UnitedHealthcare/Optum Therapists in North Carolina

I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in NC. I help individuals and couples work through life’s challenges by combining evidence-based approaches like CBT and Solution-Focused Therapy with a faith-based perspective. I’m compassionate but also direct—I challenge my clients to do the work needed to grow, break unhealthy patterns, and reach their therapeutic goals. My goal is to create a supportive space where you feel both encouraged and empowered to make real progress in your life.

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor based in Raleigh, North Carolina. I have more than 10 years of counseling experience and has worked in private practice since 2021. I received a Master of Arts degree in Counseling from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. I also hold a Master of Education degree in School Counseling from Liberty University, located at Lynchburg, Virginia.

Hello! I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor and a licensed clinical addictions specialist in the state of North Carolina. I am also a licensed professional counselor in the state of Colorado and South Carolina. I received my Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from East Carolina University and have been working in the field of mental health and substance use for over 8 years. I operate from a strengths-based and solutions-focused orientation.

I am a caring and compassionate provider. I enjoy helping people discover their strengths and abilities. I am a very direct therapist but I will walk along side you and help you navigate through life's challanges. I will equip you with the tools you need to overcome the obstacles that you are facing as we determine the best way to walk through them together.

Hi, I’m Charlie Counselman, a therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion and practical support. I specialize in working with clients dealing with anxiety, addiction, and depression, using evidence-based approaches like CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and 12-step facilitation. I also have extensive experience treating men's issues, agoraphobia, and trauma. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can build resilience, find clarity, and move toward lasting growth.

Hi! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Massachusetts. I have a Ph.D. in psychology and counseling from Regent University and many years of my own experiences to draw from that make me a grounded understanding partner to help get you back on track. I can help you find the sources of your stress and develop ways to deal with them or if you have lost a loved one, I can help you to understand the pain, process the loss, and find your strength to move forward.

Greetings to all of you. My name is Jameion B. Fowler. I'm so happy to be able to work with a variety of different populations throughout my career. These include Mental Health, Substance Abuse and work with Children and families. I am currently working as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Therapist. I am currently licensed in North Carolina and South Carolina.

Hi, my name is Jonathon Payne and I am a practicing Licensed Clinical Mental Health Clinician, LCMHC, with the State of North Carolina with over 18 years of experience. Most of my work experience has come from working with individuals in crisis settings and or situations. The work has always been challenging, humbling, and rewarding. It has taught me the value of true genuineness and the importance of being able to connect with people and build working relationships. I love therapy. I respect the therapeutic process and value the hard work and introspection it requires. Therapy is something that I am passionate about. Everyday it provides me an opportunity to help others and learn from others. I am proud of the things I have learned, but even more humbled and optimistic of things that I continue to learn. One thing I would tell you is that a have a real passion and commitment to counseling and the therapeutic process. It is and has been what I love to do. I put tremendous value on the importance communication, language, and building a good therapeutic relationship or rapport. Its important to me that you, the patient feel safe, heard, and valued. My counseling style is very laid back and supportive, with a very non-judgmental stance. However, I am not afraid to roll my sleeves up and work hard. I believe in being supportive, motivating, and challenging. Its important that you have the opportunity to work hard, learn, grow, while developing realistic attainable and measurable goals.

Hello, I am Lori Breland MA, NCC, LCMHC, C-DBT. My primary focus is working with juvenile females/ at risk youth aged 11-17 with significant behaviors and/or involved in the court system. I am a MA (Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling), NCC (National Certified Counselor), LCMHC (Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor), and C-DBT (Certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I am a member of ACA, ACES, Chi Upsilon Chi Honor Society, and Southern ACES.

Welcome — I’m John Dyson, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC), based in the foothills of North Carolina. Take a moment to acknowledge that you’ve already taken the first step toward bettering your mental health. Let’s be honest — starting therapy can feel empowering, confusing, or even scary — sometimes all at once. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you can explore concerns related to anxiety, depression, and self-care. I focus on helping clients build assertive communication skills and healthy boundaries, both with themselves and with others, in ways that support a more balanced, fulfilling life. Therapy is an opportunity for personal growth in whatever way you're seeking — whether that means navigating specific challenges or building the life you deeply deserve. If that’s what you’re looking for, I’m here when you’re ready. Together, we’ll clarify the challenges you’re facing and identify where you want to be — a month, six months, or a year from now. Then, we’ll explore actionable strategies to help you move forward. You'll leave each session with a clearer understanding of your situation and a set of “next steps” you can begin right away. There will always be space for feedback and collaboration in our work — including holding each other accountable as we walk this path together.

Are you in search of completing your puzzle? The puzzle we call life? Look no further, together we can find the missing piece(s) and bring the function back into the dysfunction and chaos. Navigating through your thoughts, feelings, and actions to create the unique YOU, you have always wanted and needed. The power is yours! I, Paula Patterson, MSW, LCSW look forward to the opportunity to be a part of your journey. Please feel free to reach out and make your dream life of healthy, happy relationships become a reality,

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in NC and a Licensed Professional Counselor in SC. I received my Master's Degree from Montreat College. I have been practicing professional counseling for 9 years. I help those ages 16+ learn how to navigate life, manage stressors, identify and manage emotions while building coping skills and learning to reframe negative thoughts.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Texas but also licensed in the state of North Carolina. I received my Master's degree from the University of Texas Pan-American and have been practicing for 12 years. I help guide people of all ages through their difficult times and focus on emotional and mental self-growth. Finding the push we need in life is possible when we seek specialized help that will foster a healthier version of ourselves.

Hi, my name is Anna. I am licensed in North Carolina with over 10 years of professional experience. I'm deeply passionate about helping others navigate life's challenges with more clarity, compassion, and connection. I believe the therapeutic relationship is one of the most important components of therapy, and strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel genuinely seen and supported.

Hi, I'm Tyshequa McBride, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist in North Carolina. I am also a Licensed Professional Counselor in SC. My passion for mental health started with substance use as I watched family and community members go through the cycle of addiction and incarceration. I stepped into the mental health field as a Mental Health Technician working with adolescents hospitalized due to challenges with mental health. I later attended the University of Carolina at Pembroke and earned my MA.Ed in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Graduate Certificate in Addictions Counseling. I began my work as a mental health provider working with ex-offenders re-entering society, and I later transitioned into inpatient crisis work for substance use detoxification and mental health stabilization. I am now providing mental health and substance use services in Outpatient therapy to adults from diverse backgrounds. *I do offer a sliding scale and we can discuss during the first session. *

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS). I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling with a concentration in Rehabilitation counseling from North Carolina Agricultural & State University. I have more than 7 years of experience serving various populations in Outpatient and Inpatient settings. I have experience providing individual & group therapy to children, adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of issues and concerns including substance abuse, serious and persistent mental illness, criminal justice involvement,and mood disorder.

Candace “NIX” Fritts is a licensed Zumba instructor, yoga instructor and Licensed Clinical social worker. She has been teaching Zumba over 5 years and has utilized her passion for healing and helping others as a therapist over the past decade. “NIX” specializes in and has a passion for cultural diversity, gender identity/LGBTQIA+ issues, equality, relationship/marital issues, depression, anxiety, and Trauma. She defines "empathy" as her number one skill and superpower. In addition “NIX” is a huge advocate and member of the LGBTQIA+ community. She is also a member NAACP and the Black political caucus of Cabarrus County. NIX also encourages health and wellness with a belief that healing can be achieved in various ways. Fun Fact: NIX was once a contestant on “Lets make a Deal”

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina and South Carolina. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. Don't let that scare you. I do not judge and am easily relatable. I love working with clients who find themselves in a place where they have to make life decisions and help them think through what the best decisions would be.

Hello! My name is Chandra and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker located in North Carolina. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Indiana University School of Social Work (IUPUI). I help people cope with life transitions and the stress that comes along with them. I have 19 years of experience working with youth and families in various settings.

Hello, Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or like life is taking over? It's completely natural to experience these emotions from time to time, but you don't have to navigate these challenges alone. My name is Latonya Badger, and I'm an experienced and compassionate mental health provider here to support you on your journey towards well-being and happiness. I have 4+ years of experience in the mental health field, I am a licensed therapist dedicated to helping individuals like you find balance, resilience, and inner strength. My approach is client-centered, meaning I tailor each session to your unique needs and circumstances. Together, we'll work collaboratively to address your concerns and develop personalized strategies to cope with life's stressors.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in North Carolina. I graduated in 2020 with my Master's of Social Work from Western Carolina University, and I've been working with youth and families for over 15 years, 8 of those being in the mental health field. I help neurodivergent, queer, and gender-expansive adolescents, teens, and young adults find ways to live authentically as themselves in a world that can be unkind and harsh. I also support people who have had negative experiences with therapy in the past and want to try again with a more person-centered and affirming approach.

Hello, my name is Tristan Thomas, a dedicated mental health professional committed to guiding individuals on their journey to wellness. With a passion for helping others and years of experience in the field, I provide compassionate support and evidence-based interventions to empower individuals to overcome challenges and thrive. Let's work together to prioritize your mental well-being and achieve your goals.

Over 22 years of actively working with others to support their holistic healing journey has formed my practice to include multiple different modalities. These modalities include Cognitive behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, DBT, Mindfulness techniques and somatic therapeutic interventions. I work with Substance Use Disorder OP Treatment including MAT as well as other mental health concerns. From Acute Stress to Chronic and Complex PTSD my experiences and training can support you on your journey to long term wellness and development of the life you've always known you were capable of growing.

Hello, I'm a counselor with a background in Forensic Psychology, having worked in the field since 2004. I have the privilege of serving a diverse range of clients from various ethnicities, racial backgrounds, and socioeconomic classes. My approach is non-judgmental, patient, and easy-going, creating a safe space where you can feel heard and understood. With many years of experience working in correctional settings, particularly with individuals in acute crisis, I am passionate about helping you navigate challenges, find solutions, and work towards lasting positive change. My goal is to empower you to take control of your well-being and move forward with confidence.

Hi, I am a Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in North Carolina. I received my degree from Saybrook University in California and have been practicing for the past 15 years. I have specialized training in Somatic Experiencing and Attachment Therapy. I work with adults to resolve symptoms of stress, shock, and trauma that accumulate in our bodies and nervous systems transforming patterns that get stuck and impact our daily life. I support clients in bringing their nervous systems back into balance getting out of fight, flight and freeze to strengthen one's sense of safety, resourcefulness and resilience in the world. Some of the techniques I use are helping clients slow down and attune to what is happening in their bodies. I also work with clients on "resourcing" or finding tools to help them self soothe when they are feeling emotionally overloaded.

Hi, I’m Caitie! If you’re experiencing anxiety, low mood, self-doubt, or finding it hard to adjust to life changes, I’m here to support you. Together, we can work toward rediscovering a calmer, happier version of yourself. I know reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. My goal is to make that first step feel a little easier by offering compassionate, nonjudgmental support in a safe space. Life’s challenges aren’t meant to be faced alone, and I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey. My approach is to counseling is grounded in Dr. Carl Rogers’ Person-Centered Therapy, which values each individual’s unique story and focuses on creating a counseling experience tailored to your needs. I am especially passionate about working with teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, and mood-related challenges. Whenever you’re ready to take the next step, I’d be grateful for the opportunity to support you in this chapter of your life. I look forward to connecting with you.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) based in North Carolina. I received my Masters from the Gardner-Webb University and have been practicing for 9 years. I help young adults and children struggling with career/school stress as well as feeling stuck in a life. All the pressures we have today lead to melancholy and burnout. Lets work together to help you become the best versions of yourself so you can feel peace and contentment.

Hi, my name is Anna Lanier-Comar. I have been practicing in the mental health field for 17 years. I served in the Air Force Reserves for 8 years as a Mental Health Technician while earning my MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I completed the requirements for Licensure while working at an inpatient Eating Disorder Facility in North Carolina. I have been practicing as a Licensed Therapist since 2017. Most of my professional experience is in treating Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Borderline personality disorder and Eating disorders. I use a few different modalities in therapy. I work to help clients feel empowered over their human experience; good and bad. If you have not participated in therapy before it can seem a little daunting. During the first session, we will go over your relevant history and compile a list of goals you would like to accomplish while in therapy. In the following sessions, we will increase coping skills and strategies, along with awareness of your emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Throughout therapy we will work to increase your resilience, confidence and adaptability to all life has to throw at you, as well as heal from the parts of your past that need your attention.

Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) base in North Carolina. I earned my Master's Degree from East Carolina University and have accumulated 15 years of experience in the social work field, with 9 years of practice. I specialize in providing support to young adults and women going through various life transitions, particularly motherhood. I thoroughly enjoy assisting individuals during the perinatal to postpartum stages. I also specialize in guiding clients through their healing journey from past traumas, grief and loss, and burnout.

Hi there, I'm Jenni! Feeling stuck and frustrated? Struggling to deal with the loss of a loved one? Trying to find balance in your life while coping with chronic illness? Expecting an upcoming change? Not able to sleep or stay on top of things in your life? I am here to help! Therapy cannot be effective if we are not meeting your specific needs and goals. I want to meet you where you are and together identify a path forward. I like to understand you, your values, and your background while also giving you solution-focused interventions you can utilize to make changes. If talking it through without homework is the way you want to go, that is fine too! We are all capable of change and moving forward but sometimes it is the dialogues in our head, relationships, or other factors that are getting in our way. Therapy is a great place to work through those and be more connected with what you value in your life. Let's work together!

Hi! I am a dually licensed therapist in both Florida and North Carolina. I began my education later in my adult life, and believed I had arrived late to the game. But I found that life experience paired with my own belief system, allowed me the opportunity to view life's challenges through a unique lens, and because of that I am non-judgmental and empathetic towards people who are struggling with the hurts life has dealt them. I believe in using a collaborative approach in helping my clients. I use evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and Motivational Therapy, as well as Christian Counseling. I am supportive, yet direct with empathy, compassion and help you address the barriers in your life that are causing you pain and distress.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in North Carolina. I received my Master's Degree in Social Work with an Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology/ Minor in Criminal Justice. I began my professional career working with at-risk children, teens and their families. I then expanded into working with adults providing individual and group therapy. My professional career is roughly 15+ years. I've worked within homes, schools, residential facilities, military installations, and community based programs. I'm currently focusing on providing individual therapy within a variety of mental health disorders.

Hi there, I'm Tonya Bunch. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 11 years experience serving the community. I help high performers, emotional suffering, and trauma survivors to manage burnout, learn emotion regulation, mindfulness, and recovery in trauma. Together we will work to identify what is working and what is not working for you to help balance your life. We will use a person-centered approach to balance your mind, body, spirit and environment. I love using strength-based and mindfulness to help you learn that you have the coping skills to manage your struggles. Whether you are seeking help for anxiety, depression, trauma or relationship issues, I am here to help. Seeking therapy is scary and taking the first step is the hardest. I am here to support you nonjudgmentally, no matter the issue. You are making the right choice. I give you the space and time to build a therapeutic relationship to reach your goals. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I will meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the hangups and habits that have been holding you back. Let's work together!

Arlicia Hall is a dually licensed mental health counselor and clinical addictions specialist with a proven record of leadership in behavioral health, substance abuse treatment, and care management. Over her extensive career, she has held pivotal roles including Program Director, Care Manager Supervisor, and Regional Manager, where she has guided multidisciplinary teams, ensured regulatory compliance, and developed innovative, patient-centered care models. Arlicia’s clinical approach is eclectic, integrating techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and other evidence-based practices to meet the unique needs of each client. She believes that flexibility, cultural sensitivity, and collaboration are essential to effective treatment, allowing her to create interventions that are both clinically sound and personally meaningful. Her expertise spans clinical oversight, program development, and quality improvement, with a deep commitment to integrating behavioral health interventions into comprehensive care systems. She has successfully led organizations through audits, accreditation processes, and performance turnarounds, always keeping the needs of patients and staff at the forefront. Her work has touched diverse populations—from individuals navigating co-occurring disorders to communities in need of tailored care management—ensuring equitable access to effective treatment and support. In addition to her leadership roles, Arlicia has maintained a thriving private practice, providing therapy, clinical supervision, and professional mentorship for emerging substance abuse counselors. She is a strong advocate for collaboration across health systems, criminal justice agencies, and community resources to achieve sustainable recovery outcomes. Known for her engaging speaking style and practical insights, Arlicia regularly shares her expertise at industry and community events. She inspires audiences with her vision for integrated, compassionate, and adaptable care that not only addresses immediate clinical needs but also builds pathways for long-term wellness.

Hi! I'm a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and licensed clinical addiction counselor (LCAS.) I went to graduate school at the University of Vermont and have provided therapy services for more than 30 years in outpatient mental health settings as well as in inpatient psychiatric and addiction treatment settings. I'm in long-term recovery from alcohol and opiate dependence. Fun fact: I worked on an offshore lobster boat in the Gulf of Maine for 4 years.

I provide a non-judgmental, genuine, and warm atmosphere that helps clients feel at ease from the start. My passion is supporting people through a wide range of challenges — whether it’s everyday stress related to relationships, work, or school, or deeper, long-standing issues rooted in childhood or past trauma. No matter where you’re starting from, my goal is to help you develop a stronger, more grounded, and content sense of self.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience and a Master's degree from NC State University, I've dedicated my career to helping people break free from what's holding them back and rediscover their path to growth and fulfillment. Through our work together, you'll develop practical strategies and insights that will help you move beyond feeling stuck and start building the life you envision for yourself.

Welcome! If you are seeking a down to earth and relaxed therapist- you are in the right place! I specialize in creating a safe and affirming space for individuals within the LGBTQ+ communities- where I have lived experience, individuals navigating chronic illness and caregiving, and those impacted by hoarding behaviors. I understand how important it is to feel heard and validated, especially when dealing with sensitive topics such as gender identity, transgender health, trauma, anxiety, depression, boundary setting, communication skills, chronic disorganization, and more. I write gender affirming care letters.

Hi Folx, my name is Daja and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 8 years in clinical practice. I began my career providing family therapy to children, adolescents and families in rural NC communities. From there, I transitioned to a large multi-state psychiatric and behavioral health outpatient practice where I served as both a psychotherapist and Regional Director for three years. After transitioning from that role, I worked in clinical care management with a large corporate insurance company, serving members with complex clinical care needs. As a therapist, I’ve focused my work on supporting folks better manage mental health conditions, cultivate greater joy in their lives and improve their relationships. I sincerely enjoy learning folks’ stories and assisting them as they navigate new and old life challenges/transitions.

Hello, I'm Carrie, an LCSW therapist based in North Carolina. I received my Bachelors from Winston Salem State University and my Master's from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill with over ten years of experience as a therapist in many settings with various age groups. I practice therapy to assist others with achieving their goals in the most effective and in a timely manner.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a National Certified Counselor with over 10 years of experience providing therapeutic services to individuals and families. I am dedicated to the field of psychotherapy and committed to the client/therapist relationship. I have a Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Palo Alto University, CA. As a therapist, I am non-judgmental, empathetic and eager to see you become your best self. I am open minded and value the art of listening. I believe in the power of gained insight and self awareness. I trust that you can succeed in whatever it is you set your mind to. As a therapist and client team- We got this!

Hi! I'm Rebecca! I've been a therapist for nearly 15 years and specialize in anxiety, trauma, and neurodiversity. I help clients regain a sense of safety in the world and (re)learn how to trust their own bodies and nervous systems. I also help my clients understand how to work with their unique neurotype rather than against it. Using a trauma-informed approach, I believe in letting my clients set their own pace, whether that looks like jumping right in to the hard work or taking a bit of time to feel comfortable and confident before making big changes or sharing details about the past.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) based in North Carolina. I received my Masters from the University of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and have been practicing for almost 9 years. I have worked in Community Based settings, hospital settings and outpatient. I have worked with clients that range in age from children to adults including couples. I strive to create a therapeutic relationship fosters respect, growth, development and change. I will use multiple treatment modalities to meet your needs and challenge you in different areas. This will help develop effective coping skills for today's life stressors.

I'm Angela Harrington with 10 years please experience in mental health, co-occurring disorders, and substance abuse disorders. My goal in therapy is to elicit change talk, provide positive insight, and motivation to free yourself. When working with clients my structured approach is from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) where the individual learns to explore the link between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Hola! I am a Hispanic, Bilingual (Spanish/English), licensed clinical social worker in North Carolina. I received my Masters from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and I have 40+ years of experience providing therapy services and social work services to the NC community. I have helped clients suffering with difficulty managing their stress and communication styles, relational difficulties- parenting, marital, family-, occupational, and emotional problems such as mood disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and much more. I have a non-judgmental style and treat my clients with respect, empathy, sensitivity, and compassion, and I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support and empower you during that journey.

Hi! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida and NC. I received my Master of Social Work from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio, TX., and have been practicing in North Carolina and Florida for since 2018. I help children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly set boundaries, learn coping skills, and foster positive communication to overcome challenges they have faced throughout life. I am also certified in Trauma Focused - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, ADHD certified, and Parent Instructor certified.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in North Carolina and South Carolina and have a Master of Science in Human Development from Virginia Tech. I have a background working with various ages including children aged 7+ to pre-teens, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I have experience working with various issues, including communication, conflict, depression, anxiety, anger management, self-esteem, emotional regulation, ADHD, relational problems, family issues, and phase of life concerns.

Hi, I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) based out of Morehead City, North Carolina. I have my Masters in Counseling from East Carolina University and have been working in this area for the past 13 years. I have mostly been working with adolescent and young adults during this time, but can work with any aged client that is ready to begin their counseling journey.

Welcome! I’m April, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina. Congratulations on taking the first step towards reaching your goals. Don’t discount the decision you’ve made to search for help, because many people never do so. I see counseling as a partnership between the therapist and the client; I have the mental health expertise while you’re the expert of you! For this reason I'll spend our earliest contacts getting to know you better. Choosing a therapist is a very personal decision and therefore, I want to give you information so you can choose for yourself if you’d like to work with me. I would describe my counseling style as warm, but professional. I love to use strength-based approaches as much as possible, also incorporating your values into our work. I find myself using an integrative approach, incorporating different theoretical frameworks and techniques that I will tailor to fit your needs. Two approaches I use most often are Person-Centered Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Person-Centered counseling uses a lot of reflection to help you process your thoughts and feelings, which is often the first step towards solving your problems. CBT helps us examine your thought patterns and whether they are helpful or harmful. If a particular thought is harmful that could trigger issues like a depressed mood, for example. We’ll work together to replace the harmful thoughts with more helpful ones. There are many other approaches to potentially integrate into our sessions, and I’d be happy to explain anything I believe may benefit you. I once read a quote online (source unknown) that rings true for me: “A counselor isn’t someone you pay to pretend they care about you. A counselor is someone you pay to teach you how to care for yourself.”

My name is Alisa Spilkia “Gabbi”, a Native of Colombia South America. I have a BA from Hofstra University Long Island, NY where I majored in Mass Communications and continued a career in Audio Radio Broadcasting Media. Having worked for some of the largest record labels in the music industry of that time including Arista, Polygram and Universal Records in NYC and Warner Brothers. Here I learned how to find talent in assisting people with their goals and dreams and be the liaison for artists and repertoire development while dealing with the large demands of the corporate record labels. This moved me into a career in social work upon moving to North Carolina. My life’s passion became to empower others to find and utilize their strengths in the world using a vast array of interventions. Being an orphan myself, my heart resides with the children which is why I made my area of expertise in working with their parents and adults with often co-occurring disorders. I am proficient in working with marginalized populations with co-morbidities, BIPOC, LGBTQIA, and SPMI populations. I establish trust and rapport by expressing empathy and compassion while exemplifying boundaries using an integrative approach for optimum wellness of mind, body, and spirit. I enjoy assisting people who are challenged by anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, and histories of abuse. I strive to be your guide on the side while helping you navigate your way to achieving the goals you set for yourself and to live a more fulfilling and rewarding life.