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:
Co-creator of Turnaround: Turning Fear into Freedom, an audio-based treatment program for children with anxiety, and its emetophobia supplement.
Co-author of Emetophobia: Understanding and Treating Fear of Vomiting in Children and Adults, a clinical guide for professionals, and co-creator of emetophobia.net, a leading resource for information and support.
Author of Emetophobia: The Ultimate Kids’ Guide, a child-friendly resource illustrated by his daughter.
Co-author of More Than Me, published by NavPress.
Former visiting lecturer and adjunct professor at five graduate schools, sharing his expertise with future clinicians.
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.