Alyssa McCarley, LPC

Alyssa McCarley has worked in mental health since 2020, beginning her clinical career prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Before transitioning into counseling she served as a first responder, an experience that informs her practical, grounded approach to care.

She brings experience supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities alongside co-occurring mental health diagnoses, individuals who have experienced trauma, and those in recovery from addiction. Her work has also included supporting clients who are on probation or currently incarcerated. Alyssa views life experiences as important context for understanding choices, while emphasizing that past events do not determine a person’s identity.

Alyssa holds the LPC credential - Licensed Professional Counselor - and has certifications in CBT and CPT. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps people identify and change unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns, while Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a structured approach often used to address trauma-related symptoms. She practices an eclectic, evidence-informed approach, drawing from DBT, CBT, Schema therapy, CPT, and other tools that may best support each client’s recovery and goals.

Alyssa values seeing clients apply skills learned in session to their daily lives and appreciates witnessing that growth over time. When not working she enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with family and her dogs. She looks forward to supporting clients as they work toward stronger relationships, greater self-understanding, and healing from unresolved trauma.

Evidence-Based Approaches Available Online

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, helps clients identify and shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviors to reduce symptoms related to stress, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Its practical skills and homework-based structure make it a common choice for addressing everyday challenges and coping patterns.

Cognitive Processing Therapy, or CPT, is a trauma-focused method that guides clients through understanding and reframing the thoughts that maintain traumatic stress. It is structured to help people process difficult memories and move toward improved functioning after trauma.

Finding the right approach is a collaborative process. Alyssa works with each person to determine which techniques best match their needs, goals, and preferences, and she adapts methods over time as progress unfolds.

Online sessions with Alyssa are offered via video, phone, live chat, or text-based messaging, providing flexibility for different schedules and comfort levels. These options make it easier to access consistent care from a licensed professional while fitting therapy into everyday life.