Counseling Connections began as a private practice spearheaded by Kim Knoeller in 2018 and has grown to include the wisdom and experience of several additional clinicians since then. Counseling Connections has flourished into a community of providers driven by the core values of building trusting relationships in which there is safety, genuine care, interest, and validation and promoting autonomy and self agency for our clients. We strive every day to improve the well being of individuals, couples, and families across North Carolina using a wide variety of therapeutic interventions and specialties.
Each of our clinicians, in addition to their required education, have special areas of training and certification. Counseling Connections provides a platform for associate level therapists to work under the high caliber supervision of two professionals who have been in the field for over 60 years combined. The concept of providing support for those in the profession and assisting in creating great psychotherapists to meet the needs of our population is at the heart of Counseling Connections’ mission.
Without further ado, meet our clinicians
‘We are not what happened to us. We are what we wish to become.’
Therapy doesn't have to be what you see in the movies. As a therapist who understands that the typical approach to therapy can feel intimidating, I strive to create an impactful and enjoyable experience. My goal is to make sessions feel less clinical and more like a collaborative experience towards enhancing overall well-being or goals. By drawing from an eclectic approach, together we will create a therapeutic space that is unique to you or your family. I approach therapy from an open and curious perspective to see each client and their experiences as a whole. My style has been described as direct, genuine and involved.
My experience working with children, adolescents and adults both in family therapy and individual, has provided me the opportunity to work with diverse populations experiencing an array of challenges. I specialize in, but am not limited to, family therapy and adjustment disorder, which is the fancy therapy term for experiencing a recent life change.
I hope to provide clients with a safe space to discover skills, a different perspective and the confidence to tackle the many and unknown challenges life can throw at us. As we all know, life happens and keeps happening. I look forward to the opportunity to connect with clients in an impactful way that will support their growth, healing and well-being.
Self-pay rate: $75
Mackenzie accepts: BCBS, Aetna, Medcost
We can provide a superbill to submit for reimbursement by: Cigna, UHC/Optum
‘Recovery is not a race. It's a journey, and it's okay to take it one step at a time.’
As a devoted behavioral health practitioner, I stand at the crossroads of compassion and competence, ready to contribute to helping people find hope and healing. My path began with a startling realization: our challenges do not define us, but our perseverance does. I've developed a unique viewpoint that combines empathy with evidence-based care. I am really empathetic to those who are looking for healing and transformation. I tailor interventions to address the whole person. Evidence-based practices merge seamlessly with compassion. My commitment lies in fostering a safe space where clients can share their stories without judgment.
My expertise extends beyond textbook knowledge. I have witnessed the intricate struggles faced by individuals battling addiction—their resilience, their setbacks, and their triumphs. As a licensed clinical addiction specialist associate, I navigate this complex terrain with empathy and evidence-based precision.
The weight of addiction can feel overwhelming, but remember this: You are more than your struggles. Reaching out isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a declaration of strength. When you’re ready, call or email. Let’s explore treatment options, discuss coping strategies, and create a roadmap tailored to your needs. Remember, healing begins with connection.
LaShawn is currently accepting clients at a self-pay rate of $75
As a therapist, I am dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey of personal growth and self-improvement. I provide a supportive, empathetic space where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings. My approach combines narrative therapy to help you express and understand your emotions with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to challenge negative thought patterns. Together, we’ll work toward achieving your goals and unlocking your full potential for a fulfilling life
I assist clients in recognizing and changing negative thought patterns that contribute to emotional distress. Through techniques like cognitive restructuring, I help them replace unhelpful thoughts with balanced ones. I also teach coping strategies, such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises, to manage anxiety, stress, and depression.
I provide a compassionate space to help you address anxiety, depression, and stress. Together, we’ll work to change negative thought patterns, develop coping strategies, and set goals for lasting emotional well-being. I invite you to begin your journey toward a more empowered and fulfilling life with my support.
Self-pay rate: $75
LaMiya accepts: BCBS, Aetna, Medcost
We can provide a superbill to submit for reimbursement by: Cigna, UHC/Optum
Are you a teen or early college age individual struggling emotionally? My name is Michaela Adkins, LCSWA and I am here to help you through these challenges. I am currently a Licensed Mental Health Therapist in the state of North Carolina. I have a passion for helping our people heal holistically, meaning body, mind, and soul.
My therapeutic approaches are positive psychotherapy which focuses on improving well being by building on positive emotions, relationships, strengths, and resilience. I also specialize in client-centered therapy which bases on a belief that the client is best able to decide what to explore and how.
As a clinical therapist specializing in working with teenagers and early college age individuals, I understand the unique pressures and challenges that come with this stage of life. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or a combination of both, I am here to help. I would be honored to support you in your journey toward healing.
Self-pay rate: $75
Michaela accepts: BCBS, Aetna, Medcost
We can provide a superbill to submit for reimbursement by: Cigna, UHC/Optum
Do you need support facing life's challenges? Life can be extremely difficult, but I can help you discover more about yourself, deepen your quality of life, and enhance your life experience. I specialize in LGBTQIA+ affirmative care, recognizing the unique struggles and resilience within these communities. My extensive work with trauma, anxiety, and depression has equipped me to understand the difficulty of change and healing. I have witnessed the adversities faced by many clients and have supported them through some of life’s most challenging moments. Together, we can create a safe and affirming space for you to explore your feelings.
I earned my Master’s Degree in Social Work from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. With over 10 years of experience working with diverse populations, I have developed a deep passion for wellness and healing. I understand the unique challenges and traumas of living authentically in a world that often marginalizes our identities.
My goal is to help clients nurture their self-worth, self-love, and self-exploration, especially within the LGBTQIA+ community. I understand the unique challenges of anxiety and trauma. I’m here to provide a safe space for you to explore these feelings. I offer a holistic approach combining mindfulness and body movement with traditional cognitive therapies.
Self-pay rate: $75
Marilyn accepts: BCBS, Aetna, Medcost
We can provide a superbill to submit for reimbursement by: Cigna, UHC/Optum
I am a therapist who believes in empathy, active listening, applying objective, sound knowledge, & encouraging clients to build on the personal insight they gain from therapy. This insight is the summit of growth we are all climbing to reach! My approach is grounded in humanistic principles, valuing the worth & potential of each individual. I view therapy as an eclectic concept, which includes science & biology, philosophy, developmental psychology, culture, & more as a perspective of where a person is & how they got there.
I have a diverse background, life experiences, & multiple professions including time in the military which has instilled a deep understanding of discipline, resilience, & the complexities of navigating high-pressure environments. I enjoy working with couples & individuals 17 years and older.
I hope to build a collaborative therapeutic relationship with you & empower you to take an active role in setting goals, exploring solutions, & making positive changes in your life. Above all, my approach is one of compassion, authenticity, & a genuine desire to help others navigate life's challenges & cultivate greater self-awareness and resilience. We will delve deeply into the issues during our initial sessions and collaborate on therapeutic goals. I am also trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) which although designed for trauma, can be used with a wide variety of presented issues. We can all agree that life can be both "Big-T" and "little-t" traumatic. ART is one approach that is easily included in talk therapy.
Self-pay rate $150
Robin accepts: Cigna, United Healthcare/Optum, Aetna
The road to wellness begins in the mind; but this is not a journey you have to face alone. Everyone needs a little help navigating through life from time to time. I enjoy working with creative adults - musicians, artists, writers - however I am able to connect with clients of various backgrounds and interests. My primary age range is 18-100, and the majority of my clients identify as female or nonbinary. The kinds of issues I routinely treat include ADHD, anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationship struggles, school/career related concerns, family conflict, LGBTQIA+ matters, and self-esteem issues.
Once we have met and determined if we are a good fit, we will figure out what your goals are, and how I can help you reach them. I typically work with clients for around a year or more, depending on their needs. Often many of my clients stay in therapy with me as their goals change and/or to receive continued support, like maintenance counseling. Whatever you need, we'll do.
Imagine what your life would be like if you felt more capable, more balanced, and more supported. It starts with making connections—with yourself, with others, through your words and actions, and by setting intentions. These connections heal and inspire true and lasting change. I look forward to working with you!
Self-pay rate: $150
Jennifer Accepts: Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, Quest Behavioral Health, and Carelon Behavioral Health
A connection with my clients is the first thing that others will say is strong about my work. Building a trusting relationship in which there is safety, genuine care, interest, and validation is at the core of good therapy and is my strength. My interventions are soft and leave each of my clients feeling they have authority in their own lives, they can love and respect and care about themselves, showing themselves compassion at every turn. Your goals are my goals always.
I'm here to support you in anything you're going through using my years of experience as an LMSW and LCSW helping others through substance abuse, relationship/family issues, life changes, anxiety, depression and trauma. I work to give you the tools you need to continue to come out on top of life's difficulties.
Whether you have a specific presenting issue or feel you need support facing the challenges of life, I can help you discover more about yourself and deepen your life experience. I incorporate mindfulness and body movement with traditional cognitive therapies and emotional freedom techniques.