Catherine Carstarphen, D.Min.

Catherine Carstarphen has been part of the Presby Psych family since 2005. She began her association as a student in the former Carolina Institute for Clinical Pastoral Training and in 2007 became a clinician specializing in spiritually integrative psychotherapy, a position she held until 2023. Now a Board Member, Catherine brings a wealth of clinical, business, and community service experience to her role on the Board.

Dr. Carstarphen obtained her undergraduate degree at Queens University before going on to Emory University’s Candler School of Theology and Louisville Presbyterian Seminary where she earned a Doctor of Ministry in Pastoral Counseling. As a therapist, she was appointed to the National Board of Ethics of the Association of Pastoral Counselors. Catherine also is a member of the American Psychological Association and is a certified psychotherapist with The Association of Clinical Pastoral Education. She is a North Carolina Fee Based Practicing Pastoral Counselor.

As a businesswoman, Catherine was the Director of Community Relations at Pharr Mills in McAdenville, NC and is also the Chairperson of the McAdenville Historical Society. Dr. Carstaphen’s community service includes serving as the first Chairperson of the Gaston Literacy Council. She also has been involved with the Red Cross, United Arts Council, Opera Carolina, Gaston Hospice, and Charlotte Actors Theater Boards. Currently, she is on the Board of Gaston Day Board of Visitors. Catherine is a member of First Presbyterian Church, Belmont. She has a daughter, Catherine, and a son-in-law Steve. She enjoys traveling, collecting books and art, astronomy, and acting in plays.