LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Hickory, NC
Renee Heagney
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28602
Hi, my name is Renee Heagney, LCMHC. I earned my degree in Dance/Movement Therapy from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY. I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor and board certified dance/movement therapist. I also have training in adaptive yoga interventions. My work experience has been in hospitals, schools, and community mental health settings. I am rostered to provide TF-CBT, and specialize in treating trauma and working with and advocating for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hi, my name is Renee Heagney, LCMHC. I earned my degree in Dance/Movement Therapy from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY. I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor and board certified dance/movement therapist. I also have training in adaptive yoga interventions. My work experience has been in hospitals, schools, and community mental health settings. I am rostered to provide TF-CBT, and specialize in treating trauma and working with and advocating for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Crystal D. Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACC, LCMHC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28601
I am especially passionate about helping those in the LGBTQ community with relationship issues, coming out, finding your place in this world, transitioning, etc.
I provide Therapy for depression, marriage counseling, couples counseling, women's issues, trauma, abuse, PTSD, LGBTQ and Trans specific issues, etc. I work with a variety of people who are at different places in their lives. As a Therapist I offer a personalized approach that is tailored to each client's needs, focusing on the personal growth that each person desires. My therapeutic style is active and engaging, with the intention of fostering insight, awareness and facilitating desired change. My counseling agency also offers a variety of support groups and counselor supervision. Please take that first step, call to inquire.
I am especially passionate about helping those in the LGBTQ community with relationship issues, coming out, finding your place in this world, transitioning, etc.
I provide Therapy for depression, marriage counseling, couples counseling, women's issues, trauma, abuse, PTSD, LGBTQ and Trans specific issues, etc. I work with a variety of people who are at different places in their lives. As a Therapist I offer a personalized approach that is tailored to each client's needs, focusing on the personal growth that each person desires. My therapeutic style is active and engaging, with the intention of fostering insight, awareness and facilitating desired change. My counseling agency also offers a variety of support groups and counselor supervision. Please take that first step, call to inquire.
At Teen Health Connection, we empower every adolescent to be healthy, safe, and successful. Our team of 12 therapists specialize in working with adolescents and their families and use evidence-based practices to treat a variety of mental health disorders. Some of our specialties include anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQ+, and disordered eating. For more information about our therapists, please visit our website at TeenHealthConnection.org/Behavioral-Health/.
At Teen Health Connection, we empower every adolescent to be healthy, safe, and successful. Our team of 12 therapists specialize in working with adolescents and their families and use evidence-based practices to treat a variety of mental health disorders. Some of our specialties include anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQ+, and disordered eating. For more information about our therapists, please visit our website at TeenHealthConnection.org/Behavioral-Health/.
Nicole Mosteller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28601
Many issues are discussed in my safe environment such as: anxiety/depression, relationship and family issues, co-dependency, lesbian/ gay challenges, sexual and intimacy challenges, abusive relationships, self esteem/body image, ADD/ADHD and adjustment to lifes twists and turns, etc.
I provide counseling and life enrichment services for teens, adults, families, couples, and groups. My office is a safe atmosphere welcoming diversity in culture, in sexual orientation, religion, and other factors of difference. Our lives can be wonderful, tragic, amazing, challenging and we go on many journeys and walk on many paths along the way. Sometimes we just need someone to talk to, bounce ideas off of, find peace and healing with or just explore what makes us tick. Allow me to be with you on these journeys of life.
Many issues are discussed in my safe environment such as: anxiety/depression, relationship and family issues, co-dependency, lesbian/ gay challenges, sexual and intimacy challenges, abusive relationships, self esteem/body image, ADD/ADHD and adjustment to lifes twists and turns, etc.
I provide counseling and life enrichment services for teens, adults, families, couples, and groups. My office is a safe atmosphere welcoming diversity in culture, in sexual orientation, religion, and other factors of difference. Our lives can be wonderful, tragic, amazing, challenging and we go on many journeys and walk on many paths along the way. Sometimes we just need someone to talk to, bounce ideas off of, find peace and healing with or just explore what makes us tick. Allow me to be with you on these journeys of life.
THE Change From Within Counseling Center PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MEd, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28601
We also specialize in working with those who identify as Transgender, through all stages of their journey.
Are you walking through life feeling as though something is missing? Maybe, it's joy, fulfillment, success, career advancement, or even a relationship? Do you try to please others to avoid working on yourself? Is it possible you've tried to fix yourself, but it was just a matter of time before you fell back into your old habits? If you answered yes to any of those you questions you are not alone & you don't have to go through these feelings by yourself any longer. We want to you get the life you desire, the life you deserve. Let us help you get your life back on track TODAY! Please email us to get started on your journey of change.
We also specialize in working with those who identify as Transgender, through all stages of their journey.
Are you walking through life feeling as though something is missing? Maybe, it's joy, fulfillment, success, career advancement, or even a relationship? Do you try to please others to avoid working on yourself? Is it possible you've tried to fix yourself, but it was just a matter of time before you fell back into your old habits? If you answered yes to any of those you questions you are not alone & you don't have to go through these feelings by yourself any longer. We want to you get the life you desire, the life you deserve. Let us help you get your life back on track TODAY! Please email us to get started on your journey of change.
Liz Sakatos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28601 (Online Only)
I have had over 15 years of professional counseling experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, parenting support, life transitions, self-esteem, marriage and family issues, and LGBTQIA+.
I specialize in helping clients learn to take control of their anxiety and lives by examining the impact of internal pressure (like unhealthy self-talk) and external triggers (like toxic relationships) and replacing what doesn't work with strategies to feel more empowered. I firmly believe that the way that we speak to ourselves impacts how we handle the pressures we face and let's be honest, we are often our own harshest critics. That is why I use a strengths-based approach to treatment to help clients get rid of hurtful self-talk and learn to embrace their own power!
I have had over 15 years of professional counseling experience working with depression, anxiety, trauma, parenting support, life transitions, self-esteem, marriage and family issues, and LGBTQIA+.
I specialize in helping clients learn to take control of their anxiety and lives by examining the impact of internal pressure (like unhealthy self-talk) and external triggers (like toxic relationships) and replacing what doesn't work with strategies to feel more empowered. I firmly believe that the way that we speak to ourselves impacts how we handle the pressures we face and let's be honest, we are often our own harshest critics. That is why I use a strengths-based approach to treatment to help clients get rid of hurtful self-talk and learn to embrace their own power!
Katharine Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28601 (Online Only)
Seeking therapy can be difficult, and being here tells me you desire change. Change can be resolving a problem, addressing symptoms or seeking something more. I work as a partner with you to facilitate meaningful life changes. Through innovative and dynamic approaches you will go on a journey into your self, embracing what you can become. We will address fears and barriers that have been holding you back. I have a vast array of clinical knowledge and specialize in areas of depression, LGB issues, transgender issues, chronic illnesses, domestic violence and survivors of trauma.
Seeking therapy can be difficult, and being here tells me you desire change. Change can be resolving a problem, addressing symptoms or seeking something more. I work as a partner with you to facilitate meaningful life changes. Through innovative and dynamic approaches you will go on a journey into your self, embracing what you can become. We will address fears and barriers that have been holding you back. I have a vast array of clinical knowledge and specialize in areas of depression, LGB issues, transgender issues, chronic illnesses, domestic violence and survivors of trauma.
Kathryn Shanks
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28601 (Online Only)
I work with people who feel overwhelmed - by relationships, big transitions, life. They want to become more fully aware of and confident in themselves, and long to find freedom from the patterns that hold them back in life. My attachment training and relational approach tends to draw folks who are looking for support around relationships with partners, family, friends, and themselves. Many of them identify as queer, non-monogamous, and/or neurodivergent. They usually share that our work together has helped them to feel more at home in their own skin and more confident in their own strength, beauty, and wisdom.
I work with people who feel overwhelmed - by relationships, big transitions, life. They want to become more fully aware of and confident in themselves, and long to find freedom from the patterns that hold them back in life. My attachment training and relational approach tends to draw folks who are looking for support around relationships with partners, family, friends, and themselves. Many of them identify as queer, non-monogamous, and/or neurodivergent. They usually share that our work together has helped them to feel more at home in their own skin and more confident in their own strength, beauty, and wisdom.
You may have experienced the loss of a loved one, relationship/marriage, job, home, pet, health, identity, family after coming out LGBTQ+, career/self worth at retirement, empty nest.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and have worked over the last 15 + years helping people through difficult times in their lives. I am compassionate, caring and offer a safe place to express your feelings without judgement, to improve your life regardless of the issues you face. I help people experiencing loss and grief, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, life changes, self-worth, relationship/marital issues, chronic/terminal illness, adjustment at retirement, and many other issues that maybe keeping you from living your best life. The holistic approach I incorporate is always tailored to your specific issues and needs.
You may have experienced the loss of a loved one, relationship/marriage, job, home, pet, health, identity, family after coming out LGBTQ+, career/self worth at retirement, empty nest.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and have worked over the last 15 + years helping people through difficult times in their lives. I am compassionate, caring and offer a safe place to express your feelings without judgement, to improve your life regardless of the issues you face. I help people experiencing loss and grief, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, life changes, self-worth, relationship/marital issues, chronic/terminal illness, adjustment at retirement, and many other issues that maybe keeping you from living your best life. The holistic approach I incorporate is always tailored to your specific issues and needs.
Stephen McAlister
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28601 (Online Only)
I also am an advocate for LGBTQ individuals, specifically when they are in conflict with their faith backgrounds.
I am an advocate for empowering secret-holders to let go of their burdens to create new freedom. Whether it's dealing with the shame of substance abuse issues, fear surrounding sexual identity concerns, underlying dread from childhood traumas, or ongoing guilt of "forgotten crimes" from the past. I offer a safe space to put your story to rest. Working together, we create a new story that gives you authenticity, community, and possibility.
I also am an advocate for LGBTQ individuals, specifically when they are in conflict with their faith backgrounds.
I am an advocate for empowering secret-holders to let go of their burdens to create new freedom. Whether it's dealing with the shame of substance abuse issues, fear surrounding sexual identity concerns, underlying dread from childhood traumas, or ongoing guilt of "forgotten crimes" from the past. I offer a safe space to put your story to rest. Working together, we create a new story that gives you authenticity, community, and possibility.
Jennifer Perry Newman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28602 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you are neurodivergent, Autistic, ADHD, queer+, trans+, or nonbinary, your way of being human is valued here.
Are you a member of a neurodivergent and/or LGBTQIA+ community seeking a therapist who gets it? Are you tired of navigating spaces that don't affirm your identities or align with the way you thrive as a human? Do you need support with school, relationships, life experiences - and solutions that actually work for you?
Whether you are neurodivergent, Autistic, ADHD, queer+, trans+, or nonbinary, your way of being human is valued here.
Are you a member of a neurodivergent and/or LGBTQIA+ community seeking a therapist who gets it? Are you tired of navigating spaces that don't affirm your identities or align with the way you thrive as a human? Do you need support with school, relationships, life experiences - and solutions that actually work for you?
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Attuned Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28603
Are you still figuring it all out? We all should be! Life is a journey full of personal growth, discovery, and healing. I have witnessed the powerful transformations and healing that occurs when the right therapeutic connection can happen. I am passionate about helping others engage more meaningfully in their lives. While working with me, you will have the space to explore how to change old patterns in your life, gain an understanding of why these patterns exist, and discover new ways of being in the world that fits in with your values.
Are you still figuring it all out? We all should be! Life is a journey full of personal growth, discovery, and healing. I have witnessed the powerful transformations and healing that occurs when the right therapeutic connection can happen. I am passionate about helping others engage more meaningfully in their lives. While working with me, you will have the space to explore how to change old patterns in your life, gain an understanding of why these patterns exist, and discover new ways of being in the world that fits in with your values.
Amy brings a patient and calming spirit to therapy, along with her good spirited humor, creating a safe environment for her clients to address their needs. "Therapy can be hard work. It is important to feel accepted in the therapy space and have faith that your therapist "gets you" and is ready to bear witness to whatever need you bring to each session. I am truly grateful to get to witness this with my client and join them in their growth process." Amy enjoys working with individuals, couples, children and adolescents.
Amy brings a patient and calming spirit to therapy, along with her good spirited humor, creating a safe environment for her clients to address their needs. "Therapy can be hard work. It is important to feel accepted in the therapy space and have faith that your therapist "gets you" and is ready to bear witness to whatever need you bring to each session. I am truly grateful to get to witness this with my client and join them in their growth process." Amy enjoys working with individuals, couples, children and adolescents.
Jaymie Rowe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28601
Therapy is a growth experience that can influence the way you view the world and yourself. As humans, we all experience times of discomfort and life transitions. Therapy is not only for those suffering from addiction or mental illness. It is also a way to gain skills, enhance your performance, and learn more about yourself. Barriers to becoming who you want to be can be explored in therapy and work to re-building life, relationships, and even your career.
Therapy is a growth experience that can influence the way you view the world and yourself. As humans, we all experience times of discomfort and life transitions. Therapy is not only for those suffering from addiction or mental illness. It is also a way to gain skills, enhance your performance, and learn more about yourself. Barriers to becoming who you want to be can be explored in therapy and work to re-building life, relationships, and even your career.
Solutions was founded in 2000. We are a private psychology and counseling practice dedicated to providing exceptional professional services in a warm and comfortable environment. We would love to meet you and help you to overcome your challenges and meet your goals.
Solutions was founded in 2000. We are a private psychology and counseling practice dedicated to providing exceptional professional services in a warm and comfortable environment. We would love to meet you and help you to overcome your challenges and meet your goals.
Janet Reading
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, , LMFT
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28601 (Online Only)
In my counseling practice, I focus on assisting those who are transitioning out of previously intimate relationships and support them as they seek to redefine and rediscover themselves as individuals. This process often involves re-examining one’s self-esteem, self-worth, values, and emotional security, all of which may have been threatened or damaged in former relationships. It is my firmly held clinical and personal belief that, following the ending of a relationship, we all have the choice as to whether we become bitter, or even better, as a result of our life’s experiences.
In my counseling practice, I focus on assisting those who are transitioning out of previously intimate relationships and support them as they seek to redefine and rediscover themselves as individuals. This process often involves re-examining one’s self-esteem, self-worth, values, and emotional security, all of which may have been threatened or damaged in former relationships. It is my firmly held clinical and personal belief that, following the ending of a relationship, we all have the choice as to whether we become bitter, or even better, as a result of our life’s experiences.
Breathe Wellness Counseling PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
Hickory, NC 28601 (Online Only)
Empower Your Journey: From Inner Balance to Outer Peace. Healing is a journey that requires understanding, patience, and support.
Empower Your Journey: From Inner Balance to Outer Peace. Healing is a journey that requires understanding, patience, and support.
India McWhorter
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28601 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm India. I work with emerging, young & older adults (17+) from all walks of life who feel that hope seems out of reach right now. In our work together, I aim to better understand the barriers that may be relentlessly working against you. But there is hope that lives alongside the struggle, the kind of hope that comes from a willingness to face reality and still choose to see where beauty and light can be found. We’ll search for it together.
Hi, I'm India. I work with emerging, young & older adults (17+) from all walks of life who feel that hope seems out of reach right now. In our work together, I aim to better understand the barriers that may be relentlessly working against you. But there is hope that lives alongside the struggle, the kind of hope that comes from a willingness to face reality and still choose to see where beauty and light can be found. We’ll search for it together.
Katrina Belmont
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hickory, NC 28602
I want to help create a foundation for your life in which you can grow, prosper, and live the most fulfilling life possible. We often underestimate the amount of resilience and ability we have to overcome obstacles in our lives. Therapy can help you cultivate that resilience.
I want to help create a foundation for your life in which you can grow, prosper, and live the most fulfilling life possible. We often underestimate the amount of resilience and ability we have to overcome obstacles in our lives. Therapy can help you cultivate that resilience.
See more therapy options for Hickory
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Hickory
- Catawba
- Conover
- Denver
- Hiddenite
- Iron Station
- Lenoir
- Lincolnton
- Morganton
- Newton
- Sherrills Ford
- Statesville
- Troutman
LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.