Ashley Malone, LCMHCA
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel vulnerable, and my hope is to make that step feel as comfortable, welcoming, and supported as possible. As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate with a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, I believe that therapy is a space where you should feel safe, supported, and accepted as you are. My goal is to create a warm, welcoming environment where you can show up authentically, explore your emotions, and feel comfortable sharing the parts of your story that may be difficult to put into words.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), which focuses on understanding our emotions, recognizing the patterns that shape our relationships, and building stronger, more secure connections with ourselves and others. I believe that when we begin to understand the emotions and needs beneath our reactions, we can create meaningful opportunities for healing, growth, and connection. I believe that feeling truly understood can be a powerful starting point for change.
I especially enjoy working with couples and helping partners better understand one another, strengthen communication, and reconnect when they feel stuck in the same frustrating patterns. I have completed Level 1 Clinical Training in the Gottman Method, which complements my EFT foundation and informs my work with couples. Together, we can explore the emotions and needs beneath conflict, develop healthier ways to communicate, and build greater trust, understanding, and emotional connection. I believe that even when relationships feel challenging, there is room to grow, repair, and find your way back to one another.
Above all, I recognize that every person and relationship has a unique story. I approach therapy collaboratively, with compassion, curiosity, and an understanding that growth doesn’t happen overnight. You don’t need to have everything figured out before beginning therapy, and you don’t have to know exactly where to start. We’ll work together to understand what you’re experiencing, identify what matters most to you, and find a path forward that feels right for you.
My hope is that therapy becomes a place where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow. I look forward to getting to know you and supporting you on your journey toward healing, self-discovery, and deeper connection.
Martanika Smith, LCMHC
Discover the power of your story! As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, I understand the uniqueness of each individuals journey.
My name is pronounced, Mar-tah-neka. Contrary to popular belief, my family isn’t from the island of Martinique and my mom didn’t have an infatuation with Margaritas…lol. She did, however, have an immense love for family, which she expressed by giving me a unique name that keeps me rooted in family and love.
As a Fayetteville native with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from UNC-Pembroke, I’ve found my calling in helping others find their purpose. Uplifting the community that has influenced my upbringing and now impacts my own family of 5 is powerful beyond measure. My Person-Centered approach focuses on understanding each persons journey and helping them navigate life’s challenges. Integrated with a Solution Focused approach, you will feel empowered to tackle life in the moment.
Working in various settings with children, adults, families and couples from all walks of life and mental health challenges, I’ve been afforded the opportunity to learn that each person functions to what “their” world has conditioned them to see and believe….and that’s ok, I can meet you there. Whether it’s depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, relationships, marriage or daily stressors, I believe we can work through it together.
You are the reason I do what I do, and I believe in your strength and resilience. So, let’s uncover your purpose and transform your life!
In addition to N.C. residents, Martanika offers virtual therapy to S.C. residents. (Certified Telehealth Counselor #1819). For verification of certification, visit https://llr.sc.gov/TeleHealth/Counselor.html
Cynara McKinstry, LCMHC, QS
Owner, Lead Counselor & Qualified Supervisor
For those who are wondering, and because I’ve been asked this my entire life: my name is pronounced Cynara, like “Panera”—no affiliation with the restaurant chain! 😊
As the owner of a minority-operated practice, I’m passionate about creating a space where every person feels welcomed, valued, and accepted for who they are. I believe that everyone deserves a place where they can show up authentically, feel safe enough to be vulnerable, and know that their story matters. Whether you’re navigating challenges in your relationship, healing from past experiences, adjusting to life’s transitions, or simply trying to better understand yourself, I want you to know that you don’t have to figure everything out on your own.
Throughout my work, I’ve had the privilege of supporting couples at many different stages of their relationships, from those preparing for marriage to partners working through difficult seasons or contemplating separation. I’ve also worked with survivors of abuse and trauma, active-duty military service members and veterans, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and families navigating significant behavioral challenges. Every individual and family brings a unique story, and I feel honored to walk alongside my clients as they work toward healing, understanding, and meaningful change.
My approach to therapy is grounded in the belief that there is no one-size-fits-all path to healing. We all bring different experiences, strengths, challenges, and needs into the therapeutic space, and I believe our work together should reflect that. I draw from a variety of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and the Gottman Method, while also incorporating holistic, body-based practices such as breathwork, yoga, and other somatic interventions when appropriate. I enjoy bringing creativity and curiosity into the therapeutic process so that we can find an approach that feels meaningful, supportive, and suited to you.
I believe that growth often begins with feeling understood. Therapy can offer an opportunity to slow down, explore the emotions and experiences that have shaped you, and begin making sense of patterns that may no longer serve you. Sometimes, that means gently exploring difficult feelings or trying something outside of your comfort zone. Other times, it means learning to offer yourself the same compassion you so readily give to others. Wherever you find yourself in your journey, we’ll work together at a pace that honors your needs while making space for growth and change.
Above all, I want therapy to feel like a space where you can exhale—a place where you don’t have to have all the answers, where your experiences are met with compassion rather than judgment, and where you can explore what healing and wellness mean to you. My hope is to help you nurture a deeper connection with yourself and others, discover new possibilities, and feel more empowered to create the life and relationships you want.
You are worthy of support, growth, and meaningful connection. I look forward to getting to know you, hearing your story, and supporting you along the way—one session at a time.
In addition to N.C. residents, Cynara offers virtual therapy to S.C. residents. (Certified Telehealth Counselor #1696). For verification of certification, visit
" And you? When will you begin the long journey into yourself?"
-- Rumi
