Hi, I’m Ali (she/her), a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I’m currently a doctoral candidate and practicing therapist based in Florence, South Carolina.
This space is here to help you get a sense of who I am, how I approach therapy, and whether we might be a good fit to work together. Finding the right therapist is important—so let’s see if I sound like someone who can walk beside you on your path.
Areas of Focus
My practice centers on supporting trauma survivors, neurodivergent individuals, people navigating sexuality and gender identity, and those living with severe & persistent mental illness (SPMI). These are not just areas of training—they’re areas of deep personal and professional commitment.
Trauma Treatment
The bulk of my clients are navigating trauma-related issues and this is a passion of my work. With training and certification in several evidence-based practices including EMDR and TF-CBT, I offer a unique perspective and treatment path for those seeking to explore and resolve life-interfering issues as a result of a one-time traumatic event, or complex trauma experiences.
Severe & Persistent Mental Illness (SPMI)
I work with clients experiencing conditions such as bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and schizoaffective disorder. These diagnoses often come with stigma, isolation, and a lack of truly informed care. My goal is to provide consistent, compassionate support and collaborate with your existing care team—whether that includes a psychiatrist, caregivers, loved ones, or others. I can also help connect you with psychiatric services for medication management if needed.
Neurodiversity
I support individuals with Autism, ADHD, and other forms of neurodivergence. I understand that traditional therapeutic approaches aren’t always effective—or even appropriate—for neurodivergent clients. Whether you’re navigating diagnosis, building communication skills, managing relationships, or seeking support as a neurotypical parent of a neurodivergent child, I provide affirming and tailored care that respects your unique experience.
Sexuality & Gender Identity
I offer a safe, affirming space for individuals and couples (monogamous, polyamorous, or otherwise) to explore concerns around sexuality, identity, and relationships. I’m committed to creating a nonjudgmental environment where these topics can be discussed openly and without shame.
As a trans-affirming provider, I recognize the full spectrum of gender identity and offer informed, supportive care throughout your journey.
Additional Specialties
- Support for parents of NICU and preemie babies, including trauma and grief counseling
- Trauma-informed care for PTSD and C-PTSD, using modalities tailored to your comfort level and treatment goals
- Support for those who struggle with self-harm or non-suicidal self-injury
I welcome clients of all ages to my practice.
My Approach
At the heart of my work is Relational-Cultural Therapy (RCT)—an approach grounded in the idea that healing happens through connection. Relationships shape our lives, and therapy should reflect that. You can expect a warm, collaborative space where personal disclosure is part of the process (yes, I’ll talk too).
Some clients enjoy a more relational, open style, while others prefer a traditional, more reserved dynamic. Both are valid, and I encourage you to find what works best for you.
In addition to RCT, I integrate a range of evidence-based approaches depending on your goals, including:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Eye-Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
- Polyvagal-informed practices
- Motivational Interviewing
- Client-centered and humanistic approaches
Therapy should be as dynamic and multifaceted as the people in it.
Professional Development
As a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor by the State of South Carolina, I am independently licensed and practice independently. During practicum and internship, I gained extensive training and experience in assessment and diagnosis, and the treatment of severe & persistent mental illness. For the past few years of my career, I have solely been treating trauma disorders.
I have been honored to give training, supervision, and lectures at various professional development engagements across the country and hope to continue doing so.
My goal is always to continue learning—and to bring that knowledge into the room with you.
Inclusion & Affirmation
Cardinal Point Counseling and Wellness Services is a safe, affirming space for all individuals, including LGBTQIA+ clients, people of all genders, racial and cultural identities, relationship styles, body sizes, and neurological experiences. Inclusion is not a buzzword here—it’s the foundation of the work we do.
A Little More About Me
I’m originally from the Midwest but have called South Carolina home for the past decade. I live in the Pee Dee region with my husband and children. As a Jewish, bisexual, and neurodivergent woman, I understand what it’s like to feel out of place—and what it means to finally find community and belonging.
Outside of therapy, I’m an abstract expressionist artist, an avid reader, and a fan of sci-fi shows with questionable plotlines. Most weekends, you’ll find me exploring town with my family, getting into low-stakes adventures, or losing at board games to children who cheat with impunity.
Next Steps
If any of this sounds like what you’re looking for, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s find out together whether we’re a good match for your journey.
Cardinal Point 