Erik Bates

I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of experience working with adults facing mental health concerns, substance use disorders, and the complicated overlap between the two. Much of my career has been spent in crisis stabilization, residential treatment, PHP, and IOP, supporting clients during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. That experience has shaped how I show up in the therapy room: grounded, direct, and deeply respectful of how hard change can be.

My approach to therapy is open-minded, collaborative, and solution-oriented. I believe therapy works best when it’s honest and practical, not overly rigid or scripted. I aim to meet clients where they are while also helping them move toward meaningful change. Together, we focus on understanding patterns, building insight, and developing tools that actually translate into daily life. I’m direct when it’s helpful, supportive when it’s needed, and always focused on progress rather than perfection. I work hard to create an environment where people feel at ease being themselves and where there’s room to talk openly about difficult thoughts, emotions, and behaviors without fear of judgment. My goal is for therapy to feel like a place where you can take the mask off, sort through what’s really going on, and start making sense of it at your own pace.

In our first session, you can expect a relaxed, conversation focused on getting to know you, what brought you in, what’s been working, what hasn’t, and what you want to be different. We’ll talk about your goals and begin outlining a path forward that feels realistic and aligned with your needs. Whether you’re navigating mental health challenges, substance use concerns, or both, my role is to help you feel supported, understood, and empowered to take the next step toward change.