Photo of Heather Ridge, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 28801, NC
Heather Ridge
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
You notice yourself trying to manage heightened anxiety or panic associated with uncertainty. Changes in your environment, social interactions, and other people’s moods feel overwhelming. You tune in quickly to other people's needs while navigating the experience of feeling sensitive, shy, or struggling with self-esteem. When too much is going on at once you recharge by withdrawing to a quiet place to have a sense of relief. You may identify as a highly creative and innovative person wondering, “How can I get above my self-doubt?”
You notice yourself trying to manage heightened anxiety or panic associated with uncertainty. Changes in your environment, social interactions, and other people’s moods feel overwhelming. You tune in quickly to other people's needs while navigating the experience of feeling sensitive, shy, or struggling with self-esteem. When too much is going on at once you recharge by withdrawing to a quiet place to have a sense of relief. You may identify as a highly creative and innovative person wondering, “How can I get above my self-doubt?”
(828) 383-9943 View (828) 383-9943
Photo of Molly Caldwell, Counselor in 28801, NC
Molly Caldwell
Counselor, LCMHC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I believe everyone deserves a space to process, heal, and grow no matter the circumstance. My therapeutic approach is rooted in collaboration, resiliency, and compassion. I believe healing is a nonlinear process and unique to each individual. I am passionate about facilitating a safe environment in which individuals can explore their own path of self-discovery. I use experiential, expressive arts, body-based, cognitive, and behavioral approaches in my work with clients. I work with teens and adults who have experienced trauma, loss, and eating disorders.
I believe everyone deserves a space to process, heal, and grow no matter the circumstance. My therapeutic approach is rooted in collaboration, resiliency, and compassion. I believe healing is a nonlinear process and unique to each individual. I am passionate about facilitating a safe environment in which individuals can explore their own path of self-discovery. I use experiential, expressive arts, body-based, cognitive, and behavioral approaches in my work with clients. I work with teens and adults who have experienced trauma, loss, and eating disorders.
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Photo of Sandra K Dowd, Counselor in 28801, NC
Sandra K Dowd
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
I have over 15 years of experience working for trauma-informed treatment/enrichment programs. In my practice, I focus on supporting people through trauma and what is occurring inside themselves as a result of adversity. We shift cycles of perfection, hyper-performance, and survival-based rigidity in favor of more grounded states where we follow our intuition and inner healing wisdom. I specialize in finding the crux of the pain and offering gentle compassion and permission- based techniques to sooth the roots of grief so that you can be heard, your system can be cleansed, and your being able to receive compassionate care.
I have over 15 years of experience working for trauma-informed treatment/enrichment programs. In my practice, I focus on supporting people through trauma and what is occurring inside themselves as a result of adversity. We shift cycles of perfection, hyper-performance, and survival-based rigidity in favor of more grounded states where we follow our intuition and inner healing wisdom. I specialize in finding the crux of the pain and offering gentle compassion and permission- based techniques to sooth the roots of grief so that you can be heard, your system can be cleansed, and your being able to receive compassionate care.
(828) 888-0735 View (828) 888-0735
Photo of Hanna Hipp, Licensed Professional Counselor in 28801, NC
Hanna Hipp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Struggling with depression, the loss of a loved one or a relationship, career dissatisfaction, or just overall stagnation in your life can be extremely isolating. My intention is to help you feel less alone as you navigate these times and to help you know and love yourself better. I work with people who are trying to make sense of their existence, what it means to be human, to suffer, to heal and grow. People wanting to live a more authentic life but aren't sure what's holding them back. I offer a space to explore your inner world as a step in the process of becoming more conscious and aware of what makes life meaningful to you.
Struggling with depression, the loss of a loved one or a relationship, career dissatisfaction, or just overall stagnation in your life can be extremely isolating. My intention is to help you feel less alone as you navigate these times and to help you know and love yourself better. I work with people who are trying to make sense of their existence, what it means to be human, to suffer, to heal and grow. People wanting to live a more authentic life but aren't sure what's holding them back. I offer a space to explore your inner world as a step in the process of becoming more conscious and aware of what makes life meaningful to you.
(828) 332-5549 View (828) 332-5549
Photo of Christie Gait, Licensed Professional Counselor in 28801, NC
Christie Gait
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I have a humanistic and client-centered approach. I view the counseling relationship as a collaboration between myself and you. Together we will work towards self-acceptance and self-awareness by dealing with issues such as moods, attitudes, thoughts, and behaviors that may be standing in the way of happiness and contentment in your life. I use an integrative method including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, reality therapy, positive psychotherapy, and mindfulness training with a mind-body-and-soul model.
I have a humanistic and client-centered approach. I view the counseling relationship as a collaboration between myself and you. Together we will work towards self-acceptance and self-awareness by dealing with issues such as moods, attitudes, thoughts, and behaviors that may be standing in the way of happiness and contentment in your life. I use an integrative method including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, reality therapy, positive psychotherapy, and mindfulness training with a mind-body-and-soul model.
(828) 970-1695 View (828) 970-1695
Photo of Kristi Wrolstad, Counselor in 28801, NC
Kristi Wrolstad
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, SEP, ATR-BC, REAT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
Hello. I’m delighted you found me. Let me tell you a bit about myself so you can get a feel for how we might work together. I have an adaptable, multifaceted approach that helps me meet each person where they are so I can best support them in their journey of healing and self-discovery. I specialize in trauma work and have experience working with depression, grief and loss, anxiety, and many other mental health challenges. I have been trained in Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR and am an IFS Certified Therapist.
Hello. I’m delighted you found me. Let me tell you a bit about myself so you can get a feel for how we might work together. I have an adaptable, multifaceted approach that helps me meet each person where they are so I can best support them in their journey of healing and self-discovery. I specialize in trauma work and have experience working with depression, grief and loss, anxiety, and many other mental health challenges. I have been trained in Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR and am an IFS Certified Therapist.
(828) 414-2856 View (828) 414-2856
Photo of Justina Prenatt, Counselor in 28801, NC
Justina Prenatt
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I believe that we live in challenging times. Many people find it difficult to feel confident and self assured, have peaceful, fulfilling relationships, navigate the demands of finances, family, work and home, and also focus on nourishing self care. These challenges are interconnected. They are related to how we have developed our sense of self in the context of family expectations and experiences, societal demands, cultural assumptions, and media influence. It is necessary for all of us to learn how to live our best lives in these particular circumstances. You are not alone.
I believe that we live in challenging times. Many people find it difficult to feel confident and self assured, have peaceful, fulfilling relationships, navigate the demands of finances, family, work and home, and also focus on nourishing self care. These challenges are interconnected. They are related to how we have developed our sense of self in the context of family expectations and experiences, societal demands, cultural assumptions, and media influence. It is necessary for all of us to learn how to live our best lives in these particular circumstances. You are not alone.
(828) 970-8533 View (828) 970-8533
Photo of Isabel 'Bella' Rehak, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in 28801, NC
Isabel 'Bella' Rehak
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA, CADC-I, CTP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Feeling the range of intense feelings that life offers can be hard to do without support. Many times, we may distract ourselves with drinking, drugs, relationships, shopping, food, or work to avoid feeling or experiencing the present. The stress of the day-to-day or the painful memories of the past become too much to hold alone. Intrusive thoughts or behaviors that we wish we could stop taking over and hopelessness appears. Connections with friends and family are difficult and challenging to manage, and we don’t know who to turn to for a safe place to get help.
Feeling the range of intense feelings that life offers can be hard to do without support. Many times, we may distract ourselves with drinking, drugs, relationships, shopping, food, or work to avoid feeling or experiencing the present. The stress of the day-to-day or the painful memories of the past become too much to hold alone. Intrusive thoughts or behaviors that we wish we could stop taking over and hopelessness appears. Connections with friends and family are difficult and challenging to manage, and we don’t know who to turn to for a safe place to get help.
(828) 202-8160 View (828) 202-8160
Photo of Angie King, Counselor in 28801, NC
Angie King
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Sometimes we feel stuck. We’ve tried on our own to heal, grow, and learn but we still find ourselves in the same patterns that have led to a continuous cycle of confusion, shame, and hopelessness. You are not alone. If you have found yourself questioning your worth, your relationships, or your identity, I am here to help. Most of us know, logically, that hardship, distress, and unwanted emotions are a part of life. But sometimes we were not given the correct tools to manage these difficult experiences. Together, I believe we can connect back to your authentic self so that you can lead the life you want.
Sometimes we feel stuck. We’ve tried on our own to heal, grow, and learn but we still find ourselves in the same patterns that have led to a continuous cycle of confusion, shame, and hopelessness. You are not alone. If you have found yourself questioning your worth, your relationships, or your identity, I am here to help. Most of us know, logically, that hardship, distress, and unwanted emotions are a part of life. But sometimes we were not given the correct tools to manage these difficult experiences. Together, I believe we can connect back to your authentic self so that you can lead the life you want.
(828) 373-3237 View (828) 373-3237
Photo of Melisa Enclade, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28801, NC
Melisa Enclade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Hi! I am so glad you are considering therapy. Life can be so challenging at times and therapy is a great place to learn about yourself, process any emotions that have held you back from becoming everything you want, and to move toward a direction of healing and hope. I have worked in addiction and mental health for over 10 years in various capacities. I feel honored to hear your story and walk alongside your journey of recovery and healing. My passion is guiding you through trauma to find understanding, compassion and peace within yourself. Working through deep rooted trauma can be difficult.
Hi! I am so glad you are considering therapy. Life can be so challenging at times and therapy is a great place to learn about yourself, process any emotions that have held you back from becoming everything you want, and to move toward a direction of healing and hope. I have worked in addiction and mental health for over 10 years in various capacities. I feel honored to hear your story and walk alongside your journey of recovery and healing. My passion is guiding you through trauma to find understanding, compassion and peace within yourself. Working through deep rooted trauma can be difficult.
(828) 332-5616 View (828) 332-5616
Photo of Life Coaching Asheville North Carolina Martha Watson in 28801, NC
Life Coaching Asheville North Carolina Martha Watson
PhD, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Life Coaching Asheville N.C.: Your Support System -Feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, trauma, IBS/anxiety, or your child's behavior? Pandemic stress? Our holistic approach (CBT, mindfulness, mind-body) delivers lasting results. This science-based approach tackles stress triggers and helps you cope, restore your health, and handle life transitions. Book your complimentary online Life Coaching consultation today for a drug-free coping strategy.
Life Coaching Asheville N.C.: Your Support System -Feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, trauma, IBS/anxiety, or your child's behavior? Pandemic stress? Our holistic approach (CBT, mindfulness, mind-body) delivers lasting results. This science-based approach tackles stress triggers and helps you cope, restore your health, and handle life transitions. Book your complimentary online Life Coaching consultation today for a drug-free coping strategy.
(828) 888-0944 View (828) 888-0944
Photo of Jennifer Gift, Counselor in 28801, NC
Jennifer Gift
Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in NC, a National Certified Counselor, and a Qualified Professional in Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare with over ten years of experience as a direct care staff and mentor serving pre-teens, adolescents, young adults, and their families. A special focus of mine has been serving helping professionals who experience burnout, through individual counseling, peer support groups, advocacy, research, conference participation, and professional presentations. I am passionate about holistic wellness within the mental/behavioral healthcare field, as this directly impacts client care.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in NC, a National Certified Counselor, and a Qualified Professional in Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare with over ten years of experience as a direct care staff and mentor serving pre-teens, adolescents, young adults, and their families. A special focus of mine has been serving helping professionals who experience burnout, through individual counseling, peer support groups, advocacy, research, conference participation, and professional presentations. I am passionate about holistic wellness within the mental/behavioral healthcare field, as this directly impacts client care.
(828) 677-3005 View (828) 677-3005
Photo of Kambra Meyer, Licensed Professional Counselor in 28801, NC
Kambra Meyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Even the most self-aware humans can experience periods of confusion, stuckness, and destabilization, and oftentimes suffering has unconscious roots. I've dedicated my training and education as a helping professional to learn how to unlock messages from the unconscious to promote healing and well-being. I also strive to arm my clients with concrete tools to use independently, long after our work together is completed. I have many years of experience helping people heal, blending a variety of nontraditional and expressive therapeutic approaches with evidence-based interventions to meet the individual needs of the people I serve.
Even the most self-aware humans can experience periods of confusion, stuckness, and destabilization, and oftentimes suffering has unconscious roots. I've dedicated my training and education as a helping professional to learn how to unlock messages from the unconscious to promote healing and well-being. I also strive to arm my clients with concrete tools to use independently, long after our work together is completed. I have many years of experience helping people heal, blending a variety of nontraditional and expressive therapeutic approaches with evidence-based interventions to meet the individual needs of the people I serve.
(828) 333-5410 View (828) 333-5410
Photo of Kyla Kathleen Rohe, Pre-Licensed Professional in 28801, NC
Kyla Kathleen Rohe
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
There's a part of you, deep down, that believes that you will never be enough. Smart enough, attractive enough, successful enough, likable enough, good enough. I want to tell that fearful part of you that I recognize it's trying to protect you from getting hurt. So you never put yourself out there or take a risk that could be life-changing. I know how hard it is to take a leap of faith, because stability and monotony is safe. If you don't try to go after what you want, you can't fail. And failing is really, really scary.
There's a part of you, deep down, that believes that you will never be enough. Smart enough, attractive enough, successful enough, likable enough, good enough. I want to tell that fearful part of you that I recognize it's trying to protect you from getting hurt. So you never put yourself out there or take a risk that could be life-changing. I know how hard it is to take a leap of faith, because stability and monotony is safe. If you don't try to go after what you want, you can't fail. And failing is really, really scary.
(828) 546-3838 View (828) 546-3838
Photo of Kristin Bure, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28801, NC
Kristin Bure
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
For all of us, there are times when we seek a new direction, a way forward, a fresh possibility for living. Are you feeling stuck or wanting to improve some aspect of your life or yourself? Are you using substances to cope with mental health issues such mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, or chronic pain, stress and life transitions? If you’re here, you know things aren’t okay and life feels unmanageable. Substance use and/or mental health disorders can hijack your life. I can help you get back into the driver’s seat. I can help you feel more empowered to access your innate inner strengths, and reach your fullest recovery potential.
For all of us, there are times when we seek a new direction, a way forward, a fresh possibility for living. Are you feeling stuck or wanting to improve some aspect of your life or yourself? Are you using substances to cope with mental health issues such mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, or chronic pain, stress and life transitions? If you’re here, you know things aren’t okay and life feels unmanageable. Substance use and/or mental health disorders can hijack your life. I can help you get back into the driver’s seat. I can help you feel more empowered to access your innate inner strengths, and reach your fullest recovery potential.
(828) 575-5984 View (828) 575-5984
Photo of Kelly Stracener, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28801, NC
Kelly Stracener
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, SEP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
You might be managing but feeling unsettled inside, or you might be having a hard time keeping up with life. Lots of people struggle with anxiety or get easily overwhelmed and shut down. Sometimes stress exacerbates physical symptoms, like GI issues, autoimmunity, sensory sensitives, or pain, making everything harder. You'd like to get some support and see how things could be different.
You might be managing but feeling unsettled inside, or you might be having a hard time keeping up with life. Lots of people struggle with anxiety or get easily overwhelmed and shut down. Sometimes stress exacerbates physical symptoms, like GI issues, autoimmunity, sensory sensitives, or pain, making everything harder. You'd like to get some support and see how things could be different.
(828) 662-8396 View (828) 662-8396
Photo of Brady Yocom, Psychologist in 28801, NC
Brady Yocom
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I view clients as whole people in the context of their lives. You are more than a diagnosis. It's important to me to collaborate in setting goals, selecting an approach to therapy, and checking in along the way. I've worked with people from a broad range of backgrounds on anxiety, relationships, stress, depression, life transitions, and LGBTQ+ issues. I also specialize in couples counseling for smart, committed partners who want to improve communication, feel more loved, work as a team instead of against each other, or just get unstuck from an old issue or pattern.
I view clients as whole people in the context of their lives. You are more than a diagnosis. It's important to me to collaborate in setting goals, selecting an approach to therapy, and checking in along the way. I've worked with people from a broad range of backgrounds on anxiety, relationships, stress, depression, life transitions, and LGBTQ+ issues. I also specialize in couples counseling for smart, committed partners who want to improve communication, feel more loved, work as a team instead of against each other, or just get unstuck from an old issue or pattern.
(828) 202-8605 View (828) 202-8605
Photo of Michelle Kater, Counselor in 28801, NC
Michelle Kater
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Life is really rough right now in so many ways! We have never experienced anything like what we are experiencing right now. Life has been flipped upside down, anxiety is sky high, depression is increasing, relationships are suffering, and those with children are being forced to become homeschool teachers. The sense of balance in our lives has been thrown out. We feel stuck, depressed, anxious, and maybe even hopeless. It is really important to take care of yourself in this space and reach out for help, to talk things through, and figure out how to move forward in a positive direction. You don’t need to stay stuck in this space.
Life is really rough right now in so many ways! We have never experienced anything like what we are experiencing right now. Life has been flipped upside down, anxiety is sky high, depression is increasing, relationships are suffering, and those with children are being forced to become homeschool teachers. The sense of balance in our lives has been thrown out. We feel stuck, depressed, anxious, and maybe even hopeless. It is really important to take care of yourself in this space and reach out for help, to talk things through, and figure out how to move forward in a positive direction. You don’t need to stay stuck in this space.
(828) 248-0567 View (828) 248-0567
Photo of Heather M. MacLachlan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28801, NC
Heather M. MacLachlan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I am passionate about connecting, supporting and validating clients through life's challenges. I recognize that the world can be a difficult place at times, and everyone can use encouragement, the ability to gain insight, and inspiration. My goal is to work with clients to recognize that the critical voice in your head isn't actually telling the truth. It can be tricky to believe in yourself and find your inner strength when your head tells you the opposite! I like helping clients find their authentic inner voice, that inspires positivity, empowerment, and the ability to believe in the goodness within all of us.
I am passionate about connecting, supporting and validating clients through life's challenges. I recognize that the world can be a difficult place at times, and everyone can use encouragement, the ability to gain insight, and inspiration. My goal is to work with clients to recognize that the critical voice in your head isn't actually telling the truth. It can be tricky to believe in yourself and find your inner strength when your head tells you the opposite! I like helping clients find their authentic inner voice, that inspires positivity, empowerment, and the ability to believe in the goodness within all of us.
(828) 622-5069 View (828) 622-5069
Photo of Denise C Johnson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 28801, NC
Denise C Johnson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, LPC, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Have you ever said “ I will never drink again” only to find yourself drinking again? Do you find yourself hiding bottles? Going to different stores each day to buy alcohol? Does your drinking cause shame and guilt? Are you feeling isolated, alone, misunderstood? Are you stuck in the same patterns of behavior? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here. Together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome your challenges.
Have you ever said “ I will never drink again” only to find yourself drinking again? Do you find yourself hiding bottles? Going to different stores each day to buy alcohol? Does your drinking cause shame and guilt? Are you feeling isolated, alone, misunderstood? Are you stuck in the same patterns of behavior? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you need help from someone else? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have made the right choice by being here. Together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome your challenges.
(828) 332-5298 View (828) 332-5298
Compassion Focused Therapists

How does compassion-focused therapy work?

Compassion-Focused Therapy is based on the idea that humans have at least three emotion regulation systems, including one that responds to threats and another that allows us to self-soothe. Those who experienced serious childhood adversity, the theory goes, have a hyperactive threat system and an underperforming self-soothing system, leaving them vulnerable to shame and a hypercritical mindset. CFT focuses on bringing these systems back into balance, helping the client be kinder to themselves and better able to accept kindness from others.

Is compassion-focused therapy a type of CBT?

Compassion-focused therapy is closely related to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and employs many of its techniques. In addition to CBT, CFT also draws from the fields of biology, evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, developmental psychology, and Buddhism. It also has similarities to some types of trauma-focused therapies.

Is compassion-focused therapy evidence based?

Evidence suggests that CFT can be helpful in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, and other mental illnesses. It has also been shown to be beneficial for individuals who may not have diagnosable psychiatric disorders but who still struggle with persistent self-criticism and feelings of shame.

What are the limitations of compassion-focused therapy?

Compassion-focused therapy is still a relatively new therapy, and research on its efficacy is still in its early stages; while some studies have found positive results, many have suffered from quality issues or small sample sizes. And while most CFT clients find it difficult to practice self-compassion at first, some—especially those who actively fear compassion or are deeply uncomfortable being cared for—may not be fully open to the tenets of CFT, potentially limiting the therapy’s long-term effectiveness.