Essential Counseling and Therapeutic Services

Essential Counseling and Therapeutic Services Essential Counseling is a LGBTQIA+ and Neurodiverse-Affirming integrative counseling and therapy practice in Durham, NC We can perform basic testing for ASD.

We specialize in counseling for those suffering from anxiety, depression, stress, adjustment disorders often related to ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder and Asperger's). However, our primary mission is to help you increase your level of functioning so that you may live a less stressful, less anxious, better adjusted life.

All of the providers listed below accept Aetna and BCBS insurance. All clinicians are LGBTQIA+ and Neurodiverse Affirmin...
06/10/2026

All of the providers listed below accept Aetna and BCBS insurance. All clinicians are LGBTQIA+ and Neurodiverse Affirming and Kink/Poly informed.

Available Clinicians:

- Carlye Denequolo, MS, LCMHCA: Specializes in anxiety, autism, depression, and trauma for children, teens, and adults using ACT, IFS, and play therapy.
- Ben Pruitt, LCSWA, ASDCS, EMDR Specialist: An Autism and EMDR specialist providing trauma-informed care for all ages, integrating clinical and spiritual perspectives.
- Max Martin, MS, LCMHCA: Focuses on adults and couples dealing with ADHD, autism, anxiety, and relationship issues through Psychodynamic and Existential therapy.
- Kayla Cornew, LCMHCA, LCASA, NCC: Supports adults with ADHD, autism, substance use, and trauma using CBT and Motivational Interviewing.
- Maya Wike, LCSWA: Specializes in neurodivergent adults, focusing on autism, ADHD, and life transitions using DBT, ACT, and polyvagal theory.
- Zoe Bronstein-Paritz, LCSWA: Expert in trauma, OCD, PMADs, and ERP for adults, while also supporting children with ADHD and attachment wounds.

Profiles and Scheduling:

You can view full profiles and schedule an appointment directly through these links:

- Profiles:
Kayla (https://www.therapyessential.com/kayla)
Maya (https://www.therapyessential.com/maya)
Ben (https://www.therapyessential.com/ben)
Max (https://www.therapyessential.com/max)
Zoe (https://www.therapyessential.com/zoe)


- Client Portal to schedule a free intake or first session:

https://essential.clientsecure.me/request/clinician

Zoe is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Associate in the state of North Carolina. She is passionate about fostering a space where every individual can feel seen, validated, and challenged with warmth and kindness. Zoe works primarily with adults with a special interest in trauma, OCD, depression, a...

EMDR and Autism Spectrum Disorder: a practical look at adapting trauma-focused, somatic approaches for autistic clients....
06/10/2026

EMDR and Autism Spectrum Disorder: a practical look at adapting trauma-focused, somatic approaches for autistic clients. In this short read, Ben Pruitt, EMDR Specialist (LCSWA, ASDCS), discusses using tech—like a game controller—for bilateral stimulation, pacing, sensory considerations, and consent strategies to make EMDR more accessible and effective. Read more: https://wix.to/styblX6

First published on Nov. 18, 2024Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic approach traditionally known for its success in treating trauma-related conditions, such as PTSD. Somatic approaches, like EMDR, offer a promising option for individuals experiencing intrusive thoug...

Play isn't just for kids — it's a doorway to our hearts. In "The Lost Art of Play," Ben Pruitt explores how reclaiming p...
06/05/2026

Play isn't just for kids — it's a doorway to our hearts. In "The Lost Art of Play," Ben Pruitt explores how reclaiming play can restore curiosity, connection, and well-being. Read the full post: https://wix.to/rbwlgS2

What playful thing will you try this week? Share below.
https://wix.to/NY7lSZR

It is my belief that play serves as a doorway to the heart of us. As children, we have natural instincts that pull us into play, but somewhere along the line many of us lose our capacity for play. There are many reasons, but perhaps what matters most is that our capacity for play can be cultivated a...

Address

Durham, NC
27713

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm
Saturday 9am - 5pm

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