Tonya Wesley
LCSWA
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate dedicated to helping children, adolescents, and adults navigate life's challenges with compassion, support, and practical tools for growth. Having been born and raised in the Raleigh area, I value the opportunity to serve individuals and families in the community that has shaped so much of my own life and journey.
I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Simmons University in 2018. In addition to my work as a therapist, I have spent the past 10 years supporting families as a postpartum doula, helping parents navigate pregnancy, childbirth, and the transition into parenthood. This experience has provided me with a deep appreciation for the strengths and challenges individuals and families experience during major life transitions.
My professional experience includes providing outpatient mental health therapy to individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, behavioral concerns, emotional regulation difficulties, life transitions, self-esteem challenges, and family-related stressors. My primary therapeutic modality is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and I integrate other evidence-based approaches based on each client's unique needs, strengths, and goals.
I am also currently pursuing specialized training in Play Therapy with the goal of becoming a Registered Play Therapist (RPT). This additional training allows me to further support children and families through developmentally appropriate, evidence-based interventions that promote emotional expression, resilience, and healing.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process where clients can feel heard, supported, and empowered to create meaningful change in their lives. My goal is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental environment where clients can develop insight, build resilience, and gain confidence in their ability to overcome challenges.
"You don't have to navigate life's difficulties alone. Healing begins when you feel seen, understood, and supported."
Areas of Focus
Children & Teens:Â I enjoy working with children and adolescents as they navigate emotional, behavioral, social, and academic challenges. My approach focuses on building a trusting relationship where young people feel comfortable expressing themselves while learning practical coping skills. I work closely with caregivers to support positive communication, emotional regulation, self-esteem, anxiety management, and healthy family relationships. For younger children, I incorporate play-based interventions to help them process emotions in a developmentally appropriate way.Â
Adults:Â Life can bring unexpected challenges, stressors, and transitions that can leave individuals feeling overwhelmed, anxious, stuck, or disconnected. I work collaboratively with adults to identify strengths, develop healthier coping strategies, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, and improve emotional well-being. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship concerns, parenting challenges, or life transitions, therapy can provide a supportive space for growth and healing.Â
Other areas: Women's Issues & Parenting Support
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
Depression and Mood Disorders
ADHD and Executive Functioning deficits
Suicide Assessment, Intervention, and Prevention
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:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
Strengths-Based Therapy
Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT)Â (for younger children)
I believe meaningful change occurs when clients feel safe, understood, and empowered to explore their experiences. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, compassionate, and tailored to each client's unique needs. Together, we will build on existing strengths, develop practical coping skills, and work toward goals that support lasting growth and emotional well-being.
Whether you are seeking support for anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenting concerns, behavioral challenges, relationship difficulties, or personal growth, I strive to create a welcoming environment where healing, self-discovery, and resilience can flourish.
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to face life's challenges alone. I look forward to supporting you on your journey toward greater confidence, balance, and hope.

Aetna
State Health Plan Preferred Provider
BlueCross BlueShield
Exceptions: BlueHome, BlueLocal, HealthyBlue and BlueValue
Cigna
Medcost
Contigo
CareBridge
Caresource
HealthPartners of Minnesota
Meritain
FireFly
United Healthcare/Optum filed as OUT OF NETWORK
Reasonable Self Pay Rate

