ABOUT US

The way we live today is ever-changing. The need for therapy is critical and we believe the process of finding wholeness through counseling changes lives, families, and whole communities. Almost one of every two individuals in North Carolina who need mental health services are not being reached. Our professional resources and vision of integrated care offers hope to those who do not currently receive assistance. The staff of NHCW believes in the dignity of each human life and feels it is essential for those who can help to step in and offer hope. Part of our vision involves walking alongside clients on their therapeutic journey with a deep level of compassionate care.

We offer both in person and virtual visits.

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Good Faith Estimate

You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical and mental health care will cost. Under the law, health care providers need to give clients who don’t have insurance, or who are not using insurance, an estimate of the expected charges for medical services.

You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency healthcare services, including psychotherapy services. You can ask your healthcare provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule a service. If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill. You will receive a copy of your Good Faith Estimate.

For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises.

 

OUR SERVICES

Mental Health Counseling

New Hope Counseling & Wellness Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors provide therapy tailored to each individual’s needs. We combine traditional therapy with a practical, problem-solving approach that creates an efficient path for change and problem resolution.

Trauma Counseling
Psychological Trauma is a type of damage to the mind that may occur as a result of a distressing event.  This Stress can consist of cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and spiritual aspects of a person’s psyche, and often greatly affects the people around them.  Trauma is usually, but not always, the result of an overwhelming amount of stress that exceeds one’s ability to cope or integrate the emotions involved.  Signs of Trauma aren’t always visible or immediate. An individual may not be fully aware of their trauma’s negative manifestations, even years or decades later.  Seeking counseling for Trauma is a healthy solution to resolve a burden that we are not naturally equipped to handle.  Trauma Counseling helps to discover and resolve the root of the issue.
Marriage & Family Counseling
Being a part of a family can be difficult, whether you’re  a couple or a member of a larger household.  There can easily be breakdowns in communication due to disagreements or life-changing situations and it can be difficult for a family unit to recover.  NHCW works to bring change through effective communication and problem solving so each person can be heard and acknowledged, leading to stronger bonds and a more harmonious home.
Child & Adolescent therapy
Child and Adolescent Therapy helps kids and teens who are experiencing difficulties with their emotions or behavior. NHCW feels that communication is a basic tool for bringing about change in a person’s emotions, emotional expression, and behaviors. For children, playing, pretending, and creating are important ways of sharing feelings and resolving problems.

The relationship that develops between the therapist and the child is a crucial way to help the child feel safe and understood. This solidifies trust and makes it easier for the child to express feelings while receiving support and then learning to understand themselves and ultimately changing their behavior.

Pastoral Counseling
Pastoral Counselors serve clients of any or no religious affiliation by integrating the client’s spiritual beliefs and practices with therapeutic process. A pastoral counselor can provide the guidance, skill, and therapeutic relationship needed to promote psychological and spiritual growth towards becoming whole.
Play Therapy
Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) is an evidence-based counseling practice used to treat a variety of mental health concerns and helps children to better express their emotions, demonstrate self-control and responsibility, show respect for themselves and others, increase self-esteem, and become problem-solvers.
PARENT CHILD INTERACTION THERAPY

Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an evidence-based treatment for young children with behavioral concerns. PCIT is conducted through “coaching” sessions during which you and your child are in a playroom while the therapist is in an observation room watching you interact with your child through a one-way mirror and/or live video feed. You wear an earpiece through which the therapist provides in-the-moment coaching on skills you are learning to manage your child’s behavior.

THE TEAM

Laura Gundel

Owner, Mental Health Therapist

LCMHC

Learn More about Laura

People who seek help through the stresses and traumas of life instead of succumbing to them are the bravest people I know. Although therapy may not feel courageous, at some point, we all need the presence and compassionate care of someone committed to our healing process. This is my passion.

I work with courageous people who choose to move toward wholeness while continuing to live and care for the responsibilities of their lives. A large part of my work is devoted to helping men, women, and children work through traumatic experiences in the present and those remembered from the past.

My interests in therapy include: Adult and child individual/couples counseling, relationship and parenting concerns, grief and loss, transitions, depression and anxiety, and questions about spirituality and religion. I practice Person-Centered Therapy with inclusive elements of Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative, Gestalt, and Experiential Family Therapies. I find clients respond differently to elements from all therapies, and I believe it is important to offer an eclectic approach rather than restrict therapy to one specific path.

Jenna Brown

Clinical Director, Mental Health Therapist

LCMHC

Learn More about Jenna

“Play is a child’s language and the toys are their words.”

Often, children have depleted their own problem solving tools, and they misbehave, or may act out at home, with friends, or at school. Through play therapy, children learn to communicate with others, express feelings, modify behavior, develop problem-solving skills, and learn a variety of ways of relating to others. Play provides a safe psychological distance from their problems and allows expression of thoughts and feelings appropriate to their development. By confronting problems in the clinical Play Therapy setting, children find healthier solutions. Play Therapy allows children to change the way they think about, feel toward, and resolve their concerns.

I have experience working with children in both the school setting and in Play Therapy rooms. My passion is working with children through Play Therapy and I would be honored to work with your child.

~

In addition to her role of Clinician, Jenna contributes her leadership and marketing skills as one of our Clinical Directors. She uses her vast professional network, extensive experience, and growth mindset in conjunction with her deep knowledge of the company to establish and build community partnerships and set into motion various avenues to further the company’s mission and vision. Jenna works closely with our Owner and our leadership team to move the company forward in the best directions to reach and help more people.

Elizabeth CarrigaN

Clinical Director, Supervisor, Mental Health Therapist

LCSW

Learn More about elizabeth

Elizabeth adds her leadership and clinical skills to the team as one of our Clinical Directors and our in-house Supervisor. She draws upon her education, experience, and post graduate trainings and certifications to guide our Associates during their formative years in the field. Within this role, Elizabeth provides clinical and ethical oversight to the team, ensuring our staff provides client care and adherence to policies. She is also an integral resource to our Owner and leadership team as she brings a curious and compassionate perspective. Elizabeth’s duties are currently focused inward as she supports our Associates, Owner, and the rest of the staff.

Doug Dickens

Mental Health Therapist

NCFBPPC

Learn More about Doug

I have a Masters in Divinity and a Doctorate in Philosophy from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. I enjoy helping folks in a variety of ways, so I have held a few roles over the years such as Professor of Pastoral Care and Counseling, Associate Professor, Supervisor, and interim Pastor. As my education may suggest, I specialize in couples counseling and pastoral counseling. Outside of these areas, I also thoroughly enjoy working with those experiencing trauma, grief and loss, abuse, divorce, church hurt, a terminal diagnosis, professional burnout, and more. I look forward to working with you!

When I’m not with clients, I love spending time with my wife, daughters, and grandchildren. I also enjoy traveling and have been nearly all over the world for work and pleasure and have many stories to share. And finally, I have built many personal and professional relationships over the years and am intentional to keep up with these contacts through the highs and lows of life. I am a people person and I place a high value on being there for those around me.

 

Jasmine goode

Mental Health Therapist

LCMHC

Learn More about jasmine

My passion for counseling started when one of my loved ones was diagnosed with an Anxiety Disorder. Seeing a family member suffer on a daily basis made me want to help other individuals facing similar struggles. I hope to guide and support you through the challenges that you may be facing. My role is to assist you in reaching your therapy goals by providing non-judgmental support and helping to facilitate your journey.

I believe that each individual is unique and has different life experiences. Therefore, my therapeutic approach may vary depending on each client’s individual needs. I use Cognitive-Behavioral, Solution-Focused, Person-Centered, and Strength-Based theories. I also include mindfulness techniques to help clients feel more relaxed and grounded. I work with adolescents and adults with varying issues including anxiety, depression, trauma-related issues, life transitions, grief, relational issues, self-esteem, self-worth, stress, peer relationships, and other life stressors.

I graduated from Winthrop University with a Masters of Education in Counseling and Development with a Concentration in Clinical Mental Health. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, dancing, traveling to new places, and trying new restaurants. I look forward to collaborating with you on your therapy journey.

April Grimes

Mental Health Therapist

LCswA

Learn More about April

Trying to juggle marriage, kids, work, home and so much more leaves very little time for yourself. Trying to balance it all when it all seems to be falling apart can be difficult. It can feel like you are being pulled in all directions. But all hope is not lost….

I have experience helping clients dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and PTSD. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages from 8 years old to adults and can help you access the skills and techniques needed to help you enjoy life to its fullest. 

I received my Bachelor’s degree from Liberty University and my Master’s from Baylor University. In my personal time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also enjoy taking weekend trips and hiking. 

There is so much more waiting for you so reach out now to set up an in person or virtual appointment. I look forward to working with you!

Kierra Hinton

Mental Health Therapist

LCswA

Learn More about Kierra

My interest and passion to help others was evident at an early age and was pursued following a close friend’s traumatic experience. Witnessing how devastated this traumatic event left my friend in a constant state of fear, hopelessness and loneliness was truly difficult to watch. Her personal and familial beliefs that therapy is an outward admission of failure or defeat, the notion that it’s best to keep quiet and not talk about the trauma, caused my friend to suffer in silence. 

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I have seen first hand how many survivors choose silence as a way to cope with trauma, grief and pain. I’ve witnessed how the lack of mental health care can take its toll on the individual and their families involved. I decided that it would be my mission to educate, increase the awareness and benefits of mental health care, while removing the stigmas, judgment and any negative cultural perceptions of what some may think therapy consists of. Most importantly I made it my mission to help those that may be hesitant or even afraid to begin their healing journey. 

Healing can be a challenging journey and deciding to begin therapy can be a daunting but necessary first step towards healing and personal growth. I strive to create a safe, non judgemental environment and provide a set of skills that are based on listening, caring, respect and encouragement. I am committed to support you in processing and overcoming life challenges while working to improve your quality of life. 

Overall my goal is to help you along your path to self discovery, self acceptance and personal growth. Our work together will explore the injuries from your past, heal emotional wounds and discover the value you hold as a unique individual in the present. Healing can be a challenging journey, but I’m here to walk this journey with you.



ASHYA KENNEDY

Mental Health Therapist

LCMHC

Learn More about Ashya

During stressful life moments, it is normal to feel as if you need extra support or someone to hold a space for you while you work through those challenges. Seeking counseling is the first step toward healing. Together, I hope we can build a collaborative and safe relationship that will support and encourage you as you move towards positive changes.

I believe every client is unique and I tailor my counseling approach to best match your therapy needs. I believe in the mind-body connection and incorporate mindfulness practices.

I work with children, adolescents, and adults with varying issues including trauma. I would be honored to be a part of your journey and to provide a safe, non-judgmental and supportive place for you to heal and grow.

Taylor Killian

Mental Health Therapist

LCMHCA

Learn More about Taylor
I hold a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Gardner-Webb University. Historically, I have worked with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, anger management issues, autism, ADHD, and behavioral issues. I primarily work with clients under the age of 25.  
We all approach our lives in different ways, so I will tailor my approach to your individual needs. This will include approaches taken from various therapeutic approaches such as, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused, person-centered, amongst others. It is important to practice the things you learn in sessions in your daily life. This may not come easy at first, but over time you will begin to see improvements. Some examples of assignments I might utilize are journaling, breathing exercises, mindfulness exercises, or short readings. Your experience is my top priority, so feel free to reach out with any concerns. When I am not seeing clients, I love traveling, cooking, and spending time with my dog! 

 

jessica mouzon

Mental Health Therapist

LCMHC

Learn More about jessica

 “Not everything that is faced can be changed; but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” James Baldwin

We cannot hide from the things that cause us to deeply feel or think, even despite our best efforts. If we choose not to deal with those feelings, they will deal with us. When working with clients, I strive to support a therapeutic environment that is both safe and encouraging by promoting autonomy, the therapeutic relationship, goal achievement, and overall wellness. My approach to counseling is eclectic and based on the needs of the client. I utilize therapeutic interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Feminist Therapy. I have a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Wake Forest University. Using my education and experience, my specialties include anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, work and life balance, relationships, and more.

I enjoy lazy Saturdays and spending time with family, friends, and my dog Gucci. My hobbies include reading, cooking, dancing, crafting, and traveling. 

Katie Johnson

Practice Manager

Learn More about Katie

Katie originally joined the New Hope Counseling and Wellness team as a Medical Administrative Assistant in 2021. After taking some time off to spend with her children, she has now returned in 2023 to fill the role of  Practice Manager. Katie graduated from Gaston College with an Associate Degree in Medical Assisting in 2015. She has worked in private practices since graduating, and likes that best. Katie is bringing her business knowledge, billing and insurance experience, and compassion to help others to this role. 

Outside of work, Katie loves spending time with her fiancé and two daughters, going to the beach, camping and walking her dog.

Katlyn Amidon

Administrative & Billing Assistant

Learn More about Katlyn

Hello, my name is Katlyn Amidon.  I have an Associates degree in Medical Office Administration from Herzing University.  I have over 2 years experience in the medical field from various types of medical offices performing tasks involving patient management, scheduling, insurance verification, payments, answering phones, and customer service.  I enjoy performing clerical work, organizing offices to improve patient management, processing paperwork, and guiding patients to get their needs met.  

I have recently moved from Louisiana to North Carolina to join my parents, my brother and his wife.  When I am not working, my hobbies include reading, book shopping, and spending time with my family.  I also have a small business, Amidon Creations, LLC, creating cool tumblers, coasters, shirts, tote bags, and other craft items.  I have two fur babies, a British Lab and a Pug that keep me very busy.

EVENTS

Mental Health Counseling
NHCW mental health counselors provide therapy tailored to each individual’s needs. We combine traditional therapy with a practical, problem-solving approach that creates an efficient path for change and problem resolution.
Trauma Counseling
Marriage & Family Counseling
Being a part of a family can be difficult, whether you’re  a couple or a member of a larger household.  There can easily be breakdowns in communication due to disagreements or life-changing situations and it can be difficult for a family unit to recover.  NHCW works to bring change through effective communication and problem solving so each person can be heard and acknowledged, leading to stronger bonds and a more harmonious home.
Child & Adolescent therapy
Child and Adolescent Therapy helps kids and teens who are experiencing difficulties with their emotions or behavior. NHCW feels that communication is a basic tool for bringing about change in a person’s emotions, emotional expression, and behaviors. For children, playing, pretending, and creating are important ways of sharing feelings and resolving problems.

The relationship that develops between the therapist and the child is a crucial way to help the child feel safe and understood. This solidifies trust and makes it easier for the child to express feelings while receiving support and then learning to understand themselves and ultimately changing their behavior.

Substance Abuse
Substance Abuse Therapy helps to motivate the individual dealing with addiction to find inner joy and peace by developing personal relapse prevention plans, coping skills for triggers, and working through past experiences and learned behaviors that might have prompted the cycle of addiction to begin. It also can be used to provide support for families.  At times, being part of an addiction support system can feel like riding a roller-coaster of emotions. Counseling can help the family establish safe and healthy boundaries while loving the individual recovering from addiction.
Pastoral Counseling
Pastoral Counselors serve clients of any or no religious affiliation by integrating the client’s spiritual beliefs and practices with therapeutic process. A pastoral counselor can provide the guidance, skill, and therapeutic relationship needed to promote psychological and spiritual growth towards becoming whole.
Play Therapy
Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) is an evidence-based counseling practice used to treat a variety of mental health concerns and helps children to better express their emotions, demonstrate self-control and responsibility, show respect for themselves and others, increase self-esteem, and become problem-solvers.

New Hope Counseling and Wellness

609 S. New Hope Road, Suite 102,
Gastonia, NC 28053,

Telephone: +01 704-208-1865
FAX: +01 704-208-1865

We seek to provide a safe, nonjudgmental place where clients can explore personal issues and talk openly about their thoughts and feelings. We respect the unique makeup of each person, including background, beliefs, values, life experiences and counseling needs.

New Hope Counseling and Wellness
609 S. New Hope Road
Suite 102
Gastonia, NC 28054

Telephone:  704-208-1865
FAX:  704-237-3463

Office Hours: 9am - 5pm

Scheduling Hours: Varying between 8am - 8pm