Experiential Therapy in Banner Elk, NC

Photo of Karen Hammond Brown - Standing Stones Therapy, MA, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Standing Stones Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Banner Elk, NC 28604
Although we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can move toward greater self understanding and more fulfilling relationships in the present. I engage with you based on a relationship of two people coming together as equals within the safety of the therapeutic container. My focus is on interpersonal relationship, however, I include art, music, movement, play, and guided imagery as another means to connect with each other and to free the imagination for self discovery.
Although we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can move toward greater self understanding and more fulfilling relationships in the present. I engage with you based on a relationship of two people coming together as equals within the safety of the therapeutic container. My focus is on interpersonal relationship, however, I include art, music, movement, play, and guided imagery as another means to connect with each other and to free the imagination for self discovery.
(828) 303-2095 View (828) 303-2095
Photo of Kelly Wiener, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Kelly Wiener
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Banner Elk, NC 28604
Currently accepting new clients for office-based or nature-based therapy. Do you find hiking or just being outside, healing? Would you enjoy being in a peaceful place to learn more about yourself? Incorporate your love of the outdoors into your own wellness journey by discovering new ways to work through emotional challenges arising from life transitions, loss/grief, social connections, family dynamics, school/career and/or relationship conflicts. During your therapy session, you may choose to be in the office or you can relax by a pond, a creek or on top of a ridge. Find your own healing space at Bee Tree Ridge Farm.
Currently accepting new clients for office-based or nature-based therapy. Do you find hiking or just being outside, healing? Would you enjoy being in a peaceful place to learn more about yourself? Incorporate your love of the outdoors into your own wellness journey by discovering new ways to work through emotional challenges arising from life transitions, loss/grief, social connections, family dynamics, school/career and/or relationship conflicts. During your therapy session, you may choose to be in the office or you can relax by a pond, a creek or on top of a ridge. Find your own healing space at Bee Tree Ridge Farm.
(828) 900-2441 View (828) 900-2441
Photo of Tessa Koeval, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tessa Koeval
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Banner Elk, NC 28604
Finding the right fit with a therapist is so important, but it can feel uncomfortable (sometimes scary) meeting for a first session with a stranger and not knowing if they're going to be a good fit. I'd love the opportunity to get to talk with you; it's my goal to create a safe, warm, and welcoming space where you feel heard, felt, and able to pursue change at your pace. If we meet and you end up feeling I’m not the right fit, I'll be happy to help you find a therapist who you feel is right for YOU. Therapy isn’t about me, it’s about you finding the space and tangible resources you need on your life journey.
Finding the right fit with a therapist is so important, but it can feel uncomfortable (sometimes scary) meeting for a first session with a stranger and not knowing if they're going to be a good fit. I'd love the opportunity to get to talk with you; it's my goal to create a safe, warm, and welcoming space where you feel heard, felt, and able to pursue change at your pace. If we meet and you end up feeling I’m not the right fit, I'll be happy to help you find a therapist who you feel is right for YOU. Therapy isn’t about me, it’s about you finding the space and tangible resources you need on your life journey.
(828) 266-0518 View (828) 266-0518
Photo of Mercer Hathorn, LCMHC
Mercer Hathorn
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Banner Elk, NC 28604
Waitlist for new clients
*Waitlist* If you're ready to make change in your life, you've come to the right place. If you want to do therapy online from the comfort of your home, we will be a great fit (just get ready for me to ask to meet your pets!) If you dislike sitting in an office and want to meet OUTDOORS for therapy, I'm your girl. My favorite therapy sessions are done in nature in the Boone, NC and surrounding areas - we can walk, hike, or even kayak during your session! I also have a cozy new office where we can meet downtown. I specialize in relationships, body-centered therapy, trauma-healing, LGBTQIA+, and goal-achievement.
*Waitlist* If you're ready to make change in your life, you've come to the right place. If you want to do therapy online from the comfort of your home, we will be a great fit (just get ready for me to ask to meet your pets!) If you dislike sitting in an office and want to meet OUTDOORS for therapy, I'm your girl. My favorite therapy sessions are done in nature in the Boone, NC and surrounding areas - we can walk, hike, or even kayak during your session! I also have a cozy new office where we can meet downtown. I specialize in relationships, body-centered therapy, trauma-healing, LGBTQIA+, and goal-achievement.
(828) 332-5738 View (828) 332-5738

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Peter Paglen - Better Days and Nights, PLLC, LCMHC, LCSW, LCMHCA, LCSWA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Better Days and Nights, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCSW, LCMHCA, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
We are a group practice, we take many different insurances, and file your claims for you. Our therapists will work with you to help find understanding, a solution or a change for you or your situation. Counseling/Therapy is based on you and your situation alone. Everyone is different and everyone's situation is different, so we will create an individual plan for you and your specific concerns. There is no use of a template or generalized formula. The therapeutic formula we decide on will come from you and your concerns. The counseling experience will be unique to you and your situation.
We are a group practice, we take many different insurances, and file your claims for you. Our therapists will work with you to help find understanding, a solution or a change for you or your situation. Counseling/Therapy is based on you and your situation alone. Everyone is different and everyone's situation is different, so we will create an individual plan for you and your specific concerns. There is no use of a template or generalized formula. The therapeutic formula we decide on will come from you and your concerns. The counseling experience will be unique to you and your situation.
(828) 266-0407 View (828) 266-0407
Photo of Andrea M Marsh - Mountain Lotus Therapy Services, LPC, LCAS, CSI, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mountain Lotus Therapy Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
My professional experience has been working with adolescents, college students, adults, working on various issues, and wanting someone to help them in the journey. No one lives life without going through something that makes them question whether they can work through it on their own. This is the very place God has for us to come to him and his strength. I have personally experienced a few of these, and have been given a calling for helping others in theirs. My practice aims to shine light on the purpose we have on this earth, and walking with you to uncover the roots of why you struggle.
My professional experience has been working with adolescents, college students, adults, working on various issues, and wanting someone to help them in the journey. No one lives life without going through something that makes them question whether they can work through it on their own. This is the very place God has for us to come to him and his strength. I have personally experienced a few of these, and have been given a calling for helping others in theirs. My practice aims to shine light on the purpose we have on this earth, and walking with you to uncover the roots of why you struggle.
(828) 457-8757 View (828) 457-8757
Photo of Peter A Paglen, MA, NCC, LCMHCQS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peter A Paglen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHCQS
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
Waitlist for new clients
Do you have something on your mind? There are times when we all have thoughts running through our minds. Thoughts related to family, friends, relationships, school, love, spirituality, money, work, or happiness. Sometimes they are memories from your past that you're unable to let go. Maybe you can't sleep, maybe you can't eat. Maybe you have lost your purpose, who you are, what you're doing or why. It could be big, or just a small thing you want to let go. These situations can slow you down and pull your life to a stop.
Do you have something on your mind? There are times when we all have thoughts running through our minds. Thoughts related to family, friends, relationships, school, love, spirituality, money, work, or happiness. Sometimes they are memories from your past that you're unable to let go. Maybe you can't sleep, maybe you can't eat. Maybe you have lost your purpose, who you are, what you're doing or why. It could be big, or just a small thing you want to let go. These situations can slow you down and pull your life to a stop.
(828) 457-8331 View (828) 457-8331
Photo of Bettie McKemie Hill, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bettie McKemie Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
I love working with people who are taking steps to better understand themselves and how they relate to the world around them. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, family conflict, life transitions, academic struggles, college milestones, work-life balance and relationships with specialties in narcissism and adult children of emotionally immature parents. I love working with folks to support empathy building in family relationships.
I love working with people who are taking steps to better understand themselves and how they relate to the world around them. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, family conflict, life transitions, academic struggles, college milestones, work-life balance and relationships with specialties in narcissism and adult children of emotionally immature parents. I love working with folks to support empathy building in family relationships.
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Photo of Alec Rothschild, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Alec Rothschild
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
Welcome! Thank you for stopping by. My name is Alec Rothschild, and I am an Asheville based counselor working with adolescents and young adults. I specialize in working with neurodiverse individuals, LGBTQIA+ individuals, those struggling with relationships, processing trauma, or struggling with their mood, anxiety, or depression. My approach incorporates mindfulness, somatic techniques, and in-the-moment experiments. I'm committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of their background. Members of the LGBTQIA+ community, BIPOC individuals, and people of all religions are warmly welcomed.
Welcome! Thank you for stopping by. My name is Alec Rothschild, and I am an Asheville based counselor working with adolescents and young adults. I specialize in working with neurodiverse individuals, LGBTQIA+ individuals, those struggling with relationships, processing trauma, or struggling with their mood, anxiety, or depression. My approach incorporates mindfulness, somatic techniques, and in-the-moment experiments. I'm committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of their background. Members of the LGBTQIA+ community, BIPOC individuals, and people of all religions are warmly welcomed.
(828) 355-4599 View (828) 355-4599
Photo of Jay Tyszka, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jay Tyszka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28608  (Online Only)
Welcome! I’m Jay Tyszka, LCSWA. I specialize in helping women heal from trauma/PTSD, eating disorders, body image concerns, and yo-yo dieting. I also treat depression, anxiety, and perfectionism. Whether you're ready to process through past trauma, battling an eating disorder or negative body image, or struggling with anxiety and perfectionism, I am here to offer you a safe and supportive space to explore, process, and heal. Together, we will address your unique concerns and underlying issues, develop a healthier relationship with food, and cultivate self-acceptance.
Welcome! I’m Jay Tyszka, LCSWA. I specialize in helping women heal from trauma/PTSD, eating disorders, body image concerns, and yo-yo dieting. I also treat depression, anxiety, and perfectionism. Whether you're ready to process through past trauma, battling an eating disorder or negative body image, or struggling with anxiety and perfectionism, I am here to offer you a safe and supportive space to explore, process, and heal. Together, we will address your unique concerns and underlying issues, develop a healthier relationship with food, and cultivate self-acceptance.
(984) 600-6396 View (984) 600-6396
Photo of Laura Michelle Foley, LMFTA, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Laura Michelle Foley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MDiv
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
Waitlist for new clients
Are there parts of yourself that you're ready to take a closer look at? Are you a student in need of support? Are you concerned about your substance use? Have you noticed patterns coming up in your relationships with your partner and/or family that you aren't sure how to address? This is work we can do together in bite-sized chunks so that you aren't having to uproot your entire life in order to become the person you know you are at your core. My job is to see you for who you really are and remind you of that when you're unable to see yourself. I am here to help you make the changes you haven't yet been able to make on your own.
Are there parts of yourself that you're ready to take a closer look at? Are you a student in need of support? Are you concerned about your substance use? Have you noticed patterns coming up in your relationships with your partner and/or family that you aren't sure how to address? This is work we can do together in bite-sized chunks so that you aren't having to uproot your entire life in order to become the person you know you are at your core. My job is to see you for who you really are and remind you of that when you're unable to see yourself. I am here to help you make the changes you haven't yet been able to make on your own.
(828) 528-7790 View (828) 528-7790
Photo of Alistair Burke, LCMHC-A, NCC, Counselor
Alistair Burke
Counselor, LCMHC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607  (Online Only)
Mental health seems to unravel when things become stuck. A traumatic memory frozen in time. A behavior pattern caught in a dysfunctional loop. Or depressive thoughts pinning our mind to a cycle of hopelessness. Through my person-centered approach that emphasizes connection and deep listening, I aspire to bring an honest and gently healing perspective to your mental health concern. Our conversations will be real, rich and more than a little playful too. Through a process in which you will feel seen and heard, we will collaborate on small steps guiding you towards positive change and life affirming growth.
Mental health seems to unravel when things become stuck. A traumatic memory frozen in time. A behavior pattern caught in a dysfunctional loop. Or depressive thoughts pinning our mind to a cycle of hopelessness. Through my person-centered approach that emphasizes connection and deep listening, I aspire to bring an honest and gently healing perspective to your mental health concern. Our conversations will be real, rich and more than a little playful too. Through a process in which you will feel seen and heard, we will collaborate on small steps guiding you towards positive change and life affirming growth.
(828) 860-2064 View (828) 860-2064
Photo of Emily Pegram, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Emily Pegram
MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28608  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It is Fucking exhausting, when you're constantly trying to shrink yourself to fit other people's expectations Perhaps you find yourself screaming into the void, feeling lost and overwhelmed by the pressures of existing in this late-stage capitalist hellscape. Maybe you are transitioning into adulthood, searching for acceptance & understanding. You might be starting a new relationship or exploring your sense of self & identity. For years you've felt frustrated & confused by a world that expects you to be someone you are not. But now, you are ready to take up space.
It is Fucking exhausting, when you're constantly trying to shrink yourself to fit other people's expectations Perhaps you find yourself screaming into the void, feeling lost and overwhelmed by the pressures of existing in this late-stage capitalist hellscape. Maybe you are transitioning into adulthood, searching for acceptance & understanding. You might be starting a new relationship or exploring your sense of self & identity. For years you've felt frustrated & confused by a world that expects you to be someone you are not. But now, you are ready to take up space.
(828) 532-3841 View (828) 532-3841
Photo of Jessica Rodgers, EdS, MEd, LCMHC
Jessica Rodgers
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, EdS, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28608  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with feelings of grief or low self esteem after your relationship has ended? Do you experience stress when trying to envision the next phase of your life after a divorce? If you're struggling with past or present relationship issues, now might be best time to reach out to a therapist who can help . Let us work together so that we can develop a plan to ease the difficulty and foster a vision for you moving forward. Continue reading to learn how booking a therapy session today is the best, yet most difficult, decision that you will ever make for your relationship life.
Are you struggling with feelings of grief or low self esteem after your relationship has ended? Do you experience stress when trying to envision the next phase of your life after a divorce? If you're struggling with past or present relationship issues, now might be best time to reach out to a therapist who can help . Let us work together so that we can develop a plan to ease the difficulty and foster a vision for you moving forward. Continue reading to learn how booking a therapy session today is the best, yet most difficult, decision that you will ever make for your relationship life.
(704) 459-4869 View (704) 459-4869
Photo of Lucyna Sonek, MPsych, MA, LPC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lucyna Sonek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPsych, MA, LPC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607  (Online Only)
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
I strive to assist distressed individuals in regulating emotions, improving mood, cultivating positive thinking, changing unproductive behaviors, and in creating wellness, life satisfaction, and self-acceptance. By exploring and identifying unique, personal thinking patterns, challenges, needs, and strengths we work in therapy to promote the meaning in life, responsibility, and the pursuit of genuineness and the best in self, life and relationships. My approach is compassionate, backed by extensive training and I have over 30 years of experience in education, community service, and psychotherapy with children, students, adults, couples, families, and groups.
(828) 527-0143 View (828) 527-0143
Photo of Kelly O’Connor, NCC, LCMHCA, Counselor
Kelly O’Connor
Counselor, NCC, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
Hi! Going to therapy can be an intimidating process, and my goal is to create an authentic and accepting environment to help you feel seen, understood, and give you the confidence to try things differently. Vulnerability can be one of the scariest, most liberating and empowering acts, and takes courage – so I commend you for being here, wherever you are in your process.
Hi! Going to therapy can be an intimidating process, and my goal is to create an authentic and accepting environment to help you feel seen, understood, and give you the confidence to try things differently. Vulnerability can be one of the scariest, most liberating and empowering acts, and takes courage – so I commend you for being here, wherever you are in your process.
(828) 332-5311 View (828) 332-5311
Photo of Patti Stapleton Bock, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, TF-CBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patti Stapleton Bock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607  (Online Only)
I invite you to utilize my over 30 years of mental health/addictions education and experience, empowering you with highly effective and enduring therapy, resolving long term and recent issues that block your happiness and success. Adults, youths, couples and whole families are carefully taught needed skills and facilitated actual healing processes, step by step, to remedy thought distortions, repressed feelings and dysfunctional behaviors and attitudes that impair your relationships, socialization, work or school success. Treatment is customized in consideration of individual schedules, preferences, strengths, obstacles and goals for lasting growth and change. Christian counseling is available upon request.
I invite you to utilize my over 30 years of mental health/addictions education and experience, empowering you with highly effective and enduring therapy, resolving long term and recent issues that block your happiness and success. Adults, youths, couples and whole families are carefully taught needed skills and facilitated actual healing processes, step by step, to remedy thought distortions, repressed feelings and dysfunctional behaviors and attitudes that impair your relationships, socialization, work or school success. Treatment is customized in consideration of individual schedules, preferences, strengths, obstacles and goals for lasting growth and change. Christian counseling is available upon request.
(919) 249-7169 View (919) 249-7169
Photo of Jonathan Rios, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Jonathan Rios
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28608
Jonathan is an athlete-turned mental coach & licensed psychotherapist. A former Division 1 athlete and military academy graduate. Jonathan specializes in treatment of Panic Attacks, Performance anxiety, Relationship issues, and Parental coaching. He and his wife have 4 biological daughters and fostered 13 teenage boys. He offers a men's personal development group (8 weeks) as well as multiple national and international Men's development trainings (NC, WY, Puerto Rico, Peru). Check out his instagram page for free content: PrimalVirtues
Jonathan is an athlete-turned mental coach & licensed psychotherapist. A former Division 1 athlete and military academy graduate. Jonathan specializes in treatment of Panic Attacks, Performance anxiety, Relationship issues, and Parental coaching. He and his wife have 4 biological daughters and fostered 13 teenage boys. He offers a men's personal development group (8 weeks) as well as multiple national and international Men's development trainings (NC, WY, Puerto Rico, Peru). Check out his instagram page for free content: PrimalVirtues
(561) 448-6416 View (561) 448-6416
Photo of Byalinah Shakir-Burgess - Limitless Counseling PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Limitless Counseling PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28608  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of experience in mental health. I am trained in EMDR, Hypnotherapy and CBT. I enjoy using humor to ease tension and lighten the mood, as I build rapport and help people feel supported. When working with clients, I help them identify natural support systems, set healthy boundaries, develop coping skills, gain work/life balance and process trauma. I have a holistic collaborative approach to care focusing on building resiliency using active listening, empathy and unconditional positive regard.
I have over 20 years of experience in mental health. I am trained in EMDR, Hypnotherapy and CBT. I enjoy using humor to ease tension and lighten the mood, as I build rapport and help people feel supported. When working with clients, I help them identify natural support systems, set healthy boundaries, develop coping skills, gain work/life balance and process trauma. I have a holistic collaborative approach to care focusing on building resiliency using active listening, empathy and unconditional positive regard.
(984) 205-8736 View (984) 205-8736
Photo of Bec Long - Beck Long Counseling, PLLC, LCMHC, LCAS, NBCC
Beck Long Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NBCC
Verified Verified
Blowing Rock, NC 28605
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome. I am a person centered, LGBTQ+ clinical mental health counselor and addictions specialist. I use an eclectic approach for a range of ages, developmental-transitional stages towards positive shifts in attitude, behavior, and mood a shift towards client wellbeing. I will work collaboratively with you, use arts therapy, area resources including outdoor settings and experiences, paired with DBT and trauma-informed care for harm reduction and to assist rebuilding trust in yourself first. And hopefully the goal is to construct resources and help identify self strategies for increased positive life experiences in your world.
Welcome. I am a person centered, LGBTQ+ clinical mental health counselor and addictions specialist. I use an eclectic approach for a range of ages, developmental-transitional stages towards positive shifts in attitude, behavior, and mood a shift towards client wellbeing. I will work collaboratively with you, use arts therapy, area resources including outdoor settings and experiences, paired with DBT and trauma-informed care for harm reduction and to assist rebuilding trust in yourself first. And hopefully the goal is to construct resources and help identify self strategies for increased positive life experiences in your world.
(828) 332-5512 View (828) 332-5512

See more therapy options for Banner Elk

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.