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. 

Psychologist Lindsey Hancock providing different types of therapy in Hickory

Lindsey Hancock

Clinician
License Type(s): LCSW,LCDC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
4 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a diverse range of clients. Some client issues covered in session have included depression, anxiety, relationship issues, military trauma, and sexual trauma. My counseling style is rooted in acceptance. I believe in treating clients with respect, dignity, and compassion. Trained in a variety of modalities, I will tailor our interactions to meet your specific needs. It takes courage to seek change towards a happier life. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and help empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Stefanie Summers providing different types of therapy in Hickory

Stefanie Summers

Clinician
License Type(s): LCSW
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years offering treatment

Stefanie has 20+ years of civilian and military clinical practice experience and recently has added energy healing into her eclectic practice. Having worked with the homeless, severely mentally ill and emotionally disturbed adults and teens, soldiers and airmen with combat and war-related issues, children of foster care and adoption, abuse and trauma victims, Stefanie is able to offer a well-rounded therapeutic wellness experience. Using holistic strengths-based and integrative behavioral health and energy healing modalities, she can help you experience a beautiful internal healing transformation. Stefanie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Level 1 Integral Sound Healer, and a certified Reiki Master practitioner. She began practicing non-clinical social work upon graduating from the University of Alaska at Fairbanks in 1997, with a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work. In 2001, Stefanie graduated with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Denver, in Colorado. She became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 2008 and has continued her career in the field of social work, practicing psychotherapy and energy healing.

Psychologist Dr. Brian Esterling providing different types of therapy in Hickory

Dr. Brian Esterling

Clinician
License Type(s): MBA,PhD
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoaching
30 years offering treatment

Hello! My name is Brian and I am a Licensed Psychologist with over 30 years of experience in the field. I began my career on the faculty at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, NC where I saw clients and supervised psychiatric interns completing their outpatient rotations. I have also served as the Clinical Director for a national managed care organization, where I was responsible for monitoring and ensuring best practice treatment planning and therapeutic techniques from over 5,000 practitioners across the United States in a wide range of therapeutic settings including inpatient hospitalization, partial and intensive outpatient care, and outpatient settings. I am currently serving as the Chair of the Graduate Psychology program at a major online university in Florida. Clinically, I work with clients affected by depression, anxiety, self-esteem/motivation, and career challenges. Originally from the mid-west, I currently reside in south Florida. I received my undergraduate degree in Psychology and Biochemisty from Rutgers College in New Brunswick, NJ and my Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Miami in Coral Gables, FL. I also returned to school following my Doctoral degree to obtain an MBA from Pfeiffer University in Charlotte, NC as I am also interested in looking at financial models that promote greater quality of care in behavioral health settings. My approach to therapy is both client-centered and solution-oriented. I strongly believe that clients are the experts of their lives and can be empowered to make changes that allow them to reach their goals. I assist clients in identifying areas of focus (i.e., a roadmap to what they want to achieve in therapy) as well as the steps necessary to take to make the positive changes that they desire. This is accomplished through Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques where I assist clients in exploring relationships among their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that may be contributing to barriers to their short- and long-term goals, ultimately creating a path to positive outcomes. Outside of my work, I am a competitive rower and devoted father of two wonderful children. I enjoy spending time with my wife and children, traveling, home improvement projects and restoring and maintaining my classic sports car.

Psychologist Mary Walston providing different types of therapy in Hickory

Mary Walston

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
11 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with over 10 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, grief and life's transitions. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I believe in collaborating with the client to identify root causes and cycles that can be problematic to the client or the family. My counseling style is warm, accepting & interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I fully believe that therapy can be a step a significant step toward repair and healing. My approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, Person Centered and Ecosystem Structured Family Therapy. Every session will be customized to meet your unique and specific needs. 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! Mary Walston, LCMHC

Psychologist Pamela Hines providing different types of therapy in Hickory

Pamela Hines

Clinician
License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years offering treatment

Do you hide your true self or feel invisible? Do you find yourself retreating from life, feeling alone or overwhelmed due to life’s struggles or memories of the past? Sometimes you may even feel misunderstood and unappreciated and find that your thoughts and feelings only come out in measured words and controlled emotions. If so, let’s begin the healing process together. For years, I have been passionate about enriching lives through therapy and education, along with having extensive experience in victim advocacy and crisis intervention with survivors of sexual assault, abuse, and domestic violence. These experiences, along with many more, fuel my desire to help you navigate all of life’s unexpected twists and turns. The canvas of life is vibrant and together we can begin the process of restoring your strength, power, control, and peace of mind.

Psychologist Kimberly (Kim) Henley providing different types of therapy in Hickory

Kimberly (Kim) Henley

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
9 years offering treatment

I am a licensed counselor and supervisor in North Carolina with 9+ years of professional work experience in counseling and over 20 years of experience in the mental health field in North Carolina. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Donna Jeane Pappas providing different types of therapy in Hickory

Donna Jeane Pappas

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
32 years offering treatment

How do you go about achieving your personal possibility? Perhaps you are seeking change, whether for self, current circumstances, seeking new directions or navigating life transitions . I will help you discover and design the life you want. There are ways to be happier. Happiness is not necessarily a destination but something you can work to create among every day ups and downs and even with significant life challenges. I am energized by guiding and supporting clients in creating their well lived life. As a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina for over 32 years, my professional experience has been diverse and varied. The thread throughout my counseling career is gain perspective (both of self and those around you) and growing from life challenges. I have worked with individuals and families coping with major health issues and life threatening illnesses, along with helping clients through the grieving process of a significant life loss. Through the years clients come with various issues (developmental milestones-college new career, retirement, relationship, parenting, adult child/older parents). In today's world there are may stressors that can enter our life. I see my role is to provide new tools and along with helping the client look at what has worked previously. This creates strategies for problem solving and enhancing your daily life experience. My therapy approach combines elements of positive psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy, reality therapy, solution focused and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy . Most important in working with you, I want to understand your strengths, values and your vision of your best self and your life. My priority is to meet you where you are with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I want to understand your concerns and specific needs, along with how you think I can best help you. Then we can work together to develop a treatment plan and goals. It begins with taking steps forward. I am here to partner with you to support, equip and empower you as you take your steps.

Psychologist Kelly Stone providing different types of therapy in Hickory

Kelly Stone

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
8 years offering treatment

I am licensed in North Carolina with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues (romantic, family, or professionally), intimacy related issues, & depression. I also have experience working with clients who have personality disorders and bipolar disorder. I believe in a holistic approach and will collaborate with you as 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!

Psychologist Tracy Herriott providing different types of therapy in Hickory

Tracy Herriott

Clinician
License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (NC) with 25 years of professional clinical work experience. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families seeking supportive counseling services. I have provided treatment services in the community, acute in-patient, out-patient, partial hospital, and private practice. I am experienced in helping clients work through anxiety, stress, low self -esteem, relationship distress, trauma/loss, abuse, depression and conflict resolution. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy will take courage and I look forward to working together toward resolving life challenges and progressing toward achieving your personal goals.

Psychologist Sherry Lyerly-Tarner providing different types of therapy in Hickory

Sherry Lyerly-Tarner

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
13 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with over 13 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges and find healing. My approach to therapy is integrative, meaning I draw from a variety of traditional and holistic techniques to meet the unique needs of each client. I believe that healing happens when we address the whole person — mind, body, and spirit — and I strive to create a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can feel safe to explore their experiences, gain self-awareness, and foster personal growth. I specialize in working with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem challenges, relationship issues, life transitions, and family stress. I also have extensive experience working with clients struggling with disordered eating and body image issues, drawing from my background in yoga, mindfulness, and holistic nutrition to support healing and self-acceptance. I previously led yoga classes in an intensive outpatient recovery program for eating disorders, which deepened my understanding of the mind-body connection in recovery. I have extensive training in trauma recovery, high-conflict divorce, and navigating the challenges of separation, divorce, and blended families. Additionally, I am passionate about supporting clients recovering from narcissistic abuse and other abusive relationships. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP), I integrate evidence-based therapeutic approaches with experiential and holistic modalities such as mindfulness, yoga therapy, somatic approaches, expressive arts, and Reiki healing. I am also a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional (CIMHP), allowing me to address the connection between mental health and physical wellness, including the role of nutrition and mind-body balance in overall healing. In addition to individual and couples counseling, I also lead workshops, groups, and classes focused on stress reduction, mindfulness, yoga, and energy healing for adults and teens in my practice in NC. My background as a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) and Reiki Master Teacher (RMT) informs much of my work, offering clients practical tools for grounding, healing, and reconnecting with themselves. I am also trained in equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAGALA model) and have experience working with active-duty military and veterans healing from trauma and PTSD. I believe that every individual has an innate capacity for resilience and healing. It takes courage to seek support, and I am honored to walk alongside my clients on their journey toward clarity, self-discovery, and well-being. Whether you’re navigating a major life transition, healing from past trauma, working through disordered eating or body image challenges, or simply seeking greater balance and fulfillment, I am here to support and empower you every step of the way.

Find a therapist serving clients in North Carolina

What types of therapists are 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), therapeutic 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 as psychologists 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 can a therapist 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. 

Is it better to find a mental health counselor or therapist in Hickory offering online therapy or in person?

Studies show online therapy can be just as effective as in-person counseling. Online therapy with licensed counselors is often more affordable, with BetterHelp pricing ranging from $65-$100 weekly, while in person therapy can cost up to $200 per session.

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