Tab Ballis

Tab Ballis, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, Certified Clinical Supervisor, and faculty member of the University of North Carolina Wilmington School of Social Work. Incorporating a variety of interactive and experiential techniques in the practice of psychotherapy, Tab emphasizes strengths and resources, rather than pathology, utilizing contemplation, creative expression and rituals that make the process of change more accessible. As an Addictions Specialist, Tab has acquired considerable expertise in the treatment of substance abuse and compulsive behaviors, and he has developed an innovative assessment tool, the GATE Model, that helps individuals and families recognize the risk factors for addiction as they visualize the challenging steps on the road to recovery. The innovative "Know Limits" program is a response to alcohol abuse that utilizes the Sinclair Method of naltrexone treatment to support abstinence or moderation. Extensive study with nationally-respected family systems theorist, John T. Edwards, Ph.D., has made Tab Ballis one of the premiere practitioners of structural/ strategic family therapy in our area. Couples counseling is a specialized area of family therapy, which requires a high level of skill and sensitivity on the part of the therapist. Tab utilizes a combination of communication exercises, role play, and family-of-origin techniques to assist couples in negotiating conflict and improving intimacy. Tab's training and experience in sex therapy is a valuable resource for individuals and couples who have encountered obstacles in their intimate relationships, as he supports honest dialogue with practical solutions. Affirming the needs of lesbian, gay, transgender, and bisexual individuals and couples is an area of specialty, as Tab also supports family members and allies of LGTBQ individuals in his practice.