Matt Whitt, PhD, MSW, LCSW (he/him)

Matt is a fully licensed psychotherapist (LCSW) and former philosophy professor who works with adults from all backgrounds and life stages. He takes a non-judgmental, contextualist approach to therapy. This means he views struggles such as anxiety, depression, burnout, and trauma as adaptations to individual, social, and environmental factors, rather than simply 'personal issues'. Consequently, he helps clients make changes not only in their mindsets but also in their habits, relationships, work, and communities.

Matt's therapy sessions focus on self-exploration and acceptance, identifying what matters most to the client, and supporting them in living by their own values. Matt is trained in evidence-based models, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and grief counseling. He is LGBTQIA+ affirming, non-religious, and engaged in anti-racist work.

In a world full of division and alienation, Matt views therapy as a unique form of connection. In session, clients practice being present to themselves while relating openly to another human. This is challenging work. For this reason, Matt prefers in-person sessions at his South Durham office, and he offers 'walk and talk' therapy when desired and relevant. Telehealth therapy is also available when in-person sessions are not practical.

Outside of work, Matt enjoys reading fiction, rock climbing, and playing board games. He struggles a bit with distraction and doomscrolling (hello, maladaptive avoidance!), and is much happier in states of focus and flow.