My Team

Meet Christopher Deviney, LCSW, LCAS

Education

Christopher Deviney is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist in the state of North Carolina. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Fayetteville State University and later completed his Master of Social Work at Louisiana State University.

Specialties

Chris has over five years of experience working with both adults and adolescents. His clinical focus includes supporting clients through addiction recovery, depression, trauma, anxiety, grief and loss, mood dysregulation, and chronic pain. He brings a deep understanding of how these challenges impact daily functioning and emotional well-being.

Therapeutic Approach

Chris uses an integrative and client-centered approach to therapy. He primarily incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-informed practices to help clients feel grounded and safe in the present moment. He also draws from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT-)- informed skills and solution-focused strategies to promote practical change and personal growth. His approach is always tailored to each individual, focusing on helping clients build resilience and create meaningful progress toward their goals.

Philosophy

With a calm and compassionate presence, Chris fosters a non-judgmental and supportive environment. He considers himself an ally to mental health and recovery communities and is committed to helping each client feel empowered to face challenges with confidence and clarity.

Availability

Chris sees clients both virtually and in person at the Raleigh, NC office.

Meet Erika Paulyne Branch LCSWA

Education

Erika Paulyne Branch is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate in the state of North Carolina. She earned both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Social Work degrees from Appalachian State University, where she developed a strong foundation in mental health support and social work practice.

Specialties

Erika has over two years of experience working with teens and adults to promote positive behavioral change, overcome life barriers, and manage challenges such as depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, anger management and life skills. She is passionate about helping clients explore new perspectives and gain control over their emotional well-being.

Therapeutic Approach

Erika takes a creative and client-centered approach to therapy. She integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with motivational interviewing, mindfulness techniques, strengths-based interventions, and creative interventions such as play therapy and art therapy techniques. This blend allows her to meet each client where they are, fostering growth in a way that feels both supportive and empowering.

Philosophy

At the heart of Erika’s practice is the belief that therapy should be a safe and empowering space. She encourages clients to take ownership of their emotions and values a “love yourself, love myself” mentality— recognizing that each individual is the expert of their own life. Her sessions aim to inspire confidence, creativity, and a fresh outlook on life’s challenges.

Availability

Erika offers both in-person sessions at the Raleigh, NC office and virtual appointments for clients across North Carolina.

Meet Maria Garcia Hawley, LCMHCA, LCASA

Education

Maria Garcia Hawley is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate in the state of North Carolina. She earned both her bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Services and her Master of Science in Clinical Counseling from East Carolina University.

Specialities

Maria brings three years of experience working in the mental health and substance use field. Her background includes supporting adolescents as a peer support specialist and providing substance use counseling to adults. She is passionate about helping clients navigate challenges related to addiction, emotional well-being, and personal growth.

Therapeutic Approach

Maria takes a holistic and collaborative approach to therapy. She draws from a range of theoretical frameworks, relying most on strength-based, person-centered, and motivational interviewing techniques. Her style is supportive and flexible, meeting each client where they are and helping them move toward meaningful change at their own pace.

Philosophy

Maria is committed to helping clients gain insight into their past, find clarity in the present, and build hope for the future. Her goal is to create a therapeutic space that feels empowering, safe, and grounded in mutual respect. She believes in walking alongside clients as they work to enhance their overall sense of self and emotional well-being.

Availability

Maria currently offers virtual sessions only, providing accessible care to clients throughout North Carolina.

Meet Makayla Stefanski, LCMHCA

Approach to Therapy

Are you struggling with your mental health and unsure where to begin? Do you find yourself saying “fuck this” on a regular basis? If so, you’re not alone. Makayla Stefanski understands the weight of exhaustion, burnout, and that creeping sense of hopelessness that comes from being stretched too thin. These feelings often emerge when we haven’t had the space or time to truly process what we’re experiencing.

Makayla offers a laid-back, relatable approach to therapy that meets you where you are. Instead of pushing you to meet someone else’s expectations, she focuses on uncovering what truly matters to you- your values, your goals, your voice. Through this process, you’ll work together to build a life that feels authentic, balanced, and grounded in what’s meaningful to you.

Philosophy

Therapy isn’t about being perfect— it’s about being real. Makayla believes that healing happens when we slow down and listen to ourselves. Her style is collaborative, nonjudgmental, and rooted in mutual trust. Whether you’re feeling lost, overwhelmed, or simply unsure where to start, she’s here to help you reconnect with your strengths and take the next step forward.

Availability

Makayla sees clients both in person in Greenville, NC and through virtual sessions across North Carolina. She also offers a 15-minute phone consultation to help determine if she’s the right fit for your needs.

Meet Nanette C Ford, MA, LCAS, LCMHC-A, NCC

Specialties

Nan Ford is a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. She provides compassionate therapeutic support to individuals navigating anxiety, depression, addiction, grief, and feelings of isolation. Nan is a trauma-informed therapist with a special focus on healing the wounds of childhood trauma and supporting clients through their journey toward emotional resilience.

Nan also works with couples who are seeking to improve their communication and deepen their connection. Her approach is rooted in kindness, empathy, and the belief that relationships thrive when both partners feel heard, seen, and understood.

Therapeutic Approach

Nan brings a calm, nonjudgmental presence to therapy and works with individuals, couples, teens, and older adults. She integrates a variety of therapeutic methods including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Somatic Therapies. Her practice is also informed by parts work and inner child healing, supporting clients in developing deeper self-awareness and connection.

Availability

Nan sees clients both in person in Durham, NC and through virtual sessions. She can be reached directly at 203-726-6980 or through the contact form on the website.