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Atticus Toriello(He/Him/His)

(He/Him/His)
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
North Carolina
Body dysmorphia- LGBTQIA, gender, & sexuality topics- Eating disorders & disordered eating-College & graduate student mental health-Autism spectrum disorder-ADHD-
AboutSpecialtiesLocationsInsurance & Fees

Professional statement

Atticus is passionate about providing affirming, inclusive therapy for individuals in the LGBTQ+ community and those navigating body image challenges. He understands how identity, gender expression, and societal expectations can complicate the relationship people have with their bodies. Atticus works with clients seeking support for disordered eating, body dysmorphia, and the emotional weight of trying to fit into a world that often enforces rigid beauty standards. With warmth and compassion, he creates a space where clients can explore these experiences without fear of judgment.

His therapeutic approach is rooted in collaboration and curiosity, as well as Health at Every Size (HAES). Atticus integrates evidence-based modalities like Polyvagal Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Theory, and Strengths Based Theory. He also incorporates trauma-informed care and a social justice lens, recognizing how systemic factors shape personal experiences. Atticus believes healing involves both challenging unhelpful narratives and fostering self-compassion, helping clients develop a more accepting and connected relationship with their bodies.

Atticus has supported clients across various stages of their healing journeys. He is particularly attuned to the needs of queer and trans clients, offering specialized care that affirms each client’s identity and lived experience. His dedication to ongoing education ensures his practice remains informed and inclusive.

Atticus understands the importance of accessibility and is committed to making therapy a supportive, flexible experience. Whether clients are seeking long-term support or navigating a specific life challenge, Atticus provides a compassionate and collaborative environment where healing can begin.

If you’re ready to explore what healing could look like, Atticus is here to walk alongside you. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a more affirming relationship with yourself.


Message to clients

🌈 Struggling with body image? You’re not alone.

For many in the queer community, navigating how we see and feel about our bodies can be layered and complex. Maybe you’ve felt the weight of societal standards that don’t reflect your identity. Maybe gender dysphoria makes it hard to feel at home in your body, or the pressure to fit a certain mold within queer spaces leaves you questioning how you “should” look.

These experiences are valid — and they don’t have to be faced alone.

Your body holds your story. It’s shaped by lived experiences, survival, joy, and resilience. Together, we can explore how your identity, gender, and societal messages impact your relationship with yourself. Whether it’s challenging harmful narratives, exploring the roots of self-criticism, or finding what feels affirming and authentic for you, we’ll work toward building self-compassion and body neutrality.

This space is for you. A space where your pronouns, your name, and your experiences are honored. A space to unpack the pressures you’ve faced and rewrite the story you tell yourself about your body. Healing doesn’t mean loving every inch of yourself all the time — sometimes it’s about learning to exist in your body without shame.

You deserve to feel safe, grounded, and whole.

If you’re ready to take that step, I’m here to walk alongside you. Let’s navigate this together.


Work and Education


East Carolina University, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, 2024

Licensure

North Carolina: A21156

Languages

English

Specialties

Body dysmorphia - Coping with negative beliefs and feelings of shame about one’s appearance; building skills to manage distressing situations and thought patterns

LGBTQIA, gender, & sexuality topics - Exploring topics of sexuality, gender, and identity; coping with discrimination and oppression; navigating relationship, family, and cultural challenges

Eating disorders & disordered eating - Reducing unhealthy eating patterns, beliefs, and behaviors, such as restricting, purging, and binging; healing the emotional pain surrounding disordered eating

College & graduate student mental health - Specialized strategies for common issues of young adulthood, including school and career stressors, support around healthy relationships, existential concerns, drug or alcohol issues, eating disorders, and anxiety and/or depression.

Autism spectrum disorder - Support understanding the diagnosis and related challenges and strengths; skill-building in areas of daily routine, transitions, coping with overwhelming sensory experiences, social skills, and emotion identification and regulation

ADHD - Skill-building and support around organizational challenges, distracted attention, procrastination; building and maintaining healthy routines and structure




Clientele

  • Adults (24+)
  • Young adults (18-24)

Locations & Hours


Insurance

  • Aetna
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield

Out-of-pocket fees

  • Individual sessions:$140 (50min)