Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Hickory, NC covered by United Healthcare

I am professional, compassionate, empathetic, and honest.

I'm Lucy Maina, a Board Certified, Licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) at Therapeutic Alliance Behavioral Health. I provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care and psychotherapy for people of all ages — children, adolescents, and adults — in a safe, nonjudgmental space where your experience is always validated.

I specialize in treating anxiety, ADHD, depression, chronic fatigue, irritability, and emotional numbness, including the unique stress that comes with caregiving. I also have experience supporting neurodiverse individuals and those living with autism spectrum disorder or schizophrenia, offering sensory-considerate evaluations, communication accommodations, and relapse prevention planning tailored to your needs.

I bring over 20 years of experience in mental health, addiction counseling, public health, and higher education leadership into my work with clients. My approach is grounded in both clinical expertise and lived experience, which allows me to meet you not just as a professional—but as a whole person who understands complexity, transition, and healing on multiple levels.

My work centers on helping individuals reconnect with who they are at their core—beyond survival, expectations, or systems that may have shaped them. I integrate emotional wellness, identity exploration, and purpose-driven growth into our work together.

Whether you are navigating anxiety, burnout, life transitions, relationship challenges, or questions around identity and purpose, I create a space where you can show up fully and begin the process of realignment and healing.

Please DO NOT BOOK consultations or appointments on Headway. My booking link is: https://sisterwells.janeapp.com/

I believe healing is an ongoing journey that looks different for each individual. I invoke a holistic approach and utilize approaches based in psychodynamic theory, motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness techniques. As part of the therapeutic process, I want to build a brave space with you, and empower you through your healing journey.

With over a decade of experience, I offer tailored therapy for diverse challenges: Disruptive Behavior, Parental Stress, LGBTQIA Support, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Relationships, Grief, Life Transitions, BIPOC Concerns, and Personal Growth. I use a holistic approach integrating Trauma-Informed Care, CBT, and Behavior Therapy. Let's work towards healing and growth together!

I believe therapy works best when clients feel safe, heard, and genuinely supported. I strive to create a warm, nonjudgmental, and collaborative environment where clients can show up as their authentic selves. My approach is compassionate, direct when needed, and focused on helping clients build practical tools for everyday life while also exploring deeper emotional patterns and experiences.

I enjoy working with individuals navigating anxiety, life transitions, relationship concerns, self-esteem challenges, stress, identity exploration, and emotional overwhelm. I am passionate about supporting LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC clients and creating an affirming therapeutic space where clients feel respected and understood.

I understand that starting therapy can feel vulnerable, and my goal is to meet clients where they are while helping them move toward healing, clarity, and meaningful growth.

I am a "tomboy" at heart! I love motorcycles, dogs, horses, the beach, running, and live music. But are we a good therapy match? You decide- AAS-Agribusiness, BSW-Social Work, MSW-Social Work. Work History: 8 years in Public Health, 5 years in Child Welfare, 2 years in Caregiving, 2 years in Developmental Disabilities, 8 years in Mental Health. Did I mention that I worked for DuPont for 10 years before going back to school for social work? I have a strong work ethic-that means I give you 100%.

I hold a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Tennessee and hold my clinical licensure in the state of North Carolina. I have spent much of my career serving those at end of life and also have experience assisting caregivers, those in transitional phases of life, and those who are bereaved. As a mother, I am invested in the wellness of all mothers and women and feel deep appreciation for the way mothers show up for countless others before themselves. I look forward to learning how I can walk alongside you in this journey.