Photo of Syd Speer, LCMHC/Asheville Integrative Counseling, Counselor in 28801, NC
Syd Speer, LCMHC/Asheville Integrative Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I believe that authentic & supportive relationship is the catalyst for positive change! I help couples, families & individuals better understand themselves & each other. I have extensive experience with relationship repair & enrichment, supporting families & individuals adjusting to separation & divorce, as well as successfully treating mood & anxiety problems. I have specialized training in Gestalt Therapy, Brainspotting, Dynamic Attachment Repatterning Therapy, Addiction Recovery support, alternative/integrative processes including Emotional Kinesiology, Single's Coaching, Heartmath, and several other modes of assisting change!
I believe that authentic & supportive relationship is the catalyst for positive change! I help couples, families & individuals better understand themselves & each other. I have extensive experience with relationship repair & enrichment, supporting families & individuals adjusting to separation & divorce, as well as successfully treating mood & anxiety problems. I have specialized training in Gestalt Therapy, Brainspotting, Dynamic Attachment Repatterning Therapy, Addiction Recovery support, alternative/integrative processes including Emotional Kinesiology, Single's Coaching, Heartmath, and several other modes of assisting change!
(828) 230-8687 View (828) 230-8687
Photo of Erica Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28801, NC
Erica Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
My calling is to journey alongside women that have experienced abuse, domestic violence, addiction or other painful experiences and watch them come into their own power and regain trust and confidence in becoming their most resilient and authentic selves. Your anxious feelings of the unknown and depressing feelings of past experiences have been hurdles for you to climb as you maneuver your way from surviving to thriving in life. You’ve felt a loss of hope for your future. Perhaps you’ve experienced a glimmer of hope from time to time and know it exists, but struggle to hang on for fear of falling.
My calling is to journey alongside women that have experienced abuse, domestic violence, addiction or other painful experiences and watch them come into their own power and regain trust and confidence in becoming their most resilient and authentic selves. Your anxious feelings of the unknown and depressing feelings of past experiences have been hurdles for you to climb as you maneuver your way from surviving to thriving in life. You’ve felt a loss of hope for your future. Perhaps you’ve experienced a glimmer of hope from time to time and know it exists, but struggle to hang on for fear of falling.
(828) 348-5692 View (828) 348-5692
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 George Rinker, Licensed Professional Counselor in 28801, NC
George Rinker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MDiv, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 30 years of experience; I value the uniqueness of each individual and in the strength and creativity of the human spirit. Within the counseling relationship is a safe place to define areas of growth, vent feelings, explore possibilities, find encouragement and move toward peacefulness. My approach to counseling is gentle and encouraging, although I can be direct when helpful. I will support without judging and am respectful of individual and cultural differences. Success Starts with YOU and Counseling can help !
As a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 30 years of experience; I value the uniqueness of each individual and in the strength and creativity of the human spirit. Within the counseling relationship is a safe place to define areas of growth, vent feelings, explore possibilities, find encouragement and move toward peacefulness. My approach to counseling is gentle and encouraging, although I can be direct when helpful. I will support without judging and am respectful of individual and cultural differences. Success Starts with YOU and Counseling can help !
(844) 406-1326 View (844) 406-1326
Photo of Emmi Lohrentz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28801, NC
Emmi Lohrentz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
It is natural for us to encounter bumps in the road every now and then. But sometimes, those bumps feel like mountains and it can feel like we’re stuck. I am here to walk with you and help you move forward in times like these. I believe deeply in the power of human connection in the path to healing and self-compassion. I understand the vulnerability that it can take to seek therapy. My goal in our work together is to create a safe space where you can bring your whole, authentic self. My work as a therapist is grounded in a client-centered approach, meaning that your goals will guide our work together.
It is natural for us to encounter bumps in the road every now and then. But sometimes, those bumps feel like mountains and it can feel like we’re stuck. I am here to walk with you and help you move forward in times like these. I believe deeply in the power of human connection in the path to healing and self-compassion. I understand the vulnerability that it can take to seek therapy. My goal in our work together is to create a safe space where you can bring your whole, authentic self. My work as a therapist is grounded in a client-centered approach, meaning that your goals will guide our work together.
(828) 374-1775 View (828) 374-1775
Photo of Mary Monaghan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28801, NC
Mary Monaghan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Stress, anxiety, uncertainty, and fear can feel overwhelming. You may find yourself turning to drugs or alcohol, harmful eating patterns, self-harm, or fall back on other old habits to cope with your emotions. You may be struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, or fear. Maybe you are in recovery from addiction or an eating disorder, and are having trouble maintaining your progress. You may be navigating your gender and sexual identify. Or perhaps you are concerned that your teenager is dealing with some of these issues. Whatever you are facing, you are not alone! I am here to provide support, guidance, and encouragement.
Stress, anxiety, uncertainty, and fear can feel overwhelming. You may find yourself turning to drugs or alcohol, harmful eating patterns, self-harm, or fall back on other old habits to cope with your emotions. You may be struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, or fear. Maybe you are in recovery from addiction or an eating disorder, and are having trouble maintaining your progress. You may be navigating your gender and sexual identify. Or perhaps you are concerned that your teenager is dealing with some of these issues. Whatever you are facing, you are not alone! I am here to provide support, guidance, and encouragement.
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Photo of Becky M Miller, Counselor in 28801, NC
Becky M Miller
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I'm glad you're here. I deeply respect your courage to engage in this process, and I want to know you and your story. To help you get grounded in your body, perspective, and self. I strive to create a warm space of acceptance, meeting you with care, insight, empathy, humor and playful challenge. Through this, I hope to help you create an experience of self compassion that leads to deep changes in perspective that offer new possibilities for you. I believe therapy is a balance of support and challenge, and you grow at your own pace. I help my clients find meaning in their experiences and move forward to create new stories.
I'm glad you're here. I deeply respect your courage to engage in this process, and I want to know you and your story. To help you get grounded in your body, perspective, and self. I strive to create a warm space of acceptance, meeting you with care, insight, empathy, humor and playful challenge. Through this, I hope to help you create an experience of self compassion that leads to deep changes in perspective that offer new possibilities for you. I believe therapy is a balance of support and challenge, and you grow at your own pace. I help my clients find meaning in their experiences and move forward to create new stories.
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Photo of Peyton Kinnaird, Counselor in 28801, NC
Peyton Kinnaird
Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, SEP
Not Verified Not Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I am encouraged by the resilience of the human spirit. We have an incredible ability to heal and make meaning out of our lives. Within a comfortable therapeutic relationship that is built on trust, the power of telling ones story is transformative and can provide the fuel for making courageous life changes. I work with a range of issues and disorders, including depression, grief, anxiety,attachment and relationship struggles. I have years of experience in trauma recovery work with survivors of violence and sexual abuse. In my work I offer authenticity and direct communication as a compliment to my knowledge base.
I am encouraged by the resilience of the human spirit. We have an incredible ability to heal and make meaning out of our lives. Within a comfortable therapeutic relationship that is built on trust, the power of telling ones story is transformative and can provide the fuel for making courageous life changes. I work with a range of issues and disorders, including depression, grief, anxiety,attachment and relationship struggles. I have years of experience in trauma recovery work with survivors of violence and sexual abuse. In my work I offer authenticity and direct communication as a compliment to my knowledge base.
(828) 705-1157 View (828) 705-1157
Photo of Lauren Kaufmann, Licensed Professional Counselor in 28801, NC
Lauren Kaufmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in supporting individuals preparing for or experiencing challenges in postpartum, and through other life changes. You eagerly anticipated welcoming a new baby, or making a big change in your life, but it's not going quite how you had hoped. You're realizing you’re feeling drained, on edge, overwhelmed, you're wasting time on mindless distractions, and have lost sight of the parent you are or wanted to be. Or maybe you noticed your relationships with others started to become strained, angry, or distant. I can support you in figuring out what’s causing those feelings and how to get back to who you once were… only better!
I specialize in supporting individuals preparing for or experiencing challenges in postpartum, and through other life changes. You eagerly anticipated welcoming a new baby, or making a big change in your life, but it's not going quite how you had hoped. You're realizing you’re feeling drained, on edge, overwhelmed, you're wasting time on mindless distractions, and have lost sight of the parent you are or wanted to be. Or maybe you noticed your relationships with others started to become strained, angry, or distant. I can support you in figuring out what’s causing those feelings and how to get back to who you once were… only better!
(828) 392-5144 View (828) 392-5144
Photo of Kyla Kathleen Rohe, Pre-Licensed Professional in 28801, NC
Kyla Kathleen Rohe
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
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 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 Alissa Hager, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 28801, NC
Alissa Hager
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
How long have you been trying to fit a mold that isn't yours? What if instead of focusing on change and “fixing”, you were able to show compassion for yourself and find true, genuine acceptance of the person you are? What if that’s where real change actually comes from? Maybe you're seeking a soft place to land and explore difficult situations without having to put on the "strong, brave face". I work to cultivate authentic connections with my clients where genuine acceptance is central. I love helping others shift into new ways of connecting with themselves and create meaningful paths forward.
How long have you been trying to fit a mold that isn't yours? What if instead of focusing on change and “fixing”, you were able to show compassion for yourself and find true, genuine acceptance of the person you are? What if that’s where real change actually comes from? Maybe you're seeking a soft place to land and explore difficult situations without having to put on the "strong, brave face". I work to cultivate authentic connections with my clients where genuine acceptance is central. I love helping others shift into new ways of connecting with themselves and create meaningful paths forward.
(828) 330-9601 View (828) 330-9601
Photo of Stephanie Howarth, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 28801, NC
Stephanie Howarth
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, P-SEP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Navigating the complexities of the human experience, your relationship to connection and meaning feels complicated and often challenging. You might be feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, sad and/or a little lost. You want to get un-stuck, or slow down, or feel more connected. You’ve been trying for a long time, and it’s been really hard. I see you. You make sense to me. You don't have to bear that burden alone.
Navigating the complexities of the human experience, your relationship to connection and meaning feels complicated and often challenging. You might be feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, sad and/or a little lost. You want to get un-stuck, or slow down, or feel more connected. You’ve been trying for a long time, and it’s been really hard. I see you. You make sense to me. You don't have to bear that burden alone.
(828) 374-9365 View (828) 374-9365
Photo of James Foote, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28801, NC
James Foote
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, SEP, CTT, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hey, thanks for checking out my listing. If you're struggling with difficult emotions related to your past or feeling stuck in old patterns and trying to manage these issues has only created more problems, help is here for you. If you can relate don't hesitate to reach out. I won’t pretend to know exactly how you're feeling, but as a healer and fellow traveler on the path of wellness, I understand these challenges in a unique way. Contact me for a free unhurried consultation.
Hey, thanks for checking out my listing. If you're struggling with difficult emotions related to your past or feeling stuck in old patterns and trying to manage these issues has only created more problems, help is here for you. If you can relate don't hesitate to reach out. I won’t pretend to know exactly how you're feeling, but as a healer and fellow traveler on the path of wellness, I understand these challenges in a unique way. Contact me for a free unhurried consultation.
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Photo of Blake Crooks, Counselor in 28801, NC
Blake Crooks
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Being human is tough! Each day it seems like there is something new to worry about. The world is falling apart, and the systems we live in are broken. The "This is fine" meme might be feeling a little too real. All the while, you’re just trying to exist and succeed at college and/or work, explore identity in a world that isn’t affirming, heal from difficult past experiences, or maintain the relationships and activities that are important to you. Anxiety, stress, trauma, and marginalization are all competing with what you want to focus on in your life. If this sounds familiar, then hi!
Being human is tough! Each day it seems like there is something new to worry about. The world is falling apart, and the systems we live in are broken. The "This is fine" meme might be feeling a little too real. All the while, you’re just trying to exist and succeed at college and/or work, explore identity in a world that isn’t affirming, heal from difficult past experiences, or maintain the relationships and activities that are important to you. Anxiety, stress, trauma, and marginalization are all competing with what you want to focus on in your life. If this sounds familiar, then hi!
(828) 332-5769 View (828) 332-5769
Photo of Taylor Moeller, Counselor in 28801, NC
Taylor Moeller
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
You want to explore who you are, how you view the world. You sometimes find yourself uncertain of how to connect with others. You worry your true self may be overwhelming or too much. You may have been called “sensitive” or “too emotional” in the past. I consider therapy to be, at core, about relationship. So much of our trauma as humans is interpersonal. Psychotherapy has the transformational potential to practice again (or perhaps for the first time) associating human relationships with safety rather than threat. I feel especially passionately about providing a celebratory, validating container for those with LGBTQIA+ identities.
You want to explore who you are, how you view the world. You sometimes find yourself uncertain of how to connect with others. You worry your true self may be overwhelming or too much. You may have been called “sensitive” or “too emotional” in the past. I consider therapy to be, at core, about relationship. So much of our trauma as humans is interpersonal. Psychotherapy has the transformational potential to practice again (or perhaps for the first time) associating human relationships with safety rather than threat. I feel especially passionately about providing a celebratory, validating container for those with LGBTQIA+ identities.
(828) 521-0517 View (828) 521-0517
Photo of Katrina R Oliver, Counselor in 28801, NC
Katrina R Oliver
Counselor, MAEd, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Together we can create a supportive, nurturing environment where you can explore your experiences, thoughts and emotions at your pace. My ultimate goal is to empower you to take steps towards fulfilment, healing, self acceptance and balance in your life. I prioritize empathy and active listening in sessions and help my clients establish personalized goals, always striving to foster a therapeutic relationship based on trust and genuine understanding. I believe in a holistic approach that considers the mind, body, and spirit, recognizing the interconnectedness of these in one's wellbeing.
Together we can create a supportive, nurturing environment where you can explore your experiences, thoughts and emotions at your pace. My ultimate goal is to empower you to take steps towards fulfilment, healing, self acceptance and balance in your life. I prioritize empathy and active listening in sessions and help my clients establish personalized goals, always striving to foster a therapeutic relationship based on trust and genuine understanding. I believe in a holistic approach that considers the mind, body, and spirit, recognizing the interconnectedness of these in one's wellbeing.
(828) 818-8719 View (828) 818-8719
Photo of Kelsey Reep, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28801, NC
Kelsey Reep
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
We are all faced with the task of aligning with our authentic selves, a journey that is especially challenging for women—we are pressured to fulfill many roles, our decisions are subjected to higher scrutiny, and our right to autonomy is not always in our own hands (i.e., abortion, reproductive rights). In trying to navigate all these moving pieces, we are often overcome by stress, leaving us feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, frustrated, defeated, and inadequate. With all the noise, it becomes difficult to connect with our self and we find ourselves lost and disconnected.
We are all faced with the task of aligning with our authentic selves, a journey that is especially challenging for women—we are pressured to fulfill many roles, our decisions are subjected to higher scrutiny, and our right to autonomy is not always in our own hands (i.e., abortion, reproductive rights). In trying to navigate all these moving pieces, we are often overcome by stress, leaving us feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, frustrated, defeated, and inadequate. With all the noise, it becomes difficult to connect with our self and we find ourselves lost and disconnected.
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Photo of Kenny Enclade, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 28801, NC
Kenny Enclade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCAS, CCTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I know personally how hard it can be to experience sexual/physical/emotional trauma/addiction/depression/grief/financial/relational ruin/overwhelming anxiety. Hoping to get through a day with the jaw clenching/palm sweating/handshakes/thoughts racing/heart pounding/doubting every idea/thought/emotion, asking will this be forever? Sometimes, you experience paralyzing nightmares or dreams that you are moving in slow motion and feel so alone and isolated when in a crowded room. Moreover, the constant dread (or the invisible weighted depression blanket). I get it; I've lived it and worked with many others who have.
I know personally how hard it can be to experience sexual/physical/emotional trauma/addiction/depression/grief/financial/relational ruin/overwhelming anxiety. Hoping to get through a day with the jaw clenching/palm sweating/handshakes/thoughts racing/heart pounding/doubting every idea/thought/emotion, asking will this be forever? Sometimes, you experience paralyzing nightmares or dreams that you are moving in slow motion and feel so alone and isolated when in a crowded room. Moreover, the constant dread (or the invisible weighted depression blanket). I get it; I've lived it and worked with many others who have.
(828) 415-5891 View (828) 415-5891
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
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.