Stevie Schlessman, LCSW

Therapist | stevie@3rdwavetherapy.com | 919-886-4052

I’m Stevie and my practice is rooted in the belief that wellness looks different for everyone. I aim to meet you where you are and create an inclusive, supportive space to explore what meaningful change looks like for you. Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all, and I’m here to help you work through challenges at your pace. Whether life has led you into overwhelm, grief, or a search for deeper purpose, I believe meaningful healing happens in spaces that are inclusive, supportive, and flexible.

My approach is holistic and culturally responsive. I pay attention to your lived experiences, your values, the parts of life you carry quietly, and the strengths you may not yet fully see. I draw from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, somatic and behavioral strategies, and an existential perspective. I also use empowerment-based frameworks that support your agency and growth. My work in crisis response and advocacy has shaped how I listen, respond, and partner with clients with compassion, honesty, and steadiness.

I specialize in helping folks navigate trauma, PTSD, psychosis, domestic violence, and anxiety and depression. I also support those managing relationship tensions or caregiver stress, especially when mental health or substance use are part of the picture. My sessions are offered in-person in Durham as well as online so you can access care in a way that feels right for you.

If you’re looking for a trauma-informed, open-minded, and collaborative therapist, someone who honors both your struggles and your potential, I’d welcome the chance to talk. Let’s explore together what changes feel meaningful, sustainable, and true to who you are.

• Treatment Specialties

  • Anxiety

  • Depression & Mood Disorders

  • PTSD, Trauma, & Abuse Recovery

  • Social Anxiety

  • Stress Management, Self-Growth, & Coping Tools

  • Borderline Personality Disorder

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

• Services Provided

  • Individual Therapy

  • EMDR

• Education

  Master of Social Work, University of Central Florida
  Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Michigan State University

• Experience

  My experience includes many years working in domestic violence and sexual assault services, as well as inpatient and community-based psychiatric and crisis services. I am specifically trained in supporting people struggling with past and ongoing interpersonal violence; individuals experiencing distressing mental health symptoms including psychosis; hearing voices or seeing things others do not; anxiety; depression; and suicidal ideation or self-injurious behaviors. I also provide support for those who have loved ones suffering from any of the above.

• Insurances

  Blue Cross Blue Shield

  Aetna

  North Carolina State Health Plan