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Uplifting the Charlotte
Community Since 1985

We are glad you have chosen us for your health needs and hope that every encounter with our office and staff exceeds your expectations. We know our clients have a choice in several different areas, so we go out of our way to deliver the level of care and compassion we would want for our own families.

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Serving The Community
For Over Thirty Years
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Welcome

Top Psychologists in Charlotte

University Psychological Associates, P.A. is a group of highly qualified, caring mental health professionals dedicated to helping people achieve their goals for personal growth and emotional well-being. Our clinicians are all licensed mental health practitioners, and include psychologists; marriage and family therapists; clinical social workers; and clinical counselors.

For more than 38 years, University Psychological Associates has been a community resource in the Charlotte, North Carolina region with a reputation for respectful and ethical treatment for our clients. We have always been a 100% women-owned and operated practice, welcoming both clinicians and clients of all ethnicities, gender orientations, and socioeconomic backgrounds. It has been the mission of University Psychological Associates to promote respect for human dignity and diversity, facilitating healing and good mental health.

At University Psychological Associates, we, as clinicians, rely on one another to treat clients with a variety of psychological needs; including complex trauma, substance abuse issues, family/couple conflict, behavioral management/ impulse control difficulties, compulsive behaviors, mood disorders. Our clinicians utilize a wide variety of theoretical approaches and therapeutic techniques to meet the specific needs of individuals, couples, and families. We welcome all of you!

Some examples of the services provided by clinicians at University Psychological Associates follow here:

Individual Therapy Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Psychodynamic/Relational Therapy Family Therapy EMDR Marital Therapy/Couples Counseling Play Therapy

Services Provided

How We Can Help

At University Psychological Associates we all recognize and understand that racial discrimination, oppression, poverty, and other forms of social injustice have a vast negative impact on both mental, physical and emotional wellness. We are aware that new clients seek our services when they are in the midst of one or more mental health crises. These crises are sometimes directly or indirectly linked to the experience of chronic trauma. Chronic trauma can be due to a variety of painful life experiences including, but not limited to: growing up in a dysfunctional, abusive or neglectful family, the experience of systemic racism and discrimination, being a member of the LGBTQ community, and exposure to repeated life-threatening situations.

Smiling psychologist with notebook and woman patient at psychotherapy session

Individual Adult Therapy

Girl Sitting On Sofa Explaining Her Problems To Female Psychiatrist At Home

Child / Adolescent Therapy

Smiling young woman sitting at living room on comfortable couch

Marriage (Couples) / Family Counseling

Happy cheerful guy shaking hand with therapist attractive young woman

Trauma-Reduction Treatment

Doctor visiting with patient in room and hearing serious disease diagnose

Substance Abuse Counseling

mother and sick son listening consultation to psychologist doctor

Telehealth Services

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About Us

Meet The Team

The problems and stresses you may be experiencing are unique to you. Sometimes grieving over the loss of a loved one, marital struggles, work-related stress, the sometimes bumpy road of parenting, the break up of a relationship, finding yourself suddenly to be an “empty nester”, or struggles with alcohol/drug abuse begin to feel overwhelming. We are here to help. We will help you select the therapist in our practice who will best fit your needs. Our clinicians are ready to work with you, to affirm your experience, and to develop new skills which will open new possibilities in your life.

(704) 547-1483

Why Choose Us

Kind and Dedicated Individuals

We recognize that the origins of mental health symptoms are greatly varied. Our services include assessment and treatment for issues and disorders including:

  • Adjustment Disorder
  • Anxiety
  • ADHD
  • Behavior Problems
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Conduct Disorder
  • Disruptive Mood
  • Dysregulation Disorder
  • Eating Disorders
  • Family Crises
  • Gender Dysphoria
  • Grief and Loss
  • Intellectual Disability
  • Major Depressive Disorder
  • Marital/ Relationship Problems
  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
  • Panic Attacks
  • Personality Disorder
  • Phobia
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
  • Sexual, Emotional & Physical Abuse
  • Specific Learning Disorder
  • Social Communication Disorder
  • Somatic Symptom Disorder
  • Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders
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Insurance Information
Highlights

Resources for Your Needs

We are grateful that you have chosen our practice to meet your healthcare needs. Our primary objective is to establish trust and respect with our clients by fostering open communication and adhering to the highest treatment standards. We welcome inquiries from our clients and encourage them to engage with our team for any concerns or questions. This approach is integral to our commitment to cultivating enduring relationships with the families we serve.

Insurance

Learn more about our accepted insurances.

Locations

We have three convenient locations.

Resources

Learn about your condition or treatment.

Client Portal

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Read What Our Clients Say About Us

Client Reviews

We could tell you about our clients’ excellent care, but we know that they can do a much better job. We’ve provided a selection of statements from our clients speaking about their positive experiences with us.

This place is nice and small for a therapist office, would definitely recommend it. Gives an at home feel and the person answering the phone is always polite.
Gabbi G.
I have been to numerous therapists for years, and Faye Sultan is the only one who has really helped me.
Suzie L.
This might be a small office but they have excellent therapist here. I highly recommend this office.
Virginia M.
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Where Client Care Comes First

At every step of your care, you’ll know that you’re more than just a client file. We’ll strive to provide an environment that accounts for your specific needs. 

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Julie Pruitt, PhD

Julie Pruitt, PhD

(She/Her/Hers)

Julie Pruitt specializes in working with adult individuals and couples who are survivors of abuse, are struggling with depression, having marital difficulties, or have issues around grief and loss. Her primary therapeutic orientation is family systems theory and incorporates behavioral and cognitive techniques. Dr. Pruitt earned her doctorate from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1987. She is a Certified Grief Informed Professional. In her spare time she loves to travel, read and take photographs.

  • Certified Grief Informed Professional

Location: East Blvd. & University

To Leave a Direct Message: (704) 547-1483 ext.203

Heather Anschuetz-Jeffers, PhD

Heather Anschuetz-Jeffers, PhD

(She/Her/Hers)

Heather Anschuetz-Jeffers, PhD, is a licensed psychologist and has been practicing in the field of psychology since 1999. She specializes in the treatment of adults with depression, generalized anxiety, phobias, social anxiety, grief and loss, relationship and adjustment issues, and provides couple’s counseling. 

Dr. Jeffers earned her graduate degrees from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, obtaining a master’s in marriage and family therapy in 1999 and a doctorate in educational psychology in 2005. Her therapeutic orientation is psychodynamic and relational in nature. She also integrates cognitive-behavioral interventions and mindfulness practices and will design a treatment plan to suit specific client-needs.

Location: University

To Leave a Direct Message: (704) 547-1483 ext.221

David Oates, PhD

David Oates, PhD

(He/Him/His)

David F. Oates, Ph.D. provides psychotherapy and evaluations for adolescents 14 and older and adults of all ages.  His clinical background includes having worked in the student counseling center at the University of Georgia during an internship year following his doctoral studies at Auburn University (Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, 1995), seven years at Lincoln Counseling Center, a community mental health center in Lincolnton, NC and 23 years as a therapist at University Psychological Associates.  He provides treatment primarily for depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, interpersonal relationship problems, ADHD, and other disruptive behavioral disorders. He would describe his theoretical orientation as eclectic featuring interventions from cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy and Young’s schema therapy.  Evaluations include helping community primary care physicians diagnose and treat ADHD in adults and bariatric surgery screenings.

Location: University

To Leave a Direct Message: (704) 547-1483 ext.208

Erika Young-Thompson, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC

Erika Young-Thompson, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC

(She/Her/Hers)

Erika Young-Thompson is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist. She graduated from Capella University with a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. Erika has extensive experience working with adults, couples, adolescents, groups, and families with mental health and/or co-occurring substance issues within diverse outpatient and inpatient settings. She specializes in counseling people experiencing anxiety; depression; emotion and/or thought instability; issues with adjusting to difficult and/or uncontrollable life changes; interpersonal relationship conflict; and addiction issues, including (MAT) medication assisted therapy.

Erika utilizes various evidence based therapeutic interventions from an integrated approach, using theories such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Theory, and Internal Family Systems. Empathically understanding that we all face various challenges in this life’s journey, she believes in meeting you right where you are; working with you to gain empowerment, growth, self-awareness, and self-compassion. Therefore, assisting you in developing the healthy skills you need to be resilient in achieving your personal goals toward healing and wellness.

Location: University

To Leave a Direct Message: (704) 547-1483 ext.250

Blair Harrington, LCMHC

Blair Harrington, LCMHC

(She/Her/Hers)

Blair B. Harrington is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina. Blair graduated in 2014 from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte with an M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a certificate in play therapy. Prior to joining the UPA practice, Blair gained experience counseling individuals, groups, and families in school and agency settings. Blair currently works with clients that are 18 years and older. She believes in the importance of building rapport & utilizing a person-centered approach within all of her therapeutic relationships. Occasionally Blair may incorporate other counseling philosophies such as: Solution Focused or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients reach their desired goals.

She has experience working with individuals with anxiety, depression, grief & loss, major life transitions, relational stressors, and a variety of mental health disorders. Blair is passionate about creating a non-judgmental, empathetic space for clients to openly express their thoughts and feelings thus allowing for positive changes to occur naturally over time.

In her spare time Blair enjoys going to concerts, trying new restaurants, traveling, and spending time with her loved ones. Blair frequently listens to the Therapy Thoughts podcast by Tiffany Roe & is a fan of anything written by Brene Brown (Mental Health advocate).

Location: University

To Leave a Direct Message: (704) 547-1483 ext.204

Alicia Lightfoot, LCSW

Alicia Lightfoot, LCSW

(She/Her/Hers)

Alicia Lightfoot is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that specializes in the treatment of individuals that struggle with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, self-esteem, and social issues. 

She earned her Bachelors in Science from Texas A&M in Education, and later went on to get her Masters in Social Work from the University of North Carolina, Charlotte. In her therapy practice, she uses an eclectic therapeutic approach, based on the individual and presenting problems of the client. 

Many clients benefit from varied interventions, including but not limited to technique from; cognitive behavioral, reality, dialectical behavioral, empowerment, interpersonal, EMDR and relational techniques. She has extensive experience with adolescents, adults and families. She also has experience working with diverse populations including individuals with ID/DD. 

Her approach to using her strength based therapeutic interventions is individualized and she strongly believes that a person’s therapeutic experience should not be one size fits all. 

  • EMDR Trained Clinician

Location: University

To Leave a Direct Message: (704) 547-1483 ext.230

Leah Posko, LCSW

Leah Posko, LCSW

(She/Her/Hers)

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience treating adolescents, adults,
and families in various treatment settings including residential, partial hospitalization, and
outpatient therapy. I found over the years that my true passion is working with women who have experienced trauma and narcissistic abuse. I believe secure connections with others play a part in one’s healing.

My focus in treatment is on learning emotional regulation skills, modifying limiting life scripts, education, enhancing the quality of relationships in my client’s lives, and increasing their self-efficacy and empowerment to live meaningful and fulfilling lives.

I use an evidence based eclectic approach which includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

I am EMDR Level II trained by EMDRIA and hold certification as a Certified Complex Trauma Therapist.

  • EMDR Trained Clinician

Location: University

To Leave a Direct Message: (704) 547-1483 ext.232

Catherine Buckner, LCSW

Catherine Buckner, LCSW

(She/Her/Hers)

Catherine Buckner is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of North Carolina. She graduated from Michigan State University with a master’s degree in Clinical Social Work in 2012 and has experience working with individual adults, adolescents, and couples. 

Some of her specific clinical interests are clients who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and anger, as well as individuals and couples who are navigating life transitions related to parenthood, employment, or relationships.

Catherine is trained in and utilizes a variety of treatment approaches, including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, and Solutions Focused Therapies, and can draw in techniques from other modalities to support clients based on their individual needs or concerns. Catherine uses a strengths based and collaborative approach, and creates a trauma informed environment in which her clients can feel safe and supported. 

She believes that an important part of her role is to provide the tools necessary for each client to be empowered to achieve their own goals and to create the change they desire in their own lives.

Location: University and Huntersville

To Leave a Direct Message: (704) 547-1483 ext.220

Heather McCarley, LISW-CP, LCSW

Heather McCarley, LISW-CP, LCSW

(She/Her/Hers)

Heather C. McCarley embarked on her career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker after she graduated from Florida State University in 1999, to work as a School Based Therapist in the Miami-Dade County school system.

She has since worked as a Clinical Therapist in North and South Carolina in private, public and school agencies providing therapy to support clients with behavioral health and substance use difficulties. Heather has also acquired her Certified Advanced Grief Counseling Specialist certification as grief and loss is something she is very passionate about.

Heather specializes in working with Children, Adolescents, Families and Adults. Heather utilizes Cognitive Behavioral and Solution Focused Therapies to address symptoms of Grief/Loss, Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Oppositional Defiant and Adjustment Disorders. She has experience in individual and group process with Anger Management, Conflict Resolution, Self Esteem, Study Tips and Coping Skills.

Heather’s focus is to assist others with healing, empowerment, positive problem solving and coping strategies.

  • Certified Grief Informed Professional

Location: East Blvd. and University

To Leave a Direct Message: (704) 547-1483 ext.210

Brittany Hammonds, DSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS

Brittany Hammonds, DSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS

(She, Her, Hers)

Brittany Hammonds is a licensed clinical social worker, licensed clinical addiction specialist, and a certified clinical supervisor. Brittany received her MSW from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2015. Brittany also received her doctorate in social work from Tulane University in 2021. Brittany has experience with working with adults and adolescents. Brittany specializes in working in substance abuse and/or other addictions. Brittany also has experience with anxiety, depression mood disorders, and life adjustments.

Brittany utilizes Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for treatment approaches. Brittany offers a safe place for her clients. Brittany utilizes a strengths-based approach and empowers her clients. Brittany refers to herself as the guide and her clients are the experts of their own lives. Brittany thrives with working with diverse clientele.

Location: University

To Leave a Direct Message: (704) 547-1483 ext.207

Celeste McFee, LCMHC, LCAS

Celeste McFee, LCMHC, LCAS

(She/Her/Hers)

Celeste McFee is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS). She completed her undergraduate degree in Social Work with a minor in Psychology and her Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. 

She specializes in trauma-healing, self-compassion, self-esteem, empowerment, addiction, anxiety, and depression. Celeste utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, as well as solution focused therapy.

Celeste enjoys helping people find meaning in life, by setting attainable goals, identifying and changing harmful thought patterns, and cultivating feelings of happiness and contentment. 

Celeste views the therapeutic relationship as collaborative and interactive, where she often includes discussion, mindfulness, education, and reading materials during therapy sessions. She is experienced in working with children (11 years old and older), teens, and adults.

Location: East Blvd.

To Leave a Direct Message: (704) 547-1483 ext.212

Shawn Trifoso, LCSW

Shawn Trifoso, LCSW

(He/Him/His)

Shawn Trifoso is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of North Carolina and New York. He is also registered to practice in South Carolina as an Independent Social Worker Telehealth Provider. He earned his Master’s in Social Work, with a concentration in clinical social work, in 2015 from the University at Albany, State University of New York. He also holds a B.A. in Psychology and Philosophy from Syracuse University.

Shawn has experience working with adolescents (15 years and older) and adults (including adults with intellectual disabilities) experiencing a range of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, and adjustment disorders. 

Shawn utilizes an integrative approach that incorporates evidence-based treatment modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy. Depending on each client’s preferences and needs, Shawn also integrates compassion- focused and mindfulness based techniques within a cognitive behavioral or psychodynamic therapeutic framework. With a therapeutic foundation in strengths-based, person centered, and trauma informed care, Shawn strives to empower clients to grow through adversities and make positive changes in their lives.

In his spare time, Shawn enjoys spending time with his family, walking his dog, traveling, and trying new food.

Location: East Blvd.

To Leave a Direct Message: (704) 547-1483 ext.214

Brandon Kasza, LCSW

(He/Him/His)

Brandon Kasza is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of North Carolina. Brandon received his MSW from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 2020.

Brandon has experience working with teens (age 14 and older), adults, couples and families.

Brandon has experience working with youth and adults with housing insecurity. Brandon also has worked with youth and adults impacted by addiction. Brandon uses Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as treatment approaches. Brandon has experience working with those who are impacted by trauma, grief, depression, anxiety and adjustment disorders.

Brandon uses a systems approach to his work and takes into account not just the individual perspective but the way they have been impacted by the family and community systems. Brandon provides a safe space for his clients. Brandon strives to always work with diverse clients and always considers how different cultures and backgrounds can provide tools to empower them in their own lives.

Location: East Blvd and University

To Leave a Direct Message: (704) 547-1483 ext.251

Pamela Diaz Rodriguez, LCMHC

(She/Her/Hers)

Pamela Diaz Rodriguez is a bilingual counselor dedicated to serving the diverse communities she has been fortunate to be a part of throughout her life. Her journey encompasses various roles that deeply influence her therapeutic approach: Woman, Mexican, Immigrant, Veteran, Wife, Mother, and Advocate.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Maryland University College and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Liberty. Currently, she is licensed in North Carolina as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist Associate (LCAS-A). Additionally, she is a National Certified Counselor (NCC).

Pamela has extensive experience working with children (5+), adolescents, adults, couples, groups, and families with mental health and/or co-occurring substance issues within diverse outpatient settings. She works with clients with anxiety, depression, family issues, interpersonal conflict, OCD and the LGBT community.  She utilizes various evidence-based therapeutic interventions from an integrated approach, using theories such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Gestalt Therapy.

Over the years, Pamela has gained extensive experience in various mental health services, including case management, crisis intervention, and consultation. Her goal is to offer a uniquely tailored counseling experience to each person, grounded in a strong therapeutic relationship. She strives to create a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where everyone feels heard and valued.

Location: University

To Leave a Direct Message: (704) 547-1483 ext. 252

Amanda Adams - Practice Manager

Amanda A.

Practice Manager
(She/Her/Hers)

Amanda Adams has been with the practice since 2000.  She is responsible for the day to day operations within our practice, including working directly with our clients and clinicians. She strives to make people feel heard and supported with any questions or concerns that they may have about starting therapy and all that entails.  She enjoys gardening in her spare time.

Tiffany D.- Staff Assistant

Tiffany D.

Staff Assistant
She/Her/Hers

Tiffany Doggett has been with the practice since 2018. As part of the support staff, Tiffany’s role is to fulfill  administrative functions such as scheduling and ensuring operations transition smoothly. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends and also traveling.