Theresa L. Carter, LCSW

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) committed to supporting clients in their healing journeys. I am certified as a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Certified Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician (NATC). My additional credentials—Certified Personality Disorder Treatment Provider (C-PD), Certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (C-DBT), Certified Mood Disorder Professional (CMDP), and ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP)—enable me to guide individuals in understanding the roots of emotional pain and build greater resilience.

I grew up in an environment with people who never discussed mental health; this sparked an early interest in the unspoken challenges I observed. As a dual major in psychology and sociology, my coursework was impactful, and the lessons carried over into graduate school, where I earned dual master's degrees in social work and public administration. I completed internships at a domestic abuse shelter, a short-term residential crisis center, and a community behavioral health services facility. I took specialized trauma-informed care courses, as well as other coursework in the field.

My professional experience includes work at a non-profit organization supporting survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault, serving as a psychotherapist and behavioral specialist for children with autism, ADHD, and adjustment challenges, and supervising social workers at county behavioral health agencies. I have also managed case management teams of social workers and nurses assisting individuals with catastrophic illnesses, and led project teams of case investigators, contact tracers, data analysts, and public health nurses in response to infectious disease outbreaks. I remain deeply passionate about helping clients in their healing from mental injuries and mental challenges; providing support in these areas has proven to be crucial, as they can affect every facet of human existence.

I partner with clients to understand their backgrounds, address emotional, social, and psychological challenges, and support their goals. My approach emphasizes a safe, supportive environment where individuals can develop coping skills and increase self-awareness throughout the healing process. I use person-centered therapy and integrate validation, psychoeducation, open-mindedness, empowerment, and emotional support. I know how important it is to feel heard when discussing difficult experiences and challenging thoughts. I will listen, collaborate, and apply evidence-based interventions to help clients build effective coping strategies across various settings.

I have experience with diverse populations and age groups, focusing on trauma, stress management, life transitions, and personal growth. Clients in early adulthood have become a significant part of my practice, showing a keen appreciation for psychoeducation in therapy, which reflects my commitment to providing research-based information that supports mental and physical well-being.