About
Candace Lightheart (she/her)
LCSW, LCAS, PMH-C
The journey to improved emotional well-being is long and winding. No matter your story, please know you are courageous. It takes courage to search for a therapist and to engage in the therapeutic process. Everyone's story is unique, and I approach each therapy session with an open mind and heart. I create an atmosphere where my clients can connect with the wisdom their bodies hold and embrace the importance of emotional vulnerability in the process of healing. I believe that healing is not a final destination but a practice.
I strive to create an environment where my clients feel safe and supported on their journey toward improved emotional well-being. My approach to therapy is person-centered. This approach is built on the belief that we are each the ultimate experts on our own lives. Rather than a "top-down" relationship where the therapist holds all the answers, clients and I work together as equal partners. I provide a safe, non-judgmental environment that allows for deep exploration of lived experiences with genuine curiosity and empathy.
Experience
Therapeutic Journey
I have worked in urban, rural, and suburban environments. Settings where I have worked include community mental health with children, adults, and families, adult and pediatric hospitals in emergency medicine departments, an outpatient perinatal clinic, a maternal and fetal medicine unit, university-based addiction research centers, and child welfare organizations. I have experience providing treatment for people seeking therapy to address anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, trauma, and perinatal mental health concerns.
Qualifications
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
Licensed Clinical Social Worker by the North Carolina Social Work Certification and Licensure Board
# C015458
Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS)
Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist by the North Carolina Addictions Specialist Professional Practice Board # 26625
Perinatal Mental Health Certification (PMH-C)
Issued by Postpartum Support International (PSI), the PMH-C signifies that a provider has advanced training and specialized skill in perinatal mental health. PMH-C professionals support individuals and families across the entire journey, including trying to conceive, fertility challenges, pregnancy loss, pregnancy, and the postpartum transition. They are uniquely equipped to treat perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) and offer compassionate, knowledgeable care through every stage of growing a family.
Clinical Supervision
National Association of Social Workers North Carolina Chapter (NASW-NC) Clinical Supervision Certificate
Education
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Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Anthropology, University of Missouri-St. Louis
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Master of Social Work (MSW), Washington University in St. Louis
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
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Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
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Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)-Actively in Training and Pursuing Certification
Continuing Education/Professional Development/Self-Study that Informs Candace's Therapeutic Approach
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Postpartum Support International (PSI) Perinatal Mental Health Training:
PSI Perinatal Mental Health Certificate Course
PSI Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Course
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Vipassana Meditation
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Psychodynamic Beginnings for BIPOC Therapists Course (Life Changing!)
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Non-Violent Communication by Marshall Rosenberg
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The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
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Rest Is Resistance by Tricia Hersey
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Movement Practices: Yoga, Pilates, Walking, Strength Training and Hiking
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All that I have learned from my clients lived experiences and insights. THANK YOU!