Xaria Lenae Hicks

My journey into mental health began in high school, where I worked in a preschool while simultaneously taking college-level psychology courses. These experiences sparked a deep interest in psychology, particularly in human development and the early foundations of emotional well-being.

During my final semester of undergraduate study, I enrolled in a play therapy course that immediately resonated with me. I pursued this path the very next semester as I began graduate school, starting my clinical training with a specialization in play therapy. My time working in preschool settings exposed me to challenges within the community, including concerns around overdiagnosis, underdiagnosis, and the need for stronger parental support systems. These experiences continue to shape my clinical focus and commitment to community-centered care.

Today, I specialize in child-centered play therapy with young children while also working with clients across the lifespan. My therapeutic approach is grounded in an existential framework and integrates somatic and expressive arts practices, including sand tray therapy and other creative modalities, to support emotional exploration and meaning-making. I view psychotherapy as a comprehensive process that honors the connection between mind and body. Working collaboratively with parents remains a central and valued part of my practice.

I have been seeing clients independently for over a year following my transition to working as an LPC-Associate. In 2025, I was honored to receive a Rotary Global Grant, which brought me to London, where I am currently pursuing an additional master’s degree to further expand my clinical and academic training.