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!

Erin Callan, LCHMC

Clinician

My name is Erin Callan, I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), National Board-Certified Counselor (NBCC) and specialize in Anxiety and Mood Disorders. I’m a therapist believing in treating everyone with affirming compassionate care with unique needs, goals, and desires for their life.  No two people are alike and should feel safe coming into an environment where they are allowed to be their authentic selves and drive their own therapeutic process. Everyone is special in their own unique way and deserves to be heard with no fear. Everyone deserves to be treated with equality, dignity, and respect regardless of background, race, ethnicity, culture, or gender/sexual identity. 

I have worked in the mental health field for a total of 22 years and have practicing Out Patient for 6 years. Over these 22 years, I have assisted individuals in their homes, in the community, in person, and virtually. 

I have served individuals with various treatment needs and goals, various levels of mental health impairment, and populations of all kinds. I have served at risk and vulnerable populations, such as the underprivileged, underserved, and severe and persistent mentally ill (SPMI). I also work trauma victims/survivors, special populations, including the LBGTQA+, aged (65+), neurodivergent, children, teens, and couples. 

I use a combination of approaches in my therapeutic alliance with my clients. Each client is unique and I tailor my approach to what works best for the individual. I use a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Strength Based, Mindfulness, Play Therapy (Children), and Solution-Focused. I’m a flexible therapist, use simple inventories for discussion, talk therapy, and explore areas collaboratively with my client’s needs, goals, and areas of their life they most want to change. 

I look forward to walking this journey with you,

Erin

Kristen Bates, MHA

Chief Operations & Financial Officer (COFO)

Kristen Bates is the Chief Operations & Financial Officer (COFO) at Bates Counseling and Service, PLLC. She plays a key role in supporting the heart of the practice by managing the behind-the-scenes operations that keep everything running smoothly and responsibly.

With a strong foundation in healthcare administration, Kristen oversees the business side of the practice, including insurance processes, credentialing, compliance, payroll, and internal systems. She is known for her attention to detail, problem-solving mindset, and ability to bring structure and clarity to complex workflows.

Kristen holds a Master of Healthcare Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She is deeply committed to building systems that support clinicians, protect clients, and promote long-term stability and growth for the practice. Her work is driven by a belief that strong operations are essential to delivering high-quality, ethical mental health care.

Kristen approaches her role with compassion, integrity, and a genuine desire to help both people and organizations thrive.

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.

Keiana Mack

Front Office Coordinator

Keiana serves as the Front Office Coordinator, where she is often the first point of contact for clients and families. She plays a vital role in ensuring smooth daily operations by supporting scheduling, client communication, and administrative coordination with care and professionalism.

Keiana is currently pursuing her Nursing degree at Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) and brings a strong healthcare background to her role. She is a Certified Medication Technician (CMT) with hands-on experience providing patient care in nursing facilities, including memory care and elderly populations. Her experience has strengthened her ability to work compassionately with individuals facing complex medical and emotional needs.

With a passion for patient advocacy and service, Keiana is dedicated to creating a welcoming, supportive environment while maintaining efficiency and attention to detail. Her long-term goal is to continue advancing her career in nursing and healthcare, where she can make a meaningful impact on patient well-being.