Compassion Focused Therapists in Swansboro, NC

Photo of Tabitha G Velotti, LCMHC-A, Counselor
Tabitha G Velotti
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Swansboro, NC 28584
Tabitha Velotti is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCa) with extensive experience providing mental health services to active duty service members and their families. She is passionate about helping individuals and families achieve mental wellness and build healthy relationships.
Tabitha Velotti is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCa) with extensive experience providing mental health services to active duty service members and their families. She is passionate about helping individuals and families achieve mental wellness and build healthy relationships.
(252) 888-6454 View (252) 888-6454
Photo of Chrissy Napowsa Schlude - Chrissy's Empowering Counseling Services, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chrissy's Empowering Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Swansboro, NC 28584
Now accepting new clients! Whether you are having a bad day or just need someone to talk to, finding the right therapist can be extremely difficult. Please take the time to take advantage of my 15 minute free consultation. During this consultation, we can take time to discuss and highlight the areas of concern and decide if we are a good fit to work together in order to gain the maximum benefit from your therapy. I take the time to actively listen so that education and empowerment can be used to assist in solving many of life’s challenges.
Now accepting new clients! Whether you are having a bad day or just need someone to talk to, finding the right therapist can be extremely difficult. Please take the time to take advantage of my 15 minute free consultation. During this consultation, we can take time to discuss and highlight the areas of concern and decide if we are a good fit to work together in order to gain the maximum benefit from your therapy. I take the time to actively listen so that education and empowerment can be used to assist in solving many of life’s challenges.
(910) 541-9052 View (910) 541-9052
Photo of Maria Donaty-Gurba, LCSW, LCAS, RN, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Donaty-Gurba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swansboro, NC 28584
Reaching out & asking for help can be really hard. If you are struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Medical issues, Relationship/Marital Issues, problem behaviors, maintaining sobriety, unwanted change or navigating & adjusting to difficult decisions it is important to seek help. Whether you're going through a painful transition like divorce, having difficulty in your relationships, self-medicating with substances, or have debilitating anxiety or depression- guidance from a qualified, objective person is necessary. I will help you gain insight into the root cause of what is keeping you stuck.
Reaching out & asking for help can be really hard. If you are struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Medical issues, Relationship/Marital Issues, problem behaviors, maintaining sobriety, unwanted change or navigating & adjusting to difficult decisions it is important to seek help. Whether you're going through a painful transition like divorce, having difficulty in your relationships, self-medicating with substances, or have debilitating anxiety or depression- guidance from a qualified, objective person is necessary. I will help you gain insight into the root cause of what is keeping you stuck.
(910) 684-4626 View (910) 684-4626
Photo of Michelle Spillane, MA, LCMHC
Michelle Spillane
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swansboro, NC 28584  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Everyday life can sometimes become unbearable, overwhelming and stressful. Stress is often a call for help, and it’s a call that I answer with understanding and compassion. I believe that we can work together to make the changes you want to see in your life. My approach is holistic and solution focused. Through mindfulness practices, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other evidence based practices and modalities you’ll find your strengths, reduce uncomfortable symptoms and learn new ways of experiencing the world.
Everyday life can sometimes become unbearable, overwhelming and stressful. Stress is often a call for help, and it’s a call that I answer with understanding and compassion. I believe that we can work together to make the changes you want to see in your life. My approach is holistic and solution focused. Through mindfulness practices, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other evidence based practices and modalities you’ll find your strengths, reduce uncomfortable symptoms and learn new ways of experiencing the world.
(910) 312-2505 View (910) 312-2505
Photo of Stefanie Anthenor, LCMHCA, MA, Counselor
Stefanie Anthenor
Counselor, LCMHCA, MA
Verified Verified
Swansboro, NC 28584  (Online Only)
Life can be extremely challenging and we could all use some help with navigation. I can work with you to provide a safe, relaxing environment where you can freely express yourself without judgment or bias. There is no "one size fits all" approach to therapy, and I treat each client as an individual. We will work together to create a treatment plan that best meets your needs and help you make sense of the difficulties you may be currently facing.
Life can be extremely challenging and we could all use some help with navigation. I can work with you to provide a safe, relaxing environment where you can freely express yourself without judgment or bias. There is no "one size fits all" approach to therapy, and I treat each client as an individual. We will work together to create a treatment plan that best meets your needs and help you make sense of the difficulties you may be currently facing.
(910) 541-9763 View (910) 541-9763
Photo of Lisa Colella, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Colella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Swansboro, NC 28584
Sometimes we have difficulty turning life's lemons into lemonade. You could probably manage a bag of lemons but what happens when you're given a truck load? I imagine you'd reach out for help. Using therapy is a similar concept. Having difficulty turning life events into manageable situations. Especially when we're overwhelming negative thoughts, deep emotions, or traumatic experiences feel impossible to navigate. Feeling stuck is bound to happen when finances, relationship issues, disabilities, or caring for ourselves/others are added to our daily responsibilities, feeling stuck is bound to happen and it happens to all of us...
Sometimes we have difficulty turning life's lemons into lemonade. You could probably manage a bag of lemons but what happens when you're given a truck load? I imagine you'd reach out for help. Using therapy is a similar concept. Having difficulty turning life events into manageable situations. Especially when we're overwhelming negative thoughts, deep emotions, or traumatic experiences feel impossible to navigate. Feeling stuck is bound to happen when finances, relationship issues, disabilities, or caring for ourselves/others are added to our daily responsibilities, feeling stuck is bound to happen and it happens to all of us...
(910) 541-5593 View (910) 541-5593
Photo of Kathleen Ellers, MS, LCMHCS, NCC
Kathleen Ellers
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Swansboro, NC 28584
Not accepting new clients
Often chronic stress and unresolved trauma can be barriers to feeling successful at school, work, relationships and life in general. My training and experience includes working with children, adolescents and adults in the areas of trauma, life transitions, depression/anxiety and personal growth. I can help you and/or your child navigate through the stress, the difficult behaviors, and anxiety and come out on the other side feeling more calm, confident and focused on your life's purpose.
Often chronic stress and unresolved trauma can be barriers to feeling successful at school, work, relationships and life in general. My training and experience includes working with children, adolescents and adults in the areas of trauma, life transitions, depression/anxiety and personal growth. I can help you and/or your child navigate through the stress, the difficult behaviors, and anxiety and come out on the other side feeling more calm, confident and focused on your life's purpose.
(252) 313-9092 View (252) 313-9092
Photo of Jessica (Williams) Duncan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica (Williams) Duncan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swansboro, NC 28584
I am here to help families, children as young as 4, teens, & women from diverse backgrounds. I enjoy helping individuals and families regain peace, order, and fulfillment in their relationships and in other areas of their lives. Motivational interviewing, solutions focused brief therapy, and behavior modification approaches are often used in my office to establish life changes and healthy relationships. What is keeping you from peace, restoration, and living out your purpose driven life? I aim to equip and empower my clients to overcome life's challenges, experience inner healing, and to ultimately succeed in life.
I am here to help families, children as young as 4, teens, & women from diverse backgrounds. I enjoy helping individuals and families regain peace, order, and fulfillment in their relationships and in other areas of their lives. Motivational interviewing, solutions focused brief therapy, and behavior modification approaches are often used in my office to establish life changes and healthy relationships. What is keeping you from peace, restoration, and living out your purpose driven life? I aim to equip and empower my clients to overcome life's challenges, experience inner healing, and to ultimately succeed in life.
(910) 469-0774 View (910) 469-0774

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tamara Liaschenko - Sagestone PLLC, MA, LPCA, LCAS-A
Sagestone PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPCA, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Emerald Isle, NC 28594
At Sagestone, we respect and acknowledge the vital aspects of your life and take a "whole you" approach. We use empathy, compassion, and curiosity to better understand you and your needs. We listen. We share our experience, "know how", and provide thought-provoking, substantive, and practical process. We provide support that fosters safety, curiosity, and growth. We meet you where you are, in the here and now, allowing you to experience grounded vulnerability, presence, and acceptance, as you expand your way of being to embody inner peace, balance, and empowerment.
At Sagestone, we respect and acknowledge the vital aspects of your life and take a "whole you" approach. We use empathy, compassion, and curiosity to better understand you and your needs. We listen. We share our experience, "know how", and provide thought-provoking, substantive, and practical process. We provide support that fosters safety, curiosity, and growth. We meet you where you are, in the here and now, allowing you to experience grounded vulnerability, presence, and acceptance, as you expand your way of being to embody inner peace, balance, and empowerment.
(252) 674-1971 View (252) 674-1971
Photo of Kelli Knapp, MA,  LCMHC, NCC, LCAS, CCTP
Kelli Knapp
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, LCAS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Hubert, NC 28539
Not accepting new clients
I am currently NOT taking new clients. I love working with clients who are having difficulty with a variety of issues, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, childhood trauma, domestic violence, marital conflict, family conflict, substance use issues and grief.
I am currently NOT taking new clients. I love working with clients who are having difficulty with a variety of issues, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, childhood trauma, domestic violence, marital conflict, family conflict, substance use issues and grief.
(910) 294-5977 View (910) 294-5977
Photo of Debra Bergman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debra Bergman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emerald Isle, NC 28594
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals with issues like anxiety, depression, impulse control, addiction, chronic and life-threatening illness, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship/family problems, stress management, and job stress. I combine a variety of modalities, perspectives, and techniques including client-centered, cognitive behavioral, existential, humanistic, mindfulness, solution-focused, somatic, and trauma-informed care. My mission is to help you manage stress and find more balance in your life.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience. I have extensive experience working with individuals with issues like anxiety, depression, impulse control, addiction, chronic and life-threatening illness, life transitions, grief and loss, relationship/family problems, stress management, and job stress. I combine a variety of modalities, perspectives, and techniques including client-centered, cognitive behavioral, existential, humanistic, mindfulness, solution-focused, somatic, and trauma-informed care. My mission is to help you manage stress and find more balance in your life.
(678) 257-3426 View (678) 257-3426

Online Therapists

Photo of Kaelin Kennedy, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaelin Kennedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
After a year and a half as Chrysalis’s IOP intern, Kaelin Kennedy is thrilled to be joining the team full-time as a licensed clinical social worker associate. She recently graduated from UNCW with her master’s in social work and earned her BA in English and Biology from UNC Chapel Hill in 2018. She most enjoys working with individuals with eating disorders, highly sensitive persons, non-linear thinkers, and clients looking to explore questions of identity or reconnect with their sense of aliveness. As a proud member of the queer community, Kaelin also welcomes LGBTQ+ clients.
After a year and a half as Chrysalis’s IOP intern, Kaelin Kennedy is thrilled to be joining the team full-time as a licensed clinical social worker associate. She recently graduated from UNCW with her master’s in social work and earned her BA in English and Biology from UNC Chapel Hill in 2018. She most enjoys working with individuals with eating disorders, highly sensitive persons, non-linear thinkers, and clients looking to explore questions of identity or reconnect with their sense of aliveness. As a proud member of the queer community, Kaelin also welcomes LGBTQ+ clients.
(910) 335-4119 View (910) 335-4119
Photo of Tara Kenyon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Kenyon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Havelock, NC 28532  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of practice. I work with people experiencing mood disorders, adjustment difficulties, stress related to personal or job areas, and people suffering from chronic or acute illnesses such as oncology diagnoses. I utilize a mix of Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Compassion Focused, Interpersonal, and Strength-Based therapies. Often we may not even know the problem or have the words to explain it. We know that something is wrong. I offer a respectful and compassionate space to explore the details of your problem and map out a plan for moving beyond them.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of practice. I work with people experiencing mood disorders, adjustment difficulties, stress related to personal or job areas, and people suffering from chronic or acute illnesses such as oncology diagnoses. I utilize a mix of Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Compassion Focused, Interpersonal, and Strength-Based therapies. Often we may not even know the problem or have the words to explain it. We know that something is wrong. I offer a respectful and compassionate space to explore the details of your problem and map out a plan for moving beyond them.
(336) 872-0340 View (336) 872-0340
Photo of Casey Berna, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Casey Berna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
In my clinical practice, I utilize a strengths-based approach to support clients and integrate different therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy and mindfulness. I work with teens and adults who come to therapy for a variety of reasons. Anxiety, depression, grief, burn out, and relationship challenges all can have a significant impact on daily life. I offers tools to manage these feelings, while also providing a space to process trauma, set boundaries, and help clients feel validated and unstuck.
In my clinical practice, I utilize a strengths-based approach to support clients and integrate different therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy and mindfulness. I work with teens and adults who come to therapy for a variety of reasons. Anxiety, depression, grief, burn out, and relationship challenges all can have a significant impact on daily life. I offers tools to manage these feelings, while also providing a space to process trauma, set boundaries, and help clients feel validated and unstuck.
(910) 537-2920 View (910) 537-2920
Photo of Megan Pierson, LPC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Pierson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27858  (Online Only)
My style is heavily influenced by attachment theory, psychodynamic theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Compassion Focused Therapy.
My hope is that we can work together to establish goals and clarify the values that are important to you. As we look at what's going on in your life, we will consider what you have tried before and what barriers are hindering you from living the life you want. Together we will develop creative and flexible strategies that you can try in the future. I do not "fix" people, nor do I have all the answers in life. Instead, I deeply care for hurting people. I will help you consider other perspectives and build skills that will empower you to live a more authentic life. My hope is that you will feel seen, understood, and accepted.
My style is heavily influenced by attachment theory, psychodynamic theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Compassion Focused Therapy.
My hope is that we can work together to establish goals and clarify the values that are important to you. As we look at what's going on in your life, we will consider what you have tried before and what barriers are hindering you from living the life you want. Together we will develop creative and flexible strategies that you can try in the future. I do not "fix" people, nor do I have all the answers in life. Instead, I deeply care for hurting people. I will help you consider other perspectives and build skills that will empower you to live a more authentic life. My hope is that you will feel seen, understood, and accepted.
(608) 200-2364 View (608) 200-2364
Photo of Kaitlyn Patterson, MA, LPA, Psychological Associate
Kaitlyn Patterson
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I am committed to providing an authentic therapeutic connection with my clients' by creating a non-judgmental, compassionate space. Although I treat a variety of psychological problems, I specialize in eating disorders, trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, and women's issues. I incorporate evidence-based practices into my treatment including compassion-focused therapies, dialectical behavioral therapies (RO-DBT and DBT), and acceptance commitment therapy. You can expect for me to incorporate compassion, humor, and flexibility in my treatment approach.
I am committed to providing an authentic therapeutic connection with my clients' by creating a non-judgmental, compassionate space. Although I treat a variety of psychological problems, I specialize in eating disorders, trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, and women's issues. I incorporate evidence-based practices into my treatment including compassion-focused therapies, dialectical behavioral therapies (RO-DBT and DBT), and acceptance commitment therapy. You can expect for me to incorporate compassion, humor, and flexibility in my treatment approach.
(833) 581-9850 View (833) 581-9850
Photo of Cassandra Sloan - On The Right Path PLLC, BSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
On The Right Path PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chocowinity, NC 27817
Well hello there, here at On The Right Path, PLLC, we strive to guide you on your journey. Whether small or big we can work toward your goals together. I have had the honor of being invited into the lives of many clients with various backgrounds. I have worked with clients living with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, family issues, career obstacles and much more. My therapeutic style is warm, empathetic, authentic and professional. I desire to provide a warm safe place to allow us to explore the current challenges you may be facing. I do my best to make sure my clients are not only seen but heard.
Well hello there, here at On The Right Path, PLLC, we strive to guide you on your journey. Whether small or big we can work toward your goals together. I have had the honor of being invited into the lives of many clients with various backgrounds. I have worked with clients living with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, family issues, career obstacles and much more. My therapeutic style is warm, empathetic, authentic and professional. I desire to provide a warm safe place to allow us to explore the current challenges you may be facing. I do my best to make sure my clients are not only seen but heard.
(252) 616-1387 View (252) 616-1387
Photo of Sarah Baker, MS, NCC, LCMHCA, LCAS, CCS, Counselor
Sarah Baker
Counselor, MS, NCC, LCMHCA, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27858
Waitlist for new clients
Have you felt like you couldn't find the right therapist? Or, tired of those days where you are just sick of everyone and everything and find yourself thinking "fuck it" a lot? Do others often ask why you're acting the way you do? Or, do you have substance use concerns, but have not ever felt like your needs were met with understanding? It can be hard picturing yourself being completely vulnerable with a stranger, I know. One constant in my treatment delivery: openness, acceptance, and transparency. Come as you are; we will work through the rest. You never have to feel guilty or shitty about who you are in this room.
Have you felt like you couldn't find the right therapist? Or, tired of those days where you are just sick of everyone and everything and find yourself thinking "fuck it" a lot? Do others often ask why you're acting the way you do? Or, do you have substance use concerns, but have not ever felt like your needs were met with understanding? It can be hard picturing yourself being completely vulnerable with a stranger, I know. One constant in my treatment delivery: openness, acceptance, and transparency. Come as you are; we will work through the rest. You never have to feel guilty or shitty about who you are in this room.
(252) 254-2822 View (252) 254-2822
Photo of Mary Krenzel, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Krenzel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Waitlist for new clients
Take a deep breath. How do you feel? Has the stress of life drained your joy, leaving you tired and overwhelmed? Picture yourself filled with energy, peace and stability. Balancing work, family and other life stressors can be difficult and can impact both our mind and body causing pain and suffering. Together we can reduce your stress, balance your mood and find your passion. We may work to improve communication and create deeper connections, process old wounds and cultivate happiness. Now take another deep breath. You can do this.
Take a deep breath. How do you feel? Has the stress of life drained your joy, leaving you tired and overwhelmed? Picture yourself filled with energy, peace and stability. Balancing work, family and other life stressors can be difficult and can impact both our mind and body causing pain and suffering. Together we can reduce your stress, balance your mood and find your passion. We may work to improve communication and create deeper connections, process old wounds and cultivate happiness. Now take another deep breath. You can do this.
(910) 817-4409 View (910) 817-4409
Photo of Heather Locklear Strickland, MA, LCMHCS, LCAS
Heather Locklear Strickland
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
Supply, NC 28462
Waitlist for new clients
I am a North Carolina native who has dedicated my life to raising awareness for mental health/substance use issues and reducing the stigma around accessing treatment for both. For the past ten years, I have worked in a variety of community mental health agencies, serving the needs of individuals from all walks of life. My professional counseling experience includes individual and group counseling in a community mental health agency and a local Detention Center as well as crisis intervention in a community setting. I specialize in depressive & anxiety disorders as well as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and stress reactions.
I am a North Carolina native who has dedicated my life to raising awareness for mental health/substance use issues and reducing the stigma around accessing treatment for both. For the past ten years, I have worked in a variety of community mental health agencies, serving the needs of individuals from all walks of life. My professional counseling experience includes individual and group counseling in a community mental health agency and a local Detention Center as well as crisis intervention in a community setting. I specialize in depressive & anxiety disorders as well as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and stress reactions.
(910) 408-5672 View (910) 408-5672

See more therapy options for Swansboro

Compassion Focused Therapists

How does compassion-focused therapy work?

Compassion-Focused Therapy is based on the idea that humans have at least three emotion regulation systems, including one that responds to threats and another that allows us to self-soothe. Those who experienced serious childhood adversity, the theory goes, have a hyperactive threat system and an underperforming self-soothing system, leaving them vulnerable to shame and a hypercritical mindset. CFT focuses on bringing these systems back into balance, helping the client be kinder to themselves and better able to accept kindness from others.

Is compassion-focused therapy a type of CBT?

Compassion-focused therapy is closely related to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and employs many of its techniques. In addition to CBT, CFT also draws from the fields of biology, evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, developmental psychology, and Buddhism. It also has similarities to some types of trauma-focused therapies.

Is compassion-focused therapy evidence based?

Evidence suggests that CFT can be helpful in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, and other mental illnesses. It has also been shown to be beneficial for individuals who may not have diagnosable psychiatric disorders but who still struggle with persistent self-criticism and feelings of shame.

What are the limitations of compassion-focused therapy?

Compassion-focused therapy is still a relatively new therapy, and research on its efficacy is still in its early stages; while some studies have found positive results, many have suffered from quality issues or small sample sizes. And while most CFT clients find it difficult to practice self-compassion at first, some—especially those who actively fear compassion or are deeply uncomfortable being cared for—may not be fully open to the tenets of CFT, potentially limiting the therapy’s long-term effectiveness.