DBT, Trauma Therapy, and Psychedelic Integration in South Carolina

Angela Kearns, LPC (she/her)

With over a decade of experience in mental health research and advocacy, I have developed a deep understanding of the complex issues and challenges that can impact our mental and emotional health. My approach to counseling is grounded in the belief that every person has the potential for growth and change. Through a compassionate, non-judgmental, and collaborative process, I work with clients to identify their unique strengths and resources and develop practical strategies for achieving their personal goals.

My counseling style is warm, engaging, and evidence-based. I draw from a range of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral informed therapy (DBT), mindfulness approaches, and person-centered therapy. I believe that counseling is a collaborative and empowering process, with my ultimate goal being to help you achieve greater self-awareness, resilience, and well-being. In addition to private practice, I also work as a therapist at Charleston DBT Associates, part of a comprehensive DBT team, and complete intensive training as a component of this role.

In addition to my clinical work, I am committed to ongoing professional development and staying up-to-date on the latest research and best practices in the field. I obtained my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Sociology from the College of Charleston and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Webster University.

I have several years of experience conducting research in psychology, psychiatry, and sociology. During this time, I have published peer-reviewed journal articles on topics such as addiction, empathy, memory, sex, and trauma. I have worked in various research organizations, including the Medical University of South Carolina Addiction Sciences Division, Northeastern University Interdisciplinary Affective Science Laboratory, and the College of Charleston Department of Sociology & Anthropology, and collaborated with the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) on several research projects sponsored by MAPS to investigate the psychological effects of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

I am passionate about the intersection of social justice advocacy and mental health. I completed LGBTQIA+ Mental Health Provider Training from We Are Family and was an advocate with survivors of sexual assault with Tri-County S.P.E.A.K.S.. I trained in Psychedelic Therapy and Integration with Fluence and the Diversity, Culture, and Social Justice in Psychedelics course with the Chacruna Institute.