CERTIFICATIONS & TRAINING:
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Licensed Clinical Mental Health
Counselor Associate - National Certified Counselor
Erin Wilhelm • LCMHCA, NCC
Professional Ballantyne NC Therapist & Counselor
Works With
Teens (15+) | Adults (18+)
Areas of Focus
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Anxiety
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Couples
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DBT
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Marriage
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Grief
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Eating Disorders
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Depression
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Womens
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Identity Crisis
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Relationship Issues (Individual)
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Mens
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Trauma/PTSD
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Life Transitions
I grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and earned my bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology: Human Services from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP). Here, I gained a clear understanding of human behavior and how people interact with their environments.
I later completed my master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC). During my time at UNCC, I joined Chi Sigma Iota, Mu Tau Beta chapter—an international honor society promoting excellence in professional counseling. These experiences shaped how I support others with great care, focus, and commitment.
How My Own Mental Health Journey Led Me
to Counseling
My journey to becoming a counselor started during my teenage years, though I didn’t recognize it then. I struggled with my mental health and had trouble understanding who I was & what truly mattered to me. I faced challenges with self-confidence, anxiety, and depression. I often felt like an outsider looking in.
Everything changed during my senior year of high school when I enrolled in a psychology class. This course provided the clarity I had been searching for. I became fascinated by how the human mind works and what drives our behavior. The class sparked a passion within me and guided me toward a career where I could encourage others to explore the deeper meaning behind their thoughts and actions.
Today, I use my personal experiences and extensive training to create a safe, welcoming space for clients. I understand firsthand how hard mental health struggles can be, and I’m dedicated to helping others find their own path to healing.
My Professional Experience & Counseling Specialties
I began my counseling expertise in 2022, working with adolescents at a residential treatment facility. This experience confirmed my passion for mental health care and motivated me to pursue my master’s in 2023. During my graduate studies, I received valuable insight at a substance addiction prevention and recovery center, where I offered both short-term and long-term therapy services. I also worked within an employee assistance program, addressing a wide range of workplace and personal challenges with clients.
My academic background includes research on adult children’s experiences of parental estrangement. I focused specifically on understanding the reasons behind family estrangement and the complex grief that accompanies these tough situations. This research deepened my understanding of family dynamics and loss.
I have worked with adolescents and adults across all life stages who deal with various hardships. These include stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, life transitions, and relationship concerns. Each client brings unique circumstances, and I approach every situation with a fresh perspective and genuine care.
I am especially passionate about guiding individuals who struggle with relationship difficulties. I help clients resolve communication problems, establish healthy boundaries, cope with trust issues, process infidelity, and overcome love addiction. Building more fulfilling connections is a key focus of my practice, as healthy relationships are essential for emotional wellness.
My Therapy Style & How We’ll Work Together
I use a person-centered approach that puts you at the center of your healing journey. To achieve the most effective results, I draw from proven techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Solution-Focused Therapy. My primary goal is to create a space where you feel completely safe to explore your concerns. I meet you where you are while gently challenging you to grow.
I like to incorporate mindfulness practices, grounding exercises, music, and nature into our sessions. There is no single strategy that works for everyone, so I adapt my methods to match your preferences and life experiences. We’ll discover together what truly resonates with you.
I offer multiple ways to connect, including in-person, remote, and teletherapy options to fit your schedule and comfort level. We can meet in my office, or if you prefer, take our conversations outdoors for walk-and-talk therapy. All my counseling sessions last about 50 minutes. While I often suggest starting with weekly meetings, we’ll collaborate to find the right frequency for your needs.
Our time together is flexible, allowing us to focus on your overarching goals and any issues coming up in the present moment. This way, every session is relevant while still keeping the bigger picture in mind.
Pivotal Counseling Beliefs That Guide My Work
I believe people grow through self-reflection and a consistent willingness to look inward. I see counseling as a place to understand yourself better and take steps toward the life you want. My belief in personal development continues to guide my sessions and keeps me grounded in why I do what I do.
I value honesty, respect, and active collaboration. I show up as my full self and invite you to do the same. While I provide a supportive environment, I also take a direct approach when needed to help you face difficult thoughts and emotions. Together, we’ll set clear goals and use practical tools that allow you to feel in control of your choices.
I don’t define success by a single outcome. Instead, I look at the steps you take and the growth you notice over time. That might mean stronger coping skills, healthier relationships, improved self-awareness, or more daily confidence. Growth is different for everyone, and I’ll respect your pace.
Each session is a chance to check in and build on what works. I’m here to support your choices, challenge unhelpful patterns, and walk you through whatever comes up along the way.
What I’m Working Toward as a Therapist
I’m committed to growing as a counselor through ongoing education and training. I intend to pursue specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. I also aim to deepen my expertise in assisting clients with love and sex addiction. These areas reflect my interest in effectively treating trauma and relationship problems.
My long-term goal is to make therapy feel accessible and empowering. I want people to feel comfortable opening up about what they’re going through. I believe asking for help shows strength, and I strive to reduce the stigma that often prevents people from getting the support they deserve.
My Life Outside the Office
Outside of my office, I keep my mind and body healthy through exercise, cooking new recipes, and spending time outdoors. Hiking, backpacking, and camping are activities I enjoy most. Movement helps me clear my mind and feel more connected to myself. I grew up practicing competitive dance but have since replaced it with yoga, running, and outdoor adventures.
I’m passionate about the National Park Service. One of my lifelong goals is to visit every U.S. National Park and, hopefully, many international parks, too. Being near mountains or water grounds me and gives me a strong sense of peace. Nature always reminds me to slow down and stay present.
Animals have always brought joy into my life, and I especially adore my cat, Kiwi. She’s been a sweet and steady companion. These activities maintain balance in my life so I can show up fully for the people I work with each day.
If you're ready to give a different kind of therapy a shot, give us a call at Bright View Counseling!
We would love to schedule a time to talk to you more about how we can help! We serve clients throughout the Charlotte, NC area, providing quality EMDR therapy, anxiety and depression therapy.