Hi! I’m Emily Budlong, LPC, CMIP (she/her).

I’m a comprehensively trained DBT therapist, a DBT skills trainer, and a Certified Mindfulness-Informed Professional. I earned both my Master’s of Education and Educational Specialist degrees from Clemson University’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program. Over the years I’ve gained experience in the school system, psychiatric hospitals, and outpatient therapy settings. I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, and families.

Whether you’ve seen many therapists before or this is your very first time stepping into therapy, you are warmly welcome here. In our sessions together, I work hard to balance change with acceptance, validation with gentle problem-solving, and to help you build a life that feels truly worth living.

I have specialized training in working with the LGBTQ+ community, and I’m kink- and poly-knowledgeable and fully affirming. I know how scary it can sometimes feel to share parts of yourself because you worry about being judged or misunderstood. That’s why I’m so committed to creating a safe, open, and accepting space where you can show up exactly as you are. I genuinely welcome your feedback so I can support you in the very best way possible.

I completed my Intensive Training with the Behavioral Tech Institute in January 2025 and have been an active member of the Coastal DBT Consultation Team since January 2024. I’ve also received training in Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Sand Tray therapy. I work with people experiencing a wide range of challenges, including Borderline Personality Disorder, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder.

So many of us walk through life feeling lonely, misunderstood, or like we’re “too much” for the people around us. Reaching out for help can feel incredibly vulnerable, and I want you to know that it takes real strength and courage to do so. Everyone deserves support, and you are absolutely worthy of it.

If there’s any way I can support you on your journey, please don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule an appointment. I’d be honored to walk alongside you.

You can contact me directly at Emily@CoastalDBT.com or by phone at 864-214-5632.

Warmly, Emily