Lea Cartner

Lea is a proud North Carolina native and UNC Pembroke graduate with a passion for helping people feel seen, heard, and understood. She loves bringing her authentic self into sessions, and as a fangirl, she is here to be your fan. 

 

Whether musicals, anime, Taylor Swift, reality TV, or Disney, she is here to talk with you about everything and be your biggest supporter along the way! Lea specializes in working with teens, families, and neurodivergent adults. Her therapy style is grounded in authenticity, connection, and empathy as she walks with you to meet your goals and grow towards healing. 

 

Whether you’re a teen or an adult navigating neurodivergence (especially autism and ADHD), anxiety, depression, identity, self-esteem, or LGBTQIA2S+ experiences, Lea is ready to explore with you what it means to accept and embrace your whole self instead of focusing on changing yourself or fighting your truth. She specializes in CBT, IFS, and EFT, all delivered with warmth, compassion, and a down-to-earth approach that helps make things actually click while making sure to have on hand all the fidget toys for you to enjoy and play with during sessions!

 

Lea welcomes all the movement, freedom, and comfort you need in session!

 

Lea is a big believer in working together, and sometimes that means inviting family members into sessions to tackle challenges together and build stronger, healthier connections. She strives to make the therapy room a comfortable and safe place where you can be or discover your truest self. And yes, she’ll gently challenge you when needed because growth lives just outside the comfort zone.

 

When she’s not in session, you’ll likely find Lea out and about in Wilmington with her pup, soaking up time with loved ones, or diving into the local arts scene. She’s genuinely excited to walk alongside you on your journey towards healing and give a little spark of encouragement every step of the way. Overall, and to quote one of her favorite musicals, she is here to help you feel sooo much better than before!