Photo of Brittany Patterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Brittany Patterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Waitlist for new clients
"The world breaks everyone, but some are strong at the broken places." -Ernest Hemingway. We all encounter challenges from time to time that seem to break us but with support we can strengthen the broken places to become whole again. If you are facing challenges in life with PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges or parenting needs I will help come alongside you to find the strength to heal and become whole again. I work with individuals of all ages (0-adult) as well as families. I take a holistic client centered approach to therapy.
"The world breaks everyone, but some are strong at the broken places." -Ernest Hemingway. We all encounter challenges from time to time that seem to break us but with support we can strengthen the broken places to become whole again. If you are facing challenges in life with PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges or parenting needs I will help come alongside you to find the strength to heal and become whole again. I work with individuals of all ages (0-adult) as well as families. I take a holistic client centered approach to therapy.
(910) 405-8825 View (910) 405-8825
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 Paula Ackermann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Paula Ackermann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28412
Have you ever told people that you had a "normal" childhood and you believed it at the time? But now that you are a little older, you are seeing some cracks in that version of normal? Perhaps you are starting to make connections about how events from the past are impacting you today- holding you back and creating stress in the difference between your goals and vision for yourself and what you can create or accomplish right now. Or a recent trauma (accident, violence) may have shaken your identify and agency in the world and you are struggling to get back to your usual self...
Have you ever told people that you had a "normal" childhood and you believed it at the time? But now that you are a little older, you are seeing some cracks in that version of normal? Perhaps you are starting to make connections about how events from the past are impacting you today- holding you back and creating stress in the difference between your goals and vision for yourself and what you can create or accomplish right now. Or a recent trauma (accident, violence) may have shaken your identify and agency in the world and you are struggling to get back to your usual self...
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Photo of Meredith Staley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Meredith Staley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28405  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you have big dreams for your life, but find that self-doubt sneaks in & shrinks them down? Does “I’m not good/attractive/smart/strong enough” sound all too familiar? Maybe these same doubts have crept into your relationships & led to a sense of insecurity & disconnection. We aren't born with these doubts. Cultural messages & life experiences shape the way we see ourselves and the world. If your environment growing up was not able to meet the universal need for safety, love, nurture & belonging, you may find yourself believing you're lacking in some way, it’s unsafe to trust others, or countless beliefs that keep you feeling stuck
Do you have big dreams for your life, but find that self-doubt sneaks in & shrinks them down? Does “I’m not good/attractive/smart/strong enough” sound all too familiar? Maybe these same doubts have crept into your relationships & led to a sense of insecurity & disconnection. We aren't born with these doubts. Cultural messages & life experiences shape the way we see ourselves and the world. If your environment growing up was not able to meet the universal need for safety, love, nurture & belonging, you may find yourself believing you're lacking in some way, it’s unsafe to trust others, or countless beliefs that keep you feeling stuck
(910) 821-3260 View (910) 821-3260
Photo of Ashley Eldridge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Ashley Eldridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I have worked for 20 years in mental health, addiction, and disability services with people of all ages in home, community, inpatient, and office settings. Clients contact me with a variety of needs. Some have never been in therapy or have had negative experiences with therapists, whom they feel didn't adequately address their needs. I strive to provide a safe atmosphere of empathy and compassion where you can finally feel accepted and heard. I offer tools, coping skills, and resources to help you tackle current challenges and meet your goals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist. I have worked for 20 years in mental health, addiction, and disability services with people of all ages in home, community, inpatient, and office settings. Clients contact me with a variety of needs. Some have never been in therapy or have had negative experiences with therapists, whom they feel didn't adequately address their needs. I strive to provide a safe atmosphere of empathy and compassion where you can finally feel accepted and heard. I offer tools, coping skills, and resources to help you tackle current challenges and meet your goals.
(910) 777-5185 View (910) 777-5185
Photo of Kim Simpson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Kim Simpson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Helping people heal from trauma is sacred to me. It involves creating a safe space where, someone can reflect on past hurt and current aspects of life. The therapy process has the power to guide you towards introspection, enabling you to discover purpose, strength, healing and acceptance. By feeling secure enough to face your inner world, your external world will inevitably improve.
Helping people heal from trauma is sacred to me. It involves creating a safe space where, someone can reflect on past hurt and current aspects of life. The therapy process has the power to guide you towards introspection, enabling you to discover purpose, strength, healing and acceptance. By feeling secure enough to face your inner world, your external world will inevitably improve.
(910) 227-3057 View (910) 227-3057
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 Clarity Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Clarity Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPA, LPC, PhD, LCAS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Let us therapist-client "match-make" you! Finding the right therapist can feel daunting if not nearly impossible. Let our trained staff help match-make you with the best therapist for you. They consider things like: reason for coming in, age, therapist and client personality, insurance, schedule, and client preference when selecting a therapist. Give us a call today and allow us assist in matching you!
Let us therapist-client "match-make" you! Finding the right therapist can feel daunting if not nearly impossible. Let our trained staff help match-make you with the best therapist for you. They consider things like: reason for coming in, age, therapist and client personality, insurance, schedule, and client preference when selecting a therapist. Give us a call today and allow us assist in matching you!
(910) 386-0149 View (910) 386-0149
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 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 Carla Rivera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Carla Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSTIP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do negative thoughts & behaviors hinder your life, career, or relationships by keeping you stuck? Is your inner critic too loud, making you feel like you're not enough or telling you that you can't? If you're struggling with sadness, guilt, anxiety, anger, or numbness, life's demands can be tough to keep up with. Change, though intimidating, is within reach with empathetic, nonjudgmental support. Let's explore together what truly resonates with you on your path to self-awareness, growth, and fulfillment. If you're not ready or unsure where to start, let's talk & discover what truly inspires & drives you forward. I'm here for you.
Do negative thoughts & behaviors hinder your life, career, or relationships by keeping you stuck? Is your inner critic too loud, making you feel like you're not enough or telling you that you can't? If you're struggling with sadness, guilt, anxiety, anger, or numbness, life's demands can be tough to keep up with. Change, though intimidating, is within reach with empathetic, nonjudgmental support. Let's explore together what truly resonates with you on your path to self-awareness, growth, and fulfillment. If you're not ready or unsure where to start, let's talk & discover what truly inspires & drives you forward. I'm here for you.
(910) 405-8481 View (910) 405-8481
Photo of Jeanne Marshall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Jeanne Marshall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401
Taking new clients. For the last several years, I've worked with military service members and their families. I'm a Veteran myself, though I've worked with a wide variety of people. I work with adults, couples, families, adolescents and school age children. Areas of specific expertise are trauma, addictions (addicts and their families including adult children of alcoholics) GLBTQIA issues and parenting. I focus on empowerment, helping you to find the strength to accomplish your goals.
Taking new clients. For the last several years, I've worked with military service members and their families. I'm a Veteran myself, though I've worked with a wide variety of people. I work with adults, couples, families, adolescents and school age children. Areas of specific expertise are trauma, addictions (addicts and their families including adult children of alcoholics) GLBTQIA issues and parenting. I focus on empowerment, helping you to find the strength to accomplish your goals.
(910) 685-7579 View (910) 685-7579
Photo of Jennifer Upchurch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Jennifer Upchurch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28411
Thank you for visiting my profile. In my 23 years as a therapist I have developed a passion in working with adults whom have experienced trauma or attachment wounds & are now struggling with anxiety, depression & repeating unwanted patterns. Recently I've added Equine Assisted Psychotherapy to my practice. I have received specialized training in EMDR or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.I am an Emdria Certified EMDR clinician and I have completed the level 3 AF-EMDR training through the Parnell Institute. This treatment has been enormously effective for individuals whom have experienced traumas or stress in their lives.
Thank you for visiting my profile. In my 23 years as a therapist I have developed a passion in working with adults whom have experienced trauma or attachment wounds & are now struggling with anxiety, depression & repeating unwanted patterns. Recently I've added Equine Assisted Psychotherapy to my practice. I have received specialized training in EMDR or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.I am an Emdria Certified EMDR clinician and I have completed the level 3 AF-EMDR training through the Parnell Institute. This treatment has been enormously effective for individuals whom have experienced traumas or stress in their lives.
(910) 565-4301 View (910) 565-4301
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 Integrated Therapy Associates, Psychologist in Wilmington, NC
Integrated Therapy Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
At Integrated Therapy Associates, we believe in comprehensive care that addresses the whole person. With a focus on holistic well-being, we offer a wide range of of specialized services to cater to diverse needs, ensuring that every client receives the care that they deserve.
At Integrated Therapy Associates, we believe in comprehensive care that addresses the whole person. With a focus on holistic well-being, we offer a wide range of of specialized services to cater to diverse needs, ensuring that every client receives the care that they deserve.
(910) 415-7688 View (910) 415-7688
Photo of Mary Krenzel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Mary Krenzel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Waitlist for new clients
Take a deep breath. How do you feel? Has the stress of life drained your joy, leaving you tired and overwhelmed? Picture yourself filled with energy, peace and stability. Balancing work, family and other life stressors can be difficult and can impact both our mind and body causing pain and suffering. Together we can reduce your stress, balance your mood and find your passion. We may work to improve communication and create deeper connections, process old wounds and cultivate happiness. Now take another deep breath. You can do this.
Take a deep breath. How do you feel? Has the stress of life drained your joy, leaving you tired and overwhelmed? Picture yourself filled with energy, peace and stability. Balancing work, family and other life stressors can be difficult and can impact both our mind and body causing pain and suffering. Together we can reduce your stress, balance your mood and find your passion. We may work to improve communication and create deeper connections, process old wounds and cultivate happiness. Now take another deep breath. You can do this.
(910) 817-4409 View (910) 817-4409
Photo of Audrey Keeton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Audrey Keeton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
You know the phrase, “You have to help yourself before you can help others?” It may ring especially true for you, someone who is running on empty, trying to do everything for everyone. You may feel exhausted, anxious or lack motivation. You may be wondering how much longer you can keep this up. I teach people pleasers and perfectionists to be at peace with their own decisions without worrying about causing conflict or disappointing others. If you want to say no and mean it without guilt or fear I’d love to support you getting there.
You know the phrase, “You have to help yourself before you can help others?” It may ring especially true for you, someone who is running on empty, trying to do everything for everyone. You may feel exhausted, anxious or lack motivation. You may be wondering how much longer you can keep this up. I teach people pleasers and perfectionists to be at peace with their own decisions without worrying about causing conflict or disappointing others. If you want to say no and mean it without guilt or fear I’d love to support you getting there.
(910) 386-0169 View (910) 386-0169
Photo of Kelly Rose, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Wilmington, NC
Kelly Rose
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
Are you finding yourself stuck in the same cyclical patterns of unhealed wounds and behaviors that are affecting your overall mental health and wellbeing? Do you find yourself repeating the same actions that have caused unnecessary pain and suffering in your life? Do you often feel alone and struggle with intrusive thoughts or overwhelming emotions? At times, we may feel lost in our own individual journeys, however, therapy can be a tremendous segue into personal healing. I believe in treating the root of the symptom while supporting my clients through their emotional processes geared toward resolution & transformation.
Are you finding yourself stuck in the same cyclical patterns of unhealed wounds and behaviors that are affecting your overall mental health and wellbeing? Do you find yourself repeating the same actions that have caused unnecessary pain and suffering in your life? Do you often feel alone and struggle with intrusive thoughts or overwhelming emotions? At times, we may feel lost in our own individual journeys, however, therapy can be a tremendous segue into personal healing. I believe in treating the root of the symptom while supporting my clients through their emotional processes geared toward resolution & transformation.
(910) 460-3445 View (910) 460-3445
Photo of Pamela Millan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wilmington, NC
Pamela Millan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28412  (Online Only)
ONLINE VIDEO THERAPY ONLY. Do you want to: Stop feeling stuck and take control of your life and relationships? Gain a new and profound perspective on your relationship? Stop pushing your loved ones away with your anger or other symptoms? Break your dissatisfying and reactive patterns? Stop having the same fights over and over again? Communicate and resolve conflicts easily, and mutually meet your needs? Deeply understand yourself and your loved ones, as well as experience warmth, love, and passion again? Feel a strong connection, enjoy reciprocity and synergy with your partner?
ONLINE VIDEO THERAPY ONLY. Do you want to: Stop feeling stuck and take control of your life and relationships? Gain a new and profound perspective on your relationship? Stop pushing your loved ones away with your anger or other symptoms? Break your dissatisfying and reactive patterns? Stop having the same fights over and over again? Communicate and resolve conflicts easily, and mutually meet your needs? Deeply understand yourself and your loved ones, as well as experience warmth, love, and passion again? Feel a strong connection, enjoy reciprocity and synergy with your partner?
(704) 271-9045 View (704) 271-9045
Photo of Elizabeth Clay Doxey, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Wilmington, NC
Elizabeth Clay Doxey
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, MAC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28409
Looking for an experienced, confidential therapist to begin with to help with anxiety or depression? Are you tired of trying to get through life without serenity and purpose? Are financial worries, addiction issues, or problems about how you look bothering you? I have 23 years in the field of mental health and substance abuse, and I would love to work with you. Confidentially. For only $77 a session, and NO information will go to your insurance company. That's important, because if you use your insurance with mental health or addictions, information IS recorded on your insurance record, including your diagnosis.
Looking for an experienced, confidential therapist to begin with to help with anxiety or depression? Are you tired of trying to get through life without serenity and purpose? Are financial worries, addiction issues, or problems about how you look bothering you? I have 23 years in the field of mental health and substance abuse, and I would love to work with you. Confidentially. For only $77 a session, and NO information will go to your insurance company. That's important, because if you use your insurance with mental health or addictions, information IS recorded on your insurance record, including your diagnosis.
(910) 716-4181 View (910) 716-4181
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.