Erica Carpenter, Ph.D., LMFT-S
>> Why I Do This Work
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Change is one of the few things in life we can count on — but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. I work with couples and individuals because I’ve seen how even the most loving relationships can feel strained during life transitions, and how overwhelming it can feel to face those seasons alone.
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Whether you’re preparing for a big shift, coping with something unexpected, or simply feeling disconnected from yourself or your partner, I’m here to help you slow down, untangle what’s happening, and move forward with intention.

>> My approach
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I believe therapy works best when it’s:
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Collaborative – We’re a team, exploring and problem-solving together.
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Strengths-based – You’ll uncover strengths you already have and learn how to apply them.
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Compassionate and judgment-free – This is your space to be fully yourself.
In sessions, we might focus on:
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Improving communication and conflict resolution
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Restoring emotional and physical closeness
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Navigating identity shifts during life changes
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Building resilience in the face of uncertainty​
I am passionate about helping clients build meaningful relationships, foster personal growth, and reconnect with their most authentic selves. I believe that clients are the experts in their own lives, and I view therapy as a shared process—one where goals are developed together with care and intention. My role is not to direct, but to walk alongside you as you navigate change, explore new perspectives, and grow into the version of yourself you're ready to become.
I practice from an experiential approach, grounded in the belief that every person has the capacity for change and already holds the inner strengths needed to grow. My role is to help you uncover those strengths and learn how to apply them in meaningful ways. I view the therapy session itself as a powerful space for transformation—where real, lasting change can begin to take root. With this in mind, I am intentional about creating a safe, supportive, and open environment in each session. I also recognize that many people struggle to express their true, creative, and authentic selves—often due to past experiences or protective patterns. My goal is to foster a space where clients can gently reconnect with that part of themselves and thrive, both individually and in their relationships.
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>> My Specialties
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I specialize in working with couples and am passionate about supporting partners in deepening their connection. In my work, I focus on creating a sense of safety and acceptance within the therapy space, helping couples strengthen their bond, improve communication, and set healthy boundaries—both around the relationship and within it. I also support each partner in exploring their authentic self and learning how to show up more fully and honestly in the relationship. I have completed the Level 1 Clinical Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and thoughtfully integrate Gottman-based tools and principles into my work with couples.
>> My Background
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​I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (Texas License #202458) with specialized training in couple and family relationships. I earned my B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Business Administration from Texas A&M University in 2011, followed by an M.S. in Family Therapy in 2014 and a Ph.D. in Family Therapy in 2017, both from Texas Woman’s University. I am an LMFT Supervisor in the state of Texas, an AAMFT Approved Supervisor, and a Clinical Fellow of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). I am also a Professional Member of both AAMFT and the Texas Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
In addition to my clinical work, I have contributed to the field through research and education. My dissertation research, which explored the mental and physical health impacts on adult children caregiving for a parent, was published in the Journal of Couple & Relationship Therapy. I have also conducted research on adult only children's experiences in romantic relationships and contributed two chapters to The Encyclopedia of Couple and Family Therapy (2020). I have taught undergraduate and graduate-level courses in Family Sciences, Couple & Family Therapy, and Counseling, and have served as adjunct faculty at Texas Woman's University and Interim Clinic Director at the Texas Woman’s University’s Counseling & Family Therapy Clinic.
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>> Outside of the therapy room
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I’m a big believer in practicing what I teach — which means I value slowing down, connecting with the people I love, and finding joy in small, everyday moments. When I'm not in the therapy room, you might find me on a walk, doing Pilates, catching up on my favorite reality TV shows, going to a concert, or browsing the aisles of Target or Homegoods.
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>> Let's Connect
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​You don’t have to go through this season alone — and you don’t have to wait until things feel “bad enough” to get help. The best time to invest in yourself and your relationships is now. Click below to learn more about the ways I can support you in this season in Plano or online across Texas.