Hi! I’m Whitt Daniel, a licensed counselor with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Appalachian State University. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, and emerging adults navigate life’s challenges and build a strong foundation for success. In addition to my work with Daybreak Health offering fully virtual Telehealth sessions, I also serve full-time at a STEM high school for gifted students, where I support their unique academic and emotional needs. Growing up in a family of educators, I’ve always valued education, learning, and the importance of creating environments where people feel supported and heard. This background has deeply influenced my approach to counseling, where I aim to provide a nonjudgmental space for clients to explore their emotions, develop coping skills, and work towards their goals. I believe in meeting each person where they are and tailoring our work to their individual needs, recognizing the unique challenges faced by individuals navigating academic pressure, social dynamics, and personal growth. Outside of my professional life, I enjoy exploring new coffee shops, trying local restaurants, and playing pickleball. I also love spending time with my two pets—Leia, my dog, and Poppy, my cat. When I’m winding down, I’m likely to be found watching Netflix or exploring new places. I am excited about working with clients who are ready to make meaningful changes and tackle their personal challenges. Whether it’s working through anxiety, managing academic stress, or navigating career paths, I am here to help you grow, develop skills, and find clarity on your journey. My ideal client is a student with high-masking ADHD or autism, often overlooked due to their ability to “fit in” or hide their challenges. These students may struggle with anxiety, emotional regulation, or burnout due to the energy spent masking their true selves. They seek a safe, affirming space where they can express their needs and advocate for themselves without fear of judgment. I am passionate about supporting students with neurodivergence, learning differences, and/or mental health challenges. I help them uncover their unique needs, validate their experiences, and develop strategies that allow them to thrive academically and socially. My approach emphasizes self-advocacy, empowering students to ask for accommodations, set boundaries, and embrace their neurodiversity. As a culturally competent counselor, I recognize that neurodivergent students come from diverse backgrounds, which can shape how they experience the world. I work to ensure that every client’s cultural identity is respected and integrated into our work, creating an inclusive environment where all clients feel valued. Using tools like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and solution-focused techniques, I guide students in building emotional regulation, social skills, and sensory awareness. I aim to help clients understand and manage their unique challenges while building confidence in their ability to advocate for their needs. If you are a student with high-masking ADHD or autism, or the parent of one, and you're seeking support to navigate life with confidence, I’m honored to help you embrace your strengths and thrive on your terms.