BOARD-CERTIFIED PSYCHIATRIC - MENTAL HEALTH NURSE PRACTITIONER

Dr. LaTonya Gray, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 19 years of diverse healthcare experience, including critical care, long-term care, home health, psychiatric nursing, and managed care.

She began her nursing career at Forsyth Technical Community College, earning an Associate Degree in Nursing. She then obtained a Bachelor's Degree from Winston-Salem State University and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Gardner-Webb University, focusing on Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing.

In 2021, LaTonya dedicated her practice to behavioral and psychiatric mental health nursing, providing comprehensive care for individuals across the lifespan. Her expertise includes treating addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, and other mood and behavioral disorders.

LaTonya employs a person-centered approach, ensuring clients actively participate in their care. She integrates pharmacological treatments, evidence-based therapies, complementary and alternative modalities, and spiritual considerations to support individuals in achieving their well-being goals.

THERAPIST

Everything happens for a reason. That reason causes change, sometimes it hurts. Sometimes it is hard, but in the end, it is all for the best. Never stop trusting God and believing in His plan. I approach counseling in the eclectic theoretical orientation that is focused on Person Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I take an eclectic approach to counseling implementing other counseling approaches that benefit the client. I believe that humans are capable of being their best and require encouragement or help to get them to a position in life that completes them. I will incorporate that encouragement and support as they embark on their journey.

My experience includes working with the MH/SA population in an outpatient group therapy setting for 18 years. My internship and counseling experience was also completed in the outpatient group therapy setting. The outpatient services include Mental Health and Substance Abuse Partial Hospitalization, Mental Health and Substance Abuse Intensive Outpatient, Multifamily Group Therapy, and Substance Abuse Continuing Care.

THERAPIST

Counseling has always been my top career choice since I was a little girl. I loved seeing how therapists were committed to empowering clients to recognize their autonomy and become catalysts for change in their own lives. As a clinician, I am passionate about providing culturally sensitive and spiritually integrated counseling services to individuals and families. My holistic and tailored approach focuses on fostering healing, growth, and empowerment through customized intervention and treatment strategies. I am a licensed clinical social worker associate (LCSW-A) with a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Mars Hill University. I have also earned a Master of Social Work degree as an Advanced-Standing Student from North Carolina State University. During my MSW studies, I was a Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Behavioral Health Scholar, where I received extensive training in behavioral health, including motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment therapy, trauma-focused treatment, and personality disorders.

I specialize in working with individuals experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, racial identity, autism, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. I am open to incorporating biblical principles into sessions for those interested, as my faith is vital to my own growth. I am passionate about sports, attending church, and having fun with my family. I have been playing basketball since I was four years old and continued throughout my undergraduate years. My faith is important to me, and I find joy in worshipping with others. I love communicating with children and emphasize supporting parents as well. In my free time, I enjoy watching cartoons, playing pick-up basketball games, and singing.

FOUNDER, THERAPIST

For over 25 years, I have been volunteering as a mentor for adolescents and their families through various community based organizations. My passion is to aid in the healing and restoration of families through the love of Christ.

I utilize several theoretical perspectives tailored to the individuals needs that include primarily cognitive/behavior therapy (CBT), person centered therapy (PCT), reality therapy, solution focused brief therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, Brainspotting, and sandtray therapy. All client complexities are viewed through the lens of the bible. 

PRACTICE MANAGER

As far back as I can remember, I have felt drawn to helping others, especially regarding mental health and personal growth.

As Practice Manager, my main goal is to make your care as accessible as possible. I will do my best to take care of the initial scheduling, billing, and insurance so that you and the therapists can focus on getting you the support you need.

I believe everyone deserves access to mental health care. It is my pleasure to assist you along your journey and I aim to be available for any questions or concerns you may have.

THERAPIST

Dr. Douglas Bates is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) for the state of North Carolina with over six years of experience. Throughout his career, he has worked with a wide range of diverse populations, including the homeless, working-class individuals, the elderly, adolescents, young adults, and teenage fathers.

Dr. Bates holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Benedict College, a Master of Social Work from the University of South Carolina, and a Doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision from the University of South Carolina. In addition to his role as a therapist, he serves as an Associate Professor and Department Chair of the Department of Social Work at Winston-Salem State University.

Dr. Bates integrates several therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy, and a Strengths-Based approach. His expertise lies in working with individuals and families who are facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, anger management, racial identity, ADHD, conflict resolution, grief, and time management.

As a clinical social worker, Dr. Bates values compassion, rapport-building, integrity, and open communication in his work with clients.

INTERN

Ingram Johnson is a counseling intern who brings warmth, life experience, and a passion for helping people in the therapy room. Ingram earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Counseling and Human Services from Gardner Webb University. Currently earning her master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University, Ingram is especially drawn to supporting individuals through life transitions, stress, grief and self-discovery. 

Ingram’s approach is client-centered, compassionate, and grounded in faith. She is happy to integrate a Christian or spiritual perspective into the counseling process for those who desire it, believing that healing and growth often come through both practical tools and spiritual connection. 

Ingram believes in creating a space where clients feel seen, heard, and respected. She believes that transformation begins when people feel safe enough to show up just as they are. 

Ingram is currently seeing clients under supervision and looks forward to walking alongside individuals on their journey toward healing and wholeness. 

INTERN