Evidence-based psychological care to help you get unstuck— in Asheville and virtually across 42 PSYPACT states.
A way forward starts here
Mental health care is for everyone—whether you're dealing with emotional overwhelm, feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, or simply seeking to fine-tune your well-being. It can be both preventive and transformative, offering support before things unravel and helping you rebuild when they do. Together, we’ll explore the challenges that affect your daily life, relationships, and sense of self. This space is here to meet you with curiosity, empathy, and evidence-based psychological care.
Providing in-person therapy in Asheville, NC, and virtual care across 42 states through PSYPACT—bringing high-quality, specialized support wherever you are.
Explore online care
Dr. Athena Dacanay
Licensed Psychologist
10+ years in practice
I aim to foster emotional and intellectual safety—where you feel seen, heard, and gently challenged. I’m collaborative, quietly Socratic, and adaptive, shifting my approach to meet your evolving needs. I work with adults, couples, and families navigating OCD and anxiety, relationship concerns, life transitions, and questions that may call for psychological evaluation. Together, we'll make sense of what's keeping you stuck and identify meaningful ways forward.
I hold a PhD in Educational Psychology and am licensed as a psychologist in North Carolina and Illinois, with PSYPACT authorization. My specialized training includes IOCDF BTTI, S.P.A.C.E., and Gottman Method Level 3.
I offer in-person care in Asheville and telehealth across North Carolina and participating PSYPACT states.
PhD in Educational Psychology
Ball State University
Master of Family Life and Child Development
University of the Philippines, Diliman
ERP training through BTTI
S.P.A.C.E. trained by Dr. Eli Lebowitz
Gottman Method Level 3 Trained
Licensed Psychologist in North Carolina and Illinois
Active PSYPACT APIT authorization
Member: IOCDF, OCD North Carolina, WNCPA, and NCPA
My therapeutic approach is grounded primarily in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with specialized training in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). I also incorporate Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE) Treatment, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to meet each client's unique needs.
Professional directories and social profiles for Dr. Athena Dacanay and ICF Psychological Services.
Each service is designed to meet different needs, whether you're seeking treatment, diagnostic clarity, relationship support, or education about OCD and anxiety. Therapy is available in Asheville and online throughout North Carolina and participating PSYPACT states.
Collaborative work with a licensed psychologist using evidence-based approaches — for respite, insight, or change.
Goal-driven support focused on psychoeducation and skill-building—without diagnosing or treating mental health conditions.
A structured assessment process that clarifies diagnoses, strengths, and needs—often used to guide treatment, school, or workplace decisions.
Interactive group experiences that build relational skills, foster connection, and highlight the importance of relational self-awareness.
The whole person
We see the whole person, not just a diagnosis, symptom, or moment of struggle.
Inspired by the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), our practice recognizes that well-being is shaped by the interaction between individuals and the relationships, environments, experiences, and systems that surround them.
One person, many connected parts. That's why care may include more than one kind of support.
Explore Why We're Called ICFNamed for the WHO International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).
You at the center. Select a layer to explore the wider picture.
A simple picture of the cycle
OCD can make an unwanted thought feel like a problem that must be solved immediately. The loop below shows how anxiety can lead to compulsions, temporary relief, and the return of the thought — and why treatment creates room for a different next step.
Understanding the pattern is often the first way to loosen its grip.
Explore the full loopThe OCD cycle moves from obsessions to anxiety, compulsions, temporary relief, and back to obsessions.
Unwanted thoughts, urges, and doubts.
Distress, fear, worry, or disgust.
Checking, avoiding, reassurance, or rituals.
Temporary relief, then the cycle returns.
Couples Intensives
Relationship intensives offers a proactive space for couples who want guidance, structure, and tools to support the relationship they are building. It's not therapy—it's a time-bound, skills-based experience designed to help you grow together with intention.
I provide telehealth appointments for adults via a secure video platform. Care stays confidential, compassionate, and accessible from wherever you can speak privately.
Telehealth appointments take place on HIPAA-compliant video platforms (Zoom and SimplePractice).
Flexible formats
In person in Asheville; HIPAA-compliant video platforms (Zoom and SimplePractice) statewide
Licensed in North Carolina
In-person in Asheville · Online across North Carolina & PSYPACT states
Ready to talk through what brings you here?
A no-pressure conversation to discuss your concerns, ask questions, and see if we are a good fit to work together.
For a first visit
A simple, supportive path from your first message to beginning therapy with Dr. Athena Dacanay.
Reach out through the inquiry form or book directly.
What it feels like: You can begin with a brief description of what brings you here.
Have a complimentary 15-minute consultation to talk about fit and what you are looking for.
What it feels like: This is a short first conversation, not a commitment to ongoing care.
Complete intake paperwork through SimplePractice before beginning.
What it feels like: You will have a clear place to review practical information at your own pace.
Meet for your first appointment and begin discussing your concerns, goals, and context.
What it feels like: You do not need to arrive with the right words or everything figured out.
Use the early weeks to clarify the work, pace, and next steps together.
What it feels like: The process becomes clearer as you and your clinician learn what is most useful.
ICF Psychological Services 1095 Hendersonville Road, Suite A-4 Asheville, NC 28803
Our Asheville office is a thoughtfully designed space for focused conversation, reflection, and meaningful work. If you prefer to meet remotely, telehealth appointments are available through HIPAA-compliant video platforms, including Zoom and SimplePractice, allowing you to connect from wherever works best for you.
From the Asheville office to the conversations that unfold there — a calm space for thoughtful work, in person or online.
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In person · Online via Zoom and SimplePractice
Share a little about how we can help. Dr. Athena Dacanay usually replies within one business day.
