Waynesville, NC Local Support & Community Resources

Maria Averza is a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with over 12 years of experience in the field. She specializes in helping individuals of all ages, including teens, adults, and elders, navigate through difficult times marked by distress, trauma, and mood disorders. Maria is committed to fostering mental health and well-being, recognizing that counseling is a valuable investment in one's quality of life. With a diverse array of therapeutic approaches including Trauma-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness-Based Therapy, she provides a holistic and culturally sensitive environment for her clients. Additionally, Maria holds certifications in trauma therapy, specifically addressing issues related to sexual violence. She believes that many emotional ailments stem from challenging relationships, often leading to feelings of hurt and disappointment. Maria is here to guide and support those seeking to improve their mental well-being and restore balance between mind and body.

Karen Macke is a compassionate licensed professional counselor who enjoys guiding individuals, children, families, and couples on their journey toward change. She recognizes that everyone can benefit from therapy at different points in their lives, whether it's acquiring new skills or processing through challenging situations. With extensive training in a variety of therapeutic modalities, including hypnosis, EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and dialectical behavior therapy, Karen employs an eclectic approach tailored to meet the unique needs of her clients. Her expertise in Imago Therapy allows her to bring the best techniques into her work with couples, fostering deeper connections and understanding.

Lisa Neff is a compassionate and experienced Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in supporting individuals, families, and adolescents through the complexities of grief, trauma, and anxiety. With expertise in clinical supervision and a diverse range of therapy types including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), she is dedicated to providing tailored therapeutic interventions. Lisa employs various modalities to nurture healing, utilizing Person-Centered and Trauma-Focused approaches that resonate with her clients’ unique journeys. Her commitment to fostering mental health and well-being enables her to create a warm, safe environment where clients can explore their feelings and cultivate resilience.