Buffy Taylor, LCSW, LCAS, CCS

03/19/2024

Unfortunately, the Grief Support Group for those who have lost a loved one to overdose is POSTPONED. I believe our community needs this, and I hope it will happen at a later date.

01/17/2024

Hello!
Potentials will have a spot for a new clinician in 2024!
If you know of an excellent clinician (LCSW, PhD) who may be looking for a full-time office, please send them our way!
Potentials was established in 2011 to offer psychological assessments to children, in addition to individual and family therapy. We are a thriving, cooperative practice with steady referrals. Each clinician pays rent to Potentials. Each clinician operates as their own business within the group. We do not take a percentage. Your clients pay YOU!
Each clinician has their own office within our suite. We provide a phone system, copier, general office supplies, cleaning, website, shared marketing, a comfortable private waiting room, a part-time receptionist, and a supportive, experienced clinical team.
If you have any questions, please call Shelley Chambers, LCSW, or Dr. Christine Hook at (910) 254-4545. Thank you!
www.potentialsnc.com Potentials

Potentials is a mental health practice for psychotherapy, psychological assessment and wellness services.

12/25/2023

Here is one more Holiday Self Care Tip! I hope everyone is able to take care of themselves today.

12/17/2023

Another Self Care Tip for the Holidays!
The noise of the holidays may bring unwanted opinions from friends or family about where you “should” be in life — whether in regard to family planning, where you live, or your career. Keeping healthy boundaries about your choices and path in life empowers you to make moves that serve your goals, not others.

Need help with any or all of this? Call Potentials - 910-254-4545

11/19/2023

Holiday Self Care Tip #3 - Remember you have options. You do not have to do ALL the things and saying, "No thank you" is a complete sentence. Sometimes it can be difficult to meet everyone's demands, but ask yourself if the activity, event, get together works for you and yours this holiday season. Take care of yourself!
If you need further guidance, let me know! 910-254-4545 Potentials

11/13/2023

Here is another tip as the holidays get closer. Let's be mindful of those who are grieving this time of year. Acknowledging grief and loss can be more than difficult and when the holidays come around, everything can feel even heavier. Take time for yourself and make a plan for support throughout the coming weeks.
Potentials

11/12/2023

With the holidays fast approaching, not everyone is in the "holiday spirit". I will post some tips to help us take care of ourselves. Stay tuned for more tips throughout the week! Here is tip #1.
Potentials

10/16/2023

10/08/2023

Determining whether you need therapy is a personal and subjective decision. Therapy can be beneficial for a wide range of issues, from managing mental health conditions to addressing life challenges and personal growth. Here are some signs and considerations that may suggest you could benefit from therapy:

1. **Persistent Emotional Distress:** If you're experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, anger, or hopelessness that interfere with your daily life and well-being, therapy can help you manage and understand these emotions.

2. **Difficulty Coping with Stress:** If you find it challenging to cope with stress, major life changes, or traumatic events, therapy can provide you with coping strategies and support.

3. **Relationship Problems:** If your relationships, whether with family, friends, or partners, are consistently strained, therapy can help you improve communication, resolve conflicts, and build healthier connections.

4. **Low Self-Esteem:** If you have a negative self-image, low self-esteem, or feelings of worthlessness, therapy can assist you in building self-confidence and self-acceptance.

5. **Unresolved Past Trauma:** If you have experienced trauma in your past, therapy can provide a safe space to process and heal from these experiences.

6. **Difficulty in Daily Functioning:** If your mental health struggles are affecting your ability to work, go to school, or engage in daily activities, therapy can help you regain stability and functionality.

7. **Substance Abuse or Addictions:** If you are struggling with substance abuse or addictive behaviors, therapy can be a critical component of your recovery process.

8. **Major Life Transitions:** Significant life changes, such as divorce, loss of a loved one, career changes, or retirement, can be challenging to navigate. Therapy can help you adjust and find a new sense of purpose.

9. **Persistent Negative Thoughts:** If you have recurrent negative thought patterns, self-destructive behaviors, or intrusive thoughts, therapy can provide tools to manage and challenge these patterns.

10. **Desire for Personal Growth:** Therapy is not only for addressing problems but can also be a valuable tool for personal growth and self-improvement. If you want to explore your values, goals, and potential, therapy can offer guidance and support.

11. **Loneliness and Isolation:** If you feel isolated, lonely, or disconnected from others, therapy can provide a space for connection and exploration of your social needs.

12. **Lack of Joy and Fulfillment:** If you find that you've lost interest in activities you once enjoyed or have a pervasive sense of emptiness, therapy can help you rediscover joy and fulfillment in life.

It's important to remember that seeking therapy is a proactive step toward better mental and emotional well-being. You don't need to wait until your issues become severe or unmanageable to seek help. Therapists can provide support and guidance at various stages of life and for a wide range of concerns. Ultimately, the decision to seek therapy should be based on your own assessment of your needs and your willingness to engage in the process of self-improvement and healing. If you're uncertain, it can be helpful to consult with a mental health professional for an assessment and guidance on whether therapy is appropriate for you.

09/23/2023

I am excited to announce that I am now paneled with Aetna, Cigna, and United Health Care! Stay tuned for Blue Cross Blue Shield, Medicare, and Humana!
I am currently practicing at Potentials in Wilmington, NC and am accepting new clients. Are you or someone you care about facing the challenges of addiction? Finding the right support can make all the difference. I am an experienced substance use counselor and am here to help you navigate the journey towards lasting recovery. With a compassionate and evidence-based approach, I provide personalized guidance that empowers you to overcome obstacles and build a brighter future.