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Jessica Freer, LCSW

Therapist

My Approach

We often talk about going to therapy the way we talk about going to the doctor: seeking an expert opinion about a problem and hoping for, yet dreading, the solution. Therapy is actually more like playing a sport or going to the hairdresser, where you build a relationship based on trust, perspective, and mutual goals but you are the one in control. The most important part of the healing process is actually this therapeutic relationship that we build together. From the very first conversation, my goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable, safe, and understood.

I specialize in supporting adults and adolescents who are dealing with a variety of concerns, including eating disorders, anxiety/depression, self-esteem, OCD, rigid thinking, relationship issues, and complex or acute trauma. Whether you’re dealing with a specific challenge or want more overall support, I’m here to help you explore your thoughts and feelings in a non-judgmental and compassionate way, and to work towards a more fulfilling lifestyle for you. In our work, I’ll draw on an eclectic combination of approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), attachment theory, and trauma-informed care. These methods help us gain a clearer understanding of how your relationships, early experiences, thoughts, emotions, and need for control have led to functional patterns that protect you but are ultimately unhelpful. We’ll then process and create space for these internal experiences, and develop skills to cope with life’s challenges in a more flexible and intentional way.

You are the expert in your experience, while I provide perspective and education to help you unpack the learned behaviors and patterns that no longer serve you. Regardless of how ready or able you are to create change, I’m here to help you start the path of exploring who you are and who you want to be.

  • Treatment Specialties

  • Services Provided

  • Education

    Master of Social Work, University of North Carolina
    B.S. Psychology & Anthropology, University of North Carolina

  • Experience

    Over the years I’ve been in the mental healthcare field, I’ve worked across multiple levels of care, including inpatient and school-based settings. My evidence-based approach is informed by my research on teenage populations and integrated healthcare program implementation at UNC Chapel Hill. I developed invaluable skills in de-escalation and anxiety management while working in frontline healthcare for an inpatient eating disorder program. While completing my graduate degree, I provided play and talk therapy for children struggling with anxiety, grief, ADHD, and ASD, and parent therapy for adults supporting their kiddos and dealing with their own individual concerns. Through the years, I’ve become passionate for holistic and systemic work with co-occurring mental disorders, families, and play and talk therapy with clients of all ages. As I continue in my practice, I prioritize my humility and mindfulness in sessions as I center my client’s narrative and experience.

  • Insurances

    Blue Cross Blue Shield (excluding HMO plans)

    Aetna (excluding Duke Select plans)

Today's the day to make a change.