Stephanie Behuniak

Clinical Intern

Working towards Master's of Clinical Mental Health Counseling at       UNC-Charlotte

With over 10 years of experience, I’ve worked in a variety of clinical settings, including inpatient substance use treatment centers, recovery high schools, and community mental health organizations. I work with a diverse range of clients—adults, adolescents, families, and groups—facing challenges such as behavioral addictions, co-occurring disorders, complex trauma, eating disorders, body image concerns, and sexuality. My approach is client-centered, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and strengths-based. I draw from multiple modalities, blending Internal Family Systems (IFS), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and somatic practices to support each client’s unique healing journey. While I am deeply passionate about addiction work, I’ve come to understand that addiction is often a symptom of deeper pain. Trauma, abuse, low self-worth, anxiety, and depression can all contribute to patterns of self-medication. In our work together, therapy becomes a space to develop healthier coping strategies, build self-awareness, and move toward more fulfilling ways of being. If you're navigating addiction recovery, seeking deeper self-understanding, healing past wounds, or exploring your sexuality, I strive to offer an affirming, empowering space for exploration. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling disconnected from their bodies, overwhelmed by thoughts, or burdened by shame. Through mindfulness, self-discovery, and radical joy, we’ll work together to help you get unstuck. My goal is to foster a warm and safe environment that encourages openness, curiosity, and growth—where you feel seen, validated, and supported. Using evidence-based practices, creativity, and a touch of humor, I aim to educate and empower, helping clients challenge harmful societal norms and embrace their most authentic selves. As someone with lived experience in recovery and healing, I bring a unique perspective and deep compassion to the work. If you’re curious about exploring therapy together, I invite you to reach out for a free consultation. ..