Deborah Kish
Summary
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), and a trauma-informed clinician with advanced training in neurobiologically grounded psychotherapy and evidence-based trauma interventions. At MountainVue Counseling, PLLC, I specialize in working with individuals navigating complex trauma, PTSD, addiction, and emotional dysregulation, integrating modalities such as EMDR, somatic therapy, IFS, and polyvagal-informed interventions.
My clinical approach is rooted in the belief that healing occurs through safe, attuned relationships, and I emphasize the reconnection of the brain and body through nervous system regulation techniques, including vagus nerve stimulation, movement-based interventions, and mindfulness practices. I am committed to providing client-centered, culturally responsive care that fosters resilience, self-awareness, and long-term integration.
With a foundation in both clinical science and holistic care, I aim to bridge the gap between traditional psychotherapy and emerging neuroscience, supporting each client in reclaiming agency, meaning, and connection in their lives.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Founder of TheMountainVue-Licensed Psychotherapist
MountainVue Counseling, PLLC
Cornelius, North Carolina
03.2019 - Current
- Assessment & Diagnosis: Skilled in biopsychosocial evaluations, DSM-5-TR diagnostics, and use of standardized tools.
- Trauma-Informed Care: Specialized in EMDR, IFS, somatic therapy, CBT, and mindfulness-based interventions.
- Neuroscience-Informed Practice: Apply polyvagal theory, vagus nerve techniques, autonomic nervous system regulation and mindfulness strategies.
- Trauma-Focused Psychotherapy: Provide individual and group therapy for PTSD, complex trauma, personality disorders, substance abuse, co-occuring issues and emotional dysregulation.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Coordinate care with medical and mental health professionals for integrated treatment planning.
- Crisis & Risk Management: Conduct risk assessments and develop safety plans for high-acuity clients.
- Psychoeducation & Community Engagement: Deliver trauma-focused education and increase access to care through outreach.
- Clinical Documentation: Maintain accurate, ethical, and HIPAA-compliant records.
Psychotherapist
LivingWell
Cornelius, NC
01.2018 - 03.2019
- Worked alongside a seasoned sex addiction therapist to provide trauma-focused care for individuals impacted by relational violations, including betrayal trauma and attachment injuries.
- Treated complex symptoms such as hypervigilance, shame, affect dysregulation, and maladaptive coping.
- Treated complex disorders such as IDD, schizophrenia, NPD, BPD, Bipolar disorders I and II, and addiction.
- Delivered evidence-based interventions, crisis support, and coordinated trauma-informed treatment plans within a multidisciplinary team.
- Participated in care planning meetings and clinical huddles to ensure continuity of care.
- Maintained HIPAA-compliant documentation and contributed to the development of an integrated care model expanding access to behavioral health in private practice settings.
Behavioral Health Counselor- Internship
Atrium Health, Previously CMC
Charlotte, NC
01.2017 - 12.2017
- Provided individual psychotherapy to diverse populations experiencing severe mental health conditions, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, dissociative disorders, and intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD).
- Collaborated with physicians, psychiatrists, social workers, and legal systems to coordinate comprehensive, patient-centered treatment plans across medical and mental health domains.
- Conducted biopsychosocial assessments, tracked patient progress using standardized tools (e.g., Beck Depression Inventory), and maintained accurate clinical documentation in EHR systems, in compliance with HIPAA and APA ethical standards.
- Participated in weekly case conferences, clinical supervision, and professional development to enhance therapeutic effectiveness, and ensure adherence to evidence-based practices.
- Monitored medication adherence and patient safety, reported side effects, and created safe, supportive environments for clients processing trauma, grief, and major life transitions.
Counseling-Internship
Family Preservation Service Inc.
Charlotte, NC
08.2016 - 12.2016
- Provided individual therapy, including in-home sessions for high-risk and homebound clients, using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and motivational interviewing.
- Conducted mental health assessments and substance use evaluations to inform treatment planning.
- Delivered crisis intervention services and developed safety plans as needed.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to create and implement individualized treatment plans.
- Built therapeutic rapport using empathy, active listening, and trauma-informed care practices.
- Participated in weekly supervision, case reviews, and continuing education to enhance clinical skills and maintain licensure standards.
- Managed a diverse caseload and engaged in reflective practice to support personal and professional growth.
- Maintained ethical standards and documentation compliance in accordance with state regulations and agency policy.
Special Education Teacher
Fairfax County Public Schools, Glasgow Middle
Alexandria , VA
08.2000 - 06.2003
- Developed and implemented individualized education plans (IEPs) for students with disabilities.
- Collaborated with parents, teachers, and therapists to track progress and adjust support strategies.
- Utilized behavioral management techniques to create a positive classroom environment.
- Adapted curriculum and instructional strategies to meet diverse student needs.
- Co-created an after-school mentor program to support and build community for underprivileged students.
- Maintained accurate records of student progress toward IEP goals.
- Advocated for students' needs within the educational system.
Education
Master of Arts - The Integration of Psychology And Theology- MACC
Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary
01-2018
Master of Science - Clinical Psychology
University of New Mexico
06-2000
Skills
- Clinical Skills: Trauma-Focused Therapy, Clinical Assessment, Risk Management, Crisis Intervention, Treatment Planning, Biopsychosocial Assessment
- Therapeutic Approaches: Neuroscience-Informed Practice, Evidence-Based Interventions, Psychoeducation Strategies
- Collaborative Care: Integrated Treatment Planning, Interdisciplinary Communication, Client-Centered Care
- Professional Strengths: Effective Communication, Psychoeducation Delivery, Entrepreneurial, Innovative & Growth Mindset
Affiliations
Community Leadership & Volunteer Experience
Daisy Troop Leader
Troop 1836, Girl Scouts of America – Hornets’ Nest Council, NC | 2014–2017
Led weekly activities focused on leadership development, community service, and social-emotional learning for early elementary-aged girls.
Deacon
Hopewell Presbyterian Church, Huntersville, NC | 2016–2019
Provided pastoral care, coordinated outreach efforts, and supported congregational needs through service and leadership.
Member, New Worship Committee
Hopewell Presbyterian Church, Huntersville, NC | 2015
Instrumental in the creation and successful launch of a contemporary worship service, including strategic planning, liturgy design, and congregational engagement.
Sunday School Teacher (Middle/High School)
Hopewell Presbyterian Church, Huntersville, NC | 2015-2017
Developed and delivered youth-focused curriculum integrating Scripture, ethics, and community-building activities.
Co-Chair, Room at the Inn Program
Hopewell Presbyterian Church / Urban Ministries, Charlotte Metro | 2013–2014
Coordinated winter shelter operations for unhoused individuals, overseeing logistics, meals, transportation, and volunteer scheduling.
Youth Soccer Coach
Charlotte Independence Soccer Club
Coached and mentored youth athletes, promoting teamwork, discipline, and personal development in a supportive sports environment.
Accomplishments
Honors & Professional Accomplishments
- Cornelius “Best of 2024” Award – Recognized for excellence in mental health services at MountainVue Counseling, PLLC.
- Featured in Lake Norman Women Magazine, July 2019 – Women on the Move spotlight highlighting leadership in the mental health field.
- Conference Co-Presenter, CAPS (Christian Association for Psychological Studies), April 2018 – Salt & Light: Building Spiritual Awareness in Counseling & Psychology; presented workshop on adolescent development during parental separation/divorce.
- Founder, MountainVue Counseling, PLLC – Established successful private practice; revenue exceeded $80K within four years of launch, demonstrating strong clinical reputation, business acumen, and community impact.
Certification
- North Carolina Board of Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors- 13945
- Board Certified- Nationally Certified Counselor NBCC
References
References available upon request.
Personal Information
Education and Training
other,other
Work Availability
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Timeline
Founder of TheMountainVue-Licensed Psychotherapist
MountainVue Counseling, PLLC
03.2019 - Current
Psychotherapist
LivingWell
01.2018 - 03.2019
Behavioral Health Counselor- Internship
Atrium Health, Previously CMC
01.2017 - 12.2017
Counseling-Internship
Family Preservation Service Inc.
08.2016 - 12.2016
Special Education Teacher
Fairfax County Public Schools, Glasgow Middle
08.2000 - 06.2003
Master of Arts - The Integration of Psychology And Theology- MACC
Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary
Master of Science - Clinical Psychology
University of New Mexico
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