Cherry Duke

MA, MFT-I, ICADC, SAP

I want to know your story.

Are you and your partner struggling to connect and communicate? Your marriage can be healed. Does the pain of loss feel unbearable? You can find joy again.

Are you overwhelmed with the demands of life and burned out? Let’s talk about it. Our journeys come with pain and unplanned roads. My lifelong mission is to lead individuals toward personal restoration and an enhanced quality of life across emotional, mental, social, and physical dimensions. As humans, our shared desires include seeking peace, understanding, acceptance, and reciprocated love.

I aim to empower the hopeless, guiding them toward realizing their fullest potential. But change doesn’t come without courage. True healing begins when we’re willing to confront ourselves—our patterns, pain, and fears—and commit to doing the deep work.

I believe lasting transformation happens when we choose to face hard truths in a safe, compassionate space.

Come as you are.

At times, a simple cup of coffee and meaningful dialogue can make a world of difference. The power of having someone who listens and supports us is remarkable. Together, we can embark on a journey to uncover your true self and identify ways to enhance your overall life satisfaction. I will collaborate with you, offering guidance toward solutions and healing. Let’s rediscover lost hope together in a safe, comfortable environment where your voice is heard and valued.

How I Work: A Family Systems Perspective

I believe no one exists in isolation—we are shaped by the people, environments, and experiences that surround us. That’s why I work from a family systems perspective, which means I see each individual as part of a larger, interconnected system. I look at how relational patterns, roles, communication, and generational influences affect your current challenges—and how they can become part of the healing process.

I’m deeply passionate about restoring families and strengthening marriages. I believe in the power of rebuilding connection, nurturing healthy communication, and creating space for each person to be seen, heard, and valued. Marriages don’t have to stay stuck. Families can heal. Relationships can be redeemed.

My goal is to help you untangle what’s no longer working and build something healthier and more hopeful. This might look like setting boundaries, learning new ways to respond during conflict, healing from past wounds, or developing stronger emotional intimacy. Every family has its own unique story—and I consider it an honor to walk with you as you write a new chapter.

My Background

I’m a certified alcohol and drug counselor with over a decade of experience in addiction recovery. I believe in the power of healing through recovery, especially when trauma is acknowledged and addressed. My background includes working as an Alabama Court Referral Officer and serving as the sole mental health advocate for the Mobile County Judicial System. I’m passionate about walking alongside individuals as they rebuild their lives—both in and outside the courtroom. I’m also a DOT-approved SAP (Substance Abuse Professional) for those who are required to complete the Return-to-Duty process.

The Fun Stuff

When I’m not in the counseling room, you can find me at a local coffee shop, out exploring new places, traveling, or soaking up time with my family. I LOVE cheese, floating in my pool, yard sales, Jesus, puzzles, painting, dark chocolate, fresh fruit, and of course—coffee! I truly believe there’s nothing that can’t be solved with good conversation and a great cup of coffee.

Specialties and Passions

-Couples Counseling

-Pre-marital Counseling

-Infant Loss and Miscarriage

-Substance Use and Recovery

-Family Conflict

-Parenting

-Burnout

-Trauma

-Codependency

-Divorce

-Teens

-Life Transitions

-Grief

Empowering Women. Equipping Men.

I’m passionate about walking alongside women as they rediscover their strength, voice, and worth—and supporting men in becoming grounded, emotionally healthy, and strong leaders in their families and communities. Healing, growth, and transformation are possible for everyone.

Ready to get started?

Call/text 251.239.9499 to schedule a free 15-20 minute consultation call. You may also e-mail at cherry@refugecounselingal.com.

While I do not take insurance, my sessions are affordable at $80/hour for individuals, and $100/hour for couples. I also offer a limited number of sliding fee scale appointments as needed.