Therapist in Charlotte, NC

SHIRLEY CARRENARD-MCDOWELL

My name is Shirley. I am dual certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner after spending 20 years in critical care medicine and as a Nocturnist/Hospitalist. Seeing the gaps in care in the acute setting is what started my interest in psychiatry. I enrolled at Liberty University where I obtained my PMHNP degree in 2021. Now I am better equipped to serve my patients and community. I offer diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and genetic testing services to those 18 and older. I believe in providing patient-led care in an environment that is validating, compassionate, and free of judgement. I am a firm believer that a diagnosis does not define an individual. My approach to psychopharmacological treatment is evidence based, individualized, and collaborative. I believe it is important to embrace not only the psychological components of mental health, but also the metabolic, nutritional, and lifestyle factors that have a huge role in our mental wellness. I take my time to provide comprehensive care in a nurturing environment. My overall goal is to help my patients achieve psychological well-being and improve their quality of life, a life filled with acceptance, motivation, smiles, and peace, all of which they deserve.
When I am not working, I am a mom to 3 beautiful humans and a wife to a great life partner. We love to travel and experience different cultures internationally. We enjoy FFF (Friday Family Fun) nights and my garden is my happy place.

Natashia Shelley, MA, LCMHC.

Hello! Im Natashia Shelley, MA, LCMHC. I have been licensed as a LCMHC since 2013. I received my Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology with a minor in Child Development and Family Relations from East Carolina University. After two years, I went back to receive my Masters of Arts Degree in Professional Mental Health Counseling from Webster University. Ive worked in an array of different services such as in-home and community based services, facilities, and office based services. Ive worked with a variety of populations including adults, children, families, special needs, at-risk youth, individuals experiencing homelessness, older adults, caregivers, and medically fragile children. As you can see, my career in helping others is extensive. Im also an active volunteer in my community; volunteering as a Guardian Ad Litem, on the Wilson Committee for Persons With Disabilities, and the MLK Jr. Commission. I have enjoyed a reputation as an efficient go-to person and have a knack for immediately establishing a good rapport with clients. With strong communication skills and dynamic presentation/public speaking style, let me also note that one of my greatest strengths is my ability to build relationships.

Kalia Lapomarel (LCSW)

As a dually licensed LCSW/LCASA, I specialize in helping clients manage both mental health and substance abuse issues, with a strong focus on enhancing their overall quality of life. My approach incorporates various evidence-based practices, including CBT, solution-focused therapy, client-centered therapy, positive psychology, motivational interviewing, and strengths-based techniques, complemented by holistic methods to provide comprehensive care. My expertise includes but is not limited to working with adolescents and adults dealing with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, trauma, bipolar disorder, and more. My ideal client is ready to prioritize their mental wellbeing inside and outside sessions. I am passionate about providing an inviting space for clients to flourish. Impacting mindsets one session at a time, lets work together to get you where you need to be!

NISHA KOTECHA, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC

My name is Nisha. I am a double board-certified Nurse Practitioner in both Family Medicine and Psychiatric-Mental Health, with over 15 years of diverse clinical experience. I began my journey in healthcare at the University of Wisconsin, where I earned my nursing degree, and went on to complete my master’s degree at Duke University. Most recently, I pursued advanced psychiatric training through the Post-Master’s PMHNP program at Liberty University to deepen my understanding and strengthen my foundation in mental health care.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working across a variety of settings—from family medicine and urgent care to neurosurgery, occupational health, pain management, community health, and geriatrics. I’ve also practiced as a travel nurse practitioner in multiple states, an experience that has enriched my adaptability and broadened my clinical perspective.

My approach to care is patient-centered, respectful, and collaborative. I believe in treating each individual as a whole—considering their physical, emotional, and social well-being. I strive to create a safe and empowering environment where patients feel seen, heard, and supported in every step of their journey. Whether providing diagnostic evaluations, medication management, or helping patients navigate life’s challenges, my goal is to partner with them toward healing and lasting wellness.
Beyond my clinical work, I’m deeply committed to service and volunteer regularly at free-access clinics for underserved communities. This continues to fuel my passion for health equity and compassionate care.
When I’m not working, I love being outdoors—running, hiking, and exploring new places. I also cherish quality time with my family and friends, and find joy in travel and shared experiences.

Benjenus Jenkins, MSW, LCSWA, LCAS-A

Benjenus Jenkins, MSW, LCSWA, LCAS-A is currently the Behavioral Health Director of C.W. Williams Community Health Center in Charlotte, NC. In this role, she manages addiction and mental health services, promoting the integration of service with physical health care to address the social determinants of health.

Ms. Jenkins works with families and individuals providing clinical support in the community. Her background includes being Director of a transitional housing and supportive services program for survivors of human trafficking, working with community organizations within the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council and Department of Social Socials in Gaston, Rowan & Cabarrus counties and with youth, families, and communities, and assisting individuals with essential life skills for problem-solving in challenging environments. She focuses on highlighting an individuals strengths, helping identify barriers to their successes, to creating wellness strategies to produce positive outcomes.

She is an accredited Triple P Positive Parenting Provider, who has completed Intensive Trauma training, Adverse Childhood Experience (ACES) training, and Relationship Education and Leadership Certification (REAL Essentials).

Clarissa Gooding-Aytch , MPH, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CSI

My name is Clarissa. Im a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist with over a decade of experience supporting individuals through life transitions, grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, and identity-related challenges. I hold masters degrees in both Public Health and Social Work, and Ive built my clinical career across community mental health, hospice, and private practice settings.

Therapy with me is a space where you dont need to have it all figured out. Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in patterns that no longer serve them. Together, we work toward healing that is real, sustainable, and grounded in your truth.

My approach is collaborative and down-to-earth. I integrate evidence-based practices, which include Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and mindfulness-based techniques, while also honoring your lived experiences, cultural context, values, and inner strengths. I believe healing happens in spaces of authenticity and connection, where you feel truly seen and heard. I show up with honesty, deep care, and a sense of humor when its needed most.

Whether youre navigating loss, caregiving, burnout, spiritual transitions, or the weight of expectations, I support you in making sense of your story and reconnecting to a life that feels more aligned. You dont have to carry everything alone. You dont have to do the work in isolation.

When Im not in session, I enjoy spending time with loved ones, engaging in creative expression, and finding solace in nature. Id be honored to walk alongside you in your healing journey.