Where Healing Meets Hope Near Charlotte, NC

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April Parker

April Parker

Born and raised in Indian Land, SC, I have my B.S. Degree in Education and am currently pursuing my Master’s in General Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Addiction Treatment and Recovery.  I am a SMART Recovery Facilitator.  I have two children, ages 21 & 16.  I am a grateful recovering addict, am very involved in the local community, and without God’s Grace and Mercy I would not have the amazing life I live today.  I love athleticism, reading my recovery literature and spiritual books, and I love to educate others about recovery and a new life that awaits us all.

Katherine Davis

Katherine Davis

I hold a Master’s of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I graduated from Capella University in March of 2022 with honors.  I currently am a fully licensed clinical mental health counselor, fully licensed clinical addiction specialist, nationally certified counselor, and EMDR certified. I have been serving children, adolescents, adults, and families for the past four years and have some previous experience working in substance abuse facilities. I also have a private practice that I own since 2024. I have a passion for working with those affected by trauma and addiction. 

I aim to provide a safe and supportive space where we can collaborate and work together in order to help you reach your goals. I work with individuals from a variety of backgrounds on issues that include depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, issues surrounding the

LGBTQ community, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, substance use disorders, anger management, and other mental health issues that individuals face. I wholeheartedly believe that the hardships we face can be turned into a positive by aiding individuals in finding meaning

or purpose in life and helping individuals discover their authentic self. I am very passionate that anyone can create lasting change in their life through counseling and advocacy. I am truly excited to continue the work I love! 

Linda Paulin

Linda Paulin

Linda Paulin is a dedicated Alcohol and Drug Addiction Counselor committed to supporting individuals on their journey to recovery. With a strong clinical foundation and meaningful lived experience, she brings compassion, insight, and professionalism to her work. Linda is currently pursuing her CADC certification to further strengthen her clinical skills and expand the services she provides.

With a year and a half in sobriety, Linda is an active member of Alcoholics Anonymous, where she sponsors other women and participates regularly in general service work. Her involvement in AA reflects her belief in community, accountability, and giving back—values that also shape her counseling approach.

Linda strives to create a safe, empowering, and nonjudgmental environment where clients can develop healthier coping skills, strengthen motivation, and build sustainable recovery. She is committed to helping individuals make meaningful change and discover their own capacity for healing.

Daryl Ghent

Dary is currently a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor – Intern (CDAC-I) at Ascend Recovery Center in Charlotte, NC. Contributing to Partial Hospitalization (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient (IOP) programs, with responsibilities that include leading psychoeducational classes, facilitating therapeutic groups, and conducting one-on-one addiction counseling to assist clients in early recovery.  

He holds an Executive MBA from Queens University of Charlotte and a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Government from Appalachian State University. Skilled in addiction counseling, substance abuse counseling, and teaching, with a commitment to evidence-based practices to create a supportive, healing environment for individuals on their recovery journey.

 

Robin "Higgy" Higginbotham

Robin “Higgy” Higginbotham is a dedicated Outreach Coordinator at Ascend Recovery Center, bringing years of experience in behavioral health, recovery advocacy, and veteran support. A U.S. Military Veteran and nationally recognized recovery professional, Robin has served in a variety of certified clinical and outreach positions, earning a reputation for building authentic, lasting connections within both the recovery and mental health communities. His extensive background includes developing partnerships with treatment providers, community organizations, and veteran networks to expand access to ethical, evidence-based care. Known for his ability to bridge clinical expertise with genuine human connection, Robin approaches every interaction with purpose, compassion, and professionalism. His passion for networking and collaboration continues to strengthen Ascend Recovery’s mission to provide transformative care and hope for those seeking lasting recovery.
 
Richard Cooley

Richard Cooley

Richard Cooley brings four years of behavioral health experience and a natural charisma to his role as Business Development Director for Ascend Recovery Centers Near Charlotte, NC. Known for his ability to build genuine relationships, Richard connects effortlessly with referral partners, families, and community organizations, helping expand access to ethical, effective care across the state.

Whether he’s meeting with providers or cheering on his favorite teams, Richard’s passion, energy, and love for baseball and sports shine through in everything he does. His outreach work is driven by authenticity, teamwork, and a commitment to making sure individuals get the support they need.

Outside the office, you can usually find Richard on a ballfield, watching a game, or spending time with the people who matter most to him.