Experiential Therapy in Winston Salem, NC

Photo of Jared Brinkerhoff, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Jared Brinkerhoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
There are so many reasons that therapy can be right for you, ranging from daily stressors to massive life events or transitions. Who knows, there might even be a global pandemic or two thrown in just to keep things interesting. Whether your path forward through difficult times is clear and you just want to process the changes, or maybe you can't see the light and need someone to help you find your way, I am happy to go on that journey with you. Because therapy is a truly tough thing, my "ideal" clients are simply willing to give their best effort and commit to the process.
There are so many reasons that therapy can be right for you, ranging from daily stressors to massive life events or transitions. Who knows, there might even be a global pandemic or two thrown in just to keep things interesting. Whether your path forward through difficult times is clear and you just want to process the changes, or maybe you can't see the light and need someone to help you find your way, I am happy to go on that journey with you. Because therapy is a truly tough thing, my "ideal" clients are simply willing to give their best effort and commit to the process.
(336) 872-2095 View (336) 872-2095
Photo of Bonnie Marie Torella, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Bonnie Marie Torella
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I provide help to those who want to feel better emotionally, mentally, spiritually and physically. As a Family Therapist in private practice, I offer support, guidance, and healing to the individual, couple, tween/teen, and family, who are facing challenging emotions or situations. While providing a safe environment for those with a variety of issues, I specialize in treating trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, parent/family and couple issues, child/adolescent disorders, bereavement, life/stress management, and relationship conflict.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I provide help to those who want to feel better emotionally, mentally, spiritually and physically. As a Family Therapist in private practice, I offer support, guidance, and healing to the individual, couple, tween/teen, and family, who are facing challenging emotions or situations. While providing a safe environment for those with a variety of issues, I specialize in treating trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, parent/family and couple issues, child/adolescent disorders, bereavement, life/stress management, and relationship conflict.
(336) 397-4514 View (336) 397-4514
Photo of Melissa Doerfer-Grace, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Melissa Doerfer-Grace
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MSEdS, LCMHC, NCC, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Through great pain comes better awareness and understanding about ourselves and the world around us. My journey as a counselor began during my experience with war deployments, which inspired my search to find ways to help others who are hurting. After completing my Master's degrees in Couples and Family Counseling, I have worked extensively with the court system, with families in need, and with individuals of all ages. My other passion in life is speaking and learning more Spanish. I offer therapy sessions to adults, children, families, and couples. I am a certified hypnotherapist.
Through great pain comes better awareness and understanding about ourselves and the world around us. My journey as a counselor began during my experience with war deployments, which inspired my search to find ways to help others who are hurting. After completing my Master's degrees in Couples and Family Counseling, I have worked extensively with the court system, with families in need, and with individuals of all ages. My other passion in life is speaking and learning more Spanish. I offer therapy sessions to adults, children, families, and couples. I am a certified hypnotherapist.
(336) 592-7011 View (336) 592-7011
Photo of Sally Thornton, Psychological Associate in Winston Salem, NC
Sally Thornton
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA, RYT 500
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Welcome to Magnolia Center for Counseling and Eating Recovery located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. We are committed to walking with you on your journey toward your new life. We provide counseling services to assist you in addressing conditions that contribute to the onset, maintenance, and severity of eating disorders and other psychological concerns. Eating disorders addressed through our services include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. We also provide counseling for other mental health and behavioral concerns including emotional/stress eating, depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, body image disturbance, self-esteem, adolescent concerns, and family discord.
Welcome to Magnolia Center for Counseling and Eating Recovery located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. We are committed to walking with you on your journey toward your new life. We provide counseling services to assist you in addressing conditions that contribute to the onset, maintenance, and severity of eating disorders and other psychological concerns. Eating disorders addressed through our services include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. We also provide counseling for other mental health and behavioral concerns including emotional/stress eating, depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, body image disturbance, self-esteem, adolescent concerns, and family discord.
(336) 814-2601 View (336) 814-2601
Photo of Cassandra (Sandy) Brown, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Cassandra (Sandy) Brown
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Life can be viewed as a series of successes and disappointments. We often have people who support us in the highs but may not know how to help us through the lows. I would be honored to be that person for you! While we cannot be perfect, we can be healthy in mind, body, and spirit! I believe that God can use every event, mistake, achievement, frustration, setback and triumph to help us prosper and be well.
Life can be viewed as a series of successes and disappointments. We often have people who support us in the highs but may not know how to help us through the lows. I would be honored to be that person for you! While we cannot be perfect, we can be healthy in mind, body, and spirit! I believe that God can use every event, mistake, achievement, frustration, setback and triumph to help us prosper and be well.
(336) 717-0541 View (336) 717-0541
Photo of Banyan Tree Counseling & Wellness in Winston Salem, NC
Banyan Tree Counseling & Wellness
MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Our work is dedicated to helping ALL people develop healthy, satisfying, productive, and meaningful lives. Though it can be difficult to make the decision to begin therapy, we have found that those who have sought help and take responsibility for their emotional heath and relationships have achieved remarkable results. People come to us for a variety of reasons: they may be in transition, experiencing work stress, grieving a loss, struggling with religious or family ideals which no longer suit them, a new parent experiencing anxiety. Some have begun to feel daily life is stagnant, seeking more direction and purpose in their lives.
Our work is dedicated to helping ALL people develop healthy, satisfying, productive, and meaningful lives. Though it can be difficult to make the decision to begin therapy, we have found that those who have sought help and take responsibility for their emotional heath and relationships have achieved remarkable results. People come to us for a variety of reasons: they may be in transition, experiencing work stress, grieving a loss, struggling with religious or family ideals which no longer suit them, a new parent experiencing anxiety. Some have begun to feel daily life is stagnant, seeking more direction and purpose in their lives.
(336) 750-6824 View (336) 750-6824
Photo of Chris Vasilos, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Chris Vasilos
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
In my work as a therapist, I strive to promote positive change. I have been in practice since 2013 and have worked in various mental health settings, including psychiatric hospitals, day treatment centers for troubled youth, intensive in-home therapy, contract work through public schools, and community-based outpatient treatment. I have experience in working with clients who struggle in the following areas: anxiety, anger management, depression, low self-esteem, ADHD, self-harm, major life events, and excessive worrying.
In my work as a therapist, I strive to promote positive change. I have been in practice since 2013 and have worked in various mental health settings, including psychiatric hospitals, day treatment centers for troubled youth, intensive in-home therapy, contract work through public schools, and community-based outpatient treatment. I have experience in working with clients who struggle in the following areas: anxiety, anger management, depression, low self-esteem, ADHD, self-harm, major life events, and excessive worrying.
(336) 360-3925 View (336) 360-3925
Photo of Rachel Tegowski, Marriage & Family Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Rachel Tegowski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Let me begin by commending you for demonstrating the strength to take the first step of reaching out for support. By having the courage to begin the therapeutic process, you are taking the first step towards overcoming whatever difficulties you are currently facing and creating a more positive future for yourself, your relationship, or your family. Oftentimes the stressors of life can become overwhelming for us to handle on our own and can negatively impact our relationships with others. Fortunately, you are not alone as I am here to listen with empathy and compassion.
Let me begin by commending you for demonstrating the strength to take the first step of reaching out for support. By having the courage to begin the therapeutic process, you are taking the first step towards overcoming whatever difficulties you are currently facing and creating a more positive future for yourself, your relationship, or your family. Oftentimes the stressors of life can become overwhelming for us to handle on our own and can negatively impact our relationships with others. Fortunately, you are not alone as I am here to listen with empathy and compassion.
(336) 276-2470 View (336) 276-2470
Photo of M. Elizabeth Doub, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
M. Elizabeth Doub
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC, RYT200
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
How can I help? I’m excited to work with motivated Clients moving towards their own unique goals-whether that is dealing with the stress of everyday life, coping with overwhelming emotions, healing past traumas, building self-esteem and communication skills, or fostering safe relationships. I teach and practice strategies proven to reduce distress and increase healthy functioning. I use mindfulness, play, movement, and talk therapy in my work. I have advanced training in trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD, I can't wait to meet you!
How can I help? I’m excited to work with motivated Clients moving towards their own unique goals-whether that is dealing with the stress of everyday life, coping with overwhelming emotions, healing past traumas, building self-esteem and communication skills, or fostering safe relationships. I teach and practice strategies proven to reduce distress and increase healthy functioning. I use mindfulness, play, movement, and talk therapy in my work. I have advanced training in trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD, I can't wait to meet you!
(336) 794-6877 View (336) 794-6877
Photo of Mary Katherine Burbach, Marriage & Family Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Mary Katherine Burbach
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
The core of all my work with clients centers around connection. Whether you are an individual who has experienced trauma or is feeling constantly worn out and discouraged, a couple lacking emotional connection or walking through difficult times, I am here to help you. I work with individuals with a wide variety of struggles, including those experiencing stress, trauma, mood disorders, &/or life transitions, as well as couples who are in distress or seeking to rekindle their connection.
The core of all my work with clients centers around connection. Whether you are an individual who has experienced trauma or is feeling constantly worn out and discouraged, a couple lacking emotional connection or walking through difficult times, I am here to help you. I work with individuals with a wide variety of struggles, including those experiencing stress, trauma, mood disorders, &/or life transitions, as well as couples who are in distress or seeking to rekindle their connection.
(336) 863-9358 View (336) 863-9358
Photo of Kristin Vergo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Kristin Vergo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Are you searching for more purpose in your life? Are your relationships unfulfilling? Do you feel disconnected to yourself and others? I help clients create a life and relationships that are more in line with what they value and feel more nourishing on a soul level.
Are you searching for more purpose in your life? Are your relationships unfulfilling? Do you feel disconnected to yourself and others? I help clients create a life and relationships that are more in line with what they value and feel more nourishing on a soul level.
(336) 900-0945 View (336) 900-0945
Photo of Marc Steele, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Marc Steele
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
Are you or your child in a confusing time that you just can’t quite figure out, or re-experiencing a traumatic event that continues to disrupt your life? With a decade of experience as a therapist working in a wide variety of settings, I use an integrated approach including CBT, EMDR, faith-based, psychodynamic and others to treat multiple issues including anxiety, relationship conflict, depression, spirituality and more. My specialty is in treating grief and loss, which can come from not only death and divorce/break-ups, but by estrangement, disappointment, loneliness and many other experiences in life.
Are you or your child in a confusing time that you just can’t quite figure out, or re-experiencing a traumatic event that continues to disrupt your life? With a decade of experience as a therapist working in a wide variety of settings, I use an integrated approach including CBT, EMDR, faith-based, psychodynamic and others to treat multiple issues including anxiety, relationship conflict, depression, spirituality and more. My specialty is in treating grief and loss, which can come from not only death and divorce/break-ups, but by estrangement, disappointment, loneliness and many other experiences in life.
(336) 502-5628 View (336) 502-5628
Photo of Paige Rodefer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Paige Rodefer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR-CT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Change is inevitable in today's world, but what happens when we get stuck? Whether it is unhelpful cycles of communication/interaction with others, difficult relationships, challenging experiences, life transitions, or painful experiences from our family of origin, sometimes knowing how or where to begin can feel overwhelming. Or maybe it seems not worthy of bringing up, feeling unheard or having shame about communicating your wants and needs? Or maybe you just want more satisfaction in your life and relationships. Does this sound familiar? Are you looking for change?
Change is inevitable in today's world, but what happens when we get stuck? Whether it is unhelpful cycles of communication/interaction with others, difficult relationships, challenging experiences, life transitions, or painful experiences from our family of origin, sometimes knowing how or where to begin can feel overwhelming. Or maybe it seems not worthy of bringing up, feeling unheard or having shame about communicating your wants and needs? Or maybe you just want more satisfaction in your life and relationships. Does this sound familiar? Are you looking for change?
(478) 241-5629 View (478) 241-5629
Photo of Michael William Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Michael William Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA-MFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
There comes a time in all of our lives that we need a helping hand. We may not like to admit it, but we need assistance in sorting out our thoughts, feelings, problems and even relationships. Often times these situations can be overwhelming and that is where I can be of assistance. We will work together on what you want to change and work on.
There comes a time in all of our lives that we need a helping hand. We may not like to admit it, but we need assistance in sorting out our thoughts, feelings, problems and even relationships. Often times these situations can be overwhelming and that is where I can be of assistance. We will work together on what you want to change and work on.
(336) 221-3806 View (336) 221-3806
Photo of Tanya Gunter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Tanya Gunter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Waitlist for new clients
The therapeutic process is an opportunity to to address problematic issues in a safe, nurturing environment that will encourage growth toward healing, self-awareness, coping and wellness. I specialize in counseling women, men and adolescents who strive to change unhealthy patterns and learn new ways of becoming successful, happy and peaceful. If you find yourself thinking, "Life shouldn't be this hard," I can help you examine the disconnect you feel and and turn it into knowledge that works for you. Choices rather than limitations; power over powerlessness.
The therapeutic process is an opportunity to to address problematic issues in a safe, nurturing environment that will encourage growth toward healing, self-awareness, coping and wellness. I specialize in counseling women, men and adolescents who strive to change unhealthy patterns and learn new ways of becoming successful, happy and peaceful. If you find yourself thinking, "Life shouldn't be this hard," I can help you examine the disconnect you feel and and turn it into knowledge that works for you. Choices rather than limitations; power over powerlessness.
(336) 949-6149 View (336) 949-6149
Photo of Victoria Lydon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winston Salem, NC
Victoria Lydon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103
We all long for connection and belonging, and positive relationships are essential in helping us live happy, fulfilling lives. Yet old wounds and communication styles often keep us from finding satisfaction in our current relationships, leaving us feeling stuck & disillusioned. Life also has a way of pulling the rug from under our feet at times and we find ourselves feeling lost, broken, and questioning how we reached this point in our story.
We all long for connection and belonging, and positive relationships are essential in helping us live happy, fulfilling lives. Yet old wounds and communication styles often keep us from finding satisfaction in our current relationships, leaving us feeling stuck & disillusioned. Life also has a way of pulling the rug from under our feet at times and we find ourselves feeling lost, broken, and questioning how we reached this point in our story.
(980) 705-9925 View (980) 705-9925
Photo of Karen Arthur, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Karen Arthur
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I believe that healing that takes place with another person present is sacred. I enjoy working with clients at any stage of the healing process, from just starting their journey to feeling confident in their abilities. We will create a safe, supportive environment for you to explore yourself and become the best possible you through listening, education, and creative counseling techniques that are NOT Freud's psychotherapy. I love it when clients bring in questions, ask for homework, and commit to the process of counseling. At the same time, I have worked successfully with numerous clients who weren't so sure about going on their journey yet. If motivation is lacking, I like to provide a sounding board for clients who want to be inspired and empowered to decide what's right for them. I regularly ask my clients to get their hands dirty so that in the future, you will have the tools and coping skills you need to embrace your life. Much of counseling is a "choose your own ending" adventure novel, and when you are up for those twists, I'll be right beside you so you do not have to walk through the dark alone.
I believe that healing that takes place with another person present is sacred. I enjoy working with clients at any stage of the healing process, from just starting their journey to feeling confident in their abilities. We will create a safe, supportive environment for you to explore yourself and become the best possible you through listening, education, and creative counseling techniques that are NOT Freud's psychotherapy. I love it when clients bring in questions, ask for homework, and commit to the process of counseling. At the same time, I have worked successfully with numerous clients who weren't so sure about going on their journey yet. If motivation is lacking, I like to provide a sounding board for clients who want to be inspired and empowered to decide what's right for them. I regularly ask my clients to get their hands dirty so that in the future, you will have the tools and coping skills you need to embrace your life. Much of counseling is a "choose your own ending" adventure novel, and when you are up for those twists, I'll be right beside you so you do not have to walk through the dark alone.
(336) 203-8341 View (336) 203-8341
Photo of Rebecca Crabtree, Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Rebecca Crabtree
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I recognize the courage it takes to pursue therapy and am truly honored to come along side you on your journey toward emotional health and well being. I believe in treating each individual with respect, kindness, and compassion. I strive to create a safe environment for you to feel heard. It is my goal to empower each person with the self-awareness and self-confidence necessary to express their voice and advocate for themself.
I recognize the courage it takes to pursue therapy and am truly honored to come along side you on your journey toward emotional health and well being. I believe in treating each individual with respect, kindness, and compassion. I strive to create a safe environment for you to feel heard. It is my goal to empower each person with the self-awareness and self-confidence necessary to express their voice and advocate for themself.
(336) 815-4621 View (336) 815-4621
Photo of Trinity Christian Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Trinity Christian Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, BCPCC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
Have there been times when you felt that all hope was lost? It isn't. Do you wonder how you are going to take that next step? God is on your side. He has beautiful plans for your life, plans to give you hope and a future! The team at Trinity Christian Counseling desires nothing more than to assist you in discovering that plan and to walk along side you as you grow in God's grace. Using the Bible, Christ-centered wisdom, and psychological principles, we will help guide you back to emotional, spiritual, behavioral, and relational wholeness.
Have there been times when you felt that all hope was lost? It isn't. Do you wonder how you are going to take that next step? God is on your side. He has beautiful plans for your life, plans to give you hope and a future! The team at Trinity Christian Counseling desires nothing more than to assist you in discovering that plan and to walk along side you as you grow in God's grace. Using the Bible, Christ-centered wisdom, and psychological principles, we will help guide you back to emotional, spiritual, behavioral, and relational wholeness.
(336) 397-4718 View (336) 397-4718
Photo of Weston Smith, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Winston Salem, NC
Weston Smith
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, QP
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27106
I work with adolescents, young adults, and families who are struggling with anger, depression, anxiety, ADHD, Family Conflict, and stage of life decisions (including “failure to launch”). I believe in the power of experience and self-discovery to lead towards living a better life. I focus on helping clients explore community, family, and other support, as well as developing skills for healthy communications to foster independence and self-confidence. My career has been centered in guiding folks through difficult life transitions, peer issues, family conflict, and challenges in school, home, and in outdoor settings.
I work with adolescents, young adults, and families who are struggling with anger, depression, anxiety, ADHD, Family Conflict, and stage of life decisions (including “failure to launch”). I believe in the power of experience and self-discovery to lead towards living a better life. I focus on helping clients explore community, family, and other support, as well as developing skills for healthy communications to foster independence and self-confidence. My career has been centered in guiding folks through difficult life transitions, peer issues, family conflict, and challenges in school, home, and in outdoor settings.
(336) 396-9112 View (336) 396-9112

See more therapy options for Winston Salem

Experiential Therapy

How does experiential therapy work?

Experiential therapy works by allowing an individual to use their creativity to re-imagine themselves and their lives in an effort to process their emotions. Experiential therapy may take many forms, including engaging clients through art, re-enactments, role-playing, music, or forms of physical recreation. By focusing on these activities, experiential therapists help individuals identify the emotions they associate with previous experiences and work together to cope with negative reactions, like fear, anger, or shame.

Is experiential therapy evidence-based?

Experiential therapy incorporates many therapy modalities, some of which have been more closely researched than others. Music therapy, for example, has been shown to help with sleep problems. Some studies find that art therapy can be beneficial for those with eating disorders or personality disorders, while other research suggests that such approaches have little impact.

How long does experiential therapy last?

The duration of experiential therapy will depend on the type of therapy used as well as the severity of the challenges an individual faces. Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Art therapy may comprise 10 to 15 weekly sessions. Music therapy sessions generally last between 30 and 50 minutes and can be scheduled weekly or on an as-needed basis. For each therapy type, clients should periodically discuss their goals with their therapist to make sure the two are aligned on process and progress.

Does experiential therapy help with trauma?

Trauma is one area where experiential therapy may be useful. Traumatic experiences such as combat or childhood abuse can be so painful that articulating them can be too scary or painful; creating visual art allows people to express themselves without words, and tell their story in a different way. Listening to music can be relaxing, while making music as part of a group provides plenty of opportunities to connect with other people. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, or who have been physically or emotionally abused.