In-Person in Gastonia, NC 28056
Online in North Carolina
I began my counseling career later in life after experiencing my own challenges. I've always had a drive to help and see the best in others. We so often believe the lies that run through our head that we are not good enough, we are broken, we are bad. Whether we heard that from someone or lack the belief in ourselves, it is there and is what frames how we see and experience the world. Learning to believe in ourselves, finding peace for ourselves and seeing the light in the world can help us move from that negative place into a happy existence.
I offer a judgement free space for you to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences to find healing and peace in your life. Whether we meet in person or online we can explore how life is today and look back how your past has shaped who you are today and find new ways to see your future.
Client Focus
Session Format: Individual sessions.
Age Specialty: Adult, Teen, Young Adult
Demographic Expertise: Christian, Men, Women clients.
Languages: English
Treatment Approach
- 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.
- Gestalt Therapy Encourages awareness of thoughts, feelings, and actions in the present moment. It helps people integrate different parts of themselves for wholeness.
- Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) Combines mindfulness practices with CBT to prevent depression relapse. It helps people notice thoughts without judgment and respond more calmly.
- Person-Centered Therapy (Rogerian) Emphasizes empathy, unconditional positive regard, and authenticity. It provides a safe space for self-discovery and growth.
Approach Description: My approach is based on person-centered therapy and focusing on what you need. Therapy is individualized but often does center around how we think and talk to ourselves. We cannot change the past but we can work through those memories to find peace with our own history and make the needed changes in our actions and thoughts. Sometimes we need to release the emotions that have been stuck inside ourself for many years so that we can be free of them. Each person sets the tone of the session based on what they want to work on. My work is to help guide you through your thoughts and feelings to find resolution to the problematic areas of your life.
Fees & Insurance
Fees
- Average Session Fee $164.00
- Accepts Insurance
- Aetna, United Healthcare, UMR, Optum, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Ambetter, MedCost, Surest
Education & Credentials
Mary Jean Elder MA, Ed. S, LCMHC
- Female
- License # 11232
- Licensed in NC
- Practicing Since 2014
Education: I attended Gardner Webb University to complete my Bachelors Degree in Human Services and a Masters Degree in Mental Health Counseling.
Mary Jean Elder Practice Details
Therapy Sessions
- Available In-Person in Gastonia, NC 28056
- Available Online for residents of North Carolina
- Online Therapy Details: Online therapy is provided via EHR platform TherapyNotes and also can use Doxy.me/msmarylpc
I began Deep River Counseling in 2021 after spending 7 years in community mental health working with children, adults and families. I now focus solely on the individual to help them find new ways of thinking, behaving and having a hopeful outlook for their future. Life happens and we can make the choice to find our happiness within our self. I offer a judgement free space for your to share your story and explore it's impact it has had in your life.