In-Person in Apex, NC 27502
Online in Massachusetts, North Carolina
I believe that everyone can reach their potential and the happiness they deserve, but we all need help along the way. I utilize a collaborative approach to face these challenges as a team.
I began my career by working with children in foster care for several years in multiple settings. I eventually joined The Home for Little Wanderers for my final doctoral internship, a child welfare agency in the impoverished areas of Boston. I stayed with the Home for 8 years, focusing on psychotherapy, treatment team/service management and coordination, and emergency management. I entered private practice in 2017, working for Collaborations in Clinical Care in Canton, MA. I then moved to North Carolina in 2021, and I currently work in Apex center.
Client Focus
Session Format: Individual sessions.
Age Specialty: Adult, Children, Teen, Young Adult
Demographic Expertise: Christian, Jewish, Men, Military / Veterans, Persons with Disabilities clients.
Languages: English
Treatment Approach
- Behavioral Therapy Uses learning techniques like reinforcement and practice to change unwanted behaviors. It is often applied to phobias, anxiety, and habits.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) One of the most widely used approaches, CBT helps people identify unhelpful thoughts and replace them with healthier patterns. It is effective for anxiety, depression, and many other concerns.
- Existential / Humanistic Therapy Encourages people to explore meaning, freedom, and authenticity in their lives. It focuses on personal growth and living in alignment with one’s values.
- Motivational Interviewing (MI) A collaborative, client-centered approach that strengthens motivation for change. It is especially effective for addictions and health behaviors.
- Narrative Therapy Encourages people to view problems as separate from themselves and reframe their life story. It helps build resilience and self-identity.
Approach Description: I utilize a humanistic approach that focuses on unconditional positive regard, empathy, warmth, and a client-centered approach. However, my approach differs per client based on their individual needs. For example, this may be giving an oppositional teenager the extra patience they need in the moment, or taking a walk with an anxious client to help them cope through exercise. Because every client is different, I have the privilege of working with people and families who teach me about the true diversity of people and their needs, and I love learning about how to meet these diverse needs. Everyone is a bit of a puzzle, but we get to put it all together as a trusting team.
Lastly, my therapeutic approach with children and adolescents often includes family therapy, based on need. Parents are often highly involved in their children's therapy under my care, especially for younger clients. In general, the younger the client, the more the parent is generally involved. In addition, parents are always kept up to date about their child's treatment progress if they don't have the chance to join a session.
Fees & Insurance
Fees
- Average Session Fee 160
- Accepts Insurance
- Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna
Education & Credentials
Christopher McDowell, PsyD PsyD
- Male
- License # 9845 (MA) & 5938 (NC)
- Licensed in NC, MA
- Practicing Since 2012
Education: PsyD (doctorate in practice of professional/clinical psychology) from William James College, 2012. This included two practicums (pre-masters internships) and two different doctoral internships. I then completed a post-doctoral internship at The Home for Little Wanders. I became licensed in 2014.
Christopher McDowell, PsyD Practice Details
Therapy Sessions
- Available In-Person in Apex, NC 27502
- Available Online for residents of Massachusetts, North Carolina
- Online Therapy Details: I use doxy.com, a site for medical professionals. My personal link/site on doxy is doxy.me/chrismcdowell
I began my career by specializing in the treatment of children and adolescents. Since parents typically send me their sons, my treatment focus has turned over the years towards issues male-related issues. I now see many adult men in psychotherapy, including men with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other neurodivergent disorders. But I also see adult women in therapy, and I provide parent coaching. While I do provide family psychotherapy as part of individual treatment for youth, I do not provide couples counseling.