A middle-aged man with gray hair and a beard, wearing a blue collared shirt, smiling in a portrait.

David Russ, PhD

Meet Dr. Russ

Licensed Psychologist • Anxiety Specialist • President, Carolinas Counseling Group

Dr. Russ is a licensed psychologist based in Charlotte, North Carolina, with nearly four decades of experience helping people overcome anxiety and reclaim their lives. As a founding partner and current president of Carolinas Counseling Group, he leads a team of over 20 clinicians dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care.

Since beginning his practice in 1985 and earning his Ph.D. from Georgia State University in 1992, Dr. Russ has dedicated his career to understanding and treating anxiety. Since 2010, he has focused exclusively on anxiety-related conditions, including:

  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

  • Emetophobia (fear of vomiting)

  • Panic disorder

  • Phobias

  • School refusal and related anxiety

Dr. Russ specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and places a strong emphasis on Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), one of the most effective, research-supported treatments for anxiety. He offers both in-person and telehealth appointments, making care accessible and flexible for clients of all ages.

Expert Contributions

Dr. Russ is widely recognized for his contributions to the field of anxiety treatment:

Specialized Training & Expertise

  • Completed advanced training at the Behavioral Therapy Training Institute (BTTI) for both adult and pediatric anxiety treatment

  • Works with children (6+), teens, and adults

Outside the Office

When he isn’t working with clients or contributing to the field, Dr. Russ enjoys traveling with his wife of over 40 years, spending time with his children, painting, and woodworking.

Insurance Accepted

BCBS • Aetna • CBHA

Please note that our practice does not accept Medicaid or Medicare.