Find a Therapist in Garner, NC

Theresa Barton-Barrett is a licensed professional counselor with extensive experience in helping individuals navigate the complex emotions associated with grief, particularly the loss of a loved one or a cherished pet. With a strong background in psychology and sociology, Theresa is known for her supportive, curious, and compassionate approach, often infused with a good sense of humor to ease the counseling process. Her expertise encompasses anxiety and navigating life transitions, making her a valuable ally for those seeking healthy changes in their lives. She also shares her insights as an author and has taught psychology and sociology, enriching her understanding of human behavior. For those who are fellow counselors, writers, artists, or educators, Theresa extends a special invitation to connect. She believes that the journey through counseling, although challenging, is profoundly rewarding and requires courage to embrace changes. Take a step towards self-care by considering Theresa as a guide on this transformative path.

There could be countless reasons that individuals seek help from Janelle Johnson, a dedicated Marriage & Family Therapist. Some may struggle with day-to-day stress, feeling overwhelmed and unable to get out of bed. Others might be facing significant disruptions in their marriages or family dynamics, while some pregnant individuals may feel like they are no longer themselves. Regardless of the challenges, the central motivation for reaching out is the desire to achieve wellness. Janelle is committed to providing a supportive environment where families, couples, and individuals can work through various life stressors, including Post-Partum Depression, depression across the lifespan, marital and parenting issues, ADHD, and social anxiety. As the Founder and Co-Owner of Bridges Family Life Center, Janelle is also a Clinical Fellow of AAMFT and serves as the President Elect of the NC Association of Marriage and Family Therapy Board. Trained by Postpartum Support International and currently an AAMFT Supervisor Candidate, she takes great joy in training emerging family therapists and offering inclusion consulting on a national scale. Janelle's multifaceted approach incorporates various therapy types, including Trauma Focused, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Christian Counseling, ensuring a culturally sensitive and comprehensive experience for her clients.

Julie Ann Defalco is a compassionate and skilled clinical social worker and therapist with over 20 years of experience in the field. She understands that individuals often seek guidance on their identity, relationships, work, and the complexities of life. Julie believes that each person possesses the answers they seek within themselves, and her client-centered approach emphasizes collaboration. By starting with her clients' comfort levels, she empowers them to set the pace of their therapy journey. Julie expertly tailors her therapeutic style to meet the unique needs of each individual, combining insight-oriented and cognitive-behavioral techniques (CBT) alongside dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Her specialties include counseling teens and preteens, providing parenting training, and addressing mood disorders. Understanding that attending therapy for the first time can be daunting, Julie encourages new clients to bring their questions. She firmly believes that seeking counseling is a courageous step toward personal growth and mental wellness.

Maddie Bonner is a compassionate Clinical Social Worker and Therapist dedicated to fostering healing and growth in children and families. With a BA and MSW, along with her LCSW credentials, she brings a wealth of expertise to her practice. Maddie is a proud member of the National Association of Social Workers, underscoring her commitment to ethical and professional excellence. Specializing in trauma and PTSD, she expertly navigates the complexities of parenting and children's emotional needs. Her therapeutic approaches encompass a wide array of modalities, including Somatic Therapy, Child-Centered Play Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy, ensuring a holistic and individualized experience for her clients. Maddie’s gentle demeanor and nurturing spirit create a safe space for children, allowing them to express themselves through play, art, and music, ultimately guiding families toward healing and connection.

Autumn Cooper is a dedicated Clinical Social Worker and therapist, holding an MSW and LCSW, who is committed to supporting individuals across all stages of life, including preteens, teens, adults, and elders. At Regrowth Counseling, she understands that trauma, anxiety, and depression can permeate all aspects of life, often leaving individuals feeling overwhelmed by persistent negative emotions. Through a collaborative approach, Autumn aims to help clients navigate these intense feelings and reclaim control over their lives. Her therapeutic practice includes a diverse range of modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR, Gottman Method, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), alongside expressive arts therapy. Autumn has a strong commitment to practicing LGBTQIA+ affirmative therapy and works with clients from all religious backgrounds, including those who have transitioned from organized religion. Her mission is to provide inclusive and safe therapy services tailored to the needs of marginalized communities, whether for adults, adolescents, or couples in any type of relationship. At Regrowth Counseling, clients are welcomed into a supportive environment where they can develop coping strategies and foster resilience as they move forward in their lives.

The journey begins with the client! Enfinity Dobson understands that individuals may find themselves at a crossroads, unsure of their next steps, and that's perfectly okay. Each challenge, interaction, and experience shapes us in profound ways. Whether one identifies as a friend, partner, sibling, parent, or professional, the transformative power of therapy can be life-changing. While the therapeutic path may not always be filled with comfort and ease, Enfinity promises that the future will express gratitude for the courage shown, the strengths uncovered, and the growth achieved through participating in therapy. As a fully licensed marriage and family therapist and clinical addiction specialist, Enfinity brings a wealth of unique and diverse experiences to their practice, enhancing their systemic approach to psychotherapy. Each therapeutic experience is uniquely crafted to meet the individual's needs. Enfinity is dedicated to guiding clients through their personal journeys of transformation. With specialties in cultural competence, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), substance use, family conflict, trauma, relational challenges, and mental health disorders, Enfinity's expertise spans from young children to elders. Passionate about the power of therapy, Enfinity believes in its potential to catalyze meaningful change.

Kathy Elias is a highly qualified Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC, LCAS, NCC) who specializes in supporting adults and elders (65+) facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief, and loss. With a degree from North Carolina Central University, she has cultivated a rich understanding of the intricacies of mental health and well-being. Kathy employs an eclectic approach to therapy, integrating methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Behavioral Therapy, and Person-Centered practices. Her ability to connect with clients on a personal level fosters a safe and nurturing environment conducive to healing. Kathy assists individuals who grapple with negative thoughts, feelings of shame, guilt, or disconnection from their values. She expertly guides her clients in navigating through their emotional struggles, helping them uncover their authentic selves and fostering healthier connections with others. Kathy envisions guiding clients towards a more hopeful, confident existence, where they can respond rather than react to life's challenges. She is dedicated to awakening the inner spirit of each individual, enabling them to pursue freedom and peace in their lives.

Lastenia Francis, PhD, LMFT, is a dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist with a wealth of experience in guiding individuals, couples, families, and veterans through their personal challenges. With a nurturing and supportive approach, she creates a safe space for those feeling down, anxious, or uncertain about their relationships and futures to explore their feelings and experiences. Having specialized in important areas such as sexual abuse, trauma, PTSD, and marital counseling, Lastenia employs a strengths-based and solution-focused orientation in her practice. She integrates a variety of therapy modalities, including Experiential Therapy, Art Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to promote behavioral transformation and holistic well-being—physically, spiritually, and emotionally. Her unique perspective as a clinician of color, coupled with her rich experiences living and traveling abroad, allows her to understand the intricate role of race and culture in her clients' lives. Lastenia believes therapy is a powerful journey of self-discovery and growth, and she is committed to helping others redefine their narratives and achieve meaningful change.

Michael Garner is a dedicated Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, along with being an AAMFT Approved Supervisor and Qualified Supervisor for Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. He passionately serves a select group of intern students and associate licensure level candidates (LCMHCA and LMFTA) who are eager to enhance their skills in the therapeutic field. Michael believes that the most successful future clinicians possess a teachable spirit and an unyielding desire for personal and professional growth. He guides aspiring therapists to explore all facets of their practice, transcending basic case consultation. His supervision approach emphasizes legal and ethical considerations, case consultation strategies, and effective caseload management. He assists clinicians in discovering their unique niche while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Michael also addresses topics such as burnout and the importance of self-care practices to ensure they remain sharp and refreshed in the industry. He is committed to creating a tailored plan with specific, measurable goals designed to empower his clients to become better therapists and clinicians.

Katie Hardy, LCSW, is a compassionate and dedicated therapist committed to supporting children, adolescents, teens, and young adults. With a particular passion for working with clients on the Autism Spectrum, she is also skilled at helping individuals deal with anxiety, depression, ADHD, low self-esteem, and life transitions. Additionally, Katie provides a welcoming space for clients from the LGBTQ+ community and those seeking guidance in communication and self-expression. Her goal is to foster a safe and comfortable environment for clients to explore their feelings and work toward their treatment objectives. Embracing an eclectic therapeutic style, Katie primarily utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). She believes in a person-centered approach that prioritizes the unique needs of each client, ensuring they receive the tailored support they deserve.

Dr. Alice Hasty Verstrat is a dedicated psychologist with a PhD and extensive experience in supporting individuals across various backgrounds. She provides customized individual therapy for adults, adolescents, and children, ensuring that each treatment plan is tailored to meet individual needs. Utilizing a diverse range of therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, solution-focused therapy, and psychodynamic and attachment theories, Dr. Verstrat believes in the collaborative process of healing and fostering positive change. Her rich professional experience spans a variety of settings, enabling her to offer compassionate and respectful care to clients from different age groups, religions, races, ethnicities, and sexual orientations. Dedicating herself to fostering both individual and family growth, she welcomes all clients with an open heart and commitment to their well-being. Understanding the importance of a good therapeutic fit, Dr. Verstrat offers the first session as a complimentary consultation, ensuring that each client feels comfortable and supported on their journey.

Ronnie Ibrahim Rizek, MA, LCMHC, is a compassionate counselor dedicated to helping couples navigate their relationship challenges and individuals address a variety of emotional issues. He specializes in guiding partners who find themselves in cycles of conflict, struggling with poor communication, or feeling the weight of a loveless marriage. Through Gottman-inspired couples therapy, Ronnie assists clients in reviving their emotional and physical connections, restoring trust, and enhancing their intimacy by instilling empathy and realigning their values. Moreover, his expertise extends to individual therapy, offering support for those grappling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, and Bipolar Disorder. Ronnie embarks with couples and individuals on an emotional journey tailored to their specific goals, using evidence-based modalities such as Person-Centered and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. His culturally sensitive approach ensures that each client feels understood and valued as they work towards healing and growth together.

Dr. Ronald J. Valentine, a seasoned psychologist with over 29 years of post-doctoral experience, leads Dr. Ronald J. Valentine and Associates, P.A., a comprehensive psychological practice dedicated to providing outpatient care for adults. He works with individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and grief. In addition to individual therapy, he addresses relational difficulties through couple and family sessions. Dr. Valentine is passionate about helping patients cultivate positive changes and achieve a happier, more fulfilling life. His understanding and appreciation for veterans and law enforcement professionals enhance his empathy and effectiveness in therapy, making him a trusted resource for those seeking support.