Emily Fornwalt

Emily Fornwalt, PhD is a tele-health counselor and avid re-writer of professional statements to make them less awkward. You can judge her success with the latter here; the former will have to remain a cliffhanger for now. Emily’s clients come to her seeking relief from isolation and anxiety caused by perfection-seeking; they have critical inner voices. Emily is adamant about mindfulness and self-compassion, as she knows this is the route to freedom from perfectionism. With this, she has helped teens navigate adolescence, supported parents, and helped adults create more fulfilling lives. Emily has advanced training in online therapy, trauma, and attachment. Emily is also an affirming provider who welcomes all identities and relationship structures.

Emily focuses on her relationship with you, first and foremost. She knows that this is the single most important factor in therapy. From there, Emily blends approaches informed by neurobiology and interpersonal relationships. In session, Emily attends carefully to what’s happening moment-to-moment; she’s not afraid to address the hard stuff. She incorporates creative arts, brain/body connection, and mindfulness. A trained play therapist, creativity comes naturally to Emily. Clients leave therapy more self-compassionate, with deeper self-understanding, and with strong skills in self-expression and boundary-setting.

Emily's style is authentic, fun, and engaged. She spends time getting to know clients; they set the pace for the work. She is collaborative, partnering with clients to tailor therapy to their needs.

Emily is somewhat unique among counselors, as she has her PhD and teaches counseling part-time. She deeply values lifelong learning. Outside of therapy, she loves being outdoors (hiking, camping, running) and just exploring her hometown. She also loves traveling—wherever and whenever possible! Emily offers online sessions only and can work with clients in NC and TN where she's licensed, as well as SC where she has permission to practice.