What To Expect
An Honest Approach
No matter who you are, what you feel, or where you come from, no one should feel embarrassed or ashamed to be themselves - whether you are at a point in your life where you are feeling empowered and excited, or if you are feeling stuck.
But in reality, finding a therapist or coach, or even seeking help in the first place, can be feel so daunting that people might be inclined to minimize or hide their true selves.
At Hearthside Therapy, you can feel safe and free to be who you are and speak your truth, without judgement or need to censor yourself.
I believe strongly in the validation of people's feelings and experiences, to help remove stigma and shame. I believe that with support, anyone can be empowered to make difficult decisions and take charge of their own growth.
I am a very direct person, known for my honesty and “cut-to-the-chase” attitude. Over my years of practice, I have become known for my strength in work with teenagers and young adults, who have described me as “relatable” and “trusted.” And I also enjoy helping adults work through life transitions and exploring issues of self identity and purpose.
I work primarily from a cognitive-behavioral and solution-based perspective, informed by techniques drawn from dialectical behavior therapy and mindfulness. I also employ a psychodynamic perspective to help people better understand and make connections between their past lived experiences and learned perspective, to their current thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and find pathways toward living a healed life.
At this time, Hearthside provides only telehealth-based services.
Get to Know Me
Pamela J. Schultz, LCSW
Therapists are real people, too!
If you want to know what makes me qualified to be your coach or therapist, it's because I've been where you are*. I have my own struggles, and I've had to be my own coach and cheerleader.
(*I also have a graduate degree and extensive training.)
I have struggled with anxiety and depression for most of my life, with a side dish of OCD. It's a daily workout to try to keep the brain on the right track, but through the years I've found some techniques that have really helped to keep me on track and to push me toward great accomplishments.
I love hiking and being in the mountains. But, to be honest, I'm out of shape right now and I miss being more active. And if you asked me what my ideal vacation is, I'd probably tell you that I would be lounging at a beachfront resort, with a beer or frozen drink in my hand. My interests are all over the place.
I live with my husband in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, in western North Carolina. I'm originally from New York and Pennsylvania, where I grew up.
I love to travel, and hope to make it to all seven continents one day. (I'm currently stuck at 3*.
*My husband tells me Aruba doesn't count as South America. Whatever, bro.)
I also spend a lot of time with my streaming media accounts, binging all the best (and worst) entertainment. At one point in my life, I blogged about TV and had press credentials. But I was unemployed at the time, so when I got a "real" job, that fell by the wayside.
If you want to know any more rando tidbits about me, you could just ask. Though I assure you I'm not that interesting. Remember, this is supposed to be all about you!
My Credentials
Experience You Can Count On
Outpatient Therapist
I have nearly ten years experience as a therapist in a successful suburban private practice, serving children and adults.
Other Behavioral Health Positions
I also have experience with: in-home services; inpatient treatment; and community services agencies (including foster care and residential services).
Education
Master of Social Work degree from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
Bachelor of Science from Syracuse University.
License
North Carolina Licensed Clinical Social Worker
LCSW #C008903