[01]
approach
Dr. Amy Combs is a licensed psychologist practicing in Charlotte since 2004. Her practice is primarily guided by the principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy with the goal of helping clients craft a way of living intentionally that is values-driven and fulfilling. Her practice focuses on difficulties in relationships, struggles stemming from depression and/or anxiety, and disordered eating.
Dr. Combs primarily sees adults in her practice. She also works with adolescents who are open to therapy. She enjoys working with clients of all races, genders, and sexual orientations. Clients often comment that they appreciate Dr. Combs’ direct, yet compassionate approach.
OFFERING TELETHERAPY/VIRTUAL APPOINTMENTS
[02]
about dr. amy combs
Amy COmbs, Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Amy Combs has been in private practice in Charlotte since 2004. She was educated at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Indiana University of Pennsylvania. After receiving her doctorate, Dr. Combs worked for five years at The Center For Eating Disorders in Baltimore before moving to Charlotte. She founded Charlotte Center for Balanced Living in 2006 and currently maintains an active private therapy practice. She is a past President of the Mecklenburg Psychological Association.
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.”
[03]
services
Dr. Combs works with adults and adolescents embracing a direct, compassionate approach. While well-versed in psychiatric diagnoses, the focus of treatment is on one’s relationship with self as well as specific behaviors and symptoms. Her method is built around evidence-based practices.
Clients share appreciation of how Dr. Combs gently challenges them to push forward through fear, be uncomfortable, and work toward their desired changes. She believes difficulties in living inform us about where and how we need to grow. Dr. Combs helps clients articulate purpose, recognize strengths and play to those strengths as they work through the challenges that bring them to therapy. She utilizes both short and longer-term therapies based on client preference.
Treatment Specialties include:
Mood disorders
Anxiety
Depression
Bipolar disorders
Disordered Eating
Bulimia
Anorexia Nervosa
Binge Eating Disorder
Trauma
Working with LGBTQ individuals and their families.
Couples Therapy
Life events
Divorce
Career transitions
Grief
Life transitions - for example;
Marriage
Moving
Going to college
Aging parents
COUPLES THERAPY
Dr. Combs works with couples to hear, truly understand, and develop empathy for one another. She takes great care to ensure both parties feel understood and challenged in a way that benefits their union.
[05]
frequently asked questions
Is therapy forever?
Intensity and length of therapy is client-driven. Ideally, therapy is a tool to navigate difficult times. Clients are encouraged to schedule based on how helpful they find our meetings. It is not uncommon for clients to begin in weekly therapy gradually transitioning to monthly and then as-needed.
How will I know things are better?
We won’t have as much to talk about. Coming in for therapy may start to feel distracting rather than useful. This is a good thing! I am always happy to hear that our meetings have become less needed. This is the goal!
What happens in therapy?
Therapy is not always an easy process. We may be talking about difficult topics or I may be encouraging you to make behavioral changes that are challenging. The relationship between client and therapist should always feel respectful and caring. In my view clients should leave each session feeling that they have new understanding of themselves or a situation. The topic may be difficult, however, the discussion will be respectful and compassionate.
How will I know if you are the right therapist for me?
In a successful or working therapy relationship clients feel safe discussing topics or issues creating vulnerability. A good fit with a therapist is someone with whom you can imagine sharing a range of emotions - laughter, tears, anger - while also feeling that your interactions are guided by a sense of professionalism and intellect.
Is my issue something therapy can help me with?
New perspectives and behavioral change are always possible. These may occur within the context of other issues - medical, career, family - for which therapy is not directly impactful but can be supportive.
[06]
let's talk
Address
5970 Fairview Road, Suite 412
Charlotte, NC, 28210
Phone: 704-817-7643
Fax: 704-362-1170
Directions
Conveniently located in the SouthPark neighborhood of Charlotte.
[04]
payments & fees
Dr. Combs works within a direct billing model. For clients who wish to bill insurance, she will submit the paperwork to your insurance provider using your out of network benefits. Each session will be submitted at the time of service with insurance companies sending reimbursement directly to you, creating a seamless experience in utilizing your insurance benefits. If you do not have out of network benefits, please contact Dr. Combs directly to discuss payment flexibility.
