Talk

“My approach is to offer a safe, supportive space where we can work together, draw on your strengths and collaboratively focus on your personal goals.  I believe in the power of a trusting therapeutic alliance and strive to build this foundation from the start.  From our very first meeting, I focus on creating a nurturing, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, valued, and supported in sharing your needs and challenges. Together, we’ll explore how past experiences influence your thoughts, emotions, and relationships with both yourself and others. I incorporate a blend of cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic approaches.  Additionally, I integrate theories of modern attachment, DBT skills, mindfulness practices, and other trauma-informed strategies to help you build resilience and manage difficult emotional experiences.”

 

  ~Emily Carvajal, LCSW

(Licensed in NC, FL & NY)

My Passion

For over 13 years, I have dedicated myself to supporting people of all ages through a range of stressors, including anxiety, depression, tense family dynamics, grief, chronic illness, and life transitions. In this work, I’ve seen firsthand the tremendous pressures individuals face to appear “okay” and the self-blame that often comes from not meeting unrealistic societal expectations. These experiences have deepened my passion for helping those who are entering parenthood, raising young children, caregiving, redefining roles and boundaries in relationships, and navigating the complexities of grief and loss. I firmly believe in the dignity and worth of every individual and their right to live a fulfilling and content life—this belief is the heart of my practice. My goal is to create a therapeutic environment where you can build confidence, develop self-compassion, and move toward the emotional well-being you deserve.

THE EXPERIENCE

Clients I work with frequently come to therapy feeling isolated, overwhelmed, and emotionally distressed by anxiety, depression, or stressful life transitions. They often feel disconnected from their true selves and seek to regain a sense of stability and grounding. Taking the first step to address emotional challenges is an act of tremendous courage and there is comfort in knowing it does not need to be faced alone.  

Through our work together, the strong therapeutic relationship we build provides essential support for growth and meaningful change. Clients frequently describe feeling genuinely listened to, understood, and met with warmth and authenticity during our sessions. Through our work together, clients uncover underlying barriers and unhelpful patterns contributing to their distress, while also identifying and strengthening their personal resources to foster growth.

Psychodynamic Therapy 

Reflecting on early life experiences fosters valuable insight related to current struggles, which in turn facilitates personal growth and change.

  • Identify and process your thoughts and feelings.
  • Uncover how early life experiences influence your emotions and behaviors.
  • Examine unhelpful behavioral and relational patterns.

  • Resolve past conflicts and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Mindfulness

This versatile practice incorporates Eastern tradition and neuropsychology. 

  • Gain awareness of self, thoughts, feelings and responses.  
  • Stay grounded in the present to navigate the challenges of daily life.
  • Empower your sense of control, reduce suffering & increase joy.

  • Build compassion for yourself and others.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

CBT emphasizes the relationship between thoughts, feelings and behaviors which leads to a more positive and balanced outlook on life.

  • Increase awareness of the unhelpful thinking styles connected to your emotional experiences.
  • Examine core beliefs about yourself and the world.
  • Reframe unhelpful thoughts and beliefs.

  • Gain greater control over your mental and emotional experiences.

 

Explore Connection

While self-healing can be an integral part of ones personal growth journey, too often people believe they should be able to do it all alone.  We are NOT meant to live, grow or heal in isolation.  We are social creatures who thrive in connection and community.

Learn More About Our Groups

1777 Fordham Blvd. Suite 202-6

Chapel Hill NC 27514

1-888-204-8409

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