Therapists in Bakersville, NC

Hello, my name is Bonita Hutchison. I am a Nationally Certified Trauma Therapist and hold dual licensure in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counseling in North Carolina / International Certification in Alcohol and Addiction Counseling / New Jersey Professional Mental Health Counselor Licensure and my License in California for Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counseling . Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio is where I earned my Masters Degree in Agency and Community Counseling in 1998. Over the years, I have learned that many people who come in for depression or anger sometimes have drinking, eating or substance use issues they are also struggling with or have used to cover up their pain. Each year to better serve you and provide the help needed to live and feel better I have continued to master additional skills to support your needs and recovery. These methods and approaches to counseling include Mindfulness, Couples Counseling, Psychodynamic therapy, Motivational Interviewing and how to improve Sleep Habits. My career as a Professional Counselor started with caring for children and teaching them to make better choices. I learned how I could help Parents and their children address challenges and barriers to success in facilitation of groups, individual and family therapy. After attending the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and earning Post Graduate Certification as a Drug Counselor in 2010, then my North Carolina License Professional Counselor (LCMHC #7953) credential and in 2020 due to the pandemic New Jersey Temporary Licensure (LPC # 010006) to provide mental health Counseling and Alcohol and Addiction treatment ( LADC # 014783) I applied recently to the California Board for Behavioral Health Licensure and Continue to hold International and National credentials to support you where ever you find yourself. In September of 2022, after over two years of temp licensure in New Jersey the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy issued my Permanent NJ license as a Professional Mental Health Counselor. I’m a good listener and educator that provides a warm and person centered approach to counseling that allows others to feel safe and supported in therapy. I work with consumers from all over the world and hold the IC&RC International Certification (ICAADC) to provide therapy and coping skills to better manage life situations as a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. My work through mental health Counseling and as a Clinical Supervisor (LCMHC-S #S7953) in North Carolina is very rewarding and teaches me how to reduce your anxiety, manage depression symptoms, cope with ADHD, move past Guilt and Shame, process Grief and Relationship/Family issues. My Substance Abuse licensure in North Carolina (LCAS #2313) and California (LAADC #RA8620417) as well as Mental Health Professional Counselor in New Jersey (#37PC00850200) has allowed me to help people struggling with abuse, problems and explore the questions you have about relationships, eating disorders or emotions. Alcoholism, Mental Health and Drug Addiction do not discriminate and working in this field has allowed me to support and assist many people and families from a variety of cultural and spiritual backgrounds, races and relationship situations that were keeping them from reducing mental health symptoms, maintaining recovery or sobriety. I might be able help and I look forward to working with you!

As a licensed therapist in North Carolina, I bring nearly three decades of compassionate clinical experience to supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My practice centers on creating affirming, inclusive spaces for exploring personal growth, particularly for LGBTQ+ individuals, those navigating relationship dynamics, and people experiencing mood-related difficulties. My therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in understanding each person's unique journey. I specialize in addressing depression, anxiety, addiction recovery, sexuality, exploration, and personal empowerment. With expertise in supporting diverse relationship structures and identities, I help clients develop self-love, clarify life purpose, and heal from family dynamics. I'm committed to providing a non-judgmental, progressive environment where individuals can authentically explore their emotional landscape, build resilience, and create meaningful personal transformation. Whether you're working through life challenges, relationship patterns, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional insight.

I have worked in the human service field for approximately 20 years. I have had the pleasure of working with mental health, developmentally disabled and substance abuse populations. I have worked with Assisted Medication Management and active military members and their families. My greatest reward as a therapist is helping my clients explore ways to make the changes in their lives that will allow them to look forward to the future with hope. I believe that we all need someone to talk with who will really listen and accept us as we are, without judgment. I provide my clients with that warm, nonjudgmental environment—a safe place to explore the issues that may be preventing them from living the life they want. I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Substance Abuse Supervisor. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Therapy and psycho-education extensively. My experience includes working with clients dealing with divorce and single-parenting, addictions, grief, women’s issues, and mood disorders, among other challenges. I find that my great passion is working with individuals and children.

I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor in the state of North Carolina. I having been working in this field for over 25 years. I am fortunate to have been afforded the opportunity to work in a variety of settings. These settings include substance abuse treatment, mental health crises, domestic violence, critical incidences, youth corrections, individual, couples and family counseling. I have worked with clients who have had issues with depression, anxiety, stress and psychsocial problems. While I have benefitted greatly from these experiences, I believe myself to be most effective in individual counseling. I have taken the benefit of all these experiences and combined them to be the best counselor I can be. No matter the initial presentation of my clients, their issues tend to fall into one or more of the areas of my experience. As a therapist, my theoretical approaches tend to be solution focused, reality based with an emphasis on how my client views him or herself and the world around them. I believe we all make decisions and exhibit individual behaviors based on what we perceive is happening to us and the world around us. My goal is to help my clients determine if their beliefs, as well as their actions, are helping them be the best they can be. In addition to that, I work to ensure that my clients have the emotional tools they need to appropriately and effectively manage the emotional ups and downs of life. As I see it, life is "a continuum of temporary circumstances that we all must navigate the best we can with the skills we have". My calling is to serve others, with the hope that I can contribute in some way to helping them make their lives better..

I am am I licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with 24 years of experience in the field. I have primarily specialized in the the area of trauma most specifically domestic and sexual abuse and the concerns that stem from these abuses such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, codependency, divorce/separation, grief, career related issues, economic concerns and self-esteem and parenting difficulties. I am also a certified clinical supervisor and happy to work with other professionals focusing on self-care and compassion fatigue. My style is warm and compassionate. I start where the client is with a person centered and empowerment approach. I often use psycho-education to help people understand patterns to assist in making lasting changes. I have extensive training in trauma, domestic and sexual abuse. I am newly trained in EMDR (Eye movement Desensitization and reprocessing therapy). I am also trained in the areas of TFCBT (trauma focused behavioral therapy), MI (motivational interviewing).

If you're reaching out to a therapist, you're needing something better in your life. You're not willing to go on the way things are, and you have the hope and determination that things can and must change. You need someone who can help you achieve that change. You don't need someone who will just tell you what you want to hear, or who will listen but not know what to do. You need someone who has the ability to get you to that better place in your life. I have the training, compassion, and experience to help you get there. For couples, I'm trained in Gottman Couples Therapy and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. These are two of the best-researched, most effective couples therapy methods out there, and I have seen beautiful results in my clients. I also see many individuals, as well as families. I've also been there. I know what depression feels like, and I've struggled with a difficult marriage and divorce. I've been to therapy myself, learned a lot, done the work, and have gotten to my own better place. My passion and my reason for becoming a therapist is to help others benefit from what I've learned. My training has given me the skills to do that. I won't judge you, and you won't hear, "Well, just get over it!" from me. If you want Christian counseling, let me know. If you prefer non-religious therapy, I am comfortable with that as well. Either way, you will have my full attention and my best effort.

As a licensed therapist with two decades of experience in South Carolina, North Carolina and Virginia, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice centers on creating a compassionate, affirming space for clients navigating diverse experiences—including LGBTQ+ journeys, relationship dynamics, workplace stress, and personal growth. I bring deep expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, social challenges, and interpersonal relationships. My approach is holistic and client-centered, focusing on understanding each person's unique story and strengths. Whether you're struggling with communication barriers, exploring identity, managing life transitions, or seeking greater self-understanding, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy and professional guidance. My therapeutic work spans a wide range of focus areas, including men's issues, young adult challenges, multicultural concerns, and support for individuals experiencing significant life changes. I strive to create a welcoming environment where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered to explore their emotional landscape and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth.

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS), Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC), Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS) and a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP). I have a PhD in Human Services, with a concentration in Disaster, Crisis, and Intervention. I have over 20 years of experience in mental health and substance abuse counseling. I have been in the mental health and substance abuse field since 1998 and worked as a licensed private practitioner since 2001. I have experience working with clients with mental health (anxiety, depression, PTSD) and substance use disorders. I have dedicated the past few years working with individuals with Dual and Triple diagnosis of medical, mental health and substance use disorders. I believe in integrated medical, mental health and substance use disorders treatment. Most of my counseling approach is based on Motivational Enhancement Techniques (MET), Client Centered, Cognitive Behavioral and Solution Focused theories. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) techniques to help individuals who are dealing with traumatic experiences. I also have years of experience providing recovery skills training for individuals willing to quit and maintain complete abstinence from alcohol, prescription and illicit drugs. I would like to assure you that my services will be rendered in a professional manner, consistent with accepted ethical standards of this noble profession. My counseling approach will help clients attain self-realization, set and accomplish goals, and elicit self-efficacy. I look forward to working with you.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience in clinical settings, dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and discover their personal strengths. My practice is rooted in compassion, respect, and a deep understanding of the unique journeys we all face. My areas of clinical expertise include aging and geriatric concerns, anxiety, anger management, abuse recovery, caregiver stress, chronic and terminal illness, oncology, visual impairment, and special needs planning. I also support individuals and families through couples therapy, career transitions, retirement planning and adjustment, end-of-life care, financial management, and work-life balance. My approach to therapy is warm, empathetic, and collaborative. I meet you where you are, offering a safe, supportive space where you can explore your experiences and work toward meaningful goals. I believe in treating every person with dignity and compassion, and I tailor my approach to fit your unique needs and circumstances. Taking the step to seek help takes strength and courage. I’m here to listen, support, and walk alongside you as you work toward healing, growth, and empowerment. I look forward to being part of your journey.

I am licensed in North Carolina with 4 years of professional work experience in the mental health field, as well as in working with couples and relationship issues. It is my goal to treat every client with respect, sensitivity, and compassion; and to tailor the dialog and treatment plan in a way that meets their unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seek a more fulfilling and satisfying life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I am licensed in North Carolina with 20 years of professional work experience. I have 2 master degrees in counseling and a license in addiction counseling. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I use an eclectic approach to therapy, applying different styles of counseling, including cognitive behavioral, person-centered, positive image, reality, rational emotive behavioral, and others to better assist his clients. I have found that this style of a firm, yet compassionate, non-judgmental, therapeutic approach has helped hundreds of clients. I work by the principal that everyone needs someone to talk with, and that it is very helpful to look at problems from different angles in order to find the best possible solutions. I feel that therapy should be a stepping stone to aid you in gaining important problem solving skills. I truly believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. You are taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life which takes courage. I am here to support you in your process.

I am licensed in North Carolina with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

I am a licensed clinical therapist with several years of experience. I have over 25 years of experience working with children, adults and families. I also enjoy facilitating different types of therapeutic groups. I have supported teens, adults and families through social issues and concerns, relationship issues, parenting problems, including marital concerns. I have also worked with children and adults who have suffered various forms of abuse or neglect. I have worked with people from different backgrounds, cultures and appreciate learning about each and every person I work with. I embrace getting to know more so I know how to help support each client with attaining their goals. My therapeutic style is very authentic, warm and strength based. I believe that my therapeutic practice is a work of the heart, and I believe in the change and or support that each and everyone of my clients' seeks. I have utilized theoretical perspectives such as cognitive behavioral therapy as well as brief treatment therapeutic modalities. I also enjoy utilizing bits of psychoanalytic theory and I'm creative and open based on what is best for each and every client I serve. I am looking forward to working with you to support and encourage you into the next best phase of your life.

As a licensed therapist in North Carolina and South Carolina, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on empowering young adults and women through transformative therapeutic experiences. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach to addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and self-esteem. My work is deeply rooted in understanding the unique intersections of personal identity, life purpose, and emotional wellness. I'm particularly passionate about helping clients work through isolation, communication barriers, and personal growth challenges. Drawing from a holistic perspective, I create a supportive environment that honors each individual's journey toward healing and self-discovery. With a commitment to culturally affirming care, I strive to provide a safe, understanding space where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. My approach integrates evidence-based practices with genuine empathy, focusing on your individual strengths and potential for growth.