Erica Sides, LCSWA

She/Her/Hers

Specialties

  • Neurodivergence, particularly ADHD

  • Trauma-focused therapy with children, adolescents, adults, and families

  • Play therapy with children 5 and older

  • TF-CBT, Art therapy, and Animal-assisted therapy

  • Family therapy, including Child Parent Relationship Training

Feeling trapped in life, with a roaring in your ears and locked up in your thoughts, ignoring everything around you? Have you ever experienced moments where it feels like an overwhelming darkness is consuming you? Sometimes depression and anxiety can feel like they are devouring you, and all you can do to keep from screaming is to make yourself invisible and hope that nothing else comes your way as you struggle through your cocoon of darkness. However, as one of my favorite authors, Sarah J. Maas, says, "Only you can decide what breaks you."  

I understand that it can feel overwhelming, but I want to assure you that you're not alone. Whether you've just discovered that you're Neurodivergent (ADHD, Autistic, Bipolar, etc.) or you're working through trauma, I am here to provide the support you need until we can help you build a stronger foundation. I am passionate about understanding and managing the symptoms of ADHD and am experienced in working with individuals of all ages, with a specialization in training parents of young children. I incorporate various therapeutic modalities such as play therapy, animal-assisted therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy focused on trauma. Most importantly, I tailor my approach to each person's unique needs. I also utilize art therapy and journal therapy to help individuals on their personal journeys. I love using creative outlets like drawing to meet each person where they are. Therapy is a flexible process that we will navigate together, as everyone's journey is different. I have experience working with trauma, ADHD, depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts in both teenagers and adults.  

I have many passions, including learning how to navigate and manage the symptoms of ADHD. I have experience with ages 3-50 and specialize in parent training for children under 7. I use many modalities including play therapy, animal assisted therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy which includes a trauma focussed component. But mostly, I learn to acclimate therapy to each individual person that comes into my office. I have done some art therapy and journal therapy to better help different individuals through their journeys. I love to draw and use creative outlets  and work to find the right modality to fit each person’s needs. Therapy is not a one size fits all kind of fix but a fluid process that we journey through together. I have experience with trauma, ADHD, depression, anxiety, self-harm and suicidal ideation in teens and adults. 

Erica was born and raised in northern New Jersey but moved to NC for the warmer weather and to pursue her Bachelor’s of Arts Psychology at Queens University. Her Master’s in Social Work was received from the University of North Carolina Charlotte, She is currently an associate licensed clinician through the NC board of Social workers. She is trained in Child Parent Relationship Training (CPRT) and TF-CBT. Erica also enjoys writing books (soon to be published!), drawing, and spending time with family, both human and fur babies.