Finding a therapist can be one of the most significant steps a person takes toward personal growth and self-improvement. Whether you need help addressing a mental health concern, managing a chronic illness, or striving for a personal goal, a therapist can likely offer support and guidance, helping to bolster overall wellness.
If you are worried about potential threats to your mental and emotional well-being, it is likely that a therapist can help you overcome them. Mental health professionals use evidence-based techniques to help you imagine balance and peace within your life. It is likely they can help you substantially reduce the burdens of mental concerns. They also provide services that may help you overcome practical problems in your life or avoid adverse impacts from life’s challenges. You might also choose to wear your professional hat to therapy sessions and receive guidance related to career goals and professional development.
Therapists also typically excel at teaching strategies for maintaining excellent relationships with romantic partners, friends, or family. They can offer support to couples looking to learn better communication skills, problem-solve more efficiently, or improve their sex life. Almost all concerns related to sexual wellness can be brought to a therapist or counselor, including important issues of self-discovery, like exploring your sexual orientation.
If you’re ready to start working with a therapist, Hickory, NC, has plenty of options. As you start your search for a mental health provider, you may also want to consider online therapy among your options. Online therapy takes place remotely via a phone or computer, allowing you to attend sessions from home or anywhere quiet and comfortable. Online therapists have the same credentials as traditional therapists, and many practice both online and in person, meaning the same high-quality care you receive in an office can likely be obtained at home. The practitioners listed below are well-qualified online therapists who may be worth considering in your search.

Dr. Jennifer Deaton
I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina with a Ph.D. in Counselor Education. My background is working with couples and families experiencing life changes and transitions. These transitions and changes may include (but not limited to) grief and loss, interrelationship issues, depression, and anxiety. Through this work, I am able to work on an individual basis or collaborate with other family members to support practices of open and emotion-focused communication. My work with clients begins with developing a working relationship together so that we may collaborate and meet your goals. You know you best. I am simply here to support navigating hardship, redirecting difficult thoughts and feelings, and guide healthy lifestyle changes. But the working relationship must come first. In this process, I have found my clients are most successful when we work together on a reoccurring basis. This is your time set aside to work on the most important person in your life - you. Finding a counselor that is the right fit can be a hard process but it is essential to create change and support your goals. Let's start there and work together. Looking forward to hearing from you! *Please note that my name has changed to Jennifer McAvoy on my license but prefer to maintain Jennifer Deaton professionally. Although, my clients are welcome to call me Jen.

Patricia Price
I hold a Master of Arts degree in Service Agency Counseling, which I received from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke in 2005. I also became licensed in school counseling in 2008 (License Number: 1096979) by North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI). In 2015, I became a National Board Certified Teacher (NBCT) in School Counseling/ Early Childhood Through Young Adulthood (Certificate Number: 02771048). I also During my educational experience, I worked as an intern with Family Alternatives, Inc. in Lumberton, NC, completing 200 hours of counseling experience. After graduating, I gained employment with Family Alternatives, Inc. in June 2006, as a case manager and therapist. In July 2007, I changed courses and began work in the public school setting. I have been employed as a Professional School Counselor in NC Public Schools for 13 years. I am also a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of NC (License # 14606). Before we begin our sessions together, I would like you to understand my personal view of counseling and how I practice it. The following information should help you gain a better grasp of what to expect from your counseling sessions. I view counseling as a relatively short-term, collaborative effort, although I will continue sessions as long as we deem necessary. I believe that in order to reap any benefits from our time together, you must be committed and active. As your counselor, I can only support, educate, and encourage you. You will have to put forth effort in homework assignments, including special exercises or journal writing, for example. Some changes will come more quickly than others, which may require more effort. I subscribe primarily to “Person-Centered Therapy” developed by Dr. Carl Rogers and “Reality Therapy” formulated by Dr. William Glasser. Relying heavily on the methods and techniques form these two theories, I will help you feel more comfortable with the idea of self-exploration. This will enable you to meet your needs in a more effective manner by understanding the consequences of the choices you make. Together, we will identify your goals, the time commitment involved in reaching these goals, the risks and benefits of counseling, and the approaches used in reaching your goals. We will also develop a plan that will be evaluated periodically. If the progress towards these goals is less than satisfactory, we will revise our treatment plan. Although our sessions may be both emotionally and psychologically intimate, it is important for you to understand that the relationship between us is not personal, but strictly professional. In order for you to best address your concerns, it is better for our relationship to reach no further than the confines of our counseling sessions. Even though you may learn a lot about me through my own disclosure, you need to remain aware that you are experiencing me only in my professional role.

Monique Willett
I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC), a Professional Counselor in the states of North Carolina and South Carolina. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in North Carolina as well as a Licensed Clinical Addictions Counselor Associate, (LCAS-a) and Board Certified, Telemental Health counselor (BC-TMH). I have experience working with adults, adolescents, and children both in individual and group settings. I also have experience working with couples, families and in various settings such as schools. Some clinical issues I have the most experience in include depression, anxiety, and stress management. A focus in my treatment is establishing a therapeutic relationship with the person first and foremost as I believe having a good connection helps facilitate effective counseling and provides the best outcomes. In therapy, I am supportive, compassionate, and am present with individuals both in times of struggle as well as times of achievement and progress. I make sure to meet each individual where they are at and actively listen to and respect where they would like to see themselves in the future with the help of therapy and skill development. Working collaboratively with individuals on their treatment goals is a priority throughout treatment and I encourage open communication regarding what therapeutic techniques and approaches work best for the person, to ensure the best therapeutic experience. My counseling style combines strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, and solution-focused approaches to help individuals achieve their therapeutic goals. Identifying one's strengths and coping skills that can be used to help work through various issues is an important part of my therapy approach. I truly value each individual therapeutic relationship and fully empathize with the different emotions a client may experience throughout treatment. I believe that each individual has the ability to overcome struggles but that sometimes-having additional support in the form of therapy can help one to better identify and recognize the coping skills and strengths they already possess. You have taken the first step in creating a healthier, happier you and I would be honored to help you in that journey!

Adrienne Norwood
I would like to thank you for reading my profile! I honor your courage to reach out and seek help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist with over 25 years of experience. I am licensed in several different States to practice and I practice from a Holistic Perspective. It is my belief that you must treat the "whole" person. I incorporate mind, body and spirit into my approach when it comes to assisting others on their journey of healing. It is a journey not a destination. We are always learning, growing, and healing if we choose to do so. Allow me to assist you on your journey of healing and awakening to your Universal Divine Truth. I will assist you by helping you learn to tap into the power within that has always existed! You will discover your true-self and be able to begin creating the life of your dreams. I am both a Spiritual Empowerment (Life) Coach and a Licensed Therapist and can meet either need. Allow me to help you discover the solutions for your life one session at a time! I work with individuals, groups, couples, and/or families who have experienced everything from child abuse, domestic violence, low self-esteem, bereavement, anxiety, parenting issues, and depression just to mention a few. When providing therapy I utilize a holistic wellness approach and use a variety of modalities when dealing with my clients. I do not see you as "your story, your past, your perceived failures." You are so much more than you realize! Through utilizing several different therapy techniques and years of experience, we will begin to explore underlying causes of what has you out of "alignment" and assist you on your path to healing and wellness! I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Again, It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Jeanne Peel
Hello! My name is Jeanne Peel, and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience. I am licensed in Florida, and both North and South Carolina, and have worked with children, teens, and adults in individual, family, couple’s, and group settings. I have worked in community mental health, residential treatment, and private practice doing online therapy, as well as working for an insurance company call center doing mental health assessments to help connect people to therapy. I have helped clients in a wide range of areas including anger management, anxiety, communication issues, depression, grief/loss, low self-esteem, mindfulness, parenting problems, relationship issues, and work/life balance. I have also helped many people who have experienced trauma or various types of abuse. My formal journey to become a therapist started when I was 40, but I think I've been in training my whole life. This isn't just something I DO, it's part of who I AM. I wear lots of hats and am grateful for each of them. I am a veteran myself and have 15 years under my belt as a military spouse, so military folks have an automatic special place in my heart. I have been married and divorced, I have 5 adult kids and 7 grandkids, and I helped my mom care for my dad with Alzheimer's until he died early in October 2021. I am very spiritual and believe we come into each other’s lives for a reason because we all have lessons to learn from one another. I work at staying fit and practicing good self-care by enjoying good nutrition, running, walking, biking, kayaking, yoga, and meditation. My therapeutic approach is eclectic as I pull from different theoretical backgrounds and my own experience to find what is going to be exactly right for you. My style is warm, interactive, and collaborative. I will treat you with respect, sensitivity, and compassion as we work together, and I will do my utmost to “meet you where you are” as I believe you are the expert on living your own life. I believe you already have your own answers deep inside and just need some guidance at times to find them. My approach is person-centered and combines elements of solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, existential, psychodynamic and mindfulness therapies. I feel the two biggest indicators of success in therapy are for the client to be engaged and willing to learn to let go of old self-limiting beliefs and to have a strong rapport in the client-therapist relationship. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps toward change. It also takes courage to look closely at oneself and one’s relationships and to own one’s “stuff”. If you are ready to take that step, then I am here to support and empower you on your journey as we work together and learn from each other. I look forward to working with you!

Karen Tremblay
I am a licensed clinician in North Carolina with more than 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping clients with motivation, self-esteem, and effectively coping with life changes. I believe you are the expert of your story, and you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming obstacles that challenge you. Taking the first step to begin the helping process can take a lot of courage and motivation, I am proud of you for getting started! I generally check messages after 6:00 p.m. and respond as quickly as I can. I do appreciate your patience as I may be tending to other clients or professional/personal responsibilities.

Maritza Ejenbaum
I am a licensed clinical social worker/licensed psychotherapist with 31 years of experience. During the course of my career I have worked to help individuals clients address issues that are standing in the way of them becoming a better version of themselves. I am licensed in the states of Florida and North Carolina. My experience as a psychotherapist has been with people of all ages, a broad range of issues and diverse cultural, ethnic, sexual orientation and spiritual backgrounds. My areas of focus are: helping the individual manage their response to stress in a healthier manner so the stress does not manage the individual, providing education and skills to cope more effectively with anxiety and/or depression, dealing with addictive behaviors, relationship issues, increasing personal empowerment over the consequences of trauma and abuse, developing an understanding of the impact of early life experiences on personal development and impact in present day situations, and improving self esteem/self confidence and self worth. The principles that guide my work as a psychotherapist are as follow: 1) Everyone deserves to be treated with respect, dignity and compassion. 2) Seeking therapy is one of he most courageous, empowering, and healing choices one can make. 3) Helping the individual to understand, heal, and overcome negative life experiences from the past, 4) It is the therapist's responsibility to earn the individual's trust during the course of the therapeutic relationship. 5) Mutual respect and collaboration between the therapist and the individual seeking therapy make it possible for positive change to happen. 6) When it comes to the therapy approach, "One size does not fit all." There is no one specific approach that is effective for everyone. Therapy is tailored to meet each person's unique style to enhance the likelihood of positive results. Congratulations on taking this very brave and important first step on the road to a better you!

Tommy Lopez
I am Christian license and Marriage Family Therapist in North Carolina with 8 years of professional work experience as an LMFT but with over 25 years as a Social Worker and Human Services Professional. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I 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. As a Christian my belief is to "Seek First the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and everything else will be added". This provides the foundation for a strong biblical therapeutic relationship. You taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Please allow the Lord to guide us in our journey towards what God has for you.

Tammy Locascio
I am licensed in North Carolina with 13 years of professional work experience. I 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Kristel Byrd
I am passionate about women's empowerment and helping individuals show up in relationships and life as their authentic selves. My work focuses on guiding people to set boundaries, process trauma, and understand core beliefs, attachment, and relational patterns. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life changes, managing ADHD, and working toward greater balance and fulfillment in their personal and professional lives. I foster a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their religion, spirituality, sexuality, and other sometimes taboo subjects they may have felt unable to discuss with others. There is no judgment—only encouragement to embrace one’s true self as a path to growth and fulfillment. Through exploration and accountability, I help clients discover their passions, develop purpose, and connect with their inner selves to achieve self-actualization. I work with people aged 18 to infinity, cheering them on every step of the way.
Find a therapist serving clients in North Carolina
Types of therapists available to clients in Hickory
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Hickory that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.
Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform
Mental health therapists in Hickory available through BetterHelp are accredited to help individuals and couples. Hickory therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Hickory therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Hickory region and in the state of North Carolina.
How a therapist can help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want
Therapists in Hickory can help clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist in Hickory may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment.