Photo of Kaitlyn Patterson, Psychological Associate in Wilmington, NC
Kaitlyn Patterson
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I am committed to providing an authentic therapeutic connection with my clients' by creating a non-judgmental, compassionate space. Although I treat a variety of psychological problems, I specialize in eating disorders, trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, and women's issues. I incorporate evidence-based practices into my treatment including compassion-focused therapies, dialectical behavioral therapies (RO-DBT and DBT), and acceptance commitment therapy. You can expect for me to incorporate compassion, humor, and flexibility in my treatment approach.
I am committed to providing an authentic therapeutic connection with my clients' by creating a non-judgmental, compassionate space. Although I treat a variety of psychological problems, I specialize in eating disorders, trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, and women's issues. I incorporate evidence-based practices into my treatment including compassion-focused therapies, dialectical behavioral therapies (RO-DBT and DBT), and acceptance commitment therapy. You can expect for me to incorporate compassion, humor, and flexibility in my treatment approach.
(833) 581-9850 View (833) 581-9850
Photo of Mary Engelstatter, Psychologist in Wilmington, NC
Mary Engelstatter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405
Do you ever feel like you are putting on a happy face to get through the day, only to come home, emotionally drained, and just tired of faking it? Are you ready to take the next step but have spent so long feeling like a burden that speaking about your problems seems almost impossible? Starting therapy can be frightening and, for a lot of us, talking about our feelings doesn’t come easy. That's ok. (Seriously!) I want you to know that it's normal to feel nervous at first and that it is worth it to get your life back. Together, we will work towards helping you live a better life - however that may be defined for you.
Do you ever feel like you are putting on a happy face to get through the day, only to come home, emotionally drained, and just tired of faking it? Are you ready to take the next step but have spent so long feeling like a burden that speaking about your problems seems almost impossible? Starting therapy can be frightening and, for a lot of us, talking about our feelings doesn’t come easy. That's ok. (Seriously!) I want you to know that it's normal to feel nervous at first and that it is worth it to get your life back. Together, we will work towards helping you live a better life - however that may be defined for you.
(910) 519-1970 View (910) 519-1970
Photo of Carol Horwath, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Carol Horwath
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401
I look forward to meeting clients who seek a calm, home-like environment in which to safely explore the various ways their lives may be improved. I can help anyone who is inspired to engage in self-exploration and insight-building in order to release what is old and not working and develop new habits that increase function and improve quality of life. My goal is to meet you where you are and help you to get where you would like to go.
I look forward to meeting clients who seek a calm, home-like environment in which to safely explore the various ways their lives may be improved. I can help anyone who is inspired to engage in self-exploration and insight-building in order to release what is old and not working and develop new habits that increase function and improve quality of life. My goal is to meet you where you are and help you to get where you would like to go.
(910) 519-8671 View (910) 519-8671
Photo of Gwen Borcyk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Gwen Borcyk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
You might be seeking therapy because you feel like no one has your back, that you just can't handle how much crap keeps pilling up on you, because you doubt your ability to manage the craziness of life, the heaviness of it, the complications of family that you love, but who don't always treat you with love and care, you feel weighed down by "failures" and unable to see your strength and successes despite surviving one hard thing after another, and often with limited or poor support. Or maybe you just feel broken and that no one else cares. The truth is most people aren't broken. They may have hearts or minds that have been sprained, but with the right treatment, they can heal. When people come to see me who feel that "no one cares about them" I'm always reminded of how important it is that AT LEAST ONE PERSON cares...and the fact that they got to my office tells me that the MOST important person they can have rooting for them in their life CARES - THEY CARE. They care enough to get the support they need. And that's the first step to widening that circle to create healthy connections so that they don't have to carry that care alone.
You might be seeking therapy because you feel like no one has your back, that you just can't handle how much crap keeps pilling up on you, because you doubt your ability to manage the craziness of life, the heaviness of it, the complications of family that you love, but who don't always treat you with love and care, you feel weighed down by "failures" and unable to see your strength and successes despite surviving one hard thing after another, and often with limited or poor support. Or maybe you just feel broken and that no one else cares. The truth is most people aren't broken. They may have hearts or minds that have been sprained, but with the right treatment, they can heal. When people come to see me who feel that "no one cares about them" I'm always reminded of how important it is that AT LEAST ONE PERSON cares...and the fact that they got to my office tells me that the MOST important person they can have rooting for them in their life CARES - THEY CARE. They care enough to get the support they need. And that's the first step to widening that circle to create healthy connections so that they don't have to carry that care alone.
(336) 459-3277 View (336) 459-3277
Photo of Yael Gold, Psychologist in Wilmington, NC
Yael Gold
Psychologist, PhD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I believe that an atmosphere of trust, compassion, and empathy is at the core of any healing process. Within this context, I provide guidance in uncovering patterns of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that lie at the root of present day difficulties. Often, issues from the past, continue to have a direct effect on current feelings and circumstances. For others, the primary reason for seeking counseling may be related to a major life change or transition.
I believe that an atmosphere of trust, compassion, and empathy is at the core of any healing process. Within this context, I provide guidance in uncovering patterns of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that lie at the root of present day difficulties. Often, issues from the past, continue to have a direct effect on current feelings and circumstances. For others, the primary reason for seeking counseling may be related to a major life change or transition.
(910) 427-5437 View (910) 427-5437
Photo of Joseph Rengifo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Joseph Rengifo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, CCMC, CCSI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Our intrinsic need to adapt and evolve is a double-edge sword. We have developed coping skills that helps us survive external demands, modern society poses a threat to our way of living because we have not been able to catch up. We still behave the way we did thousands of years ago because we have not learned to discriminate between past and present. Let's explore the causes and mechanisms that make your problems what they and create a plan to confront and resolve those issues to protect your mental health. I use an integrative approach to therapy that I call Behavioral Medicine.
Our intrinsic need to adapt and evolve is a double-edge sword. We have developed coping skills that helps us survive external demands, modern society poses a threat to our way of living because we have not been able to catch up. We still behave the way we did thousands of years ago because we have not learned to discriminate between past and present. Let's explore the causes and mechanisms that make your problems what they and create a plan to confront and resolve those issues to protect your mental health. I use an integrative approach to therapy that I call Behavioral Medicine.
(910) 777-5575 View (910) 777-5575
Photo of Scott Koenigsberg, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Scott Koenigsberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
For over 32 years, I have enjoyed being an agent of change that aims to help others become the best version of themselves that they can possibly be. I have been told by my past clients that I am warm, friendly, empathetic, and a good listener. I am here to help you achieve whatever goals you would like to achieve, to help enrich and enjoy your life to the fullest, because that's what life is all about!
For over 32 years, I have enjoyed being an agent of change that aims to help others become the best version of themselves that they can possibly be. I have been told by my past clients that I am warm, friendly, empathetic, and a good listener. I am here to help you achieve whatever goals you would like to achieve, to help enrich and enjoy your life to the fullest, because that's what life is all about!
(910) 708-9831 View (910) 708-9831
Photo of Susan P Shafer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Susan P Shafer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd , LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
As a dually licensed professional counselor and clinical addiction specialist, I have been in practice for over twenty-five years. My strengths include providing warmth, compassion and connection. I have worked with a wide range of adult challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma psychosis and substance abuse.
As a dually licensed professional counselor and clinical addiction specialist, I have been in practice for over twenty-five years. My strengths include providing warmth, compassion and connection. I have worked with a wide range of adult challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma psychosis and substance abuse.
(910) 791-5719 View (910) 791-5719
Photo of LeighAnne Kellogg, Counselor in Wilmington, NC
LeighAnne Kellogg
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
LeighAnne Kellogg is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with years of experience postgraduate school. She is passionate about helping college aged individuals, adults, and couple's through life stressors. LeighAnne specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, stress, and major life transitions. She has experience working with those that struggle with eating disorders.
LeighAnne Kellogg is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with years of experience postgraduate school. She is passionate about helping college aged individuals, adults, and couple's through life stressors. LeighAnne specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, stress, and major life transitions. She has experience working with those that struggle with eating disorders.
(910) 569-8818 View (910) 569-8818
Photo of Heather P Hughes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Heather P Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Heather Hughes earned her Master's in Social Work with a Certificate in Aging Studies from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2008. She works with adolescents and adults using a variety of therapeutic modalities that are tailored to the unique needs of each individual.
Heather Hughes earned her Master's in Social Work with a Certificate in Aging Studies from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2008. She works with adolescents and adults using a variety of therapeutic modalities that are tailored to the unique needs of each individual.
(910) 407-7273 View (910) 407-7273
Photo of Megan L English, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Megan L English
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Currently accepting new clients! Hi! If you’re searching for a therapist, chances are you might be struggling with something in your life. I sure hope that whomever you choose to work with helps you feel better, think better, and ultimately process what’s happening with refined skills. You've got this! I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders and depressive disorders. I also value working with the LGBTQ population, including adolescents, families, and adults, as well as foster/adoptive families. Working with anyone who recognizes a need for change or is interested in making their life better is perfect for me!
Currently accepting new clients! Hi! If you’re searching for a therapist, chances are you might be struggling with something in your life. I sure hope that whomever you choose to work with helps you feel better, think better, and ultimately process what’s happening with refined skills. You've got this! I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders and depressive disorders. I also value working with the LGBTQ population, including adolescents, families, and adults, as well as foster/adoptive families. Working with anyone who recognizes a need for change or is interested in making their life better is perfect for me!
(910) 370-8927 View (910) 370-8927
Photo of Megan Best, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Megan Best
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCAS, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28411
Have you ever avoided emotions because they’re uncomfortable? Have you ever had to face consequences for choices you made to survive? Do you feel like you’re repeatedly making poor decisions and you’re not sure why? Humans don’t like discomfort, and without training ourselves to deal with discomfort - we will do anything to get out of it. We will work on building self-confidence and trust in yourself. Having confidence to say no, feel emotions, connect your mind and body, find your purpose and be able to heal and break free from trauma. We will spend time learning, regulating, and connecting our emotions to FEEL. DEAL. and HEAL.
Have you ever avoided emotions because they’re uncomfortable? Have you ever had to face consequences for choices you made to survive? Do you feel like you’re repeatedly making poor decisions and you’re not sure why? Humans don’t like discomfort, and without training ourselves to deal with discomfort - we will do anything to get out of it. We will work on building self-confidence and trust in yourself. Having confidence to say no, feel emotions, connect your mind and body, find your purpose and be able to heal and break free from trauma. We will spend time learning, regulating, and connecting our emotions to FEEL. DEAL. and HEAL.
(910) 338-3779 View (910) 338-3779
Photo of Courtney Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Courtney Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Waitlist for new clients
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing therapy at Inner Solutions Counseling Center, focusing on helping adults, adolescents, and families navigate life changes and mental health challenges. The goal of my practice is to provide a safe, empathetic space and bring enthusiasm, compassion, and humor to our work together. My therapeutic approach is highly collaborative, change-oriented and strengths-based. I have over 15 years of direct patient experience and provide treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, grief, life transitions, relationship struggles, young adult and women’s issues.
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing therapy at Inner Solutions Counseling Center, focusing on helping adults, adolescents, and families navigate life changes and mental health challenges. The goal of my practice is to provide a safe, empathetic space and bring enthusiasm, compassion, and humor to our work together. My therapeutic approach is highly collaborative, change-oriented and strengths-based. I have over 15 years of direct patient experience and provide treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, grief, life transitions, relationship struggles, young adult and women’s issues.
(910) 586-1402 View (910) 586-1402
Photo of Kasha Sears Howard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Kasha Sears Howard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAMC, CDBT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
As a Clinical Trauma therapist, I know the choice to begin treatment takes courage & purpose & I am committed to providing Safety & Stabilization, processing your traumatic memories and making meaning for self. As well as developing sense of personal & relational integrity and well-being. My practice is rooted in genuineness, desire and a core belief that the human life force is resilient and giving. To get the most out of your TX I need you to approach therapy esp. if you're suffering from trauma, as a collective effort being open and honest about your TX plan/goals.
As a Clinical Trauma therapist, I know the choice to begin treatment takes courage & purpose & I am committed to providing Safety & Stabilization, processing your traumatic memories and making meaning for self. As well as developing sense of personal & relational integrity and well-being. My practice is rooted in genuineness, desire and a core belief that the human life force is resilient and giving. To get the most out of your TX I need you to approach therapy esp. if you're suffering from trauma, as a collective effort being open and honest about your TX plan/goals.
(910) 466-6458 View (910) 466-6458
Photo of Boni Hall, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Wilmington, NC
Boni Hall
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MEd, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Accepting new clients 18+- college, young adults, couples! Need a space to share your thoughts and feelings without judgment? How about moving out of that "stuck space" and forward in your life with improved relationships, attitudes about work/school and solutions for areas identified as causing distress? Sessions will focus on l learning to" think about your thinking", building knowledge and awareness of self, and solving problems with proven skills that apply across all types of situations. I lead with heart, a collaborative spirit, and belief in people. I am a strengths-finder, encourager, and challenger!
Accepting new clients 18+- college, young adults, couples! Need a space to share your thoughts and feelings without judgment? How about moving out of that "stuck space" and forward in your life with improved relationships, attitudes about work/school and solutions for areas identified as causing distress? Sessions will focus on l learning to" think about your thinking", building knowledge and awareness of self, and solving problems with proven skills that apply across all types of situations. I lead with heart, a collaborative spirit, and belief in people. I am a strengths-finder, encourager, and challenger!
(910) 720-6708 View (910) 720-6708
Photo of Charles Barden, Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Charles Barden
Counselor, MA, EL, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
I enjoy working with a diverse population of people. I have had a lot of success working with individuals and couples with substance use issues and addictions as well as those with process addictions such as sex/pornography, gambling, etc. Many times, these addictions are rooted in trauma of some kind. Many times, they will manifest in mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and other pervasive disorders. I want the opportunity to help you navigate through those and beat them. We all know that life is difficult but it doesn't have to be this way everyday. Let's get started on finding who we are together and living life again.
I enjoy working with a diverse population of people. I have had a lot of success working with individuals and couples with substance use issues and addictions as well as those with process addictions such as sex/pornography, gambling, etc. Many times, these addictions are rooted in trauma of some kind. Many times, they will manifest in mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and other pervasive disorders. I want the opportunity to help you navigate through those and beat them. We all know that life is difficult but it doesn't have to be this way everyday. Let's get started on finding who we are together and living life again.
(910) 386-0074 View (910) 386-0074
Photo of Lisa Beresnyak, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Lisa Beresnyak
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCAS, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
I believe all humans have the potential to discover their inner strength and overcome difficulties. I help clients to understand the root of unhealthy behavior patterns and thoughts to break free from what is holding them back from living authentically. My approach includes mindfulness, compassion, and helping my clients to recognize their own inner resources. I look forward to working with you to create transformation, healing and strength from within despite the external challenges of the world, being "stuck" in past trauma or childhood narratives, and day to day stressors - EMDR/trauma based focus.
I believe all humans have the potential to discover their inner strength and overcome difficulties. I help clients to understand the root of unhealthy behavior patterns and thoughts to break free from what is holding them back from living authentically. My approach includes mindfulness, compassion, and helping my clients to recognize their own inner resources. I look forward to working with you to create transformation, healing and strength from within despite the external challenges of the world, being "stuck" in past trauma or childhood narratives, and day to day stressors - EMDR/trauma based focus.
(919) 629-1372 View (919) 629-1372
Photo of Kim Kelley Longbottom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Kim Kelley Longbottom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, MAC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
I believe every person has the desire to be happy and content in their world, as well as the ability to achieve this ideal. However, the way a person learned to view and operate in the world as a child can make it difficult to reach this potential. By addressing a person's core beliefs & values along with their attitudes and behaviors, together we can unlock the potential that's been there from the beginning. As your therapist, I will provide a safe place for you to allow the answers that are within you to emerge so we can work with them.
I believe every person has the desire to be happy and content in their world, as well as the ability to achieve this ideal. However, the way a person learned to view and operate in the world as a child can make it difficult to reach this potential. By addressing a person's core beliefs & values along with their attitudes and behaviors, together we can unlock the potential that's been there from the beginning. As your therapist, I will provide a safe place for you to allow the answers that are within you to emerge so we can work with them.
(910) 915-8896 View (910) 915-8896
Photo of Lyndsey Young, Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Lyndsey Young
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Accepting New Clients! Counseling is a space to be heard and get to work on the healing you deserve. Living your life wrapped up in anxiety, depression and stress is not the life you dreamed for yourself, and change is possible. I am committed to creating a space to facilitate healing, growth, and change. I believe people deserve an intentional space, non-judgmental guidance, and strategic treatment for their unique struggles. You are brave and worth the change you are seeking, and I would be honored to work with you.
Accepting New Clients! Counseling is a space to be heard and get to work on the healing you deserve. Living your life wrapped up in anxiety, depression and stress is not the life you dreamed for yourself, and change is possible. I am committed to creating a space to facilitate healing, growth, and change. I believe people deserve an intentional space, non-judgmental guidance, and strategic treatment for their unique struggles. You are brave and worth the change you are seeking, and I would be honored to work with you.
(623) 321-0032 View (623) 321-0032
Photo of Margaret Mensch, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Margaret Mensch
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Margaret Mensch, MEd, LCMHC has 10 years of experience working in individual and family therapy. She strives to provide quality and compassionate care by helping clients to gain insight, grow, and heal through the therapeutic process. Her passion is guiding, inspiring, and teaching skills to people, so that they feel empowered to overcome life's challenges. Ms. Mensch approaches the therapeutic process through a humanistic lens, using modalities and theories that help fit her clients needs including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness training, and solution focused work.
Margaret Mensch, MEd, LCMHC has 10 years of experience working in individual and family therapy. She strives to provide quality and compassionate care by helping clients to gain insight, grow, and heal through the therapeutic process. Her passion is guiding, inspiring, and teaching skills to people, so that they feel empowered to overcome life's challenges. Ms. Mensch approaches the therapeutic process through a humanistic lens, using modalities and theories that help fit her clients needs including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness training, and solution focused work.
(910) 376-8019 View (910) 376-8019
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.