Many people refer to the holidays as “the most wonderful time of the year”, and everyone is expected to be joy-filled; however, the 9 weeks from Halloween to New Year’s Day can be a very challenging time of the year for those who are overwhelmed, experiencing grief, overcoming challenges or struggling in general. Putting a focus on mental health is important year-round but can be particularly imperative during the holiday season. Thus, it’s an honor to share with you the incredible Dr. Mary Affee, who is founder and CEO of Horizon Integrated Wellness Group as well as Triangle Women in Business honoree from Triangle Business Journal this calendar year. Horizon Integrated Wellness Group provides compassionate, trauma-informed mental health care for children, adolescents, adults and families. As a Medicaid provider, they are committed to making quality care more accessible, currently serving from locations in Apex, Boone, Cary, Chapel Hill, Clayton, Holly Springs, Raleigh and Winston Salem. Horizon’s services include individual, family and group therapy, school-based mental health services, and medication management, with specialized approaches such as play therapy, expressive arts and EMDR. Horizon is also expanding into mental health and substance use intensive outpatient programs, allowing the team to better meet our community’s needs, all under the inspiring leadership of the amazing Dr. Mary Affee. Described as passionate, driven and high energy, Mary is a lifelong learner who makes us all better. Enjoy this peek inside the mind and heart of this absolute rock star!

First Friday Female Founder Feature:

Dr. Mary Affee

How would you describe the company you founded and its products?

Horizon Integrated Wellness Group is a mental health practice providing compassionate, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive care for children, adolescents, adults, and families. We offer individual, family, and group therapy, school-based mental health services, and medication management. Our specialized approaches include play therapy, expressive arts, and EMDR. We are also expanding into intensive outpatient programs for mental health and substance use. Our goal is to make personalized, high-quality care accessible while helping individuals and families build resilience and achieve lasting well-being.

What has been the most rewarding part of your journey in founding this company?

Since founding Horizon Integrated Wellness Group in August 2017, the most rewarding part has been seeing the difference we make in people’s lives while experiencing my own personal growth. Building a company has stretched me in ways I never expected. The challenges have taught me to find solutions, make difficult decisions, and lead with greater courage and compassion. Watching our team grow and families find hope reminds me why I started—and how much this journey continues to teach me.

About what are you most proud?

I’m most proud of building a company where people feel supported—both the clients who trust us with their care and the professionals who provide it. Turning my vision into a practice that helps individuals and families find hope is deeply meaningful. As a Medicaid provider, we help make quality mental health care accessible to individuals and families who might otherwise face barriers to treatment.

Who’s the one person who changed your life and why?

I have difficulty choosing just one - we need people; people are important in every part of our life experiences. There are a few people who have changed my life, and each is equally valuable to me. Some believed in me before I fully believed in myself, others challenged me to grow, some people betrayed me, some people left my life, and others stood beside me during difficult seasons. Each helped shape who I am today and taught me something about resilience, compassion, and the kind of support I hope to offer others.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

Be in two places at once: “So I could be present for my family while continuing to build the work I love.” I wish there could be two of me!

Are you naturally organized, was it a skill you learned or is it something with which you regularly struggle, and what tips or tools do you use to stay your most organized?

Yes, I’m naturally organized, but growing a business has taught me to be more intentional about managing my time and priorities. I use my calendar, task lists, and clear deadlines to stay on track, and I break larger goals into manageable steps. I’ve also learned that staying organized means knowing when to delegate and leaving room for the unexpected, which is what I call the art of delegation.

What words of wisdom would you have for someone who is overwhelmed with staying organized and / or productive?

Start small and give yourself grace. You don’t have to solve everything in one day. Write down what’s on your mind, choose a few priorities, and break them into manageable steps. Ask for help and delegate when you can. Your worth is not measured by how much you accomplish—rest and flexibility are part of staying productive, too.

Do you use technology to help stay productive or organized? If so, what’s your favorite program, app or tech tool?

Yes, I use an electronic calendar to manage appointments, meetings and deadlines, but my favorite organizational tool is still my notebook. I keep daily entries with notes, priorities and tasks that need to be completed. Writing things down helps me stay focused, while my electronic calendar keeps me on schedule.

How do you feel about work / life efficiency or integration in your life, including any tips or challenges for managing the personal and professional commitments in your life?

My life is very full. I am single, have full custody of my granddaughter, and lead a growing company, so managing personal and professional commitments requires intentional choices and sacrifice. I’ve learned that I can’t give everything equal attention every day. I prioritize what matters most, plan ahead, and stay flexible when circumstances change. My calendar and daily notebook help, but so does giving myself grace. For me, work-life integration means building a meaningful career while being present for the family who depends on me. I love to travel, and I take her with me.

About what causes are you most passionate?

I’m most passionate about preventing child sexual abuse and supporting children and families affected by it. As a clinician, I care deeply about creating safe spaces where children feel heard, believed and supported. That means educating adults, advocating for children’s safety, and making trauma-informed treatment accessible so children can have the opportunity to heal and thrive.

What have you found to be the most effective way to relax after a long day or super long week?

Exercise is my favorite way to clear my mind and recharge. Sometimes, it’s a glass of wine and a good conversation with a friend or a quick 10–15-minute power nap.

What is your favorite inspirational quote?

“Lose yourself in the service of others” and “Never, never, never give up.” Both reflect how I try to live—with purpose, compassion, and persistence.

What is your go-to accessory?

My notebook! I write my life in there—daily plans, ideas, reminders, and encouraging notes to myself. It goes everywhere with me.

What are the fundamentals of your beauty routine?

I have to laugh because I don’t really have one! My makeup bag has four things: eyeliner, mascara, blush, and a brush. I keep it simple, although there’s room for improvement!

What is your favorite food?

Anything Greek! I’m Sicilian and Italian so I have a palate for full flavor and love a delicious, flavorful meal.

What is your favorite book or author?

I have many favorites, but The Gratitude Effect and 10x Is Easier Than 2x stand out. I’m drawn to books that encourage gratitude, personal growth, and thinking bigger.

What movie could you watch on endless loop?

My Cousin Vinny. It never gets old!

What is your favorite place that you have visited?

There are so many, but Greece probably takes the top spot. The food, beauty, and culture make it a place I love returning to.

Of the locally-owned and -operated establishments in the place you currently live, which are your top 3 favorites and why?

Crawford Brothers Steakhouse, Naos Hellenic Cuisine, and Enrigo Italian Bistro are my favorites. I love a meal full of flavor, especially when I can enjoy it with good company.

What advice would you give your 21-year old self?

You already know how to persevere but learn to care for yourself along the way. I used to cry a lot, and I wish I had understood sooner how to manage my emotions without losing my sensitivity. Keep going, take a breath, and trust that your persistence can help you build the life you dream of.

If you could have lunch with anyone (living or deceased), who would it be and why?

There are so many people, both living and deceased, I would love to have lunch with, but right now, I would choose Barbara Corcoran. Her determination, resilience and relentless drive to succeed have always inspired me. I’d love to learn more about how she has overcome setbacks and stayed committed to her vision.

Enjoy more content like this throughout the blog. Use the search box below to find any specific topic.