Dr. Carla Horton Gray
Dr. Carla Horton Gray
(she/her)
I’m a North Carolina–licensed clinical mental health counselor with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals through some of life’s toughest challenges. My work focuses on helping people heal from trauma, manage anxiety and depression, rebuild after divorce, and navigate complex emotional issues such as bipolar disorder, eating disorders, grief, and chronic medical illness. I also provide support for those struggling with self-esteem, sleep issues, and life transitions. I bring a compassionate, down-to-earth approach to therapy and believe in creating a space where you feel safe, understood, and empowered. Whether you’re facing something recent or carrying pain from the past, I work with you to build practical tools for healing and growth. A proud North Carolina native, I hold a B.S. from Western Carolina University, an M.S. in counseling from Webster University, and a doctorate in psychology from Liberty University. I’m passionate about helping you find clarity, strength, and hope—one step at a time.
Get to know me
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
What to Expect in Your First Session: Your first session is a chance for us to get to know each other in a relaxed, supportive space. We'll talk about what brought you to therapy, what you’d like to work on, and any goals you have for our time together. There’s no pressure to share everything at once—this is your space, and we’ll move at a pace that feels right for you. My goal is for you to leave feeling heard, supported, and a little more hopeful about what’s ahead.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
My Strengths as a Therapist: With over 26 years of experience as a licensed clinical therapist, I bring both professional expertise and genuine compassion to my work. I’ve helped individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including stress, depression, anxiety, PTSD, major medical illness, sleep difficulties, and life transitions such as divorce and grief. In addition to those core areas, I have specialized experience in: Relationship and family issues Eating disorders and body image concerns Anger management and emotional regulation Career stress, burnout, and compassion fatigue Bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and other mood-related concerns Support for caregivers, first responders, and veterans Women’s issues, aging concerns, and self-esteem work I’m especially attuned to the emotional toll of chronic illness, trauma, and high-pressure careers. My clients often describe me as down-to-earth, supportive, and practical. I strive to meet you where you are and help you move toward greater clarity, healing, and resilience—at your pace, in your way.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I specialize in working with individuals who are navigating emotional pain, life transitions, or simply feeling stuck. If you are dealing with a history of trauma, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, or the aftermath of a divorce, I can help. I also support clients working through low self-esteem, eating challenges, relationship stress, chronic medical conditions, or the emotional impact of major life changes. Whether you're in crisis or just feeling overwhelmed, I’m here to help you find clarity, strength, and relief through compassionate, goal-focused therapy.
About Dr. Carla Horton Gray
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VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychological treatment that has been demonstrated to be effective for a range of problems including depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug use problems, marital problems, eating disorders, and severe mental illness. Numerous research studies suggest that CBT leads to significant improvement in functioning and quality of life. In many studies, CBT has been demonstrated to be as effective as, or more effective than, other forms of psychological therapy or psychiatric medications. (APA)
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) that aims to increase psychological flexibility – the ability to stay in contact with the present moment.
Compassion Focused
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT), or Compassion Mind Training (CMF), is the concept of incorporating compassion training techniques into psychotherapy to induce kinder thinking habits.
Grief Therapy
Grief is a personal journey, and I am happy to help
Psychoeducation
I will help you understand what is happening in your thoughts, and physical responses to them.