Alena Carnes
I help young adults and adults (ages 18–64) healing from childhood trauma and neglect who struggle with anxiety, emotional dysregulation, perfectionism, and low self-esteem develop the tools to regulate their emotions, build self-trust, and move forward without feeling controlled by their past. I believe there is hope after trauma. When someone begins therapy with me, I want them to know that they don't have to continue feeling stuck in the effects of what happened to them. Together, we can explore and understand the trauma, look at how it may be impacting their life today, and identify ways to help them start feeling better.
As a trauma survivor myself, I bring empathy and an appreciation for the courage it takes to face painful experiences and begin healing.
I want therapy to be a safe and supportive space where clients feel comfortable expressing what they are feeling and what is bothering them without fear of judgment. I know that talking about trauma can be difficult, and clients don't have to navigate that process alone. My hope is that clients can learn to understand themselves and their responses, develop tools to regulate difficult emotions, feel better about themselves, and begin to see their lives from a new perspective.
First session
During our initial session, I will take time to get to know you and gain a better understanding of what has led you to seek additional support at this time. We will review your intake information, discuss any previous counseling or therapy experiences, and explore your goals for treatment. We will also talk about what to expect from the therapy process, review informed consent, and answer any questions you may have to help ensure you feel comfortable and informed as we begin working together.
Strengths
My mission is to bring compassion, understanding, and a trauma-informed perspective to my work with adults healing from childhood trauma and neglect. As a trauma survivor myself, I bring empathy and an appreciation for the courage it takes to face painful experiences and begin healing. I strive to create a safe, accepting, and supportive space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to explore their experiences without judgment. I bring a collaborative, strengths-based approach to therapy, meeting each client where they are and recognizing the resilience, abilities, and potential they already possess. I work alongside my clients to help them understand how past experiences may be affecting their present lives while identifying practical tools, resources, and strategies that support their individual needs and goals. My goal is to help clients strengthen emotional regulation, build self-trust, and develop greater confidence in their ability to navigate life's challenges. I am committed to showing up with authenticity, patience, and compassion, empowering clients to recognize their strengths, break free from patterns that no longer serve them, and move forward with a greater sense of control, confidence, and connection to who they want to become.
Ideal clients
I help adults healing from childhood trauma and neglect who struggle with anxiety, emotional dysregulation, perfectionism, vulnerability, or low self-esteem understand how their past is affecting them, develop tools to regulate their emotions, and regain a sense of control so they can feel better about themselves and live their lives more fully. I have a particular interest in working with adults whose childhood trauma is intertwined with adverse religious experiences.
Treatment methods
EMDR
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and 17 years as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I bring experience, compassion, and a trauma-informed perspective to my work with clients. I am trained in EMDR therapy, an evidence-based approach that can help clients process distressing experiences, reduce symptoms, and create meaningful change. I provide a warm, safe, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported as they explore past experiences, navigate current challenges, and work toward their goals. My approach is collaborative and strengths-based, recognizing each client’s resilience and helping them build on the strengths they already possess. I walk alongside my clients throughout the healing process, offering compassionate support and practical, evidence-based strategies to help them regulate emotions, build self-trust, and break free from patterns that no longer serve them. My goal is to empower clients to feel more confident in themselves, navigate life’s challenges with greater ease, and create a life that reflects their values, needs, and hopes for the future.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
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Serves
Doesn't specialize in
Licensed in
- KentuckyLicense 104867
- South CarolinaLicense 11992