Tab Ballis LCSW, LCAS, CCS
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Life has a way of punishing those who take it too seriously... or not seriously enough.
John Updike
Tab Ballis, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, Managing Partner, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, Certified Clinical Supervisor, and faculty member of the University of North Carolina Wilmington School of Social Work. Incorporating a variety of interactive and experiential techniques in the practice of psychotherapy, Tab emphasizes strengths and resources, rather than pathology, utilizing contemplation, creative expression and rituals that make the process of change more accessible.
As a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, Tab has acquired considerable expertise in the treatment of substance abuse and compulsive behaviors, and he has developed an innovative assessment tool, the GATE Model, that helps individuals and families recognize the risk factors for addiction as they visualize the challenging steps on the road to recovery
Working closely with inpatient addiction treatment centers to provide family intervention and aftercare, Tab has been particularly effective with clients who have experienced relapse, in their efforts to remain abstinent, and he can provide court-ordered substance abuse assessments and treatment. The innovative "Know Limits" program is a response to alcohol abuse that utilizes the Sinclair Method of naltrexone treatment to support abstinence or moderation.
Extensive study with nationally-respected family systems theorist, John T. Edwards, Ph.D., has made Tab Ballis one of the premiere practitioners of structural/ strategic family therapy in our area. Tab is particularly effective in redirecting the power of the family to address problems in relationships that have become entrenched through repetition.
The John T. Edwards Foundation
Couples counseling is a specialized area of family therapy requiring a high level of skill and sensitivity on the part of the therapist. Tab utilizes a combination of communication exercises, role play, and family-of-origin techniques to assist couples in negotiating conflict and improving intimacy.
Tab's training and experience in sex therapy is a valuable resource for individuals and couples who have encountered obstacles in their intimacy, as he supports honest dialogue with practical solutions.
Affirming the needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals and couples is an area of specialty, as Tab also supports family members and allies of LGBTQ individuals in his practice. Tab is proud to have served on the Steering Committee of the local chapter of the national SAGE organization (Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders).
LGBTQ Center of the Cape Fear Coast
Tab has worked with artists, writers, musicians, and actors to enhance creativity and identify and overcome blocks. "Conscious Creativity", an experiential workshop, has been well-received by actors and professional groups seeking to maximize their ability to be innovative in a competitive environment. Tab has also served as a creative consultant for film and theatrical productions, and he completed production of the documentary feature Park View in 2020.
The Park View Project
Tab is available for training, consultation, and educational seminars, as well as clinical supervision of LCSW and LCAS candidates.
Tab had the privilege of serving as a disaster mental health professional for The American Red Cross, and you may read more about his experience in New York City, at Ground Zero, at the following link: