Cyd McDaniel-McGee, LCSW
Cyd M. McGee is the founder and Lead visionary of ‘Essential Journey Counseling’ – an organization based in Gastonia, NC and dedicated to helping people around the world attain true happiness and more success amid great challenges. Having made some sacrifices in life to discover her inner-self, Cyd is passionate about humanity, emotional wellness, and in helping others soar through their fears and hurdles to realize their passions and purpose.
If you are looking for a therapist to help you access the truth and tools you need to make the decision to become self-accomplished, then Essential Journey Counseling is the best place for you.
Cyd graduated from Howard University in 1998 with a master’s in social work. She has trained and worked as a group leader at Onsite Workshops, in Cumberland Furnace, TN (www.onsiteworkshops.com). As a licensed Clinical Social Worker, with over twenty years of experience, Cyd is a compassionate therapist and motivator that uses her gifting and life experiences to support her clients with getting unstuck and out of despair. Over the years, she has established a dedicated client-base, with recommendations and expressions of gratitude from her clienteles who have triumphed over tough decisions, depression, anxiety and trauma. Each day, she propels many with great wisdom using powerful, practical, and experiential strategies. Cyd desires to see individuals and couples that seek the true essence of life become fulfilled and step into authenticity.
Poletta “Shay” Cunningham, LCSW
I have been working in Mental Health for more than 10 years, initially starting my journey at the Department of Social Services. I realized very early in my career that I wanted to be a part of the change that kept families together. I pride myself on true social work values; which includes integrity, ethical practices, and quality services. I have specialized certification and training in trauma and a long work history of family systems therapy.
Here at Essential Journey Counseling, we offer Individual, Group and Family Therapy. Our focus is family preservation; however, we do handle more specific needs such as depression, anxiety, extensive trauma care, ADHD, systems work, behavioral concerns, women and men's health.
Trust the process and remember that life is a journey, we get to decide our own path!
Robert Gorlach, LCSW
You finally bring the problem that's been keeping you up nights to a friend or family member. You've decided to "unburden" yourself to a trusted other. Sometimes this brings a sense of peace or resolution. But you may also find yourself feeling worse as the advice you get is unsolicited or not helpful. These well-meaning others have failed to capture what is making you feel bad, and you say to yourself: "All I really need is for someone to really listen to me."
The principle of active listening is at the core of what a good therapist does and has been a guiding principle in my 24 years of practice with those suffering from adjustment to loss or trauma, anxiety and depression, relationship and workplace stress, conflict, anger, feelings of alienation or poor self-esteem. In my work with individuals, couples and groups, I focus on skills of communication and empathy that hold the promise of improving relationships. I emphasize the mindfulness skills that can help a person observe and challenge the negative thinking that often keeps them mired in hopelessness.
I was certified in advanced psychotherapy training from the Pederson-Krag Institute in Long Island, New York after receiving my master's degree in social work from New York University. I have been in private practice for many years while also working in psychiatric day treatment, acute care, nursing home and walk-in clinic settings.
I look forward to using my experience to serve your desire for a more fulfilling life.
Tia Evans, MEd, LCSW, CST
Has the sex become boring? Are you ready to explore your kinky side? Do you find it more difficult to get aroused or to achieve an orgasm? Has the frequency of your sexual activity declined since reaching a life milestone? Maybe you're just looking for ways to light that flame within you again? If you answered yes to any of those questions. Let me help you spice things up. I am a kink friendly and certified Sex Therapist, providing you confidential and safe sex therapy.
I specialize in sexuality and relationship counseling spanning across all ages. I also specialize in working with those who identify as Transgender, through all stages of their journey. From healing and working through trauma, to exploring your kinks, let me help you reach your goals.
I understand that taking the first step in your therapeutic journey can be challenging. I strive to create a healthy and safe environment that promotes your well-being.
Corrine Andersen, LPCA
If you have spent your life taking care of children, going to work, making sure everyone else's needs are met and you're ready for a change. I'm the therapist for you. I work with those who are experiencing a transition in their life. If you feel uncertain about the future or lack a sense of direction, I want to help. I work with men and women who are ready to explore and step into their true self. With gentle guidance and support I invite you into the change process of becoming your best self.
I also specialize in Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). I use this form of therapy to teach caregivers how to effectively address challenging behaviors while focusing on increasing positive behaviors. I work together with the child and the caregiver to improve overall behaviors and reduce parenting stress.
I am here to listen and empower you to identify your strengths and develop skills needed to regain control of your life.
Sandra James Saunders, LCSWA
Life gets busy and often times comes with distractions which take us away from ourselves. So, where do we turn when we can’t seem to catch a break and/or you find yourself needing a little extra time and space to focus on you? If you asked me, I would suggest looking deeper within-inside of your mind, body and soul-especially considering for many of us, that is usually where the answers lie.
Maybe you transitioned to a place in life that you are no longer feeling complete. Or maybe you are someone who is figuring it out, but in need of a space where you’re able to sort life out and develop a sound plan. I’m here. And, I can help and together we can meet at your readiness to begin exploring avenues to create the space and time you need for you, while being able to do the same for those closest to you. As a practicing psychotherapist, I not only am available to assist you in your efforts to ensure you provide the necessary “me time,” I am here to aid you in creating the personal space you desire for the overall mental, physical and emotional betterment of you and significant others involved in your life .
I will take the time to listen and gain an understanding of where you are and where you would like to be. In fact, you can refer to me as your cheerleader-as I root for you to accomplish what you need for you to not only feel but be your best. So, if you are someone who is ready to honor yourself, I am ready to support and assist you. I specialize in working with those who identify as senior citizens (with or without disabilities), adults, adolescents, and LGBTQIA+ populations.
Qui Vuu, LCSWA 
I support clients struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, mental health/wellness, geriatric, and persons with autistic disorder. I provide tools to implement change towards self-sufficiency and positive self-empowerment.
I hold a Master’s in Social Work from the University of South Carolina, specializing in the care of children, youth, and families. I accumulated experience in a rural primary care setting while being a scholar of Training for Transitions: Preparedness for Behavioral Health Social Workers.
I believe in speaking things into existence when a situation compels an individual to seek the help of professionals. I provide genuine care and encouraging steps to help clients achieve stability and most of all live their best life.