LGBTQ+ Affirming Care

Support for Every Child with Meghan Adams

Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC)

Guided Hope Family Counseling • Hickory, NC

Meghan Adams, LCMHC - Child & Adolescent Therapist at Guided Hope Family Counseling
Accepting New Clients

Who I Am

I specialize in working with children and adolescents ages 5–16 and their families, with a focus on supporting LGBTQ+ youth in an affirming and inclusive environment. I have extensive experience helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral challenges, and neurodevelopmental differences, including ADHD and Autism.

My approach utilizes Adlerian and Child-Centered Play Therapy, alongside other strengths-based and developmentally responsive interventions, to provide care tailored to each child's unique needs.

In addition to addressing identity development and LGBTQ+-related stressors, I work closely with caregivers to navigate family dynamics and foster collaboration for lasting, meaningful growth.

Education & Credentials

  • Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC)
  • Specialized in Child & Adolescent Therapy
  • LGBTQ+ Affirming Care Certified

My Philosophy

Every child deserves a safe space to explore who they are, express their feelings, and develop the tools to navigate life's challenges. I believe in meeting each child exactly where they are.

Inclusive Practice

I am deeply committed to providing affirming, non-judgmental care for LGBTQ+ youth and their families. All identities are welcomed, respected, and celebrated in my practice.

Who I Treat

Meghan provides specialized care for children, adolescents, and families navigating unique challenges.

LGBTQ+ Youth

Ages 5–16 exploring identity, dealing with bullying, or navigating family acceptance.

Anxious & Depressed Kids

Children and teens whose worry, sadness, or isolation is affecting daily life.

Children Ages 5–12

Young kids dealing with behavioral issues, family changes, or school challenges.

Adolescents Ages 13–16

Teens navigating identity, peer pressure, academic stress, and mental health.

Trauma Survivors

Children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or other traumatic events.

Families of Neurodivergent Kids

Parents and siblings seeking support with ADHD, Autism, or learning differences.

Areas of Expertise

Meghan provides specialized, developmentally responsive care for children and families.

LGBTQ+ Affirming Care

Inclusive, affirming therapy for LGBTQ+ youth and their families.

Anxiety & Depression

Helping children and teens navigate mood challenges with developmentally responsive care.

Trauma-Informed Care

Safe, compassionate support for children who have experienced trauma.

Behavioral Challenges

Evidence-based interventions for managing difficult behaviors at home and school.

Neurodevelopmental Differences

Specialized support for ADHD, Autism, and learning differences.

Family Dynamics

Working closely with caregivers to foster collaboration and lasting growth.

Theoretical Approaches

Evidence-based methods tailored to each child's unique needs

Adlerian Play Therapy
Child-Centered Play Therapy
Strengths-Based Therapy
Person-Centered Therapy
Trauma-Informed Care
CBT & DBT
Mindfulness

What to Expect

Your first session and ongoing work with Meghan

1

The First Session

I'll meet with you and your child to understand what's bringing you in. For younger kids, this often involves play — I'll observe how they interact, what they gravitate toward, and begin building trust.

2

Building Rapport

Children need to feel safe before they can open up. In the first few sessions, I focus on creating a warm, playful environment where your child feels comfortable expressing themselves.

3

Collaborative Care

I work closely with parents and caregivers, providing updates (with your child's privacy in mind) and offering strategies to support your child at home and school.

4

Meaningful Growth

My goal is to help your child develop emotional regulation, self-confidence, and coping skills that will serve them throughout their life — not just in the therapy room.

Insurance & Payment

Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)

In-network provider

Medicaid

Accepting Medicaid plans

Aetna

In-network provider

United Healthcare (UHC)

In-network provider

DirectNet

In-network provider

Ready to Support Your Child?

Every child deserves a safe space to grow, heal, and become their best self. Let's work together to support your family.

Questions Before You Book?

Reach out to Meghan directly. She'll get back to you within 24 hours.

Meghan's Direct Line

(704) 325-2242

Office

345 4th St NW Hickory, NC 28601

Office Hours

Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Send a Message

© 2026 Guided Hope Family Counseling. Meghan Adams is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC).