other "housekeeping" items. We'll get to know each other a little bit. Then I'll ask you questions based on what you include in the intake paperwork, and answer any questions you may have.
Strengths
I help people feel understood at a depth that reduces their internal war, while also helping them move toward a life that feels aligned. Also, I've been a client! I know what it feels like to sit opposite a behavioral health professional, and how vulnerable that experience can be. I believe this makes me a more compassionate, attuned therapist.
Ideal clients
I work especially well with adults who feel disconnected from themselves and/or others -- unsure of who they are, stuck in self-critical patterns, or navigating significant life transitions. Many of my clients are in the midst of identity development or reevaluating long-held roles and expectations. I have a particular interest in supporting LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent adults, as well as individuals who have experienced complex trauma and have never felt fully seen or validated. Together, we work to untangle survival strategies that once made sense, build self-compassion, and create a stronger, more integrated sense of self.
Origin story
As a teenager, I used to tell people that I wanted to "see what makes people tick." But once I got out into the real world and navigated my own share of hardships, I realized that understanding people isn't actually that complicated. At our core, we have far more in common than not. We all want to feel safe, valued, and understood. Throughout my life, I’ve watched what happens when people are forced to struggle without proper support, and how that pain ripples out across a lifespan to affect everyone around them. My social work training taught me to look at the whole picture: how our environments, relationships, and histories shape who we are. I chose this path because I am consistently astounded by the strength of the human spirit. I know firsthand that no matter the hardship, healing is possible.
Treatment methods
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
I integrate ACT to help you build practical tools for handling difficult thoughts and emotions while moving toward what matters most to you.
Somatic
In our work, we will pay attention not only to thoughts and emotions, but also how to show up physically. Noticing sensations, tension, or shifts in energy can provide valuable information and support lasting change including improved insight, expression, and regulation.
Psychodynamic
I work from a relational, insight-oriented approach that helps you understand deeper patterns shaping your life. I often use parts work (ego states) to explore the different aspects of you with curiosity and compassion, rather than judgement.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
LGBTQ
White
Woman
Top specialties
ADHD
LGBTQ
Life Transitions
Other specialties
Autism
Mood Disorders
Serves
Adults (18 to 64)
Individual Therapy
Non-binary
Transgender
Doesn't specialize in
Couples Counseling
Eating Disorders
Family Therapy
High Clinical Acuity
Sex Therapy
Licensed in
GeorgiaLicense CSW004294
North CarolinaLicense C018213
Accepted insurance
Kaiser Permanente
Kaiser Permanente - Medicare