LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Hickory, NC
You can book with me now by clicking on my website.
Self-exploration is both, the scariest, and most rewarding journey you can embark upon. My studies in mind, body, spirit and nature have prepared me to provide counseling to those who seek to find their authentic selves. My 20+ years of experience have led me to work with a very wide range of clients in all age groups, and with all kinds of needs. I'd be happy to help you on your journey.
You can book with me now by clicking on my website.
Self-exploration is both, the scariest, and most rewarding journey you can embark upon. My studies in mind, body, spirit and nature have prepared me to provide counseling to those who seek to find their authentic selves. My 20+ years of experience have led me to work with a very wide range of clients in all age groups, and with all kinds of needs. I'd be happy to help you on your journey.
Cindy Lineberger, LCSW | Women's Anxiety
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMPH, CMIP
Hickory, NC 28601
You're the 'responsible one', but at what cost? Nothing is falling apart. Yet something feels off—and you can't quite explain why. As far back as you can remember, being capable, disciplined, and independent has been part of who you are. Those qualities have made you successful and dependable—yet it's not as sustainable. Whether navigating chronic illness, burnout, or life transitions like menopause; you simply aren't yourself.
You know it's not selfish to protect your time, yet some part of you still feels anxious when you try. For decades, I've successfully treated women's issues, stress, relational issues, and anxiety.
You're the 'responsible one', but at what cost? Nothing is falling apart. Yet something feels off—and you can't quite explain why. As far back as you can remember, being capable, disciplined, and independent has been part of who you are. Those qualities have made you successful and dependable—yet it's not as sustainable. Whether navigating chronic illness, burnout, or life transitions like menopause; you simply aren't yourself.
You know it's not selfish to protect your time, yet some part of you still feels anxious when you try. For decades, I've successfully treated women's issues, stress, relational issues, and anxiety.
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.
Are you questioning whether trauma or neurodivergence might help explain why focus, organization, social situations, or sensory experiences feel so challenging? Many clients come to therapy feeling emotionally exhausted from navigating chronic stress, burnout, and the pressure to mask who they are in order to fit into a world that often feels overwhelming. Beneath these struggles, unresolved trauma is frequently at the root. Past experiences, whether childhood wounds, relational trauma, invalidation, or years of feeling misunderstood can shape how you see yourself, respond to stress, and connect with others.
Are you questioning whether trauma or neurodivergence might help explain why focus, organization, social situations, or sensory experiences feel so challenging? Many clients come to therapy feeling emotionally exhausted from navigating chronic stress, burnout, and the pressure to mask who they are in order to fit into a world that often feels overwhelming. Beneath these struggles, unresolved trauma is frequently at the root. Past experiences, whether childhood wounds, relational trauma, invalidation, or years of feeling misunderstood can shape how you see yourself, respond to stress, and connect with others.
At some point in our lives, we all face challenges and difficulties. As a counselor, I feel it is my job to help guide and walk with you through these challenges. Through our work, we can navigate life’s obstacles and hardships and move towards accomplishing your therapeutic goals. I believe in illuminating my client’s strengths and utilizing those strengths to conquer anything that stands in their way of wellness, peace, and contentment. Our sessions can be a place to prioritize your needs in a safe, non-judgmental space.
At some point in our lives, we all face challenges and difficulties. As a counselor, I feel it is my job to help guide and walk with you through these challenges. Through our work, we can navigate life’s obstacles and hardships and move towards accomplishing your therapeutic goals. I believe in illuminating my client’s strengths and utilizing those strengths to conquer anything that stands in their way of wellness, peace, and contentment. Our sessions can be a place to prioritize your needs in a safe, non-judgmental space.
Hi! If you're feeling anxious, stuck, or alone, I see you. If you're trying to work through trauma, PTSD, the realities of anxiety or depression, navigate this difficult world, explore your identity, or simply find a safe and supportive space - you are welcome here. Many of the people I work with want tools to help them navigate emotions and this life with a bit more ease, want to trust themselves more, gain a better understanding of themselves, find a genuine space to exist freely, or find a path toward healing. Regardless of your unique needs, I hope to offer you a space that is inclusive, affirming, and safe.
Hi! If you're feeling anxious, stuck, or alone, I see you. If you're trying to work through trauma, PTSD, the realities of anxiety or depression, navigate this difficult world, explore your identity, or simply find a safe and supportive space - you are welcome here. Many of the people I work with want tools to help them navigate emotions and this life with a bit more ease, want to trust themselves more, gain a better understanding of themselves, find a genuine space to exist freely, or find a path toward healing. Regardless of your unique needs, I hope to offer you a space that is inclusive, affirming, and safe.
I am a person who believes all people should have access to a support person in their lives, and I work with a variety of individuals including but not limited to Marriage and Family, Teenagers, Young Adults, Adults, LGBTQIA+, Alternative Relationship Styles.
If you are someone who feels as though the weight of the world is on your shoulders, whether that be struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, personal and professional concerns, or you are simply a person who would love to dive deep into areas for growth within yourself, I would be thrilled to help you navigate the rough waters that exist in day to day life. No one should feel alone when they are struggling. Seeking help and support is an incredible strength and I am extremely invested and passionate about helping someone grow into the most authentic version of themself.
I am a person who believes all people should have access to a support person in their lives, and I work with a variety of individuals including but not limited to Marriage and Family, Teenagers, Young Adults, Adults, LGBTQIA+, Alternative Relationship Styles.
If you are someone who feels as though the weight of the world is on your shoulders, whether that be struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, personal and professional concerns, or you are simply a person who would love to dive deep into areas for growth within yourself, I would be thrilled to help you navigate the rough waters that exist in day to day life. No one should feel alone when they are struggling. Seeking help and support is an incredible strength and I am extremely invested and passionate about helping someone grow into the most authentic version of themself.
I'm passionate about working with individuals somewhere on the LGBTQIA+ spectrum.
I take a neuro and trauma-informed approach. I help people understand how habitual behavioral, cognitive and emotional patterns are just that...habits that neuroscience shows can be replaced. I strive to empower people by helping them learn how to actually rewire the circuitry in their brain, to facilitate lasting neural plasticity and regeneration.
I'm passionate about working with individuals somewhere on the LGBTQIA+ spectrum.
I take a neuro and trauma-informed approach. I help people understand how habitual behavioral, cognitive and emotional patterns are just that...habits that neuroscience shows can be replaced. I strive to empower people by helping them learn how to actually rewire the circuitry in their brain, to facilitate lasting neural plasticity and regeneration.
Jennifer Perry Newman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Are you a member of the Autistic, ADHD, and/or LGBTQ+ communities seeking a therapist with shared lived experience?
As a queer, AuDHD therapist, I can support you in exploring your identities, understanding how you experience the world, processing trauma and anxiety, increasing self-compassion, addressing unmet needs, and navigating life and relationships in affirming, validating ways.
Are you a member of the Autistic, ADHD, and/or LGBTQ+ communities seeking a therapist with shared lived experience?
As a queer, AuDHD therapist, I can support you in exploring your identities, understanding how you experience the world, processing trauma and anxiety, increasing self-compassion, addressing unmet needs, and navigating life and relationships in affirming, validating ways.
Hi, I’m Danielle Poteat. I’m a licensed clinical social worker who helps children, teens, and adults move through trauma, stress, anxiety, and major life transitions. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based practices, but I believe the most meaningful change comes from a genuine, trusting therapeutic relationship. In our work together, you can expect a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel understood, supported, and empowered to make real, lasting shifts in your life. If you’re looking for a therapist who brings both expertise and authenticity to each session, I’d be honored to support you.
Hi, I’m Danielle Poteat. I’m a licensed clinical social worker who helps children, teens, and adults move through trauma, stress, anxiety, and major life transitions. My approach is warm, collaborative, and grounded in evidence-based practices, but I believe the most meaningful change comes from a genuine, trusting therapeutic relationship. In our work together, you can expect a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel understood, supported, and empowered to make real, lasting shifts in your life. If you’re looking for a therapist who brings both expertise and authenticity to each session, I’d be honored to support you.
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.
My passion is helping people who have experienced a loss. Loss and grief is universal, often debilitating and difficult to navigate. 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. The list goes on and on.
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.
My passion is helping people who have experienced a loss. Loss and grief is universal, often debilitating and difficult to navigate. 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. The list goes on and on.
If you are looking for quality therapy by clinicians who treat you as a whole, unique person (body, mind, and spirit), Wisdom Path is a good fit for you. Everyone is exposed to multiple stresses, and we struggle with the demands of a fast-paced society. Often, we develop unhealthy ways of compulsively numbing ourselves though work, food, sex, gambling, shopping, substances, or social media. At Wisdom Path, we facilitate you becoming fully present in your life, creating meaning, and developing intimate connections with others. We don't just treat mental health issues; we promote wellness and growth.
If you are looking for quality therapy by clinicians who treat you as a whole, unique person (body, mind, and spirit), Wisdom Path is a good fit for you. Everyone is exposed to multiple stresses, and we struggle with the demands of a fast-paced society. Often, we develop unhealthy ways of compulsively numbing ourselves though work, food, sex, gambling, shopping, substances, or social media. At Wisdom Path, we facilitate you becoming fully present in your life, creating meaning, and developing intimate connections with others. We don't just treat mental health issues; we promote wellness and growth.
Crystal D. Smith
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MACC, LCMHC-S
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide Therapy for depression, marriage counseling, couples counseling, women's issues, trauma, abuse, PTSD, LGBTQ and Trans specific issues, etc.
People from all walks of life are my passion and I am here to help you through tough times in your life. I am especially passionate about helping those in the LGBTQ community with relationship issues, coming out, finding your place in this world, transitioning, etc. My offices are safe, welcoming environments that value your diversity without judgment.
I provide Therapy for depression, marriage counseling, couples counseling, women's issues, trauma, abuse, PTSD, LGBTQ and Trans specific issues, etc.
People from all walks of life are my passion and I am here to help you through tough times in your life. I am especially passionate about helping those in the LGBTQ community with relationship issues, coming out, finding your place in this world, transitioning, etc. My offices are safe, welcoming environments that value your diversity without judgment.
Porn addiction? Sex addiction? Has an affair or sexual behavior put your relationship at risk? Many clients contact me after promising themselves or their partner they would stop, yet finding the behavior keeps returning. If secrecy, porn use, or sexual behavior has created shame, conflict, or a crisis in your relationship, you’re not alone. I help clients understand the deeper patterns driving these behaviors and develop practical strategies for lasting change. Recovery from sex addiction is possible with the right structure, accountability, and support. Contact me to schedule an appointment.
Porn addiction? Sex addiction? Has an affair or sexual behavior put your relationship at risk? Many clients contact me after promising themselves or their partner they would stop, yet finding the behavior keeps returning. If secrecy, porn use, or sexual behavior has created shame, conflict, or a crisis in your relationship, you’re not alone. I help clients understand the deeper patterns driving these behaviors and develop practical strategies for lasting change. Recovery from sex addiction is possible with the right structure, accountability, and support. Contact me to schedule an appointment.
As a therapist, I believe that every life is a story worth telling. Through guided reflection and thoughtful exploration, I help individuals uncover the meaningful moments, challenges, and triumphs that shape their journey. Writing your life story is not just about capturing events it's about finding your voice, embracing your experiences, and understanding how they have shaped the person you are today. Whether you seek healing, clarity, or a deeper connection to your own narrative, I am here to support you in crafting a story that honors your unique path.
As a therapist, I believe that every life is a story worth telling. Through guided reflection and thoughtful exploration, I help individuals uncover the meaningful moments, challenges, and triumphs that shape their journey. Writing your life story is not just about capturing events it's about finding your voice, embracing your experiences, and understanding how they have shaped the person you are today. Whether you seek healing, clarity, or a deeper connection to your own narrative, I am here to support you in crafting a story that honors your unique path.
I work with clients who identify as LGBTQIA as well as folks who identify as kinky, polyamorous or queer.
Sometimes who we think we are "supposed" to be and who we are in our truth don't always line up causing anxiety, depression, conflict in relationships and career. Recognizing and allowing the true self to emerge is empowering and challenging. I will work collaboratively with you to discover this truth and build skills and refine strategies to support you along the journey - uncovering your strengths, your desires and empowering your True self. We will chat, move, breathe, and write. The body is the anchor -sometimes we forget how wise and rich it is. We will see if we can rediscover this truth. I think we can.
I work with clients who identify as LGBTQIA as well as folks who identify as kinky, polyamorous or queer.
Sometimes who we think we are "supposed" to be and who we are in our truth don't always line up causing anxiety, depression, conflict in relationships and career. Recognizing and allowing the true self to emerge is empowering and challenging. I will work collaboratively with you to discover this truth and build skills and refine strategies to support you along the journey - uncovering your strengths, your desires and empowering your True self. We will chat, move, breathe, and write. The body is the anchor -sometimes we forget how wise and rich it is. We will see if we can rediscover this truth. I think we can.
Stephen
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CST
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I also am an advocate for LGBTQ individuals, specifically when they have conflicts 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 have conflicts 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.
There’s excitement around babies—the coos, cuddles, and moments. Yet, new parenthood can be overwhelming, leaving you with brain fog, body changes, and isolation. I specialize in helping individuals and couples through fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum challenges as well as adults healing emotional wounds from childhood through reparenting. Whether you’re trying to conceive, managing pregnancy struggles, adjusting to life after birth, or you just want to enjoy your successes, I offer a supportive space to navigate these changes and reconnect with yourself and loved ones.
There’s excitement around babies—the coos, cuddles, and moments. Yet, new parenthood can be overwhelming, leaving you with brain fog, body changes, and isolation. I specialize in helping individuals and couples through fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum challenges as well as adults healing emotional wounds from childhood through reparenting. Whether you’re trying to conceive, managing pregnancy struggles, adjusting to life after birth, or you just want to enjoy your successes, I offer a supportive space to navigate these changes and reconnect with yourself and loved ones.
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.
Hypnosis works to stop smoking, weight loss, stress, pain management, restructuring and reinventing your life . It also works for creating a positive new way of life.
Hypnosis works to stop smoking, weight loss, stress, pain management, restructuring and reinventing your life . It also works for creating a positive new way of life.
See more therapy options for Hickory
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Hickory
- Cherryville
- Conover
- Denver
- Lenoir
- Lincolnton
- Mooresville
- Morganton
- Sherrills Ford
- Stanley
- Statesville
- Taylorsville
- 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.