Connect Counseling was formed by Katie Garard, MA, LCMHC. Katie is a Chapel Hill local and graduate of the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Wake Forest University. Katie sees individuals of all ages. Her experience counseling children and adolescents suffering from eating disorders led Katie to discover she has a strong interest in working with children (10 years and older), teens, families, and emerging adults. Katie uses a person-centered approach combined with techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). She understands that a therapeutic alliance between counselor and client is essential. As a firm believer in the DBT principle of balancing acceptance and change, Katie strives to validate and accept clients for who they are while also supporting them through change and growth. In addition to her passion for mental health, Katie enjoys volunteering with Special Olympics, reading a good book, traveling, and listening to podcasts while walking her adorably goofy dog.