I believe in the power of communication. The majority of our issues stem from not communicating our needs properly and then expecting others to know them, and vice versa. I believe all people want to be understood, want connection, want to find meaning, and are trying to cope. My approach focuses on Satir Transformational Systemic Therapy (STST). This model emphasizes that we are made up of all the people in our lives. As such, I focus on how the different systems in our lives affect us. I hope you are also prepared to engage in some activities, as I love having clients physically move in the space to facilitate therapeutic growth.

I integrate CBT/DBT skills and Internal Family Systems (IFS) into my approach. This way, I can provide you with skills while addressing the systems that exist both within us and outside of us. Overall, I want you to find skills that work for you, realize that what you’re feeling is neither good nor bad, and understand that we are products of the system we are in.

Originally from Florida, I recently moved to North Carolina to obtain my PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. I earned my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Rollins College in Winter Park, FL. I am a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and am currently working towards full licensure in North Carolina.

My clinical interests include substance use, anxiety/depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), identity development, career counseling, Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) folks, and families. I have experience working in intensive outpatient sites with clients dealing with substance use and mental health issues. I have also worked in college settings and thus also enjoy working with college students.

Outside of the office, I spend time with my lovely dog Lady May. Anyone who knows me will tell you I am a huge bookworm and will recommend books for therapy, as well as any I think are great in general. This also applies to movies, TV, and music! I try to write in my free time for fun. Long walks and being out in the sun are pastimes that greatly foster my self-care and keep me vital. If you think we’d be a good fit, please reach out to me at sfaulk8@charlotte.edu.