Mental health therapy services in North and South Carolina
A. Maurice Harvey, LCSW, LISW-CP
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Mental health often has a negative connotation. I believe that mental health is just as relevant as physical health. In fact, I often correlate the two when explaining how overall wellness looks. When a person describes their symptoms to a medical professional, they in return receive a diagnosis and a means to work through the physical ailment. In mental health the professionals are tasked similarly as medical professionals.
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The key to healthy progress and overall mental wellness is in delivering the diagnosis and treatment in a manner that the client can both accept and agree to work through with support. Therapy can look and feel differently- each person has their own experience. Finding someone who you can work with you is important.
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Once I got into "the business" of mental health it was apparent that theory and application looked very different. In an age where mental health is still taboo and often disregarded, mental health professionals must be very skilled in their approach to client-specific services if they are going to be succesful.
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In many communities it is difficult to address concerns with someone who appears unrelatable. Representation matters and so does relatability. I am dedicated to working with you on your goals, but I will not work harder than you are willing to work for yourself.
Peace and Blessings
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O'Neil Walker, LCSWA (in-person and telehealth) *Weekend Availability*
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Growing up, we are often told what not to do. Oftentimes, those directions are given with little guidance. Quite naturally, as youth, we choose to rebel from what our elders tell us to avoid in life: “Don’t have kids before marriage!”, “Don’t do drugs!”, or “Choose better company!”.**** All too often, our elders do not articulate or do not have the patience to explain to us the ”why” behind many of these life lessons. Sometimes, we are the exact outcome of their unheeded lessons, which may make it difficult for the elders to explain or to provide context. In this thing called life, we experience all kinds of trauma, from abandonment, abuse, neglect, broken/blended families, and poverty, just to name a few.
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Our traumas compounded by the absence of guidance, and support, make it difficult to navigate healthy understanding and coping. This creates cyclical trauma which is passed down to our children or loved ones; some may even call it a generational curse.
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In some communities, therapy is taboo. One common misconception is that “Therapy is for someone to FIX you”, as if you were "broken". However, the best therapy is provided when a trained clinician can create a safe space, incorporate active listening from an unbiased ear, and ask the tough questions. Many of these tough questions you may already know the answers to but are unwilling to accept.
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In my 16-year professional career, I have had the pleasure of working with all ages from toddlers to seniors in the family, group or individual setting. In addition to counseling, I am currently a school social worker and see first-hand the many challenges students and families face on a day-to-day basis.
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If you are experiencing trauma, searching for answers, or looking for a trained, unbiased ear, please do not hesitate to contact me. I'm here to be your support. Together we can break generational curses and build a road map to a healthy and functional safe space. Thus, leading to a life of peace and tranquility.
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Michael Clark, LCSWA (in person and telehealth) *After 5 & Weekends*
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In life we will be faced with many forms of adversity. As we seek to obtain our goals we must understand life is about perspective. Mental health and substance abuse can be very uncomfortable topics to discuss. My perspective is that everyone has the potential to reach their goals; given they are willing to address the obstacles that are hindering them. As a therapist, I passionately work with each client to assist them with achieving their goals. I understand every client will have their own set of circumstances, as a result I apply a person centered approach in my style of therapy.
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I have several years of experience working within human services with a primary focus on collaborative team approaches. I have had the opportunity to provide assistance to a diverse population including toddlers, adults, seniors, and families. In addition to engaging in clinical counseling practice, I also hold a position within academia which allows me to directly work with at risk students and families to improve their lives across life domains, including but not limited to, academic success, behavior modification, coursework completion, parent engagement, and social emotional learning. These skills support my clinical work and professional success across the spectrum of client issues.
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Speaking directly to my choice in clinical approaches, I lean towards a cognitive-behavioral therapeutic approach (CBT). CBT allows a two fold approach looking at both, observable behaviors and internal dialogue (observing thoughts and feelings) as a way to assist in understanding an individual's world view. A person's world view is important because it allows the clinical work to be individualized by addressing the differences between what a person says, thinks, and does. Accompanying my experiences and compassion, I have identified a collaborative team of Black male therapists to assist me in my clinical, professional, and personal development. If you are looking for an unbiased and caring therapist that has the energy and responsiveness to support you as client, reach out to me today to start the conversation about your individual needs.
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Bowanna Pharr, LCSWA (in person and telehealth)
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Born and raised in Concord, NC, and currently residing in Charlotte, NC, I began my journey in social work at Johnson C. Smith University, where I graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Social Work. I furthered my education at the University of Alabama (Rolltide!), earning a Master of Social Work degree and being inducted into the prestigious honor society of Phi Kappa Phi for ranking in the top 1% of my graduating class.
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As a licensed therapist, I provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where we can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe and confidential environment. My client-centered and solution-focused approach ensures that therapy is tailored to meet your unique needs and goals. Together, we'll navigate through life's triggers, from childhood traumas to current issues, utilizing evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and psychodynamic approaches. By identifying patterns, gaining insight, and developing practical coping strategies, we work towards building resilience, enhancing self-awareness, and fostering positive change.
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Whether you're facing a specific issue or simply seeking support and guidance on your journey towards personal growth and fulfillment, therapy can be a transformative experience. I am here to support you every step of the way, empowering you to overcome challenges, cultivate inner strength, and live a more meaningful and authentic life.
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Let’s be real, we’ve all had a ‘Life been Life-ing’ moment, season, or year; for some their entire life feels like an on-going trauma-filled journey. Although you will not find ‘Lifeing’ in Webster’s dictionary, we understand that the popular phrase, ‘Life be Lifeing’, is used to encapsulate and express the unpredictability of the highs and lows one experiences in life and the complexity and intensity of life’s challenges. When ‘Life be Lifeing’, a person can be pulled into a constant state of chaos, anxiety, uncertainty, and inner turmoil if not equipped with the tools to navigate life’s triggers in a healthy manner. That’s where therapy and I come in.
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Two quotes serve as guiding principles in my life: Romans 8:28, reminding me that ALL things work together for good, and a line from Marianne Williamson's 'Our Deepest Fear' poem, emphasizing the power of embracing one's light and being liberated from fear, motivates others to liberate themselves. Encouraged by a prophecy to "Be Phenomenal," I am dedicated to living up to this calling and inspiring other to do the same.
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Deanna Bizzaro, LCSWA (in person and telehealth)
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I am DeAnna Bizzaro originally from New York, now living in North Carolina. In 2016 I began my journey in therapy working with children on the Autism Spectrum providing ABA therapy. In 2017 I began my Masters of Social Work at Stony Brook University, where I focused on the commitment to changing social injustices and human rights. I am a licensed clinical social work- associate, licensed in North Carolina.
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I'm a passionate advocate for mental health and well-being, dedicated to fostering growth, healing, and resilience in individuals and families. Building a positive rapport with clients is something I take pride in as a Social Worker, as without a connection it is difficult to begin the helping process.
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I have years’ experience working both in the school-based and clinical setting. I love working with children, teens, families, adults and parents. I have experience working with clients with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders- and related challenges, Trauma and Grief. I have taken extensive coursework in Autism Spectrum Disorders and Attention Deficit Disorders. I like to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy and Play Therapy in my practice.
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Kenya T. Henderson, MSW, LCSWA, CPLC Telehealth: Weekend, Evenings & Late Night
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I’m Kenya Henderson, and I’m glad you’re here. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Child and Family Development from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and a Master’s in Social Work from Temple University, where I graduated with a 4.0 cumulative average. With over 20 years of experience in human services, I’ve worked with adults, teenagers, couples, parents, and individuals facing homelessness in various capacities. I focus on providing personalized services using Solution-Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, ensuring that our work makes a real difference. Whether you’re dealing with "church hurt," spiritual trauma, work stress, feeling stuck in life, relationship issues, or just need a safe space to express yourself, I am here to help you find clarity, healing, and a renewed sense of purpose.
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Together, we’ll work towards the positive changes you deserve.
My approach to therapy is compassionate and unconventional, tailored to meet you where you are in life. I strive to create a warm, welcoming environment where you can feel comfortable being yourself and engage in real conversations that lead to meaningful outcomes. Therapy doesn’t have to be stiff or intimidating. With me, it is a space where you can express yourself freely; relax during sessions and feel heard by an unbiased source.
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I am dedicated to helping people rethink and reframe their relationships with therapy. I believe it's important to normalize the idea that it's okay not to be okay all the time, while allowing ourselves permission to be human. Additionally, I am committed to advocating for and working with communities that have historically not embraced, encouraged, or had access to mental health support.
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To make therapy as accessible as possible, I offer telehealth services for North Carolina residents. You can enjoy the same level of care as an in-person session but with the added convenience of joining wherever you feel comfortable. I offer flexible hours, including late-
night, evening, and weekend sessions, perfect for those with non-traditional work schedules, like second or third shifts, to ensure an option for non-conventional hours.
I’m excited to support you on your journey to healing and growth. Ready to take the first step? Let’s schedule a session today and move toward a more empowered and fulfilling life!
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