Experiential Therapy in Boone, NC

Photo of Karen Hammond Brown - Standing Stones Therapy, MA, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Standing Stones Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
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 Allison Rayburn, PhD, LMFT, RPT, MT-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Rayburn
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, RPT, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
I help teens and adults like you who want to break painful cycles and gain control of their feelings, relationships and lives. You've tried to manage your stress and anxiety, but the ways that help others don't work (or last) for you. You often feel misunderstood and different from others, while hiding how much you are struggling. Sometimes, this burying of stress and feelings can cause you to hit a breaking point. You are highly sensitive to others feelings, that it seems easier to help others than yourself. You don't want to burden others with your problems and know they can't understand. But you still want to get help, too.
I help teens and adults like you who want to break painful cycles and gain control of their feelings, relationships and lives. You've tried to manage your stress and anxiety, but the ways that help others don't work (or last) for you. You often feel misunderstood and different from others, while hiding how much you are struggling. Sometimes, this burying of stress and feelings can cause you to hit a breaking point. You are highly sensitive to others feelings, that it seems easier to help others than yourself. You don't want to burden others with your problems and know they can't understand. But you still want to get help, too.
(828) 268-3161 View (828) 268-3161
Photo of Lupe Serrano, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lupe Serrano
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
Childhood can be filled with exploration, and with that comes big changes, stresses, and a shift in identity and dependency. Navigating the first two decades of life is not one size fits all. Whether it’s learning to get along with friends, going to school, dealing with broken relationships, or navigating through trauma, we all need extra support. This is where I can help. I love working with young individuals to support them in becoming exactly who they want to be while working through obstacles. I have unique experiences working with youth who struggle with identity, anxiety, depression, trauma, and navigating relationships.
Childhood can be filled with exploration, and with that comes big changes, stresses, and a shift in identity and dependency. Navigating the first two decades of life is not one size fits all. Whether it’s learning to get along with friends, going to school, dealing with broken relationships, or navigating through trauma, we all need extra support. This is where I can help. I love working with young individuals to support them in becoming exactly who they want to be while working through obstacles. I have unique experiences working with youth who struggle with identity, anxiety, depression, trauma, and navigating relationships.
(828) 845-8461 View (828) 845-8461
Photo of John McManus, LCAS, LCMHCA, NCC
John McManus
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCAS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
Waitlist for new clients
If you are looking for a relatable, down-to-earth therapist: I'm your person. If you like to laugh and get well at the same time: I'm definitely your person. Humor can be part of healing! Having been in therapy myself since age 10, I understand what it is to be depressed, anxious, and traumatized in ways that drain the color out of life and replace future excitement with a sense of hopelessness. It's an agonizing way to live. I have found ways to restore my passion for life, and I am eager to help you do the same! I'm here to collaborate with you on your path to healing- call me! I want to help people who are motivated to change.
If you are looking for a relatable, down-to-earth therapist: I'm your person. If you like to laugh and get well at the same time: I'm definitely your person. Humor can be part of healing! Having been in therapy myself since age 10, I understand what it is to be depressed, anxious, and traumatized in ways that drain the color out of life and replace future excitement with a sense of hopelessness. It's an agonizing way to live. I have found ways to restore my passion for life, and I am eager to help you do the same! I'm here to collaborate with you on your path to healing- call me! I want to help people who are motivated to change.
(828) 528-6164 View (828) 528-6164
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 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 Christy Miller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christy Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and AAMFT Approved Supervisor. I have extensive experience in working with individuals and their families with complex trauma. I work with individuals, students, couples, families and adolescents to promote strengthening individual and relational health through a holistic and systemic lense. I firmly believe individuals exist within the context of relationships (e.g. marriage, couple, family, friends, peers, community, etc.) and these relationships influence the individual’s physical, psychological, and emotional health. Jax attends sessions to bring smiles and comfort!
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and AAMFT Approved Supervisor. I have extensive experience in working with individuals and their families with complex trauma. I work with individuals, students, couples, families and adolescents to promote strengthening individual and relational health through a holistic and systemic lense. I firmly believe individuals exist within the context of relationships (e.g. marriage, couple, family, friends, peers, community, etc.) and these relationships influence the individual’s physical, psychological, and emotional health. Jax attends sessions to bring smiles and comfort!
(828) 490-1986 View (828) 490-1986
Photo of Laura Michelle Foley, LMFTA, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Laura Michelle Foley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
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 Lisbette R Lundgren, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisbette R Lundgren
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28608
Over 17 years of practice. Working with people is a privilege & a humbling experience. I work with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, couples, and families. I concentrate on clients' strengths, and addressing dysfunctional thinking and behaviors that creates mental unrest. A great percentage of our happiness is felt in response to having healthy relationships. When we experience distress in relationships with others we feel a sense of betrayal and loss. In therapy, you will learn to identify and regulate feelings to communicate your needs in a non-defensive manner. It is my privilege to walk that journey with you.
Over 17 years of practice. Working with people is a privilege & a humbling experience. I work with individuals of all ages and backgrounds, couples, and families. I concentrate on clients' strengths, and addressing dysfunctional thinking and behaviors that creates mental unrest. A great percentage of our happiness is felt in response to having healthy relationships. When we experience distress in relationships with others we feel a sense of betrayal and loss. In therapy, you will learn to identify and regulate feelings to communicate your needs in a non-defensive manner. It is my privilege to walk that journey with you.
(828) 604-6569 View (828) 604-6569
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 Tessa Koeval, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tessa Koeval
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
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 Anthony Laricchiuti, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anthony Laricchiuti
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
During any stage of life we are faced with challenges of many kinds. And these trials can keep anyone in the dark, not realizing that hope can be found. If you're someone who is trying to figure out who you are in the world, trying to find their way, or who just needs a solid connection with yourself and others; if you recognize a problem and a longing for change or struggling with overwhelming thoughts and emotions that keep you pushed away, leaving you in the dark, then you’re not alone and I’m here to help.
During any stage of life we are faced with challenges of many kinds. And these trials can keep anyone in the dark, not realizing that hope can be found. If you're someone who is trying to figure out who you are in the world, trying to find their way, or who just needs a solid connection with yourself and others; if you recognize a problem and a longing for change or struggling with overwhelming thoughts and emotions that keep you pushed away, leaving you in the dark, then you’re not alone and I’m here to help.
(919) 694-6885 View (919) 694-6885
Photo of Jody R Gardner, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jody R Gardner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
I am a graduate of Appalachian State University with a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, and have been practicing since 2005. I specialize in work with individuals, couples, families and teens, and have a focus in systems theory and narrative therapy. I am a LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist. I prefer to work in collaboration with my clients to use the expertise that they have in their own lives to help find strategies that can help them build the life that they want.
I am a graduate of Appalachian State University with a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, and have been practicing since 2005. I specialize in work with individuals, couples, families and teens, and have a focus in systems theory and narrative therapy. I am a LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist. I prefer to work in collaboration with my clients to use the expertise that they have in their own lives to help find strategies that can help them build the life that they want.
(828) 358-1737 View (828) 358-1737
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 Bec Long - Beck Long Counseling, PLLC, LCMHC, LCAS, NBCC
Beck Long Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NBCC
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
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
Photo of Emily Capps - Broken Angel Counseling, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Broken Angel Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
I believe there is no true beginning or end to Healing, working on ourselves, or trying to have forward motion in our lives (but that it DOES get better!), so any entry point into counseling as a tool in those processes is the right one. /"This is heart work, and you can't think your way around this; you've gotta feel your way through it." / /"The soul always knows what to do to heal itself. The challenge is to silence the mind."/
I believe there is no true beginning or end to Healing, working on ourselves, or trying to have forward motion in our lives (but that it DOES get better!), so any entry point into counseling as a tool in those processes is the right one. /"This is heart work, and you can't think your way around this; you've gotta feel your way through it." / /"The soul always knows what to do to heal itself. The challenge is to silence the mind."/
(828) 882-2904 View (828) 882-2904
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.
(828) 332-5489 View (828) 332-5489
Photo of Jake Keller, MA MMT, LMFT, MT-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jake Keller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA MMT, LMFT, MT-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
Sometimes we can feel as if on a mountaintop with a sense of clarity and other times in a valley unable to see the next step. Life is a journey with experiences and seasons where we can all use some help along the way. Whether it be marriage, dating, work, friendships, or family dynamics, relationships can be complex. Through life's complexities we can learn and grow. I believe everyone deserves to experience joy and live an abundant life. By living authentically to ourselves and others we can become the best version of ourselves. My desire is to meet you where you are and collaboratively work with you to reach your full potential.
Sometimes we can feel as if on a mountaintop with a sense of clarity and other times in a valley unable to see the next step. Life is a journey with experiences and seasons where we can all use some help along the way. Whether it be marriage, dating, work, friendships, or family dynamics, relationships can be complex. Through life's complexities we can learn and grow. I believe everyone deserves to experience joy and live an abundant life. By living authentically to ourselves and others we can become the best version of ourselves. My desire is to meet you where you are and collaboratively work with you to reach your full potential.
(828) 537-1457 View (828) 537-1457
Photo of Marla P Gentile, MEd, LCMHCS, LCAS, LMHC, CAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marla P Gentile
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHCS, LCAS, LMHC, CAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
42 Years of experience working with men and women in a safe and caring environment. Specialties include anxiety, addiction, grief, codependency and recovery issues. I also work with individuals who are experiencing a period of transition including divorce, career change or other significant life change. I have a strong background and certifications in the fitness industry as well and believe strongly in the mind/body experience in relation to the concept of holistic wellness. In person and remote counseling available. I am licensed in North Carolina, Florida and California.
42 Years of experience working with men and women in a safe and caring environment. Specialties include anxiety, addiction, grief, codependency and recovery issues. I also work with individuals who are experiencing a period of transition including divorce, career change or other significant life change. I have a strong background and certifications in the fitness industry as well and believe strongly in the mind/body experience in relation to the concept of holistic wellness. In person and remote counseling available. I am licensed in North Carolina, Florida and California.
(828) 539-4024 View (828) 539-4024
Photo of Mercer Hathorn, LCMHC
Mercer Hathorn
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
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
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See more therapy options for Boone

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.