Shawn Morton, M. Ed., NCC, LCMHCS, RPT-S
Founder & Clinical Director
Shawn Morton is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor who received both his bachelor's degree in Psychology and master’s degree in Counselor Education from the University of Mississippi. During that time, he worked and trained at UM's Counseling Center and the Oxford Play Therapy Training Institute. Shawn has now been a licensed therapist for over 15 years and is also a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor(RPT-S). Shawn is an active member of the Association for Play Therapy and has served on the Board of Directors of the
NC Association for Play Therapy.
Shawn previously served as Clinical Director for an inpatient psychiatric hospital providing individual, group, and family therapy to children ages 6-21 who were struggling with mood instability, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, anger management, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, peer/family relationship issues, and a variety of other issues and diagnoses. He was then part of a private counseling practice for ten years in Hampstead, North Carolina, working primarily with children, parents, and families from all backgrounds including extensive work with military families. He also provided in-school mental health services for clients in the Pender County School District.
Shawn employs Play Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral, and Reality Therapy approaches to help children challenge irrational thoughts and reduce negative behaviors.
Chloe E. Taylor, MSW, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Chloe is passionate about her work with children and adolescents and has experience working with those struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and PTSD. She also treats clients experiencing self-esteem issues, aggression, family conflict, and life transitions.
Chloe has experience working with children and teens in school settings, at home, and inpatient settings. Adolescence can be a scary and stressful time for individuals and their support system. Chloe offers a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment which allows children, adolescents, and their families to navigate challenging stressors and learn healthy ways to communicate thoughts and feelings. She utilizes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and techniques of psychoeducation, reframing, and skill building.
"Together we will learn healthy skills to add to your 'therapy toolbox.' We will also explore communication styles, try new coping strategies, and collaboratively work toward goals to create lasting change. I can't wait to meet you."
Leah Avant, MSW, LCSW-A
Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate
Leah is passionate about serving all populations of children and adolescents in Wilmington and the surrounding areas. She has experience with both in-home and inpatient settings. Leah understands the stress and turmoil major life changes can cause children. She offers a safe and calm environment for her clients and their families to express their inner thoughts and feelings.
Leah specializes in working with children and adolescents with depressive disorders, anxiety, aggression, family conflict, self-esteem issues, behavioral dysregulation, and life transitions. She is certified in Family Centered Treatment therapy.
“Play Therapy provides a beautiful, respectful and deeply powerful opportunity to honor and hold space for the revelation of the wisdom and inner worlds of children.”
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