About Inner Essence Counseling
Inner Essence Counseling was founded by Yolanda Kay Cranford, LCSW, to provide women with compassionate, high-quality mental health care in a safe and supportive environment.
At Inner Essence Counseling, you are welcomed exactly as you are. Our goal is to create a space where healing feels possible, growth feels attainable, and every woman feels seen, heard, and supported on her journey toward greater well-being.
I know you may be here because something in your life feels heavy.
You may be tired of carrying emotional stress, tired of feeling anxious, stuck, overwhelmed, or emotionally exhausted. Maybe you have been pushing through, holding it together, and doing what needs to be done, while deep down knowing that something needs to change.
Therapy creates space to slow down and understand those experiences with curiosity instead of judgment.
You are ready for relief.
You are ready for peace.
You are ready for something different.
And you do not have to figure it out alone.
Meet Yolanda
My name is Yolanda Kay Cranford, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and founder of Inner Essence Counseling, PLLC. I created this practice to provide women with compassionate, high-quality counseling that honors who they are and what they need.
For more than 30 years, I have had the privilege of walking alongside women as they navigate anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, caregiver fatigue, relationship stress, and the quiet weight of emotional exhaustion.
You do not have to come to therapy with everything figured out. You do not have to have the perfect words. You can bring your questions, your tears, your silence, your laughter, your uncertainty, and your hope. All of it is welcome here.
Credentials
● MSW – University of Michigan, 1991
● BSW – Eastern Michigan University, 1990
● Licensed Clinical Social Worker - License #C006397
● Licensed School Social Worker
Awards & Recognition
● State of Michigan School Social Worker of the Year, 2008
● State of North Carolina Regional School Social Worker of the Year, 2013
● Wake County School Social Worker of the Year, Central Region Winner
● Letter of Proclamation – State of Michigan
● Loving Me Self Esteem Program for Teen Girls recognized by Governor Jennifer Granholm
I believe therapy can help you feel more than just “okay.”
It can help you feel grounded, empowered, and at peace. It can help you reconnect with your inner voice — the part of you that already knows the way forward.
What It’s Like to Work Together
Together, we will talk through the challenges you are facing, notice patterns that may be keeping you stuck, and find practical tools that can support you in your everyday life.
When you work with me, you can expect:
· A safe, nonjudgmental space
· Compassion and understanding
· Honesty and authenticity
· Practical tools for real-life change
· Respect for your pace, your story, and your strengths
· Humor when it is needed
· Space to come as you are
If you are ready to begin your journey toward healing and change, I would be honored to walk alongside you.
How Therapy Works
Reach Out
Schedule a free consultation to see if we are a good fit.
Begin Sessions
We meet through secure telehealth in a supportive, confidential space
Grow at Your Pace
Together, we build insight, practical tools, and meaningful change over time.
My Approach
My approach to therapy is warm, grounded, honest, and real. I believe healing happens when you feel safe enough to be fully human — not perfect, not polished, not performing.
You do not have to come to therapy with everything figured out. You do not have to have the perfect words. You can bring your questions, your tears, your silence, your laughter, your uncertainty, and your hope. All of it is welcome here.
The Life Design Workbok
A gentle workbook to help you pause, reflect, and reconnect with what matters most to you.
Use this resource to begin exploring your needs, values, hopes, and next steps with more clarity and compassion.
Depending on your needs, sessions may incorporate:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Mindfulness-based techniques
Trauma-informed care
Strengths-based and person-centered approaches
Ready when you are
Starting therapy can feel vulnerable. You are welcome to reach out with questions or schedule a consultation when you feel ready.
You do not have to carry everything alone.
Inner Essence Counseling is a space where women can be heard, supported, and restored.
You do not need to have the perfect message. A simple note is enough to begin.
