ABOUT LEPA
I am a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My practice is based on the premise that what we think directly affects what we feel, which in turn effects how we act. The work we do together will focus very much on this process and personal goal attainment. Services will be provided in a safe, objective, respectful and non-judgmental way, in an office setting that is casual, comfortable and private.
My experience includes working with adults, children, adolescents, and families in numerous clinical settings (inpatient, residential, outpatient, community and day treatment programs) since 1996. I have worked for well-known behavioral health centers including CMC-Behavioral Health (Charlotte, NC), The Catawba Mental Health Center (Rock Hill, SC), The Willows at Amethyst (Charlotte, NC) and The Family Center (Charlotte, NC) now of Alexander’s Youth Network. Additionally, my work at area public/private schools, and colleges, has enhanced my ability to serve students with school-related concerns and academic learning challenges.
In 2021, I made the decision to shift the paradigm on mental health and created the SEW Balance assessment and methodology. SEW stands for: The Secret to Every Day Wellbeing, and it’s goal is to simplify finding balance in an imbalanced world. People feel lost, and life is tumultuous, why not gift yourself with some well deserved stability?
SEW Balance teaches people about the universal factors for wellbeing that are actually in a person’s control, and takes the guesswork out making lasting improvements to your life.
It’s research validated, rooted in the latest advancements in neuroscience and positive psychology principles. It incorporates Mindfulness Based Cognitive and Behavioral (MCBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) strategies, and is an affordable alternative to traditional therapy. It’s designed to be highly accessible through the app store and it’s main goal is actionable change in mindset and habits that is long lasting and transformative. To learn more please go to: https://sewbalance.com/enrollment/
I am happily married, and the mother of three lovely children. I have called Charlotte, NC my home since 1994. My family originates from the former Yugoslavia and northeastern New Jersey. I grew up bi-culturally and travelled often. I believe that laughter is essential to survival, and very much enjoy incorporating humor in my daily interactions with people. I also enjoy travelling, plants and gardening, skiing, hiking, biking, yoga, reading, and being outdoors.
North Carolina Licensed Clinical Social Worker (#C004793)
Certified in Mindfulness Based Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
Certified Integrative Mental Health Practitioner (CIMHP)
Certified in Dialectical and Behavioral Therapy
Duke University, Certificate from the Family Resource Coalition of North Carolina through Duke
University of South Carolina, Master’s of Social Work
Wingate University, Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology, Minor in Art
