About Sydney Carter, LPC
I’m a trauma therapist in Aiken SC, writer, and founder who believes that our past can haunt us—but we do have the control to do something about it.
My work focuses on helping clients process and move forward from their past—whether that involves trauma, long-term toxic stress, or other challenging life experiences. I specialize in EMDR, a trauma treatment I believe can be helpful for those who haven’t found relief with traditional talk therapy. EMDR allows us to connect with deeper, often subconscious emotions and can help release how trauma is stored in the body.
I originally came to this work through researching religious trauma, which remains an area of personal and professional interest. My training includes a Master of Science in Applied Clinical Psychology, as well as bachelor’s degrees in Psychology, Philosophy and Religion from Winthrop University. I’ve also studied in Vatican City, Greece, Italy, and Ireland, exploring sacred and liminal spaces and their impact on human experience.
Outside of therapy, I enjoy participating in agility sports with my Aussie mix and scent work with my Beagle, and I love designing and sewing my own clothes. I approach therapy in a relational and collaborative way, creating a space where clients feel seen, understood, and empowered to explore what lies beneath the surface.
My approach
Shadow Work Psychotherapy offers thoughtful, evidence-based therapy for adults seeking to understand and heal what lies beneath the surface. Rooted in trauma-informed care, I help clients move from survival patterns toward deeper self-awareness and authentic connection. Sessions are available in-person in Aiken, SC, or online throughout South Carolina.
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University of South Carolina Aiken | M.S. Applied Clinical Psychology | 2023 | Aiken, SC
Winthrop University | B.A. Philosophy and Religion | 2020 | Rock Hill, SC
Winthrop University | B.A. Psychology | 2020 | Rock Hill, SC
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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Training | THRIVE | 2025
Cognitive Processing Therapy | Medical University of South Carolina | 2024
Trauma-Informed CBT | Medical University of South Carolina | 2022
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2025 Best of South Carolina Regional Award Winner | Mental Health & Therapy Practices
2023 Psychology Department Outstanding Graduate Student of the Year
2023 Callen Graduate Student Research Award
2019 Inez Bell Caskey Research Award
2019 CEPO Student Research Award for Women and Minority Issues
2019 Winthrop University Alumni Research Grant
I specialize in helping clients motivated to finally heal from anxiety, depression, and trauma by getting to the root of the problem. People come to me looking for a therapist who they can feel a sense of connection with, because therapy should be a place where you feel safe and heard. Sessions with me are semi-structured, offering a balance between guided support and the freedom to explore what matters most to you in the moment.
How do I know if we’re a good fit?
My clients are often…
Motivated to get long-lasting change
Open to explore feelings, thoughts, and experiences, even when uncomfortable
Curious about understanding themself and their patterns
Willing to trust the process of therapy
About Kaitlyn Miles
Kaitlyn enjoys working with adults who are ready to move beyond simply getting through each day and start building a life that feels more meaningful and authentic.
Kaitlyn Miles is our graduate counseling intern who has a special interest in helping clients navigate anxiety, life transitions, and feeling disconnected from themselves while reconnecting with their values and developing healthier ways to respond to life’s challenges.
Kaitlyn’s approach is warm, collaborative, and person-centered. She is passionate about creating an inclusive, culturally responsive space where people from all walks of life feel respected, understood, and welcomed. She believes therapy should be a place where you feel genuinely heard, supported without judgment, and empowered to create meaningful, lasting change.
Kaitlyn is currently completing her Master of Science in Applied Clinical Psychology at the University of South Carolina Aiken and provides therapy under clinical supervision. She is accepting new adult clients for individual therapy at a reduced private-pay rate of $75 per session.