Erin Howard
LCMHC
I am a Virginia native who grew up in the suburbs of D.C., but North Carolina has been my home since 2009. My professional journey began in veterinary medicine, a background that provided me with unique insight into the community’s need for mental health care and compassionate support.
I graduated from UNC Chapel Hill with a Bachelor’s in Psychology and subsequently completed a graduate certificate in Aging & Applied Thanatology. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from UNC Pembroke, with an additional certificate in Play Therapy. Having completed all required coursework, I am currently fulfilling the clinical hours necessary to become a Registered Play Therapist (RPT).
Areas of Focus
Children & Teens: I use child- and person-centered techniques for working with children and teens. Being given new experiences in a new environment allows them to process their worries and concerns in a way that matches their developmental needs. This gives them the opportunity to grow as individuals and results in the changes needed to better exist in their world.
Adults: I use an integrative approach for working with adults, adapting to each client in order to meet your unique needs.
Other areas: I have additional training in perinatal mental health care. I am here to support individuals in all stages of their journey to parenthood, from infertility through pregnancy and the challenges of postpartum.
Clinical Expertise & Support
I am qualified to treat a variety of mental health conditions and help individuals navigate complex life challenges, including:
Anxiety and Adjustment Disorders
Chronic Illness
Grief, Loss and Bereavement
ADHD and Executive Functioning Deficits
Stress Management and Self-Esteem
Relationship Difficulties and Women’s Issues
Life and Career Transitions
Trauma-Informed Care
Social Skills and Emotion Regulation
Therapeutic Approach
I utilize several evidence-based modalities to help you reach your personal goals:
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT)
Strengths-Based Therapy
Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) (for children 3-10)

Aetna
• All commercial Aetna plans
• NC State Health Plan Preferred Provider — $10–$15 copays
Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)
• Excludes BlueHome, BlueLocal, Healthy Blue & Blue Value
Cigna
• Includes Duke Select for Duke employees
MedCost
UnitedHealthcare • Optum • UMR
Additional In-Network Plans
Contigo • CareBridge • CareSource • HealthPartners of Minnesota • Meritain • Firefly Health
Self-Pay
Reasonable self-pay rates are available.
Insurance coverage and benefits vary by plan. Please contact your insurance company to confirm your individual benefits.

