Justin McKinney
LCMHC, LCAS
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of North Carolina. With primary focuses in men’s mental health, substance use recovery, and trauma healing my hope is to provide a welcoming, safe, and supportive environment in which my clients can find refuge for themselves in their healing journey.
I tend to be on the eclectic side of therapy, using methods from multiple schools of psychological thought in order to best meet my clients where they are, rather than pigeonhole them into one specific treatment. Though, regardless of what we’re working on I always draw upon the principles of mindful awareness, self-compassion, and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).
My style focuses on maintaining a grounded and human connection with my clients. Think of our work together being more of a collaboration than a “doctor/patient” dynamic. While I certainly have expertise in the subjects I work with, I cannot tell you how to live your life any more than you can tell me how to live mine. My focus in our work together will only ever be towards empowering your own internal compass in order for you to live the life you truly wish to live.
Outside of Therapy
Most of you will only ever see me in my office, but believe it or not I do spend a lot of time outside of it! It’s my belief that if we as therapists are not showing up to what’s important to us, we can’t be expected to guide others towards the same.
I enjoy spending time outside in nature whether it’s hiking, camping, or simply enjoying the shade of a tree. Photography remains a favorite past-time of mine, allowing me to capture this world around me as I experience it.
Travel has proven itself to be a huge impact on my life. The ability it has to take you out of your comfort zone, broaden your understanding of the world, and change the way you think about your place in it has certainly influenced my work and personal direction in life.
I also enjoy swing dancing in the local Wilmington community. While it once was something that scared the daylights out of me, over time it’s become a priceless addition to my life here in North Carolina. The movement, expression and joy I experience through it are unmatched.
Further interests include:
Philosophy, Good music, Reading, Interior Design, Herb gardening, Playing video games, Pen and Ink sketching, and doing absolutely nothing on purpose!
