Cynthia Hughes, MA. PsyM, LMFT, ADHD-CCSP

Successful psychotherapy begins with the right fit between therapist and client—not by expecting clients to fit a particular approach, or stretching the client to fit the couch. Effective therapy depends on both clinical expertise and a genuine human connection. I offer an active, collaborative style of psychotherapy grounded in warmth, authenticity, thoughtful guidance, and deep listening. As a Marriage & Family Therapist, I meet you where you are, help clarify your goals, and work alongside you to foster meaningful growth, lasting change, and healthier relationships.
I provide psychotherapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. My integrative approach blends Eastern and Western perspectives with neuropsychology, ADHD and executive functioning, neurolinguistics, emotional and cognitive intelligence, communication skills, and specialized training in trauma, bereavement, and chronic and terminal illness.

My educational background includes a Bachelor's degree in Behavioral Science earned in 1987 and a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Child and Adolescent Psychology earned in 1989 from John F. Kennedy University in Orinda, California. After becoming licensed in California as a Marriage, Family, and Child Counselor, I established a successful private practice. In 1994, my family relocated to Cary, North Carolina, where I subsequently became licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist and continued my clinical work. In addition to my licensure, I hold the ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) credential, reflecting advanced training in the assessment and treatment of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder across the lifespan.

I believe that effective psychotherapy begins with finding the right fit between therapist and client. Successful therapy is not about "stretching the client to fit the couch," but rather creating a therapeutic relationship that respects each person's unique experiences, strengths, challenges, and goals. Clinical expertise is important, but so is the personal connection between therapist and client. I strive to provide a therapeutic environment that is genuine, warm, collaborative, and practical. My style is active and engaged, helping clients identify patterns, build insight, develop new skills, and make meaningful changes that support growth, resilience, and healthier relationships. I work with individuals, couples, and families, tailoring treatment to each client's specific needs and circumstances. My approach integrates both Eastern and Western perspectives and reflects deep respect for diverse cultures, faith traditions, identities, and life experiences. Drawing from fields such as neuropsychology, interpersonal neurobiology, emotional intelligence, cognitive science, communication theory, and family systems, I seek to address the whole person rather than isolated symptoms. While my graduate training emphasized child and adolescent psychology, I enjoy working with clients across the lifespan and with a broad range of concerns. Areas of special interest and expertise include:
• ADHD and executive functioning challenges
• Child, adolescent, and family therapy
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Logotherapy and meaning-centered approaches
• Neurobiological and developmental perspectives
• Play therapy, art therapy, and sandplay therapy
• Relationship and communication issues
• Trauma, PTSD, and recovery from adverse life experiences
• Grief, bereavement, and life transitions
• Alcohol and substance abuse recovery
• Chronic illness, serious medical conditions, and caregiver stress
• Women's and men's issues
• LGBTQ+ affirming therapy

My goal is to help clients develop greater self-awareness, resilience, emotional well-being, and more satisfying relationships while honoring their individual values, strengths, and life journey.

Touchstone Counseling, PLLC offers a hybrid model of service offering in-person and telehealth services. Please call with any questions. I am in-network with several major health plans including Aetna, BCBSNC, Anthem, Tricare and Medicare. If I am not a provider with your plan, and you have out-of-network benefits, I am happy to provide you a bill to submit to your plan. When you call, you will likely reach my voicemail. Please do leave me a message, as I am more than likely working with a client like you when you call. I don't interrupt my sessions. Whenever possible, I try and make my call backs before the end of the work week. Do leave me several ways to reach you. Once in a while it takes me longer to call you back, but I will return your call. Please be sure to let me know if I can leave a voicemail, otherwise I will not and will simply try again to reach you and please speak clearly so I can understand your message.
I look forward to speaking with you!