Dr. Hicks believes therapy should be a safe place in which the therapist collaborates with individuals, as they consider beliefs, feelings, patterns, and behaviors while experiencing an increased sense of self-compassion and self-acceptance. Through this therapeutic relationship and collaboration there is an opportunity for individuals to identify issues in which change could be beneficial, gain insight into oneself and others, and set goals. Dr. Hicks acknowledges the courage it takes for many to come to therapy and views this courage as an asset in moving toward the life they would like to have. He takes a strengths-based approach in helping clients find the empowerment they need to create change by gaining self-awareness, renewed interest in life and living, healthier perceptions of self and others, and most importantly, the experience of healing.

• Anxiety (Social Anxiety Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder)
• Depression
• Substance dependence and sobriety
• Stress management
• Men’s issues
• Relationships and setting boundaries
• Codependency
• Communication issues
• Life stages and transitions
• Adjustment concerns
• Launching into adulthood
• Faith-based counseling
• LGBTQ+
• ADHD (older adolescents and adults)

Integrative approach (utilizing Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Behavioral Activation, Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy)

Dr. Hicks came to the mental health field as a second career, after working as an educator for two decades in which the bulk of his teaching experience was with academically gifted and talented students. In addition to a doctorate in clinical psychology from Ryokan College, Dr. Hicks also has a Master of Education from Milligan College and a Master of Divinity from Vanderbilt University. One of his primary areas of focus at Vanderbilt Divinity School was pastoral counseling. Dr. Hicks completed his pre-licensed supervised hours as registered psychological assistant in a private practice setting and at Westside Treatment Center, Los Angeles, a dual diagnosis outpatient treatment center. He is also an adjunct faculty member in the Physician Assistant master’s program at the University of LaVerne. Dr. Hicks has experience working with older adolescent and adult clients of all ages.