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 warm, collaborative, and culturally responsive. Together, we will explore what is keeping you stuck, recognize the strengths you may not see in yourself, and build practical tools for creating meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you.

I specialize in supporting people navigating trauma, PTSD, psychosis, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and caregiver stress. I also use EMDR therapy to help clients process trauma and painful experiences that continue to affect how they feel, think, and respond.

My work is informed by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), mindfulness, somatic and behavioral strategies, and an existential perspective. My background in crisis response and advocacy has shaped the compassion, honesty, and steadiness I bring to the therapy room.

I offer therapy in person in Durham and online throughout North Carolina. If you are looking for an open-minded, trauma-informed therapist who will honor both your struggles and your potential, I would be glad to support you.

• Treatment Specialties

  • Anxiety

  • Depression & Mood Disorders

  • PTSD, Trauma, & Abuse Recovery

  • Social Anxiety

  • Stress Management, Self-Growth, & Coping Tools

  • Borderline Personality Disorder

• 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