Nick DeJesus, LCMHC - Therapist at Grow Therapy

Nick DeJesus

Nick DeJesus

(he/him)

LCMHC
13 years of experience
Virtual

With over 13 years of experience, I am a compassionate and culturally sensitive therapist dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate life’s challenges with authenticity and empowerment. Taking an integrative approach, they draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to tailor treatment to each client’s unique needs. I specialize in LGBTQIA+ issues, men’s issues, mood disorders, relationship dynamics, sex therapy, and sex addiction, providing a sex-positive and nonjudgmental space for clients to explore their identities, desires, and challenges. They are passionate about helping clients develop self-acceptance, improve communication, and build fulfilling relationships. By blending evidence-based techniques with a warm, client-centered approach, I empower clients to break free from limiting patterns, embrace personal growth, and create meaningful, connected lives.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

In the first session with this me, clients can expect a warm, affirming, and nonjudgmental space where they can share their concerns and goals at their own pace. The session typically includes: Getting to Know You – I will ask about your background, what brought you to therapy, and any immediate concerns or challenges you’re facing. Exploring Goals – You’ll discuss what you hope to gain from therapy, whether it’s improving mental health, strengthening relationships, exploring identity, or addressing specific issues like mood disorders, sex addiction, or intimacy challenges. Understanding Your Story – I may ask about past experiences, relationship patterns, and coping mechanisms to get a fuller picture of your needs. Introducing the Therapy Approach – I will explain how they integrate CBT, ACT, and IFS, and how these approaches can support your growth. They will also ensure you feel comfortable with the therapeutic process and answer any questions. Establishing a Safe, Collaborative Space – You’ll discuss confidentiality, session structure, and what to expect moving forward. I will ensure you feel empowered and heard, setting the foundation for a trusting therapeutic relationship. By the end of the first session, clients often leave with a clearer sense of direction and an initial plan for working together toward meaningful change.

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

I believe my greatest strengths as a provider include: Affirming & Culturally Sensitive Approach – I create a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where clients of all backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ individuals and those exploring sexuality and relationships, feel seen and validated. Integrative & Tailored Therapy – By blending CBT, ACT, and IFS, I customize their approach to fit each client’s unique needs, ensuring therapy is both evidence-based and deeply personal. Sex-Positive & Open-Minded Perspective – I support clients in exploring intimacy, desire, and sexual health without shame, helping them cultivate fulfilling and authentic relationships. Expertise in Relationship & Couples Work – My ability to help couples improve communication, navigate challenges, and strengthen emotional and physical connection makes them a trusted guide in relationship therapy. Compassionate & Direct Communication – I balance warmth and understanding with honest, practical guidance, helping clients face difficult topics with confidence and self-compassion. Commitment to Client Empowerment – Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach, I help clients build self-awareness, resilience, and meaningful change by fostering self-acceptance and values-based living. Over 13 Years of Experience – my depth of experience allows me to skillfully address a wide range of concerns, from mood disorders and men’s issues to sex therapy and addiction, offering well-rounded, effective support. This combination of expertise, empathy, and adaptability makes me a strong ally for individuals and couples seeking healing, growth, and deeper connection in their lives.

Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.

This counselor enjoys working with individuals and couples who are seeking a supportive, affirming space to explore their identities, relationships, and emotional well-being. They are particularly passionate about serving: LGBTQIA+ individuals navigating identity, coming out, relationship challenges, and societal pressures. Men facing emotional, relational, or mental health struggles, including those working through issues related to masculinity, vulnerability, and self-acceptance. Individuals and couples exploring sex, intimacy, and relationship dynamics, including those seeking sex therapy or support for sex addiction. Clients experiencing mood disorders, such as depression or anxiety, who want to develop coping strategies and emotional resilience. Couples of all backgrounds looking to improve communication, rebuild trust, or navigate alternative relationship structures. Clients who value a sex-positive, culturally sensitive, and nonjudgmental therapeutic space, where they can discuss their experiences openly without shame.

About Nick DeJesus

Identifies as

Specializes in

Licensed in

Accepts cash

$150/session

Address

421 Fayetteville St, Raleigh, NC 27601

Appointments

Virtual & in-person

My treatment methods

Integrative

In my practice, I use integrative treatment to address complex client needs, particularly when working with marginalized populations. For example, I might use CBT techniques to help a client challenge negative thought patterns while also integrating mindfulness and self-compassion strategies to support emotional regulation. At the same time, I remain mindful of systemic and cultural factors that may influence the client's experience, incorporating advocacy and strength-based approaches to empower them.

Acceptance and commitment (ACT)

In my work, I use ACT to help clients shift away from rigid thought patterns and avoidance behaviors. For example, when working with clients struggling with self-judgment or distressing thoughts, I guide them through cognitive diffusion techniques—helping them see thoughts as passing experiences rather than absolute truths. I also integrate mindfulness exercises to increase present-moment awareness and reduce emotional reactivity.

Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)

I have extensive experience using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in my counseling practice, particularly when working with underserved populations who face significant emotional and systemic challenges. I find CBT highly effective in helping clients recognize and modify unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to distress, whether they struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, or self-esteem issues. In my practice, I use CBT to help clients develop self-awareness and coping strategies. For instance, I guide clients in identifying cognitive distortions—such as catastrophizing or black-and-white thinking—and teach them how to reframe these thoughts in a more balanced way.

Couples Counseling

have experience utilizing the Gottman Method in couples counseling, particularly in helping partners improve communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen emotional connection. This evidence-based approach is highly effective in addressing relational conflicts, fostering deeper understanding, and equipping couples with practical tools to navigate challenges. One of the key interventions I use is emotionally attuned communication techniques, such as soft startups, active listening, and repair attempts, which help partners express their needs without triggering defensiveness or escalation.

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

In my practice, I use IFS to help clients recognize and develop a compassionate relationship with their internal "parts"—such as protective, wounded, or reactive aspects of themselves. For example, when working with clients struggling with self-criticism or anxiety, I guide them in identifying the protective parts driving these patterns.