Therapists in Asheville, NC

Damaris works as an outpatient/school-based counselor providing services to both children and adults in English, Spanish, and American Sign Language (ASL). Damaris loves to listen to people and guide them to identify and build their strengths on what they truly love. Some of the issues she currently addresses include understanding and managing anxiety, defiant behaviors, bipolar disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as navigating new mental health and physical health diagnosis, grief or divorce.

At Focus Centers of Asheville, I have assembled experienced professionals with a wide range experience and training in mental health, education, and applied psycho-physiology. Together we provide a unique approach to your healthcare that blends traditional mental health services with cutting edge neuroscience. We utilize EEG Biofeedback (also known as neurofeedback), psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, psychological testing, qEEG brain imaging and educational consultations for children and adults with emotional, behavioral, stress, trauma and learning disorders.

I work with clients in a relaxed, informal, and professional way to promote emotional safety and comfort within the relationship so that they can process openly and authentically about meaningful and often sensitive topics. While experiencing this connection, people are able to gain presence, reflect on experiences and plan for personal maintenance, change and growth. Many clients enjoy both spending time in the office, taking walks, spending time in nature, and/or meeting virtually for telehealth sessions. I like to utilize physical activity, mindfulness, and ecotherapy for engagement and emphasizing overall health and wellness.

I am passionate about connecting, supporting and validating clients through life's challenges. I recognize that the world can be a difficult place at times, and everyone can use encouragement, the ability to gain insight, and inspiration. My goal is to work with clients to recognize that the critical voice in your head isn't actually telling the truth. It can be tricky to believe in yourself and find your inner strength when your head tells you the opposite! I like helping clients find their authentic inner voice, that inspires positivity, empowerment, and the ability to believe in the goodness within all of us.

I approach mental health and personality from a holistic perspective. I consider multiple variables when working with clients including mental health, medical history, nutrition, exercise and environment. I would describe my theoretical orientation as eclectic. Eclecticism incorporates therapies from a number of different sources ranging from cognitive-behavioral approaches to alternative treatments such as mindfulness training and meditation. The therapeutic techniques that I use vary from client to client because what works for one person may not work for another. Moreover, I often use more than one therapeutic method depending on my clients' needs.

An “ideal client” does not exist. Our strengths & weaknesses ebb & flow & simply outline human existence. This being said, persistence & determination—-on the part of the client—— and trusting that the psychologist has their best interest at heart—- encourage sought-after changes to occur.

My goal as a therapist is to help participants uncover their inner strength and ability to adapt to challenging life experiences. I enjoy creating new relationships based on the common goal of growth and I always attempt to make therapy an enjoyable experience, whether working with an 8 year old or a 49 year old! I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship as well as the opportunities for nature and therapeutic activities to increase personal growth. Most importantly, I believe in the ability for positive change to occur with an individual who is dedicated to this pursuit.

Appalachian Counseling and Psychological Services is a full service testing center providing psychological and neuropsychological testing. We provide diagnostic testing for assessments for mood disorders, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, learning disabilities, giftedness, parental fitness evaluations, assessments for cognitive functioning, and post-concussion cognitive assessments.

Full Circle Counseling and Wellness provides access to high quality, experienced counselors and integrative wellness practitioners who operate in a holistic, community oriented environment. Our counselors have experience with a wide range of emotional and psychological health challenges and seek to make effective treatment strategies affordable and sustainable. We employ the power of relationship for therapeutic benefit and to help foster belonging and connection by surrounding you with resources and support. Whether making art together, weeding gardens, or playing a board game, we hope to provide community oriented opportunities for everyone.