Photo of Jovan N McLeod, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jovan N McLeod
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hope Mills, NC 28348
I am a National Board Certified Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 15 years of clinical experience in the mental health field. I have provided behavioral health care services across a spectrum of populations, within a variety of settings to include: a residential psychiatric rehabilitation treatment facility (PRTF), the Department of Corrections, the family court system, Drug and Young Adult Courts, military installations, schools, outpatient and community mental health, as well as private/group practice. I work with individuals; families; couples & groups affected by existential and a wide range of mental health issues.
I am a National Board Certified Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 15 years of clinical experience in the mental health field. I have provided behavioral health care services across a spectrum of populations, within a variety of settings to include: a residential psychiatric rehabilitation treatment facility (PRTF), the Department of Corrections, the family court system, Drug and Young Adult Courts, military installations, schools, outpatient and community mental health, as well as private/group practice. I work with individuals; families; couples & groups affected by existential and a wide range of mental health issues.
(910) 236-2699 View (910) 236-2699

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rona Gooden, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Rona Gooden
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28305
Are you struggling with prolonged sadness or emptiness, feelings of being overwhelmed, feeling like you don't know how to cope, or are you unable to recognize or express your feelings? I can help. Do you want to be able to communicate with your spouse but just don't know how? I can help. Are you unhappy with the way you respond to situations? I can help. Do you have a hard time talking about something traumatic that happened to you and know you must deal with it somehow? I can help. Do you feel like you have a hard time gaining control over your emotions? I can help.
Are you struggling with prolonged sadness or emptiness, feelings of being overwhelmed, feeling like you don't know how to cope, or are you unable to recognize or express your feelings? I can help. Do you want to be able to communicate with your spouse but just don't know how? I can help. Are you unhappy with the way you respond to situations? I can help. Do you have a hard time talking about something traumatic that happened to you and know you must deal with it somehow? I can help. Do you feel like you have a hard time gaining control over your emotions? I can help.
(910) 601-2763 View (910) 601-2763
Photo of Elizabeth Caldwell - Clinical Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC, LCSW, LCASA, CSOTP, TFCBT, NCCPE, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clinical Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA, CSOTP, TFCBT, NCCPE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303
Clinical Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC (CCCS) is a counseling and consulting agency dedicated to clinician development and mental health treatment. Although CCCS specializes in treatment for sex offenders, individuals with problematic sexualized behavior, and victims of trauma, the agency also provides specialized outpatient therapy, employee assistance services, and services for individuals suffering from addiction. Parenting education classes are also available to assist parents with managing and coping with their children and/or adolescent behavioral deficits, addictions, and/or mental health disorder(s).
Clinical Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC (CCCS) is a counseling and consulting agency dedicated to clinician development and mental health treatment. Although CCCS specializes in treatment for sex offenders, individuals with problematic sexualized behavior, and victims of trauma, the agency also provides specialized outpatient therapy, employee assistance services, and services for individuals suffering from addiction. Parenting education classes are also available to assist parents with managing and coping with their children and/or adolescent behavioral deficits, addictions, and/or mental health disorder(s).
(910) 401-2998 View (910) 401-2998

Online Therapists

Photo of Kait Wellbock, LCMHC-A
Kait Wellbock
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27401  (Online Only)
This fast-paced world is weighing you down, and you feel like you can’t keep up. You’re drowning in a sea of self-help advice and you don’t understand why none of it works for you. The influx of mental wellness trends are overwhelming and exhausting to follow. Your well-meaning rituals fade, making you feel incompatible with the people around you. The hectic demands of daily living are impossible to meet. The voice in your head keeps screaming, “Why can’t I breathe?” If you feel you don't fit in, you experience imposter syndrome, you are recovering from trauma, or if you desire to thrive beyond your survival, I can support you.
This fast-paced world is weighing you down, and you feel like you can’t keep up. You’re drowning in a sea of self-help advice and you don’t understand why none of it works for you. The influx of mental wellness trends are overwhelming and exhausting to follow. Your well-meaning rituals fade, making you feel incompatible with the people around you. The hectic demands of daily living are impossible to meet. The voice in your head keeps screaming, “Why can’t I breathe?” If you feel you don't fit in, you experience imposter syndrome, you are recovering from trauma, or if you desire to thrive beyond your survival, I can support you.
(336) 815-5464 View (336) 815-5464
Photo of Luke Strawn, MEd, LCMHC, Counselor
Luke Strawn
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607  (Online Only)
Hello, and welcome! I fully believe that every person brings an individualistic perspective to the table - Shaped by their own identities, experiences, and challenges. It's most important to create a space where we can explore unique solutions together and model healthy communication and relationships. My hope is that we explore emotions, practice vulnerability, and work towards personal goals together. I also acknowledge how my identities and statuses of privilege show up and I intentionally operate with an anti-racism lens to help empower clients to show up authentically.
Hello, and welcome! I fully believe that every person brings an individualistic perspective to the table - Shaped by their own identities, experiences, and challenges. It's most important to create a space where we can explore unique solutions together and model healthy communication and relationships. My hope is that we explore emotions, practice vulnerability, and work towards personal goals together. I also acknowledge how my identities and statuses of privilege show up and I intentionally operate with an anti-racism lens to help empower clients to show up authentically.
(919) 820-8256 View (919) 820-8256
Photo of Alyssa Triolo, MS/EdS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyssa Triolo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS/EdS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27405
Waitlist for new clients
As your therapist, I aim to provide a judgement-free space where you can unpack your thoughts, gain clarity, and take steps towards the life you desire. My expertise in relationship issues, trauma recovery, and LGBTQ+ experiences helps clients process painful events, build resilience, and move forward with self-compassion. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, identity issues, trauma, or just need a listening ear during a life transition, I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey towards growth and fulfillment.
As your therapist, I aim to provide a judgement-free space where you can unpack your thoughts, gain clarity, and take steps towards the life you desire. My expertise in relationship issues, trauma recovery, and LGBTQ+ experiences helps clients process painful events, build resilience, and move forward with self-compassion. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, identity issues, trauma, or just need a listening ear during a life transition, I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey towards growth and fulfillment.
(336) 331-5966 View (336) 331-5966
Photo of Jennifer D. Wilson - Comprehensive Community Supportive Services PLLC, LCSW, ACSW, CSOTS, CJSOTS, MAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Comprehensive Community Supportive Services PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, CSOTS, CJSOTS, MAC
Verified Verified
Burlington, NC 27215
Welcome! My name is Jennifer Wilson and I am a licensed clinical social worker providing quality supportive services. I am motivated to provide quality care to children, adolescents, and adults. I continue to work tirelessly to stay abreast of current trends as an out-patient therapist. I earned my Master's in Social Work at Fayetteville State University with a concentration in mental health and substance abuse. I have experience with working with a variety of addictions including but not limited to: sex, gambling, workaholics, substance abuse, and love/relationship.
Welcome! My name is Jennifer Wilson and I am a licensed clinical social worker providing quality supportive services. I am motivated to provide quality care to children, adolescents, and adults. I continue to work tirelessly to stay abreast of current trends as an out-patient therapist. I earned my Master's in Social Work at Fayetteville State University with a concentration in mental health and substance abuse. I have experience with working with a variety of addictions including but not limited to: sex, gambling, workaholics, substance abuse, and love/relationship.
(844) 562-2777 View (844) 562-2777
Photo of Kerrie Walters - Hart Integrated Wellness Services, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hart Integrated Wellness Services, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540  (Online Only)
Currently Accepting new virtual clients! At Hart Integrated Wellness Services, PLLC, we have a team of experienced and compassionate mental health professionals who are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal emotional health. We believe in a holistic approach to therapy and work with you to identify and address the root causes of your mental health concerns.
Currently Accepting new virtual clients! At Hart Integrated Wellness Services, PLLC, we have a team of experienced and compassionate mental health professionals who are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal emotional health. We believe in a holistic approach to therapy and work with you to identify and address the root causes of your mental health concerns.
(919) 823-5544 View (919) 823-5544
Photo of Katherine L Thompson, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Katherine L Thompson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albemarle, NC 28001  (Online Only)
Hey! I'm Katherine, a mom, wife, and mental health counselor. I'm passionate about providing a safe space for people to work through some hard things. I'd love working with you if you have a general idea of your goals but don't know how to get there on your own. I'm trained in different types of therapy but I'm missing information that only you can bring to the table: your life experiences, passions, and vulnerabilities. Let's work toward increasing the knowledge you have about yourself, being able to recognize your emotions and how they affect your body, and learning to sit with the uncomfortable stuff.
Hey! I'm Katherine, a mom, wife, and mental health counselor. I'm passionate about providing a safe space for people to work through some hard things. I'd love working with you if you have a general idea of your goals but don't know how to get there on your own. I'm trained in different types of therapy but I'm missing information that only you can bring to the table: your life experiences, passions, and vulnerabilities. Let's work toward increasing the knowledge you have about yourself, being able to recognize your emotions and how they affect your body, and learning to sit with the uncomfortable stuff.
(704) 870-4983 View (704) 870-4983
Photo of Shannon Staiger, MA, LCMHCS, CHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Staiger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, CHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540  (Online Only)
I am currently taking new clients for virtual sessions. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (Supervisor) and also a Certified Health Coach. I have been working in the mental health field for over 10 years. I especially enjoy working with adolescents, adults and couples. I have worked with individuals on a wide array of issues such as, but not limited to, family issues, divorce, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, self-esteem issues, woman’s issues, parenting skills and health and wellness related concerns. I also provide LCMHCA supervision and currently have openings to provide supervision.
I am currently taking new clients for virtual sessions. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (Supervisor) and also a Certified Health Coach. I have been working in the mental health field for over 10 years. I especially enjoy working with adolescents, adults and couples. I have worked with individuals on a wide array of issues such as, but not limited to, family issues, divorce, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, self-esteem issues, woman’s issues, parenting skills and health and wellness related concerns. I also provide LCMHCA supervision and currently have openings to provide supervision.
(984) 207-1907 View (984) 207-1907
Photo of Mark P Eades, PhD, LCMHCS
Mark P Eades
PhD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Efland, NC 27243  (Online Only)
Hello, and welcome to my page! As a mental health counselor and supervisor with over a decade of clinical practice, I bring a wealth and knowledge and experience into my counseling sessions. While I welcome anyone to my private practice who is seeking to improve their life or themselves, I primarily focus my clinical work on anxiety, couples therapy, and men's issues. My small teletherapy practice allows me to focus my time and attention on each of my clients to build a specialized therapeutic approach specifically designed to improve my clients' health, happiness and overall wellbeing.
Hello, and welcome to my page! As a mental health counselor and supervisor with over a decade of clinical practice, I bring a wealth and knowledge and experience into my counseling sessions. While I welcome anyone to my private practice who is seeking to improve their life or themselves, I primarily focus my clinical work on anxiety, couples therapy, and men's issues. My small teletherapy practice allows me to focus my time and attention on each of my clients to build a specialized therapeutic approach specifically designed to improve my clients' health, happiness and overall wellbeing.
(919) 666-3108 View (919) 666-3108
Photo of Cassie Faircloth, MA, LCMHCA
Cassie Faircloth
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27403
Cassie's counseling approach is characterized by a combination of honesty, empathy, and compassion, complemented by a subtle touch of humor. She employs an eclectic counseling methodology that encompasses various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Gestalt therapy, Play Therapy, and Solution-Focused therapy.
Cassie's counseling approach is characterized by a combination of honesty, empathy, and compassion, complemented by a subtle touch of humor. She employs an eclectic counseling methodology that encompasses various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Gestalt therapy, Play Therapy, and Solution-Focused therapy.
(336) 920-3577 View (336) 920-3577
Photo of Lutricia Callair - Center for Healing and Wellness PC, MEd, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Center for Healing and Wellness PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Graham, NC 27253
We all want to live peaceful, productive and happy lives. We long for the company of family and friends, the comfort of loving relationships and the security of a safe, peaceful and prosperous world. But the wear and tear of life can create emotional, spiritual and psychological challenges. Much of what we experience in life is influenced by the lenses through which we view our world. I believe that people have all they need to address the problems they face. My task is to help them find those resources, skills, and talents that reside within and apply them in ways that will enable the individual to live their best life.
We all want to live peaceful, productive and happy lives. We long for the company of family and friends, the comfort of loving relationships and the security of a safe, peaceful and prosperous world. But the wear and tear of life can create emotional, spiritual and psychological challenges. Much of what we experience in life is influenced by the lenses through which we view our world. I believe that people have all they need to address the problems they face. My task is to help them find those resources, skills, and talents that reside within and apply them in ways that will enable the individual to live their best life.
(336) 895-1878 View (336) 895-1878
Photo of Mary F Summerlin - Brighter Life Counseling, PLLC, NCC, LPC, LCAS, CCMC, DBTC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brighter Life Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, LCAS, CCMC, DBTC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, NC 28540
Life can be very difficult at times, and I want to help. I have had the opportunity to train in a variety of therapeutic modalities, making me uniquely qualified to utilize the interventions that are most appropriate for each of my clients. In order to determine the most appropriate form of treatment, I collaborate with each of my clients to determine the issues they would like to address and the goals they would like to achieve. We are then in a better position to determine the most efficacious treatment modality.
Life can be very difficult at times, and I want to help. I have had the opportunity to train in a variety of therapeutic modalities, making me uniquely qualified to utilize the interventions that are most appropriate for each of my clients. In order to determine the most appropriate form of treatment, I collaborate with each of my clients to determine the issues they would like to address and the goals they would like to achieve. We are then in a better position to determine the most efficacious treatment modality.
(910) 378-3685 View (910) 378-3685
Photo of Leah Diaz, MA, LCMHC, Trauma, 500ERYT, YACEP, Counselor
Leah Diaz
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, Trauma, 500ERYT, YACEP
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28312
Waitlist for new clients
I understand that starting counseling is not easy. Chances are that you’ve tried it before, or that things currently feel like they’re too much to handle. You don’t have to do this alone. My goal is to help you reach YOUR goals. Topics may include: self-esteem/worth, coping skills, psych-Ed, mood regulation, couple counseling, anxiety, depression, OCD, daily stressors, affair recovery, trauma/ PTSD resolution, sexual dysfunction, support for LBGTQA+ or ENM lifestyle, military life challenges, grief and more. I support all beliefs and will gladly incorporate yours into sessions if that is your wish. Each appointment is truly for YOU!
I understand that starting counseling is not easy. Chances are that you’ve tried it before, or that things currently feel like they’re too much to handle. You don’t have to do this alone. My goal is to help you reach YOUR goals. Topics may include: self-esteem/worth, coping skills, psych-Ed, mood regulation, couple counseling, anxiety, depression, OCD, daily stressors, affair recovery, trauma/ PTSD resolution, sexual dysfunction, support for LBGTQA+ or ENM lifestyle, military life challenges, grief and more. I support all beliefs and will gladly incorporate yours into sessions if that is your wish. Each appointment is truly for YOU!
(910) 909-4135 View (910) 909-4135
Photo of Dr. Carman Gill, LCMHC, NCC, ACS, CCTP
Dr. Carman Gill
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, ACS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients! I'm Carman Gill, a licensed clinical mental health counselor. In addition, I am a National Certified Counselor, an Approved Clinical Supervisor, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I tailor my counseling services to the individual clients I work with, often using a combination of evidence-based approaches that include Mindfulness-based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Adlerian theory. Techniques involve developing a strong relationship, installation of hope, assessment of primary presenting issues, identifying harmful beliefs, engaging in EMDR interventions, and creating a wellness plan.
I am accepting new clients! I'm Carman Gill, a licensed clinical mental health counselor. In addition, I am a National Certified Counselor, an Approved Clinical Supervisor, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I tailor my counseling services to the individual clients I work with, often using a combination of evidence-based approaches that include Mindfulness-based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Adlerian theory. Techniques involve developing a strong relationship, installation of hope, assessment of primary presenting issues, identifying harmful beliefs, engaging in EMDR interventions, and creating a wellness plan.
(984) 305-2788 View (984) 305-2788
Photo of Emonie Reviere, MA, LCMHC-A
Emonie Reviere
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27265
I do not know what you are going through or what you have conquered. But I do know that your story is essential. I know that your voice is important. I would love to provide you with a brave space to share your story in an environment that welcomes hard and sometimes uncomfortable conversations in which you feel supported and seen.
I do not know what you are going through or what you have conquered. But I do know that your story is essential. I know that your voice is important. I would love to provide you with a brave space to share your story in an environment that welcomes hard and sometimes uncomfortable conversations in which you feel supported and seen.
(336) 569-2748 x103 View (336) 569-2748 x103
Photo of Valerie L Schwiebert, PhD, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Valerie L Schwiebert
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Holly Springs, NC 27540
Struggling to find happiness & fulfillment? Experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, & stress? Coping skills not working? Need a safe place to share your struggles? Counseling provides a nonjudgmental place to identify your strengths & challenges, develop self-understanding & insight, learn new skills & strategies, and implement a plan to achieve your goals. I am a NC Licensed Professional Counselor with 30+ years of experience. I believe developing a strong & trusting relationship is the basis of effective counseling. We will work to understand life from your perspective. My approach is person-centered, holistic, & eclectic.
Struggling to find happiness & fulfillment? Experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, & stress? Coping skills not working? Need a safe place to share your struggles? Counseling provides a nonjudgmental place to identify your strengths & challenges, develop self-understanding & insight, learn new skills & strategies, and implement a plan to achieve your goals. I am a NC Licensed Professional Counselor with 30+ years of experience. I believe developing a strong & trusting relationship is the basis of effective counseling. We will work to understand life from your perspective. My approach is person-centered, holistic, & eclectic.
(984) 205-0963 View (984) 205-0963
Photo of Hannah Guffey, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Hannah Guffey
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Angier, NC 27501
I work primarily with adolescents and adults. I have experience working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem and codependency issues, boundaries, grief, and phase of life adjustments. I use an integrative and individualized approach aimed at improving the quality of life of my clients by helping them find balance, learn coping skills, rediscover choice, decrease suffering, heal body image issues, increase self-esteem and create a life worth living. I recently became a certified SYMBIS facilitator. My hope is to work with couples before their wedding day helping them prepare for marriage!
I work primarily with adolescents and adults. I have experience working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem and codependency issues, boundaries, grief, and phase of life adjustments. I use an integrative and individualized approach aimed at improving the quality of life of my clients by helping them find balance, learn coping skills, rediscover choice, decrease suffering, heal body image issues, increase self-esteem and create a life worth living. I recently became a certified SYMBIS facilitator. My hope is to work with couples before their wedding day helping them prepare for marriage!
(984) 232-7827 View (984) 232-7827
Photo of Joy Samantha Creep, MS, LCMHCA, Counselor
Joy Samantha Creep
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27605
Hi! A little about me. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Master’s degree of Clinical Counseling, with an emphasis of Addiction and Rehabilitation Studies. I have experience within the traumatic brain injury, intellectual disability, and developmental disability populations. Theoretical orientations that largely shape my philosophical approach and counseling practice are person-centered therapy, existential therapy, and cognitive-behavior therapy. While these therapeutic modalities provide the foundational knowledge to my practice, I believe formulating a unique approach according to each client is best.
Hi! A little about me. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Master’s degree of Clinical Counseling, with an emphasis of Addiction and Rehabilitation Studies. I have experience within the traumatic brain injury, intellectual disability, and developmental disability populations. Theoretical orientations that largely shape my philosophical approach and counseling practice are person-centered therapy, existential therapy, and cognitive-behavior therapy. While these therapeutic modalities provide the foundational knowledge to my practice, I believe formulating a unique approach according to each client is best.
(984) 283-5816 View (984) 283-5816

See more therapy options for Hope Mills

Feminist Therapists

How does feminist therapy work?

Feminist therapy sessions are not only personal but often cultural or political in nature, as the approach is based on the belief that people are affected by, and often struggle with, cultural and societal norms and biases, and need to move beyond those external pressures or stressors to tap their own confidence and engage more fully in their own identity. Sessions may therefore include discussions of sexism, diversity, and gender issues and talk of steps toward greater empowerment for patients who believe they have been silenced and seek to raise their voices.

What are examples of feminist therapy techniques?

Along with traditional talk therapy and analysis, a feminist therapist may employ techniques such as role-playing and assertiveness training to help clients build their self-esteem so that they feel they can act freely, and not based on cultural expectations or gender roles dictated by others. A feminist therapist may also engage in bibliotherapy, offering suggested readings on gender identity or social power inequities as they work toward viewing mental-health concerns through a broad cultural lens before focusing on how they affect the individual. Somatic therapy techniques, with an emphasis on body awareness, self-compassion, and mindfulness practices are also often part of feminist therapist practice.

How long does feminist therapy last?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for feminist therapy; people who believe that they are making progress typically continue until they feel they’ve addressed the issues that had been holding them back. It may take some time to become comfortable discussing personal issues, but once a client feels they can do so, they could expect therapy to last for a number of months, typically including at least 12 sessions.

Does feminist therapy work?

As a relatively recent therapeutic technique, there is not yet a body of evidence proving the efficacy of feminist therapy. However, the approach is based on proven core principles of talk therapy, with a particular emphasis on developing a therapeutic relationship based on equality and authentic connection between therapist and client and discovering and building on clients’ personal strengths to help them gain a greater sense of personal power and agency.