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

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 have over 10 years of experience as a social worker assisting those with chronic mental health struggles. I specialize in anxiety, OCD & phobias, mood disorders and general work with adults experiencing challenging life stressors, change or loss. No matter what life stage you are in, therapy can help you cope and learn to thrive.

My name is Dr. Joyce Brunson, and I’m the founder and lead provider at Lifeworks Behavioral Health Solutions, a telehealth practice dedicated to helping individuals of all backgrounds navigate life’s challenges with dignity, support, and expert care.

As a doctorate-level Nurse Practitioner (DNP, ACACNP, PMHNP-BC) licensed in North Carolina.

At Lifeworks, I provide personalized medication management for conditions including:

· Anxiety and panic disorders

· Depression and mood disorders

· PTSD and trauma-related symptoms

· ADHD and attention difficulties

· Weight-related concerns and chronic pain

I believe there is power in learning to balance our lives emotionally and spiritually. I have 20-plus years as a counselor and have been able to help clients find emotional and general life balance. I draw from primary treatment modalities of Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic and Existential Theories. Ideally, at the conclusion of counseling, a client will be able to actively deal with their internal states in a way that allows them to feel more at peace with increased self-esteem, and well-being.

I am offering immediate appointment slots and flexible rates during this difficult time. Are you struggling with anxiety and depression due to COVID-19? Do you feel uncertain about how to move forward during this difficult time? You may feel trapped or hopeless, but I can help you with proven coping skills and by working with you to create a new perspective. My life experience provides a solid foundation upon which I have built my techniques and interventions. In addition to my work with adults, I have experience with teens and young adults, and enjoy connecting with them and helping them navigate life and family challenges.

I spent 25 years in corporate America before earning my master's degree in professional counseling. This experience has given me insight into the stresses in the workplace. Having been a long time sufferer of anxiety, I can empathize with the weight of this emotion while also sharing techniques that have helped me live a better, more enjoyable life.

We are living in uncertain times and COVID fatigue has made daily life even more difficult to manage. It can feel overwhelming, but I will work with you to re-train your brain so that your automatic thought patterns are encouraging instead of fearful.

I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed clinical social worker in North Carolina with over 18 years of experience. I have helped individuals enhance their lifestyles and feel confident resolving problems, improving relationships, and communication skills. I've also helped individuals who struggled with substance abuse and unhealthy relationships. I offer bilingual (English/ Spanish) as well as in-person and online.