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
Linda Ferguson, LCSW
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina. I have accumulated over 20+ years of working with diverse populations, including adults, children/adolescents, and adults of all ages. I received my Master of Social Work from the University of North Carolina and my Undergraduate Degree in Human Services (Child Development and Family Relations) from North Carolina Central University.
I work hard to create a safe and open environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment or censure. Taking the first step to seek help takes courage, and I applaud you.
You are not just a "billing code" but a human being who has the courage to seek counseling for whatever challenges you're dealing with. I celebrate your decision. You have the skills, resiliency, and the right to be the best "YOU." I thank you for allowing me on this journey to your self-discovery!
Linda accepts: BCBS
Self-pay Rate: $150
We can provide a superbill to submit for reimbursement by: Cigna, UHC/Optum
As a therapist it is my goal to meet you where you are and lift you up to achieve your personal and therapeutic goals. My passion is working with individuals and couples to navigate challenges related to ADHD, anxiety, depression, and relationship concerns. My approach is collaborative and supportive, rooted in empathy and respect for your unique experiences.
I integrate evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based techniques, including grounding work, to help you build skills and create meaningful change. I strive to create a safe, affirming space for all clients and am proud to be an LGBTQIA+ ally.
When I am not with clients, you can find me with my family, at the gym, baking, going to farmers markets and parks, or traveling. I also enjoy being a couch potato at times, eating junk food and watching a cheesy rom-com! I love to make people laugh but also enjoy being someone others can count on to be there for them when they need.
I offer flexible telehealth sessions so you can access care from the comfort of your own space. If you’re ready to begin this journey, I’d be honored to support you.
Taylor accepts: BCBS
Self-pay rate: $75 for individuals and $100 for couples
We can provide a superbill to submit for reimbursement by: Cigna, UHC/Optum
“Today is the first day of the rest of your life” - Charles Dederich
One of the biggest strengths I believe an individual can have is seeking assistance when they need it! Yes, it can sometimes be intimidating, especially when it’s your first time. I’m here to help make that process more inviting for you. Come have a conversation with me; I’m here to hear YOU through empathetic ears. I want to help you embrace where you currently are in your life (the good, bad, and everything in-between), so that together we can map out a game plan towards the version of you that you want to be.
Life will ALWAYS have disappointments, setbacks, hurt, or whatever! If you find yourself having a harder time with the experience/experiences that are leading you here right now, I am here to help. My therapeutic approach is guided by cognitive behavioral therapy, choice therapy and mindfulness based therapy. Through those modalities I incorporate many more therapeutic modalities. I’ve worked with children, adolescents, and adults. Along with providing individual therapy, I also provide couples therapy.
If this is what you’re looking for, with my assistance/guidance, you will build your own therapeutic tool box to help you get through what you’re currently facing, and then be able to use those tools towards whatever new challenges you may face in future.
Lynda accepts: Aetna
Self- Pay Rate: $75
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 $100
We can provide a superbill to submit for reimbursement by: Cigna, UHC/Optum
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.
LaMiya accepts: BCBS, Aetna, Medcost
Self-pay rate: $75
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.
Michaela accepts: BCBS, Aetna, Medcost, Carolina Behavioral Health
Self-pay rate: $75
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.
Marilyn accepts: BCBS, Aetna, Medcost
Self-pay rate: $100 for individuals and $150 for couples
We can provide a superbill to submit for reimbursement by: Cigna, UHC/Optum
Robin is not currently accepting new clients.
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.
Robin is not currently accepting new clients.
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!
Jennifer Accepts: Aetna, Cigna, BCBS, Quest Behavioral Health, and Carelon Behavioral Health
Self-pay rate: $150
We can provide a superbill to submit for reimbursement by: UHC/Optum
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.