Creating Pathways to Healing

Dr. Douglas Bates, MSW, PHD, LCSW

Owner & Clinical Director

Welcome! I’m Douglas Bates, a passionate and competent licensed clinical therapist with experience in helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges. My mission is to empower you to overcome obstacles, develop resilience, and achieve your personal goals.

. In my therapeutic practice, I specialize in working with individuals, families and couples. Furthermore, I have experience in treating anxiety, depression, grief, anger issues and crisis management using a variety of evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and a client centered - strengths based approach. I believe that everyone has the potential for change, and I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each individual. Together, we’ll explore the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that may be holding you back, while incorporating techniques from these frameworks to foster positive change in your life.

Prior to becoming a licensed clinical therapist, I worked full-time as a social worker, where I gained valuable experience serving a diverse range of populations, including the homeless, older adults, children, and individuals with mental health challenges. I hold both undergraduate and graduate degrees in Social Work, along with a doctorate degree in Counselor Education and Supervision. I also am a licensed clinical social worker that is licensed for the state of North Carolina.

In addition to my work as a therapist, I am an Associate Professor and Department Chair for the Social Work Department at Winston Salem State University. In this leadership role, I focus on creating a supportive and collaborative environment for both staff and students. I’m committed to advancing innovative therapeutic practices and enhancing the quality of mental health education, ensuring that we’re all equipped to make a meaningful impact in our communities. I believe in the power of connection and strive to create a warm, inviting space where you can feel safe and understood. My goal is to foster a strong therapeutic alliance, allowing us to work together toward your mental wellness. If you’re ready to take the first step toward a brighter future, I’m here to support you on that journey. Let’s explore how these therapeutic frameworks can help you unlock your potential and lead a fulfilling life.

My ideal client is one who is ready to find solutions to whatever challenges they may be facing. Their issues may range from past traumas, ADHD, bipolar disorder, family problems or financial issues. Their goal would be to improve the quality of their life in whatever aspect it is that their looking for and eventually no longer require my services!
I have extensive experience in working with clients who have experienced trauma in their lives. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) as well as the traditional CBT model that helps me assist clients in unpacking, understanding and healing from their traumas. I also have experience working with a myriad of other disorders.
Although I may be a therapist, I am never above life. I am truly optimistic about the way life happens and understands that everyone needs someone! You are not alone and even when you feel you can't go on, I will be the light to make sure we can. It does truly take a village and I am aware the village is sometimes sparse. Let me be your village!

Kristen Bates, MHA

Co-Owner & Chief Operations/Financial Officer

Kristen Bates is the Co-Owner and Chief Operations & Financial Officer of Pathways to Healing Counseling and Consulting, PLLC. As a key leader within the practice, she plays an essential role in supporting its mission by overseeing the operational, financial, and administrative functions that allow the organization to thrive and provide quality mental health services.

With a strong foundation in healthcare administration, Kristen leads the business operations of the practice, including insurance processes, provider credentialing, compliance, payroll, financial oversight, and internal systems development. She is recognized for her attention to detail, strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to creating efficient, sustainable processes that support both the clinical team and the overall organization.

Kristen holds a Master of Healthcare Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Biology. Her educational background, combined with her passion for organizational leadership and healthcare operations, allows her to approach her work with a comprehensive understanding of the systems, resources, and structures necessary to support effective healthcare delivery.

As Co-Owner, Kristen is committed to helping shape the vision, growth, and long-term sustainability of Pathways to Healing Counseling and Consulting, PLLC. She believes that strong leadership, responsible financial management, ethical business practices, and well-developed operational systems are essential to creating an environment where clinicians can do their best work and clients can receive compassionate, high-quality care.

Kristen approaches her leadership with compassion, integrity, accountability, and a genuine desire to help people and organizations thrive. Through her work, she remains dedicated to building a strong foundation for the practice, supporting its continued growth, and advancing its mission of promoting healing, wellness, and meaningful change within the communities it serves.

As a licensed clinical social worker and researcher, I specialize in helping clients navigate the complex intersections of racial discrimination, mental health, parenting, and trauma. My work is grounded in both lived experience and over a decade of clinical and academic expertise, including research on the mental health and the affects minority communities.

I provide a safe, affirming space for individuals—particularly men—who are managing the emotional toll of systemic racism, coping with depression or anxiety, or facing parenting challenges in environments that undervalue their role. My approach recognizes that trauma, especially race-based trauma, can be overlooked or misdiagnosed, and I focus on culturally responsive care that addresses the unique ways these experiences shape emotional well-being.

Whether you are working through the impacts of discrimination, building resilience after trauma, or seeking support in your parenting journey, I combine evidence-based therapies with a deep understanding of cultural context to guide healing and growth. My goal is to help you reclaim your mental health, strengthen your relationships, and navigate life with renewed clarity and confidence.

Delano Mccain, LCSWA, MSW

Associate Clinician

My ideal client is someone facing life transitions, anxiety, relationship struggles, or systemic barriers that make them feel stuck or unheard. They may be an individual seeking confidence, a couple rebuilding trust, or a family improving communication. Some carry past trauma, while others feel overwhelmed by daily stress. They want relief, resilience, and meaningful change—seeking self-growth, emotional balance, and stronger connections. Their goal is not just to overcome challenges but to build lasting skills for a more fulfilling life.

I provide a supportive space using CBT, strength-based, solution-focused, and trauma-informed therapy. Whether managing anxiety, improving relationships, or navigating challenges, I tailor my approach to your needs. My goal is to empower you with tools for self-awareness, resilience, and lasting change.

You don’t have to face this alone. Seeking help takes courage, and I’m here to support you with compassion and guidance. In a safe, affirming space, we’ll work together to help you heal, grow, and move forward. If you’re ready for change, I’m here to walk with you on that journey.

Kimberly Brown, LCSWA, MSW

Clinician

Life has a way of asking more of us than we feel ready to give. If you're reading this, maybe you've been holding a lot—anxiety that won't quiet down, a sadness you can't quite name, family stress, or a big change that's left you feeling unsteady. To everyone around you, you might look like you've got it handled. But inside, you're tired. You're longing for relief, for clarity, and for one place where you don't have to perform or explain how hard it's really been.

I want you to know that place exists, and you don't have to find it alone.

I became a therapist because I believe deeply that people aren't meant to carry their hardest moments by themselves. In our work together, I'll meet you exactly where you are. No judgment, no rushing. Using evidence-based, personalized therapy, I help individuals and families move through emotional stress, life transitions, and relationship challenges—not by handing you a script, but by walking alongside you as you build resilience, confidence, and real, lasting change.

You deserve to feel heard. You deserve to feel grounded. You deserve more than just getting through the day.

When you're ready, I'd be honored to take that next step with you. Reach out—we'll start right where you are.