Photo of Dr. Leigh Hicks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Matthews, NC
Dr. Leigh Hicks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
My passion is working with clients age 13-18 as well as young & early adults. I love to work to empower clients, build insight, heal relationships & provide practical tools for clients to use as they develop into young adulthood. I use family therapy for family system work. My other client focus is on victims of sexual exploitation including victims of Human Trafficking & sexual abuse. I incorporate the dynamics of race & ethnicity into my practice and like to work with people from these marginalized populations & addressing how these factors impact treatment and resilience. My ideal client is motivated and committed to treatment.
My passion is working with clients age 13-18 as well as young & early adults. I love to work to empower clients, build insight, heal relationships & provide practical tools for clients to use as they develop into young adulthood. I use family therapy for family system work. My other client focus is on victims of sexual exploitation including victims of Human Trafficking & sexual abuse. I incorporate the dynamics of race & ethnicity into my practice and like to work with people from these marginalized populations & addressing how these factors impact treatment and resilience. My ideal client is motivated and committed to treatment.
(704) 237-6798 View (704) 237-6798
Photo of Kaitlyn Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Matthews, NC
Kaitlyn Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
I am also passionate about helping those who have been impacted by image-based sexual abuse.
Often, people experience stress and anxiety if they believe they do not live up to others' expectations of them. It can feel extremely isolating if you think you are outside of the "normal". I believe that "normal" is subjective, and that there is no standard "normal". I enjoy working with clients who are wanting to embrace the parts of themselves that they've been conditioned to keep private. I see strength in vulnerability. I think there is so much to be said for a person who is able to acknowledge the pain that they've been through. Without doing so, it can be difficult to learn, heal, and grow.
I am also passionate about helping those who have been impacted by image-based sexual abuse.
Often, people experience stress and anxiety if they believe they do not live up to others' expectations of them. It can feel extremely isolating if you think you are outside of the "normal". I believe that "normal" is subjective, and that there is no standard "normal". I enjoy working with clients who are wanting to embrace the parts of themselves that they've been conditioned to keep private. I see strength in vulnerability. I think there is so much to be said for a person who is able to acknowledge the pain that they've been through. Without doing so, it can be difficult to learn, heal, and grow.
(980) 635-0180 View (980) 635-0180
Photo of La Vida Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Matthews, NC
La Vida Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Trauma related experience includes: domestic violence, assault and sexual abuse.
Our team of therapists are ready to help for individual or couples counseling! We offer in person and virtual session! Specialties include but not limited to: trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems and transitions into college. Please visit our website at www.lavidacounseling.com for more details about our therapists and services we offer. We offer counseling services and Immigration Evaluations to clients from age 5 years-Adult and video sessions and in person sessions. ¡Se habla Español!
Trauma related experience includes: domestic violence, assault and sexual abuse.
Our team of therapists are ready to help for individual or couples counseling! We offer in person and virtual session! Specialties include but not limited to: trauma, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, behavioral problems and transitions into college. Please visit our website at www.lavidacounseling.com for more details about our therapists and services we offer. We offer counseling services and Immigration Evaluations to clients from age 5 years-Adult and video sessions and in person sessions. ¡Se habla Español!
(704) 935-4208 View (704) 935-4208
Photo of Inner Strength Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Matthews, NC
Inner Strength Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
Do you ever feel overwhelmed with life and the pressures of day to day responsibilities? Sometimes these feelings can be related to stressors that are currently happening or related to past traumas. I empower people to overcome the challenges of day to day life as well as overcoming the toll and burden of carrying the weight of the past. Seeking therapy can feel scary, but you're making the right choice. I specialize in working with trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed with life and the pressures of day to day responsibilities? Sometimes these feelings can be related to stressors that are currently happening or related to past traumas. I empower people to overcome the challenges of day to day life as well as overcoming the toll and burden of carrying the weight of the past. Seeking therapy can feel scary, but you're making the right choice. I specialize in working with trauma, domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.
(803) 836-8607 View (803) 836-8607
Photo of Cynthia Morris, Counselor in Matthews, NC
Cynthia Morris
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Are you ready to care for and be kind to yourself? Do you struggle with behaviors, thoughts, or relationships? Do you feel misunderstood, confused, or angry? Do you feel anxious, stressed, or nervous? Are you sad, impulsive, or withdrawn? Maybe you don't know what you feel. Are you aware of a difference between the inside and the outside? Have you tried everything to change or get "it" to stop with no avail? I specialize in and engage your life stories while working for transformation in your body, mind and soul.
Are you ready to care for and be kind to yourself? Do you struggle with behaviors, thoughts, or relationships? Do you feel misunderstood, confused, or angry? Do you feel anxious, stressed, or nervous? Are you sad, impulsive, or withdrawn? Maybe you don't know what you feel. Are you aware of a difference between the inside and the outside? Have you tried everything to change or get "it" to stop with no avail? I specialize in and engage your life stories while working for transformation in your body, mind and soul.
(704) 706-9939 View (704) 706-9939
Photo of Caroline McCloud, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Matthews, NC
Caroline McCloud
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
Trauma is interwoven through so many of your experiences and you continue to experience the effects to this day. You are looking for a therapist that can help you attain goals of healing, processing of the past events, and fulfilled living. My skill & passion is working with clients like you on the central theme of Trauma that often starts, then reinforces your problems. Treating this trauma is the solution. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated and ready for therapy while appreciating a nurturing therapist who is consistent & direct when needed. My work moves easily between modalities that are effective and supportive.
Trauma is interwoven through so many of your experiences and you continue to experience the effects to this day. You are looking for a therapist that can help you attain goals of healing, processing of the past events, and fulfilled living. My skill & passion is working with clients like you on the central theme of Trauma that often starts, then reinforces your problems. Treating this trauma is the solution. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated and ready for therapy while appreciating a nurturing therapist who is consistent & direct when needed. My work moves easily between modalities that are effective and supportive.
(980) 366-2643 View (980) 366-2643
Photo of Hollis Wilson, Counselor in Matthews, NC
Hollis Wilson
Counselor, MACC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28104
I offer a holistic counseling approach focusing on women’s issues and utilize tools to help women find healing and wholeness in mind, body, and spirit. Whether you are looking for healing from childhood trauma or ways to find better balance in your life or decrease your anxiety, I am here to support you. As women we face unique challenges and at Womens Integrative Counseling we are trained and equipped to meet you exactly where you are at.
I offer a holistic counseling approach focusing on women’s issues and utilize tools to help women find healing and wholeness in mind, body, and spirit. Whether you are looking for healing from childhood trauma or ways to find better balance in your life or decrease your anxiety, I am here to support you. As women we face unique challenges and at Womens Integrative Counseling we are trained and equipped to meet you exactly where you are at.
(980) 553-2092 View (980) 553-2092
Photo of Robin Navarro, Psychologist in Matthews, NC
Robin Navarro
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Life is hard, people are imperfect, and circumstances oftentimes just don't seem fair. Many of my clients describe having undergone a significant trauma or series of difficult events in their lives. This tends to create feelings of worthlessness and defectiveness, even despair. They may blame themselves and try to push down their thoughts, feelings, and memories and focus on other things. They may even try to reinvent (or perfect) themselves, but somehow end up reenacting their old struggles in a way that seems to be self-sabotaging. There is often chronic fearfulness as well as sadness and emptiness.
Life is hard, people are imperfect, and circumstances oftentimes just don't seem fair. Many of my clients describe having undergone a significant trauma or series of difficult events in their lives. This tends to create feelings of worthlessness and defectiveness, even despair. They may blame themselves and try to push down their thoughts, feelings, and memories and focus on other things. They may even try to reinvent (or perfect) themselves, but somehow end up reenacting their old struggles in a way that seems to be self-sabotaging. There is often chronic fearfulness as well as sadness and emptiness.
(704) 774-0459 View (704) 774-0459
Photo of Myriam Rabaste, Licensed Professional Counselor in Matthews, NC
Myriam Rabaste
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, EMDR, II
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
(704) 870-2290 View (704) 870-2290
Photo of Jessica Evans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Matthews, NC
Jessica Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
I provide individual, couple’s, family, intensive, and group therapy to adults. My clients are seeking relief from their trauma, dysfunctional relationships, shame, addictions, compulsive sexual behavior, disordered eating, grief, and codependency. Typically my clients are over functioning in many areas but cannot pinpoint why they struggle in relationship with others or feel chronically unhappy. Many of my clients identify as Adult Children of Alcoholic and Dysfunctional families or have addiction in their family system.
I provide individual, couple’s, family, intensive, and group therapy to adults. My clients are seeking relief from their trauma, dysfunctional relationships, shame, addictions, compulsive sexual behavior, disordered eating, grief, and codependency. Typically my clients are over functioning in many areas but cannot pinpoint why they struggle in relationship with others or feel chronically unhappy. Many of my clients identify as Adult Children of Alcoholic and Dysfunctional families or have addiction in their family system.
(704) 272-2302 View (704) 272-2302
Photo of Jim Cress, Licensed Professional Counselor in Matthews, NC
Jim Cress
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Waitlist for new clients
"We have more help than you have problems." I have been walking with people in their life stories for many years. My office is a shame-free, safe place for my clients to be vulnerable, open, and to take a deeper look at what is hindering them from being the best version of themselves. Counseling is an important investment of a person's time and money. I listen actively and work hard for my clients in their sessions to help them experience the life change and healing they are looking for. Most of my therapy work is done in 3 day Counseling Intensives for individuals and couples. My Intensive fee is $7500 for 3 days.
"We have more help than you have problems." I have been walking with people in their life stories for many years. My office is a shame-free, safe place for my clients to be vulnerable, open, and to take a deeper look at what is hindering them from being the best version of themselves. Counseling is an important investment of a person's time and money. I listen actively and work hard for my clients in their sessions to help them experience the life change and healing they are looking for. Most of my therapy work is done in 3 day Counseling Intensives for individuals and couples. My Intensive fee is $7500 for 3 days.
(704) 707-3959 View (704) 707-3959
Photo of Chelsea Brianne Carman in Matthews, NC
Chelsea Brianne Carman
MA
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
Throughout my career (so far) I have witnessed many individuals struggle and wrestle with their mental health and their faith. There is a stigma that rests within the church and mental health that is still present today so many Christians are faced with masking their mental health. I am here to say that this should not be. You can struggle with mental health concerns and remain a believer and child of God. I am here to meet you where you are at and work through your symptoms, one step at a time. I also have found that people forego their mental health due to financial strains. You don't have to do that with me. Give me a call.
Throughout my career (so far) I have witnessed many individuals struggle and wrestle with their mental health and their faith. There is a stigma that rests within the church and mental health that is still present today so many Christians are faced with masking their mental health. I am here to say that this should not be. You can struggle with mental health concerns and remain a believer and child of God. I am here to meet you where you are at and work through your symptoms, one step at a time. I also have found that people forego their mental health due to financial strains. You don't have to do that with me. Give me a call.
(704) 981-6370 View (704) 981-6370
Photo of Ashley Rawls, Marriage & Family Therapist in Matthews, NC
Ashley Rawls
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
I work with individuals dealing with life transitions, medical related issues, mood and affective disorders, and marriage, parenting or family issues. I use a narrative and solution focused approach to collaboratively work with clients to identify successful solutions to problems and how these strengths can be implemented in future situations. I utilize empirically supported techniques that focus on the ways in which individuals think about and respond to events. These interventions allow clients to restructure their thinking, process events and modify behaviors in more adaptive ways.
I work with individuals dealing with life transitions, medical related issues, mood and affective disorders, and marriage, parenting or family issues. I use a narrative and solution focused approach to collaboratively work with clients to identify successful solutions to problems and how these strengths can be implemented in future situations. I utilize empirically supported techniques that focus on the ways in which individuals think about and respond to events. These interventions allow clients to restructure their thinking, process events and modify behaviors in more adaptive ways.
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Photo of Sheila Maitland Relationship Enrichment Center, Counselor in Matthews, NC
Sheila Maitland Relationship Enrichment Center
Counselor, LCMHCS, LCMHCA, LCSW, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
25 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Many of our clients look good on the outside, yet feel mildly miserable on the inside. Pain is motivating and when clients are hurting, they call to schedule an appointment. It takes more than intellect to change behavior. Most of our clients are intelligent and know what they "should" do, yet struggle to take action. Our team works with people (or partners) who struggle with substances and behavioral medicators such as alcohol, porn, overeating and codependency. We treat individuals, couples and families that need help with addiction, mental illness, infidelity or simply feeling stuck. It is a relief to not have to do it alone.
Many of our clients look good on the outside, yet feel mildly miserable on the inside. Pain is motivating and when clients are hurting, they call to schedule an appointment. It takes more than intellect to change behavior. Most of our clients are intelligent and know what they "should" do, yet struggle to take action. Our team works with people (or partners) who struggle with substances and behavioral medicators such as alcohol, porn, overeating and codependency. We treat individuals, couples and families that need help with addiction, mental illness, infidelity or simply feeling stuck. It is a relief to not have to do it alone.
(704) 325-5863 View (704) 325-5863
Photo of Leanna Smith, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Matthews, NC
Leanna Smith
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS-A, MS
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
Everything you are going through will be a memory one day. So how will you remember this time? I'm here to help you navigate through your life experiences and help to provide insight on how to manage challenges to the best of your ability. I'm a licensed counselor with experience working with many individuals of very different histories, ages, challenges and outlooks on life. My main approach to therapy is Person-Centered, however I feel that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is also rooted in everything that I do when partnering with clients.
Everything you are going through will be a memory one day. So how will you remember this time? I'm here to help you navigate through your life experiences and help to provide insight on how to manage challenges to the best of your ability. I'm a licensed counselor with experience working with many individuals of very different histories, ages, challenges and outlooks on life. My main approach to therapy is Person-Centered, however I feel that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is also rooted in everything that I do when partnering with clients.
(704) 459-8416 View (704) 459-8416
Photo of Kathryn Falbo-Woodson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Matthews, NC
Kathryn Falbo-Woodson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
Stress is inevitable, it's how we respond to it that matters. While stress can be a catalyst for spiritual, physical, and emotional growth, it impacts our well-being. During stressful times, it's important to recognize emotional and physical changes. Often, we neglect our internal experiences because of the fear of pain. When we avoid the pain, we essentially shut ourselves off from growth. My goal is to support you through challenging times, allowing you to open fully to the present moment by incorporating compassion-oriented & mindfulness-based strategies to withstand the suffering and lean into a growth mindset.
Stress is inevitable, it's how we respond to it that matters. While stress can be a catalyst for spiritual, physical, and emotional growth, it impacts our well-being. During stressful times, it's important to recognize emotional and physical changes. Often, we neglect our internal experiences because of the fear of pain. When we avoid the pain, we essentially shut ourselves off from growth. My goal is to support you through challenging times, allowing you to open fully to the present moment by incorporating compassion-oriented & mindfulness-based strategies to withstand the suffering and lean into a growth mindset.
(318) 705-3019 View (318) 705-3019
Photo of Katie Stenmark, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Matthews, NC
Katie Stenmark
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Are you feeling stuck repeating the same cycle over and over again? Are your usual ways of handling stress not working anymore? Are you struggling in your relationship with your partner, family, or friends? Maybe you know something needs to change but you are feeling powerless to make that change. At some point we all encounter difficulties in our life and feel unsure of our next steps. This is common but can feel lonely and isolating.
Are you feeling stuck repeating the same cycle over and over again? Are your usual ways of handling stress not working anymore? Are you struggling in your relationship with your partner, family, or friends? Maybe you know something needs to change but you are feeling powerless to make that change. At some point we all encounter difficulties in our life and feel unsure of our next steps. This is common but can feel lonely and isolating.
(704) 459-3133 View (704) 459-3133
Photo of Boyce L Smith, Counselor in Matthews, NC
Boyce L Smith
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, LCAS, CCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Taking the step to seek out counseling takes tremendous courage and vulnerability. My approach in counseling is holistic and takes into account the whole body, mind, and spirit. As a therapist I treat individuals, couples, and families regardless of race, age, sexuality, gender, religion, or ethnicity. Both professionally and personally, I believe that we all have what is necessary for true growth and change. Join me on the journey of exploring your needs and goals to help you accomplish a desired outcome.
Taking the step to seek out counseling takes tremendous courage and vulnerability. My approach in counseling is holistic and takes into account the whole body, mind, and spirit. As a therapist I treat individuals, couples, and families regardless of race, age, sexuality, gender, religion, or ethnicity. Both professionally and personally, I believe that we all have what is necessary for true growth and change. Join me on the journey of exploring your needs and goals to help you accomplish a desired outcome.
(704) 703-3298 View (704) 703-3298
Photo of Celeste Schmidt, Counselor in Matthews, NC
Celeste Schmidt
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Do you often feel overwhelmed by the world we currently live in? Do you have trouble regulating your emotions, feeling motivated, or feel "stuck" because of things that have happened to you in the past? I am trained in DBT and EMDR and work with individuals who are struggling with mood disorders, life transitions, and past trauma. I would love the opportunity to work alongside you on your healing journey. I want to give you the safe space needed to process what's going on and provide skills to help you become more adaptive.
Do you often feel overwhelmed by the world we currently live in? Do you have trouble regulating your emotions, feeling motivated, or feel "stuck" because of things that have happened to you in the past? I am trained in DBT and EMDR and work with individuals who are struggling with mood disorders, life transitions, and past trauma. I would love the opportunity to work alongside you on your healing journey. I want to give you the safe space needed to process what's going on and provide skills to help you become more adaptive.
(704) 327-0429 View (704) 327-0429
Photo of Marissa Johnson, Counselor in Matthews, NC
Marissa Johnson
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
Are you struggling to regulate your emotions and meet your goals? Do you feel stuck in life? Is your past interfering with your life in the present? I am trained in EMDR and DBT, and help clients who are struggling with mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, and past trauma. I want to help you work through difficulties to live your best life. Life right now is particularly stressful, and and I want to give you a place to process your emotions and learn skills to handle stress.
Are you struggling to regulate your emotions and meet your goals? Do you feel stuck in life? Is your past interfering with your life in the present? I am trained in EMDR and DBT, and help clients who are struggling with mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, and past trauma. I want to help you work through difficulties to live your best life. Life right now is particularly stressful, and and I want to give you a place to process your emotions and learn skills to handle stress.
(704) 610-3970 View (704) 610-3970
Sexual Abuse Therapists

How do therapists treat sexual abuse?

A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?

Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?

Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?

As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.