Dr. Crissa Allen

I work with high achieving people who feel like something is missing and want to figure out what that is. You pour so much into others, but are unsure how to give to yourself in the same way. I’m here to help!

My favorite people to work with are those who feel curious about what their life can become. Transitioning to a new space and trying to find your people? Starting a new relationship and hoping to build healthier patterns? Questioning who you are generally (or existentially lol)? Feeling weighed down by others’ expectations and yearning to live more authentically? Wherever you find yourself, I’m prepared to help guide you along the way.

I began my journey in the mental health field when I was 18, working with children with varying neurodivergent needs at an equine rescue. In undergrad, I volunteered on a suicide and crisis line, eventually helping train new volunteers. But it wasn’t until I walked out of a music history class, during my sophomore year as a music education major, that I realized I wanted something different. So, I finally committed to becoming a counselor. I went on to earn my master’s degree at North Carolina Central University and later completed my PhD at East Carolina University.

Currently, I’m a fully licensed counselor who also has trained and taught other counselors. And even after graduation, I’m always taking trainings in relationship dynamics, communication techniques, protecting against burnout, and tools on how to help people process feelings rather than logic their way out of them.

My approach to therapy has been described as warm, freeing, gentle, and supportive. I understand that spirituality, morals/ values, childhood, culture, and intersectional identities are all important in understanding who you are as a person. I work to incorporate these so you feel like you all the way through the process. I work to understand the relationship between your mind, body, and feelings to help you identify opportunities for growth. In our field this is typically called cognitive behavioral therapy, emotion focused therapy and mindfulness combined. I’ll help you establish a healthy relationship with your emotions, so you feel seen and validated by yourself too!