What Is Mental Health Counseling? Can it actually help

At some point in life, most of us face challenges that feel overwhelming. This could be stress from work, relationship struggles, anxiety that won’t let up, or feelings of sadness we can’t quite explain. If you’ve ever wondered, “Is this something I should talk to someone about?” you’re not alone.

That’s where mental health counseling comes in.

What Is Mental Health Counseling?

Mental health counseling is a professional, supportive relationship designed to help you better understand yourself, cope with life’s challenges, and move toward emotional well-being. It’s a space where you can feel heard, without judgment, bias, or opinion, and work through whatever is on your mind.

Counseling is provided by masters level(or higher) trained therapists who are skilled in helping people navigate a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and relational issues. This may include everything from anxiety and depression to trauma, grief, life transitions, and more.

So… How Can It Help Me?

People often think they need to be in crisis to seek counseling, but the truth is, therapy can be helpful at any point in your journey. Here are just a few of the ways it can support you:

  • Clarity and Self-Awareness: Counseling helps you to understand patterns in your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Sometimes just naming what you’re feeling brings relief.
  • Tools for Coping: Whether it’s managing anxiety, navigating a breakup, setting healthy boundaries, or processing a traumatic event,  therapy equips you with practical strategies to handle stress and emotional ups and downs.
  • A Safe, Nonjudgmental Space: Life can feel isolating at times. Counseling offers a private, supportive environment where you can say things out loud that you might not feel comfortable sharing elsewhere.
  • Growth and Healing: Through the counseling process, many people experience healing from past wounds, improved relationships, and a stronger sense of self.

You Deserve Support

Seeking help is an act of courage and self-care and we encourage you to choose yourself today! Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply curious about how to feel better, counseling could be just what you’re looking for.

At Yellow Door Counseling, we meet you where you are with warmth, respect, and a belief in your ability to grow. You don’t have to go through this alone. Our door is open and we cannot wait to meet you!

We cannot wait to Meet You!

Start your healing journey with Yellow Door today. Book your free 15 min consultation today – available in-person or virtually across North Carolina.

Nicola Kay

LCSW

Hi, I’m Nicola, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work with a clinical concentration in the fall of 2020 from Walden University. I work with both teens (16+) and adults, and I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals through a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depress, trauma, OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), and life transitions. It is my goal to create a safe and welcoming space where you feel seen, heard, and valued. We will work collaboratively to develop a plan that feels best for you that fosters insight, emotional balance, and lasting, meaningful growth.

I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a powerful, evidence-based approach that helps process trauma and difficult memories. PS-R (Practice Self-Regulation) is another trauma-informed, evidence-based modality I use that empowers individuals to navigate challenges, regulate their emotions, and move toward healthier, more fulfilling futures. I also integrate cognitive therapy, mindfulness, and mind-body awareness with creative approaches to help individuals connect more deeply with themselves.

In my free time, I love to hike or do anything outdoors, crochet for my friends and family, or try a new baking recipe.

When you feel ready, I’d love to hear from you. I’m here to walk this journey with you.

Christine Schwab

LCMHCA

“Hi, I’m Christine, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Syracuse University in the fall of 2023. I work with both adults and children (ages 10+), and I’ve had the opportunity to support clients through a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship issues, and life transitions.

I’ve received training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Play Therapy. While I use elements of these approaches, I primarily work from an eclectic and person-centered framework, meaning I tailor my approach to each client’s unique needs and goals. My priority is to create a space that is safe, accepting, and judgment-free—where you feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow.

I am an LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent-affirming counselor, and I deeply value the uniqueness and complexity of every individual. I believe in meeting you where you are and walking alongside you as you navigate whatever you’re going through.
When I’m not in the therapy room, I enjoy listening to old music, visiting local coffee shops, going on walks, and spending time with my cat, Mushu.

Whenever you feel ready to start therapy, please reach out and we can come up with a plan together.”

Hannah (HK) Sawyer

Clinical Intern

Hi, I’m Hannah, a second-year Master’s level counseling student currently completing my clinical training. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of South Carolina, and I’ve been dedicated to helping others navigate life’s challenges ever since.


My background includes a year-long internship with Lexington County DSS, and I’m a Certified Victims Advocate through Pathways to Healing. I’ve worked closely with children and adolescents in foster care and the juvenile justice system, and while I specialize in working with younger clients, I also welcome the opportunity to support adults.


In therapy, I use a variety of approaches to meet each person’s unique needs. These include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and play therapy. My goal is always to create a safe, supportive environment where you feel comfortable exploring what’s going on and working toward meaningful growth.
In my free time, I love going to concerts, discovering new music, and getting lost in a good book.


Starting therapy can feel like a big step, but you don’t have to do it alone. I’m here to walk with you, and I’d be honored to be part of your journey.

Ashley Rifenburg

LCMHC

Hi, I’m Ashley, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. In 2021 I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. I opened Yellow Door Counseling in 2024.

My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, comfortable, and truly heard. I believe therapy should be a place where you can show up exactly as you are, without judgment. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or simply feeling stuck, you don’t have to go through it alone.

I work primarily with teens (ages 10+) and adults, and I’ve had the privilege of supporting clients through many different life experiences. I’m trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a powerful, evidence-based approach that helps process trauma and difficult memories. I also incorporate cognitive and person-centered techniques, and I love bringing creativity into our work through art, music, and mindfulness practices when it fits your goals.

No two people are the same, and I’ll collaborate with you to create a personalized plan that feels right for you.

When I’m not in session, you can usually find me reading a good book, trying out new restaurants, or cuddling my sweet French bulldog, Lucy.

If you’re thinking about starting therapy, I’d love to hear from you. You deserve support, and I’m here when you’re ready.