Ingo Tophoven

Welcome to Alora Counseling! I am Dr. Ingo Tophoven. My graduate students used to just call me 'Dr. T'. Ingo is fine with me, however. I have been in professional counseling for over 35 years now helping individuals, couples, and faith communities navigate the complexities of mental health and well-being. Every person deserves hope. In my counseling I integrate evidence-based counseling approaches, include a trauma-informed lens always, and I do welcome faith and meaning explorations. For many, faith is not just a belief system—it is woven into identity, relationships, calling, and… hope. Because of that, faith can be a place of deep healing, but it can also be a place of deep hurt. I recognize that some individuals come with experiences of spiritual confusion, disappointment, or even spiritual abuse. These experiences are real and will be taken seriously, with care, clarity, and acknowledgement. At the same time, I hold a deep respect for the Church and for the many pastors and leaders who serve with integrity, humility, and genuine love for people. In our work together in counseling, we make space for both realities. The client decides what they want to address and how faith plays a role, not I. As a former pastor with years of work alongside Christian churches and para-church organizations, I understand the unique challenges that arise at the intersection of faith and mental wellness — from pastoral burnout to congregational grief, and the stigma that can surround seeking help. As an online practice based in South Carolina, Alora Counseling & Wellness makes quality care accessible across state lines, serving clients in Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. When I am not working, I like to patiently keep working on the restoration of an old 1940s historic house, cook creatively (without recipes), go on long walks or ride the recumbent bicycle my dad gave me. Feel free to schedule a free consultation on my website, www.aloracounseling.com to talk some more about what you need and what you hope to get out of counseling.