Our Team

My Training

• Currently pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at East Carolina University (Expected Graduation: May 2025)
• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, University of North Carolina Wilmington (May 2023)
• In the process of obtaining LCMHC licensure
• Member of the American Counseling Association (ACA)

Who I Like to See

• Individual Adult Females: Anxiety; depression; anger; guilt/shame; trauma; abuse; adoption & foster care; perfectionism; career counseling; grief/loss; health issues; spiritual doubts; spiritual growth; identity; alcohol/substance use addictions; couple/family communication; unhealthy relational dynamics; separation/divorce recovery; abandonment; homelessness; fatherlessness/father-wounded-ness
• Individual Minor Females (10+): Anxiety; depression; anger; guilt/shame; trauma; abuse; adoption & foster care; perfectionism; grief/loss; health issues; spiritual doubts; spiritual growth; identity; alcohol/substance use addictions; couple/family communication; unhealthy relational dynamics; separation/divorce recovery; abandonment; homelessness; fatherlessness/father-wounded-ness

I currently serve North Carolina residents only. In the future, I want to see pre-married couples, married couples, and families.

When I See Clients

• Mondays: 12 pm-4:50 pm (In-Office and Online)
• Wednesdays: 10 am-3:50 pm (In-Office and Online)

More About Me

I am Abigail Paige Whitfield, a graduate student at East Carolina University enrolled in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master’s program. My passion for counseling is deeply rooted in my Christian faith and personal experiences, highlighting the need for psychological, social, and spiritual awareness. I am particularly drawn to integrating both clinical and biblical-based approaches in my practice.

A Bible verse that guides my approach to counseling is Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” The verse reflects my goal to help clients lean on the Lord and seek Him in all aspects of their lives. The approach aligns with my belief in addressing mental, physical, and spiritual wellness and is a core value of Bridgehaven Counseling Associates, where I am excited to contribute and learn. I am dedicated to continuous learning and growth in my field, which I believe is crucial for providing the best care to my clients.

When I’m not working or studying, I enjoy doing and going to Bible study, attending church, playing with my dog, traveling, and reading, especially books by R.C. Sproul.

If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be and why?

If I were a superhero, my superpower would be the ability to spread hope and inspiration—helping others find strength and resilience even in their most challenging times in Christ alone.

My Training

• BS, Bachelor of Science in Health
• MA, Professional Counseling
• Phase 1 & 2 Brainspotting
• Certified in Biblically-Based Equine Assisted Therapy

Who I Like to See

• Spiritual, physical, emotional, or sexual abuse; Depression, anxiety, emotion regulation, trauma, adoption/foster care, pre-marital and marital, codependency, and grief.

When I See Clients

• Mondays: 9 am-3:50 pm (In-Office and Online)
• Tuesdays: 9 am-1:30 pm (Online Only)
• Wednesdays: 9 am-1:30 pm (Online Only)
• Thursdays: 9 am-3:50 pm (In-Office and Online)

More About Me

I am passionate about providing clinically-informed and biblically-based counseling, specifically for those who have experienced trauma. I also want to create a safe and calm space for redemption, healing and hope. I was a high school and middle school teacher and counselor at a missionary based school in Colorado. I have also worked with children and families dealing with anger management and self-esteem issues at a horse ranch in Ohio. Currently I am also the Program Director at Shepherd Youth Ranch where we provide Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy for children, families, and veterans.

I enjoy hiking in the mountains, riding horses, running, walking on the beach and reading.

If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be and why?

My superpower would be my ability to talk to horses- nonverbally of course. Understanding what they are feeling, why they are feeling it and then how they react is one of things I love about being around horses.

My Training

• BS in Fine Art

• MA in Biblical Counseling

Who I Like To See

• I especially have a heart for adolescents and young adults, women navigating major life transitions (marriage, motherhood, etc.), individuals dealing with cross-cultural stressors (missionaries, third culture kids, people living outside of their home country, intercultural relationships, etc.), and individuals who have experienced spiritual abuse.

When I See Clients

• Fridays: 8 am- 5 pm (In-Office & Online)

I see clients in-office only on the 1st Friday of every month.

More About Me

I would describe my approach to counseling as “eclectic” and “fluid.” I see counseling as more of an art than a science, and my priority is building a good relationship with those who entrust me with their stories and challenges, seeking to serve them in the way that would best meet each individual’s particular personality and nuanced needs.

I believe the way God has created me and written my story has shaped my passions and proficiencies as a counselor. He has given me a heart for the nations and experiential knowledge of the joys and challenges of living and working overseas through several years of service in Europe. I’m also thankful for the way God has gifted me as an artist, and I love incorporating hands-on, tactile, experiential elements into counseling. After over a decade of ministry and/or non-profit work (both in the U.S. and overseas), I’ve learned so much about how to relate to people from various backgrounds with diverse histories of adversity, all the while seeking to point them to Living Hope. Lastly, I’m grateful God has granted me the privilege (and weighty challenge!) and being a wife and mother; living in these roles has taught me so much about interpersonal relationships, discipleship, sacrifice, joy, and how God relates to us!

I love creating and enjoying beauty, whether that’s painting something myself or marveling over the work of others’ (especially the Creator of the Universe’s many masterpieces!). I love music and dance and reading good books. I enjoy seeing new places and experiencing new cultures. I grew up as a “horse girl” (and still am one at heart!) and rode competitively when I was in high school. Especially after living overseas and walking/biking most places, I find real rest and refreshment in daily walks.

If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be and why?

I would LOVE to be able to snap my fingers and be anywhere in the world I wanted to be (and be able to take anyone with me that I wanted!). Wouldn’t it be amazing to be able to skip hours of car, plane, or train rides to see beautiful places and visit people you love??

My Training

• MS, Mental Health Counseling
• CCTCP-I, Certified Christian Trauma Care Provider Level 1

Who I Like to See

• Individual Males: Porn/sexual and other addictive behaviors, sexuality, grief and past trauma, spiritual growth, and anxiety
• Married Couples and Families (with and without minors): Communication, conflict resolution, intimacy, parenting, and boundaries
• Premarital Couples: Assessing relationship dynamics, preparing for a biblical marriage, and biblical sex education

When I See Clients

• Tuesdays: 10 am-2:50 pm (In-Office and Online)
• Wednesdays: 11 am-3:50 pm (Online Only)
• Thursdays: 10 am-3:50 pm (In-Office and Online)
• Fridays: 10 am-3:50 pm (Online Only)
• Saturdays: 10 am-3:50 pm (Online Only)

More About Me

My goal at Bridgehaven is to imitate Christ’s restoring work through guiding couples, families, and male individuals to mental, emotional, spiritual, relational, and physical health with clinically-informed biblical counseling. I have a calm, optimistic presence in session, and I connect with my clients through listening, empathy, humor, and my own story. Based on 2 Corinthians 1, I like to share parts of my story, including my sobriety from porn, which I credit to living openly and honestly in the light (1 John 1 ). I also have experience as a client, so I know what it’s like, the courage it takes, and that the good, hard work you’re doing is worth it.

Before joining Bridgehaven in 2023, I worked in South Florida, where I was born and raised. I was a primary therapist for 2 years at Transformations Treatment Center, a substance use and mental health facility where I also completed my year-long graduate student internship. I earned a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Palm Beach Atlantic University. I have received trauma-informed training from the Christian Trauma Healing Network. I mainly use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing modalities.

I enjoy hanging out with my wife, family, and friends, playing video games, board games, and pickleball, spending time around nature and animals, finding good music on Spotify, reading faith, psychology, sci-fi, and fantasy books, and watching U.S. Soccer.

If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be and why?

I would love to be able to teleport because it would make seeing family and friends, commuting, and traveling so much easier.

My Training

• MA, Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CACREP)
• Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC, #16801)
• National Certified Counselor (NCC, #1547266)

Who I Like to See

• Individual Adult Females and Males: Anxiety; depression; mood issues; trauma; complex PTSD; grief/loss; life transitions; spiritual issues; relational issues; career counseling

I currently serve North Carolina Residents only

When I See Clients

• Mondays: 3 pm-5 pm (Online Only)
• Tuesdays: 3 pm-5 pm (Online Only)
• Wednesdays: 3 pm-5 pm (Online Only)
• Thursdays: 3 pm-5 pm (Online Only)

More About Me

I obtained my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Western Seminary in Portland, OR and am licensed in the state of North Carolina as an LCMHC. Utilizing Narrative Therapy as well as other Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness and Strength-Based approaches, I seek to assist clients in healing by cultivating a deeper sense of kindness and curiosity. I help people better understand their stories—where they have come from and where they are going—in order to live with a deeper sense of purpose, courage and hope. I believe that by examining our stories, we can find healing and live more cohesive, connected and meaningful lives. I love assisting clients with exploring existential and spiritual concerns and am passionate about helping people see God’s heart and character more clearly.

I particularly enjoy walking with people through grief and trauma. I incorporate principles from Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) and enjoy providing psycho-education on relevant trauma and attachment research to help people understand the impact of their trauma and how to practically find healing through safe relationships and new experiences. I provide individual counseling and have counseled children, adolescents and adults. I have experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, career issues, life adjustments, mood issues, relational challenges, behavior modification and grief. I have published research and engaged in writing and speaking endeavors to assist church leaders in dealing with issues pertaining to mental health. I grew up in Oregon and love being outdoors with my husband and dog.

If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be and why?

I would love to have an encyclopedia brain. I love learning and wish I had an endless memory to pull relevant and helpful information from (and maybe the occasional useless factoid, just for fun).

My Training

• M.Ed, Christian Counseling and Psychology
• CCEF Diploma in Christian Counseling
• Certification in Group Therapy

Who I Like to See

• Individual Adult Males (21 + ); Seeking to grow and mature in Christ by dealing with the issues that prevent them from experiencing the abundant life and freedom Christ has provided for us. This would include the Biblical understanding of life situations, identity, pursuing healthy relationships and intimacy, unwanted sexual feelings, attractions and compulsions, and attending to the wounds behind dominating emotions (anger, fear, and anxiety).
• Individual Adult Females: Women who desire a male counselor’s view on specific topics

When I See Clients

• Tuesdays: 10 am-5:50 pm (In-Office and Online)
• Wednesdays: 10 am-5:50 pm (Online Only)
• Thursdays: 10 am-5:50 pm (Online Only)

More About Me

I describe my approach as clinically-informed, biblical counseling. This is reflected from my broad training in both psychology and theology. As I am rooted in Scripture, I at the same time learn from the observations and research of psychological science. As we are complexly created beings, composed of Spirit, Soul, and Body, I respond to each presenting issues considering the possible contribution of each area to the difficulties being experienced. I appreciate proven clinical methodology that is not in conflict with Biblical teaching and principles. Romans 12: 2 says … ” Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind … ” I see this as a basic Biblical principle for changed behavior and changed lives. Our behaviors are rooted in what we believe and the resultant thoughts and feelings. Much of what we believe are learned lies about God, ourselves, and others, so I work to uproot false belief systems and replace them with Truth.

When I’m not counseling, I am usually working on my family farm and wedding venue. I enjoy being outside as much as I can. I enjoy traveling some, and I often read and listen to my favorite podcasts.

If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be and why?

I would say “wisdom” since I find myself praying for wisdom many times every day.

My Training

•  In Process of Obtaining my MA in Christian Marriage, Family and Individual Counseling
• Prepare Enrich Certified
• Member of: AAMFT

Who I Like to See

• Individual Adult Females: Anxiety; depression; grief/loss; spiritual growth; spiritual doubts; identity; perfectionism; health issues; relational conflict
• Couples: Communication; intimacy; boundary issues; pre-marital; marital

I currently serve North Carolina residents only. In the future, I want to see children, adolescents, and families.

When I See Clients

• Mondays: 12 pm-3:50pm (In-Office and Online Only)
• Wednesdays: 10 am-11:50 am (Online Only)

More About Me

I am pursuing a Master of Arts in Marriage, Family, and Individual Counseling at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. I would describe my approach as Christ-centered, biblical counseling. I seek to provide an environment that is welcoming and empathetic and one of safety and trust. My desire is to come alongside others, encourage, and walk through life’s challenging moments with them.

Prior to coming to Bridgehaven, I worked in a public high school and oversaw the children and youth ministries at church. The blessing of loving, caring, and serving the next generation has brought me so much joy over the past decade. It was through these ministries the Lord opened my eyes to the hurt in the world and the need for God’s love, hope, healing, and peace.

When I am not counseling, I love sitting outside with a warm cup of coffee, running, playing board games, teaching God’s Word, and I’ve recently started playing pickleball.

If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be and why?

I would say my superpower would be the ability to understand (and speak) all languages in the world because it would remove the language barrier and it would allow me to build relationships with people I would not have been able to otherwise. I also think flying would be really neat.

My Training

• MA, Christian Counseling
• Member of: AACC

Who I Like to See

• Individual Adult Females (Married/Single): Depression; anxiety; grief; trauma

When I See Clients

• Mondays: 10 am-6:50 pm (Online Only)
• Tuesdays: 10 am-6:50 pm (Online Only)
• Wednesdays: 10 am-6:50 pm (In-Office and Online)
• Thursdays: 10 am-6:50 pm (Online Only)
• Fridays: 10 am-6:50 pm (Online Only)

More About Me

I am a dedicated Dallas Cowboys fan, love movies, my dog Finn and being with friends and family. I am passionate about helping people who are hurting find hope, comfort and confidence in the Lord’s presence and love for them while they struggle with difficult circumstances.

If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be and why?

I would be Lynda Carter’s Wonder Woman. She fought for justice and helped the vulnerable; All while flying in an invisible plane, wearing cool bracelets, and with the lasso of truth.

My Training

• MA, Christian Marriage, Family, and Individual Counseling
• LMFT, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#01005)
• Prepare-Enrich Certified Facilitator
• Member of: AAMFT

Who I Like to See

• Women’s Health-Related Issues (including perinatal mental health)
• Emotional Regulation and Stress Management
• Anxiety and Depression
• Grief/Loss
• Unhealthy Relational Dynamics

When I See Clients

• Mondays: 9 am-4:50 pm (Online Only)
• Tuesdays: 9 am-4:50 pm (Online Only)
• Wednesdays: 10 am-4:50 pm (Online Only)
• Thursdays: 9 am-4:50 pm (Online Only)

I currently serve North Carolina Residents only

More About Me

My desire is to provide therapy that is driven by a passion for fostering a safe environment necessary for the exploration of difficult circumstances. It is a privilege to accompany individuals on their journey through life’s struggles and challenges, and I embrace the unique aspect of personal experiences that impact those challenges. I am dedicated to exploring the complex interaction of the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual aspects of each individual. I work in collaboration with you to establish specific therapeutic goals and practice tools and strategies particular to your life. My greatest passion is in advocating for women’s health issues.

I aspire to carve out a haven in both therapeutic settings and communities to offer unwavering support to women going through a wide variety of experiences.
I personally enjoy reading, games, being outdoors in the mountains, and watching a variety of sports!

If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be and why?

I would really enjoy being able to either talk or transform into any animal. I love the idea of getting to experience the world in many different views as well as hear more from God’s creation! I have a strong passion for animals as I studied Zoology in college and had the privilege to work with some amazing animals including tigers, lions, and cougars.

My Training

• M.Div, Christian Counseling
• B.S., Psychology
• Clinical Pastoral Education Certified-Level 1
• Ed.D. Candidate-Christian Counseling

Who I Like to See

• Pre-Married Couples: Dating, assessing readiness for marriage and/or preparing for biblical marriage
• Married Couples: communication, conflict resolution, intimacy, separation, significant marital dysfunction and abuse
• Individual Males and Females: Anger, anxiety, depression, grief, character disorder, spiritual growth, addictive behaviors, divorce recovery, abuse, boundary setting, trust repair/rebuilding, identity, security-related issues
• Clergy/pastors: Stress; burnout; anxiety; compassion fatigue; ministry-life balance

When I See Clients

• Mondays: 9 am-5:50 pm (In-Office Only)
• Tuesdays: 9 am-5:50 pm (Online Only)
• Wednesdays: 9 am-5:50 pm (Online Only)
• Thursdays: Upon Counselor Discretion

More About Me

I provide comprehensive, clinically informed, biblical counseling and therapy to individuals and couples. My specific approach is to create a safe and warm environment for clients to explore a combination of physical, mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual factors that may be related to their specific challenges. I pride myself on toeing the line between professionalism and competence in the realms in which I am familiar with and have experience in, while being relatable and easy to talk to. In my opinion, counseling can be both informative and instructive as well as enjoyable. I believe building rapport and trust via a combination of quality advice and a good congenial personality enables the client to get the maximum benefit from counseling. Clients can expect a mixture of structure and flexibility in my counseling approach and philosophy. I also endeavor to balance tested therapeutic strategies and techniques with an undeniable Christian worldview and grid. I love helping individual and couples see Jesus Christ speak into their lives and situations in ways they never thought He and the Scriptures could.
I have served at Bridgehaven since its launch in 2012 and have roughly 10,000 thousand hours of combined individual and couples counseling experience. I am an ordained pastor and prior to Bridgehaven, served on staff at the Summit Church of Raleigh-Durham as a pastor and counselor. I hold a Master of Divinity in Biblical Counseling, and am currently pursuing a Doctor of Education in Christian Counseling through Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.
When I’m not counseling, I enjoy reading (non-fiction only please), physical fitness, everything mixed martial arts, table tennis, video games (PS5 snob), and climbing the classic men’s style sartorial ladder.

If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be and why?

Because I have historically loved Marvel and DC Comics, I’ve given this quite a bit of thought. I’d have two superpowers. The first is to be an expert martial artist at over 100 different arts like Batman, or Shang-Chi. I like my powers to be grounded and somewhat realistic (though 100 martial arts is not very realistic at all!) And the other would be to have a photographic memory. I would love to remember everything I read, for instance. Sure would make Bible memorization a lot easier!

My Training

• PhD, Leadership and Christian Education
• MA, Christian Marriage, Family, and Individual Counseling
• MA, Christian Education
• LMFT, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in North Carolina (10239) and in Alabama (L670)
• AAMFT Approved Supervisor Candidate
• AAMFT Approved Clinical Fellow
• Prepare-Enrich Certified Facilitator
• Member of: AAMFT, NCAMFT, ALAMFT

Who I Like to See

• Pre-married couples: assessing readiness for marriage; preparing for a biblical marriage
• Married couples: communication; conflict resolution; intimacy
• Families (with and without minors): Parenting; extended-family relationships; boundaries
• Individual males: Anger; addictive behaviors; divorce recovery; spiritual growth
• Licensure Supervision: graduate students and post-graduate therapists working toward MFT licensure

When I See Clients

• Mondays: 10 am-12 pm (Licensure Supervision Group)
• Tuesdays: 9 am-6:50 pm (Online Only)
• Thursdays: 9 am-6:50 pm (Online Only)

5 pm and 6 pm slots are reserved for family or couples’ sessions only. I currently serve North Carolina & Alabama residents only.

More About Me

As an MFT currently licensed in both NC and Al, I provide comprehensive, clinically-informed, biblical counseling and therapy to individuals, couples, and families. My specific approach to this is to create a safe environment in which to help clients explore how the combination of physical, mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual factors may be impacting specific challenges. I’m incredibly passionate about helping couples learn to love one another like Jesus loves His bride so they can experience the intimacy that is intended to permeate a truly biblical marriage.

I also serve as the Internship Coordinator at Bridgehaven where I provide licensure supervision to our Counseling Interns. As an AAMFT approved supervisor candidate, I also provide licensure supervision to graduate students in training to become mental health therapists and post-graduate therapists who are either working toward MFT licensure or who simply want to learn systemic and relational approaches to therapy. If you are looking for licensure supervision, please feel free to email me directly.

Before coming to Bridgehaven, I served more than 20 years as a pastor, a church planter, and as a university professor and administrator. Occasionally, I still teach as an adjunct for various institutions. When I’m not counseling, supervising, or teaching, however, I enjoy reading, cooking, hiking, and watching SEC football (Go Dawgs!).

If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be and why?

Dad-jokes. My wife once said, “Tony, you’re like the King of dad-jokes! It’s like your superpower!” And if she said it, then Hey! I know it’s true! Corny humor? Like an Iowa farmer! Pointed, sharp puns? Like an acu-pun-cturist! Infectious wit? Give it a shot! Yep, I know funny. You’re shaking your head and smiling now, aren’t you …see?