Photo of Sara Nafziger-Shelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganton, NC
Sara Nafziger-Shelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655
We each have the wisdom within ourselves to guide us on our life journey. However, we often forget to listen when life around us is loud, confusing or perplexing. Additionally, childhood trauma or old baggage interferes with our listening ability. These distractions prevent us from hearing our own inner wisdom. I am a sojourner with my clients as I help them learn to listen to their own internal wisdom. Together, we work to discover inner healing, peace and life balance in their lives.
We each have the wisdom within ourselves to guide us on our life journey. However, we often forget to listen when life around us is loud, confusing or perplexing. Additionally, childhood trauma or old baggage interferes with our listening ability. These distractions prevent us from hearing our own inner wisdom. I am a sojourner with my clients as I help them learn to listen to their own internal wisdom. Together, we work to discover inner healing, peace and life balance in their lives.
(828) 332-5831 View (828) 332-5831

Online Therapists

Photo of Merinda Cutshaw, Counselor in Morganton, NC
Merinda Cutshaw
Counselor, LCMHCA, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
I am dedicated to creating a safe space for healing and growth in your life. It is a brave thing to ask for help and work toward real change and I am willing to help you do that. I have five years of experience with group, individual, couples, and family therapy. At River of Hope Behavioral Health and Wellness Center I provide SAIOP group therapy (Matrix Model), mental health group therapy, individual, couples, and family therapy. Primary models of individual treatment are CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Brief Solution Focused therapy. Couples therapy models of treatment are Imago and Gottman Theory. Call today!
I am dedicated to creating a safe space for healing and growth in your life. It is a brave thing to ask for help and work toward real change and I am willing to help you do that. I have five years of experience with group, individual, couples, and family therapy. At River of Hope Behavioral Health and Wellness Center I provide SAIOP group therapy (Matrix Model), mental health group therapy, individual, couples, and family therapy. Primary models of individual treatment are CBT, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Brief Solution Focused therapy. Couples therapy models of treatment are Imago and Gottman Theory. Call today!
(828) 471-4515 View (828) 471-4515
Photo of Peter Basone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganton, NC
Peter Basone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
With couples, I have found Imago therapy effective to stop blame, criticism, and reduce conflict.
With over 33 years of clinical psychotherapeutic experience, I am a highly-skilled and compassionate licensed clinical psychotherapist who works with adults experiencing a variety of mood disorders and mental health challenges. My focus is dedicated to providing exceptional care and effective psychotherapeutic treatment to assist my client(s) with addressing their troubling thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Fortunately, I have the ability to establish rapport quickly, build trust, and relate to a diverse client population, regarding race, ethnicity, religion, age, gender identity, and sexual orientation.
With couples, I have found Imago therapy effective to stop blame, criticism, and reduce conflict.
With over 33 years of clinical psychotherapeutic experience, I am a highly-skilled and compassionate licensed clinical psychotherapist who works with adults experiencing a variety of mood disorders and mental health challenges. My focus is dedicated to providing exceptional care and effective psychotherapeutic treatment to assist my client(s) with addressing their troubling thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Fortunately, I have the ability to establish rapport quickly, build trust, and relate to a diverse client population, regarding race, ethnicity, religion, age, gender identity, and sexual orientation.
(704) 681-4028 View (704) 681-4028
Photo of Sondra Harry, Psychologist in Morganton, NC
Sondra Harry
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, RN
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28805
Each person comes to the office with unique needs and deserves respect to be heard and understood. Working collaboratively, I offer marriage counseling, along with many other services such as depression and anxiety treatment. As an Imago therapist, we recognize that conflict is growth waiting to happen. I often observe growth and healing in people and feel privileged to have accompanied many on their healing journey. By caring for them, I am personally stretched and shaped through their suffering and in turn only deepens my compassion for others. In part, this creates my tapestry that I hope reflects Grace in paying wisdom forward.
Each person comes to the office with unique needs and deserves respect to be heard and understood. Working collaboratively, I offer marriage counseling, along with many other services such as depression and anxiety treatment. As an Imago therapist, we recognize that conflict is growth waiting to happen. I often observe growth and healing in people and feel privileged to have accompanied many on their healing journey. By caring for them, I am personally stretched and shaped through their suffering and in turn only deepens my compassion for others. In part, this creates my tapestry that I hope reflects Grace in paying wisdom forward.
(828) 604-9174 View (828) 604-9174
Photo of Amy Kathryn Parrish, Pre-Licensed Professional in Morganton, NC
Amy Kathryn Parrish
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28792  (Online Only)
With couples, I draw heavily on Imago and EFT.
My life's passion is working with women in transitional times of their lives and all young adults and middle-aged adults as they move into new life stages or search for a fulfilling career. I greatly enjoy working with LGTBQIA+ clients and with the Latino and immigrant community, and I am also passionate about working with couples, helping partners improve communication and gain insight into how our pasts affect current relationships. I have a special interest in helping people with relationship issues as well as issues related to break-up and divorce, and I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and parents.
With couples, I draw heavily on Imago and EFT.
My life's passion is working with women in transitional times of their lives and all young adults and middle-aged adults as they move into new life stages or search for a fulfilling career. I greatly enjoy working with LGTBQIA+ clients and with the Latino and immigrant community, and I am also passionate about working with couples, helping partners improve communication and gain insight into how our pasts affect current relationships. I have a special interest in helping people with relationship issues as well as issues related to break-up and divorce, and I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and parents.
(828) 373-8320 View (828) 373-8320
Photo of Charlotte Hanks, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Morganton, NC
Charlotte Hanks
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803  (Online Only)
My passion in this work comes from guiding individuals toward life goals, healing, growth, and discovery within. I combine various modalities tailored to address blockages and increase momentum in your life. Perhaps you are not yet on your own timeline or feel like you are living someone else's life.
My passion in this work comes from guiding individuals toward life goals, healing, growth, and discovery within. I combine various modalities tailored to address blockages and increase momentum in your life. Perhaps you are not yet on your own timeline or feel like you are living someone else's life.
(828) 332-5590 View (828) 332-5590
Photo of Dignity Weight Center in Morganton, NC
Dignity Weight Center
MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28207  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients; Tele-Health; We take most major insurances... We provide one-on-one compassionate, whole-person care and longitudinal clinical alliances for persons struggling with weight gain. We aim for precision targeting of root causes of obesity, and provide a comprehensive medical + psychosocial diagnostic and treatment plan, with Harvard Medical School trained clinical advice, and evidence-based scientific interventions, and a personalized treatment plan, as we honor your full dignity and accompany you in solidarity, care, and partnership through your weight loss journey with us.
Accepting New Patients; Tele-Health; We take most major insurances... We provide one-on-one compassionate, whole-person care and longitudinal clinical alliances for persons struggling with weight gain. We aim for precision targeting of root causes of obesity, and provide a comprehensive medical + psychosocial diagnostic and treatment plan, with Harvard Medical School trained clinical advice, and evidence-based scientific interventions, and a personalized treatment plan, as we honor your full dignity and accompany you in solidarity, care, and partnership through your weight loss journey with us.
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Photo of Maggie Rose Timmerman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganton, NC
Maggie Rose Timmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
It is my top priority to offer a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment for every client I serve. I provide a strengths-based, non-judgmental approach which will allow us to explore challenges together. I focus on assisting individuals navigating difficulties related to life adjustments and transitions, grief and loss, interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, and substance use. I also work alongside couples and adult families in order to help resolve dysfunction and improve communication.
It is my top priority to offer a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment for every client I serve. I provide a strengths-based, non-judgmental approach which will allow us to explore challenges together. I focus on assisting individuals navigating difficulties related to life adjustments and transitions, grief and loss, interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, and substance use. I also work alongside couples and adult families in order to help resolve dysfunction and improve communication.
(704) 610-5138 View (704) 610-5138
Photo of Chelsie Ciminelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganton, NC
Chelsie Ciminelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
It’s okay to ask for what you need. This is something I need to remind myself of on a daily basis. So many of us focus intently on making sure everyone else is taken care of and we completely abandon ourselves and ignore our own needs. This leaves us feeling exhausted, depleted, and quite frankly, resentful because we think to ourselves “why isn’t anyone taking care of me?” I teach my clients what a healthy relationship looks like because if this wasn’t modeled to you at some point throughout your life, no one can expect you to know what it means.
It’s okay to ask for what you need. This is something I need to remind myself of on a daily basis. So many of us focus intently on making sure everyone else is taken care of and we completely abandon ourselves and ignore our own needs. This leaves us feeling exhausted, depleted, and quite frankly, resentful because we think to ourselves “why isn’t anyone taking care of me?” I teach my clients what a healthy relationship looks like because if this wasn’t modeled to you at some point throughout your life, no one can expect you to know what it means.
(980) 243-4918 View (980) 243-4918
Photo of Loula Kontoulas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Morganton, NC
Loula Kontoulas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
I believe we all have the potential to grow through challenges. Rather than living in distress, we can find ways to ease through the difficulties of life. Through my work with cancer patients, I developed a therapeutic framework based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help clients with various issues move from distress toward peace. In addition, I understand that one size does not fit all, so I use an integrative approach that draws from several disciplines.
I believe we all have the potential to grow through challenges. Rather than living in distress, we can find ways to ease through the difficulties of life. Through my work with cancer patients, I developed a therapeutic framework based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help clients with various issues move from distress toward peace. In addition, I understand that one size does not fit all, so I use an integrative approach that draws from several disciplines.
(980) 366-4358 View (980) 366-4358
Photo of Amy Williams Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morganton, NC
Amy Williams Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LPC, RYT-200, EAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204  (Online Only)
I work with highly sensitive, empathic individuals - creatives, therapists, teachers, social activists and healers. If you want to heal family of origin or painful childhood memories OR you seek better communication and coping skills > Let's start! Sessions include safe space, skillful questions, and a CBT approach - along with mindfulness, creativity, and nature-based practices. Each session begins with a short breath practice (optional). I have committed to my own learning/healing and helping others for 25 years. Sessions also include solution-focused steps & homework. I would love to support you in creating a life you love.
I work with highly sensitive, empathic individuals - creatives, therapists, teachers, social activists and healers. If you want to heal family of origin or painful childhood memories OR you seek better communication and coping skills > Let's start! Sessions include safe space, skillful questions, and a CBT approach - along with mindfulness, creativity, and nature-based practices. Each session begins with a short breath practice (optional). I have committed to my own learning/healing and helping others for 25 years. Sessions also include solution-focused steps & homework. I would love to support you in creating a life you love.
(704) 350-2929 View (704) 350-2929
Photo of Cere Counseling and Wellness, Counselor in Morganton, NC
Cere Counseling and Wellness
Counselor, MABC, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Salisbury, NC 28144
When it comes to counseling, Cere takes a person-by-person approach. Every individual is unique. Each of us comes to counseling for nuanced reasons. In order to best serve you, we will get to know each other and identify and address your specific needs. At Cere, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach. We work to serve you best, exactly where and as you are. Specific care emphases include: family background as personal influence in decision- making, view of self, and initial relation to others; Christian insight drawn from Scripture with application to help you heal, grow in your spiritual life.
When it comes to counseling, Cere takes a person-by-person approach. Every individual is unique. Each of us comes to counseling for nuanced reasons. In order to best serve you, we will get to know each other and identify and address your specific needs. At Cere, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach. We work to serve you best, exactly where and as you are. Specific care emphases include: family background as personal influence in decision- making, view of self, and initial relation to others; Christian insight drawn from Scripture with application to help you heal, grow in your spiritual life.
(980) 399-5581 View (980) 399-5581
Photo of John B. Rowe, Ph.D, PC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Morganton, NC
John B. Rowe, Ph.D, PC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
Are you looking for a therapist who can help you create a more authentic and hope-filled life? Look no further! With over 35 years of experience, I have helped countless individuals overcome their struggles and achieve their goals. At my practice, I specialize in depth psychology, which promotes the idea that we all have untapped inner resources for healing. So, our dreams, then, can be a powerful tool for unlocking the unconscious mind and the treasures hidden within. By listening deeply to the images and symbols in our dreams, we can uncover essential truths about your life, gaining insight into your deepest desires and fears.
Are you looking for a therapist who can help you create a more authentic and hope-filled life? Look no further! With over 35 years of experience, I have helped countless individuals overcome their struggles and achieve their goals. At my practice, I specialize in depth psychology, which promotes the idea that we all have untapped inner resources for healing. So, our dreams, then, can be a powerful tool for unlocking the unconscious mind and the treasures hidden within. By listening deeply to the images and symbols in our dreams, we can uncover essential truths about your life, gaining insight into your deepest desires and fears.
(704) 812-5655 View (704) 812-5655
Photo of Clara Irwin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganton, NC
Clara Irwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
I have worked with individuals, couples, and families for over 25 years as they seek help for challenges that bring them to therapy. I have trained extensively in the treatment of anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, codependency, relationship issues, and trauma. Mindfulness is an integral part of my personal life and therapy practice. My intention is to be a compassionate and wise guide as my clients engage in the work needed to heal.
I have worked with individuals, couples, and families for over 25 years as they seek help for challenges that bring them to therapy. I have trained extensively in the treatment of anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, codependency, relationship issues, and trauma. Mindfulness is an integral part of my personal life and therapy practice. My intention is to be a compassionate and wise guide as my clients engage in the work needed to heal.
(704) 326-9013 View (704) 326-9013
Photo of Bernadette Christi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Morganton, NC
Bernadette Christi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, SEP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203
I have provided psychotherapy and counseling services for over 25 years. By employing a wide variety of techniques and approaches, I have come to realize that the body is a vital and intricate partner in therapy. Somatic Experiencing is a body based approach to healing and the cornerstone of all my sessions, assisting you in soothing, settling, quieting, and balancing your nervous system. This approach reconnects to your inner wisdom and utilizes the body’s innate capacity to heal to help you live more fully and harmoniously.
I have provided psychotherapy and counseling services for over 25 years. By employing a wide variety of techniques and approaches, I have come to realize that the body is a vital and intricate partner in therapy. Somatic Experiencing is a body based approach to healing and the cornerstone of all my sessions, assisting you in soothing, settling, quieting, and balancing your nervous system. This approach reconnects to your inner wisdom and utilizes the body’s innate capacity to heal to help you live more fully and harmoniously.
(704) 325-5101 View (704) 325-5101
Photo of Lori Brinkley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganton, NC
Lori Brinkley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Hi, I'm so happy you're here! My name is Lori Brinkley and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 23 years of clinical experience. I treat a wide range of areas including trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, postpartum, adult children of alcoholics, co-dependency, parenting/co-parenting, boundaries, divorce, caretaking, work-life balance, adoptees, and couples feeling disconnected and isolated. I also provide "couple's counseling for one" which is when one partner is not ready for therapy, where I meet with the willing participant to learn new tools, coping skills, & boundaries to implement in their relationship.
Hi, I'm so happy you're here! My name is Lori Brinkley and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 23 years of clinical experience. I treat a wide range of areas including trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, postpartum, adult children of alcoholics, co-dependency, parenting/co-parenting, boundaries, divorce, caretaking, work-life balance, adoptees, and couples feeling disconnected and isolated. I also provide "couple's counseling for one" which is when one partner is not ready for therapy, where I meet with the willing participant to learn new tools, coping skills, & boundaries to implement in their relationship.
(704) 753-8240 View (704) 753-8240
Photo of Gene R Edwards, Psychologist in Morganton, NC
Gene R Edwards
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
I am a therapist specializing in individual, couples and group therapy, with an emphasis on a multicultural approach to counseling, and well-being. I am the owner/licensed psychologist of Balanced Mindset Counseling and Psychological Services, PLLC, in Charlotte, NC. I am an experienced Mental Health Administrator and Licensed Psychologist with a demonstrated history of working in both the higher education industry and private clinical practice. I have worked in the areas of college student mental health, clinical administration, cultural competency, diversity and inclusion, performance and motivation, and social justice.
I am a therapist specializing in individual, couples and group therapy, with an emphasis on a multicultural approach to counseling, and well-being. I am the owner/licensed psychologist of Balanced Mindset Counseling and Psychological Services, PLLC, in Charlotte, NC. I am an experienced Mental Health Administrator and Licensed Psychologist with a demonstrated history of working in both the higher education industry and private clinical practice. I have worked in the areas of college student mental health, clinical administration, cultural competency, diversity and inclusion, performance and motivation, and social justice.
(980) 404-2171 View (980) 404-2171
Photo of Sharell D. Cannady, Counselor in Morganton, NC
Sharell D. Cannady
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28213  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Solve problems for everybody else? But not your own? We are the place for high-achieving, over-functioning African American women.
Solve problems for everybody else? But not your own? We are the place for high-achieving, over-functioning African American women.
(704) 327-5479 View (704) 327-5479
Photo of Dr. Brent Beam, Psychologist in Morganton, NC
Dr. Brent Beam
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28804
SPEClALlZlNG lN HlGH-ACHlEVlNG MEN. With an extensive background in men's mental health and over 15 years of clinical experience, I understand the strong sense of ambition and responsibility that successful men carry. I coach executives, leaders, and professional men to sustain a high level of career performance while also feeling effective in their relationships.
SPEClALlZlNG lN HlGH-ACHlEVlNG MEN. With an extensive background in men's mental health and over 15 years of clinical experience, I understand the strong sense of ambition and responsibility that successful men carry. I coach executives, leaders, and professional men to sustain a high level of career performance while also feeling effective in their relationships.
(828) 374-9510 View (828) 374-9510
Photo of Deb H McNeill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Morganton, NC
Deb H McNeill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
None of us go through life without experiencing changes or life transitions. We struggle with depression and fight off our anxiety. We go through our day on autopilot, lacking energy, and feeling hopeless. We isolate ourselves from friends and family, we feel misunderstood, or we temporarily escape reality & lessen our pain with alcohol, drugs, food, etc. Resisting change causes us pain and creates additional stress and anxiety in our lives. Acceptance and embracing change begins the healing. If we approach transitions with curiosity rather than fear, and intention rather than reluctance, we can respond to change and foster growth.
None of us go through life without experiencing changes or life transitions. We struggle with depression and fight off our anxiety. We go through our day on autopilot, lacking energy, and feeling hopeless. We isolate ourselves from friends and family, we feel misunderstood, or we temporarily escape reality & lessen our pain with alcohol, drugs, food, etc. Resisting change causes us pain and creates additional stress and anxiety in our lives. Acceptance and embracing change begins the healing. If we approach transitions with curiosity rather than fear, and intention rather than reluctance, we can respond to change and foster growth.
(704) 742-2932 View (704) 742-2932
Imago Therapists

How does Imago therapy work?

Imago relationship therapy is a form of couples counseling meant to help partners address conflict, communication problems, and related issues. Imago sessions typically involve couples sitting facing each other and participating in guided conversations. Therapy will also involve exercises such as re-imagining one’s partner as a wounded child; re-romanticizing a relationship through appreciation, surprises, and even gift-giving and restructuring frustrations by transforming complaints into requests. The ultimate goal is to re-envision the relationship as a source of safety and happiness.

What is the Imago method?

A core technique of Imago therapy is the Imago dialogue, in which partners learn to avoid hurtful statements and establish ways to interact based on each having equal space and power. In the dialogue, partners take turns as the “sender,” who shares their thoughts, and the “receiver.” The receiver is asked to “mirror,” or paraphrase, what their partner has said, without response or rebuttal, and then validate their statements, acknowledging understanding even if they do not personally agree with it. Finally, the receiver displays empathy by stating what they imagine the other is feeling, and showing appreciation for it.

How long does Imago therapy take?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for Imago therapy. After becoming comfortable with a therapist and the core techniques of Imago coaching, some couples quickly make progress, but most should expect sessions to extend for months, encompassing at least 12 to 20 sessions, along with extensive “homework” from their therapist.

Does Imago therapy work?

There is limited empirical evidence to support the benefits of Imago therapy, but some smaller studies suggest that it does help couples, at least in the short-term. A 2017 study found that marital satisfaction increased significantly after couples completed 12 sessions of Imago therapy, and remained higher for some time after that, but did not always result in “complete recovery.” Other studies found greater empathy and fewer feelings of relationship burnout in couples after therapy. Some research suggests that Imago therapy can aid individuals as well as couples; people with ADHD in particular may benefit from the development of communication, self-control, and listening skills that form the basis of the technique.