Ava Vaughan
Offering virtual therapy for individuals and couples in North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia to help with anxiety, stress management, life transitions, and improving communication and connection.
828-532-2841
About
Ava Vaughan
Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of empowering clients to create meaningful change in their lives. I specialize in working with individuals and couples to enhance well-being, address mental health concerns, and navigate life transitions—while fostering healthier relationships with themselves and others.
I bring extensive experience in the treatment of anxiety, stress, mood, burnout, trauma symptoms, and relationship challenges, with a particular understanding of the unique pressures faced by those in high-demand fields including individuals with security clearance and military experience. Additionally, I support individuals through grief and other significant life changes such as retirement, experiencing an empty nest for the first time, or making a change in career or life path.
As a private pay therapist, I do not accept insurance or super bills. Insurance companies often dictate the course of treatment, imposing restrictions and expectations that may not align with your personal needs. By choosing to work with me as a private pay therapist, you gain access to a more personalized approach, free from the limitations and risks of third-party involvement. This model ensures greater confidentiality, as your health information remains private and protected. It also provides more consistency and autonomy in your care, without the potential for insurance companies to withdraw approval or impose external guidelines around frequency or number of sessions. Additionally, insurance typically requires a diagnosis for coverage, which then becomes part of your medical record, even if it's not relevant to your primary concerns.
I adhere to the highest standards of practice as outlined by each state’s licensing board and and the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) . As a therapist, my goal is to use both my compassion and expertise to support you in achieving the positive changes you seek in your life. I am a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) and hold full licensure in North Carolina (LCMHC), Tennessee (LPC-MHSP), and Virginia (LPC).
My approach to therapy is holistic, strengths-based, and integrative, with a focus on tailoring treatment to meet your unique needs. While I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities, I primarily draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), and mindfulness techniques. Additionally, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to support clients in processing trauma and emotional distress.
I do not discriminate or refuse services on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, creed, gender, or sexual orientation.
I currently offer virtual sessions only. I do not accept insurance or provide superbills.
Once you have decided to begin therapy, I will provide you with the necessary forms to review and sign, which will include your consent to begin our work together and a Good Faith Estimate. Then, we’ll schedule your first session. You will receive a link to join the session. Payment can be made via debit or credit card at the time of service.
Fees are listed as follows:
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Initial assessment (first session) 55 minutes Individual $325, Couples $350
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Individual therapy, 55 minutes $300
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Couples’ therapy (conjoint) 55 minutes $325
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Late cancellation / No Show fee Individual $300 or Couples $325 per occurrence, at the time of occurrence
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Court appearances $500 per hour plus any travel and incidental expenses
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Assessments and Reports outside of regular treatment services will be charged at the hourly rate of the established treatment service.
I respectfully request a 48 hour notice of any changes in scheduling or cancellations, otherwise the late cancellation / no show fee applies, barring emergencies.
Therapy is most effective when it is approached as a collaborative partnership between therapist and client. I encourage open and honest communication throughout our work together. During your first session, we will discuss relevant background information and history to help with the initial evaluation. In subsequent sessions, we will engage in more open dialogue—what is typically thought of as the therapeutic process.
It may take a few sessions to fully explore your history, understand where you are with your current concerns, and clarify your goals for therapy. Below, you will find links to learn more about the theoretical approaches and modalities I primarily use.
What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
About EMDR
What is Solution-Focused Therapy?
Mindfulness