Getting Better Together
Ascend Psychological Services, PLLC is a group of caring, compassionate, and skilled professionals who are here to meet the mental health needs of our community. Ascend Psychological Services, PLLC is located on East Main Street in downtown Rockwell, NC. Our facilities are warm and welcoming, with parking/entrances in front and back.
Everyone who works here is warm and welcoming too. Ascend Psychological Services provides a host of quality mental health services, including individual counseling for people of all ages, family counseling, couples counseling, group counseling, and psychological assessment. Please review our services described on this website and contact us at (704) 279-0626 if we can be of further assistance.
By Appointment Only
Our Services
Individual Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is the treatment of a behavior disorder, mental illness, or any other condition by psychological means. Psychotherapy may utilize insight, persuasion, suggestion, reassurance, and instruction so that patients may see themselves and their problems more realistically and have the desire to cope effectively with them. Currently, We offer one-on-one therapies with children, adolescents, and adults.
Group Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy may utilize insight, persuasion, suggestion, reassurance, and instruction so that patients may see themselves and their problems more realistically and have the desire to cope effectively with them
Couples Counseling
In couples counseling, We work to help couples become aware of their family of origin influences so that they better understand themselves and their partner. Another of my main goals during couples counseling is to keep the lines of communication open between the two people so that they can work-out whatever issue(s) they have.
Family Counseling
Each family has its own unique history, structure, implicit and explicit family rules, and communication styles. In family counseling, I work to help families discover and become aware of these influences so that they better understand each other and communicate.
Psychological Assessment
Ascend Psychological Services conducts psychological assessments. Typically, psychological assessments consist of a thorough clinical interview, a review of archival information (if available), and standardized testing. Collectively, these sources of information are synthesized to determine what might be going on with a person, and how to help.
Professional and Friendly Staff.
Ascend office personnel are essential team members. Their roles include medical billing, scheduling, filing, answering the phone, returning emails, and countless other tasks. Our Office Administrator, Michele Bowersox, has decades of medical billing experience and has been at Ascend since 2015. Michele’s Office Assistant, Tina Hollar, also years of accounting and secretarial experience, and has been at Ascend since 2023. Together, Michele and Tina form the bedrock of Ascend Psychological Services. When you call or email our office, you’ll quickly find that Michele and Tina are the best!
Regular Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Hours vary between clinicians. We have staff willing to accommodate our clients at night and on weekends. Please note these appointments do fill up quickly.
At Ascend, we pride ourselves on providing individualized attention. You can reach Dr. Maxwell directly via text or cellphone at (704) 202-2056. Or, you can email him at david@ascendpsy.com. Dr. Maxwell will see to it that he or someone else from Ascend will get back to you promptly.
Insurance often pays for mental health services, but it depends on your individual plan and what counselor you work with. Some of the insurances accepted at Ascend include, but are not necessarily limited to:
Medicaid
Medicare
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Self-Pay
Tri-Care
Medicare
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Self-Pay
Tri-Care
If you have questions about your insurance or other billing questions, please call (704) 279-0626, or email Michele at michele@ascendpsy.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you prescribe medications?
No. But with our clients’ authorization, we can work closely with prescribing physicians to better help our mutual clients.
What is the difference between psychotherapy and psychological assessment (aka psychological evaluation)?
Psychotherapy and psychological assessment have different purposes. Generally, psychotherapy tries to help clients solve problems whereas psychological assessment tries to help discover what the problem is. However, psychotherapy and psychological assessment typically begin the same way.
Whenever a client enters psychotherapy, the counselor does an intake assessment. This assessment is basically an interview about the client’s background and presenting concern(s). Afterward, the client and counselor work together on an ongoing basis to address the issue(s). A psychological assessment also asks about the client’s background and presenting problems; however, the assessment tends to be more thorough and include one or more standardized tests. Based on this information, the psychological assessment answers certain question (such as “Do I have ADHD?” or “Does my child have autism?”). The assessment then makes recommendations, but usually the client and evaluator do not work together after that.
Does my insurance cover mental health services?
Insurance often pays for mental health services, but it depends on your individual plan and what counselor you work with. Some of the insurances accepted at Ascend include, but are not necessarily limited to:
- Aetna
- Cigna
- Medicaid
- Medicare
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- United Healthcare
- Self-Pay
- Tri-Care
If you have questions about your insurance and other billing questions, please call (704) 279-0626, or email Michele at michele@ascendpsy.com
Meet Our Clinicians
Research indicates that the single most healing factor in psychotherapy is the relationship between the client and counselor. That’s why Ascend counselors are relatable and down-to-earth, but skilled and seasoned too. Ascend counselors come from a variety of backgrounds and training experiences. But we all share a core commitment to treating everyone with dignity and respect. We love what we do and are dedicated to helping our clients succeed!
Dr. David A Maxwell PHD.
Dr. Maxwell is a NC Board Licensed Psychologist and has been a member of the American Psychological Association since 2007.Dr. Maxwell has worked in the mental health field for approximately 25 years, with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. Dr. Maxwell has training and experience in play therapy, individual counseling, couples counseling, family counseling, and group psychotherapy. Dr. Maxwell also has training and experience in psychological assessment. Please review Dr. Maxwell’s information on this website, and contact him via email (david@ascendpsy.com) or telephone at (704)279-0626 if he can be of further assistance.
Renee Skey, MA, NCC, LPC
I worked as an elementary School Counselor for 5 years, but my temperament and personality are better suited for private practice. I also have a Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy from UNCC. Child-Centered Play Therapy is my specialty area of practice where I work with children ages 2-10 or even 11 and 12, through play. Children don’t yet have the cognitive abilities to participate in traditional talk therapy the way adults do. It is a dynamic, transformational practice in which I help children learn to manage their emotions, self-advocate, increase their self-confidence, get along better with peers and so much more!
Anya Dobbs
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate with several years of experience, but more importantly, I am human with life experiences. I work with every person from a nonjudgmental, compassionate, and empathic approach as I understand that everyone’s story is significant. Although I take a Cognitive Behavioral approach to therapy, I understand that every person is different and requires me to be flexible and accommodating in my approach to help each individual person acquire the skills to create the life they desire, one void of overwhelming feelings of anxiety, depression, grief, loneliness, stress, and anger.
Christopher Lloyd
Chris is s licensed professional counselor who has been practicing counseling since 2008. He has worked in a variety of settings and has provided counseling to children, adolescents, adults, and couples ages 3 1/2-60’s. Chris has specific training in play therapy, working with military veterans, as well as in the treatment of trauma. He holds a Master of Science degree in Counselor Education from East Carolina University and an Educational Specialist degree from the University of Alabama.
Tim Truemper
I am a master’s level psychologist with 41 years experience in a variety of areas. One of my specialties is the assessment of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) for all ages. I also have experience in the treatment of these conditions and am providing consultation and guidance to clients who have been assessed and diagnosed on how to best receive intervention assistance.
Tonda Childers
Hello, my name is Tonda Childers. I graduated 2014 from Laurel University with a BA in Christian Counseling and graduated 2017 from Liberty University with a MA in Professional Counseling. My professional credentials include NC Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), and Registered Play Therapist (RPT). My specialty is Child Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) and my target population is children ages 3-11 years of age. In my spare time, I enjoy gardening, piano, spending time with grandchildren, and I have a serious reading habit.
Alexandra (Alex) Tuck
Hello, My name is Alex. I am the virtual therapist here at Ascend and I’m humbled you are taking your time to review my bio. I am a North Carolina, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, which licenses me to provide mental health therapy in person and online here in NC. I love working with adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and families whom are willing to meet over our secured portal for therapy. This flexible and time saving format has been proven effective for busy young adults, adults, people with disabilities, parents, and working professionals. Online services can be difficult for children, so we leave this up to the discretion of the parent.
Mary Swiatek
I received my Masters of Education in School Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2020. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (#A16429) in the state of North Carolina and a National Certified Counselor (#1534259). Additionally, I am a certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist.
I enjoy working with individuals ages 18 and older, including first responders, veterans, neurodivergent individuals, and LGBTQIA+ folks. I integrate a humanistic, strength-based, person-centered, and trauma-informed approach to my practice. I enjoy using Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Expressive Art. Individuals that struggle with family dysfunction, emotional neglect/abuse, physical abuse, narcissism, gaslighting, religious trauma, sexual abuse/assualt, emotionally immature caregiver(s), abandonment, household dysfunction, or any combination of these things are a best fit for my counseling style and focus. I am collaborative, informative, and authentic, while I let you – the client – lead the way.
Tiffany
Many clients seek therapy when they feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in their lives due to challenges like past trauma, anxiety, depression, or emotional struggles. They often experience self-doubt, a sense of disconnection from their core values, or a lack of direction in their lives. These feelings can leave them questioning their purpose or unsure of how to move forward. My approach focuses on helping clients reconnect with their values, develop clarity, and build the resilience needed to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and intention.
As a bilingual psychologist, I offer services in English and Spanish, creating a comfortable, culturally competent space for clients. My goal is to help them live authentically, aligned with their core values, fostering purpose and satisfaction. Therapy provides tools to break free from negative patterns, build healthier relationships, and find peace.
I know how overwhelming it can be when life's challenges leave you feeling disconnected or unsure of your direction. Whether it's trauma, anxiety, or self-doubt, you don't have to face it alone. Together, we'll explore your values, gain clarity, and work toward a more fulfilling and authentic life. Reach out when you're ready to start your healing journey.
Meet Our Clinicians
Research indicates that the single most healing factor in psychotherapy is the relationship between the client and counselor. That’s why Ascend counselors are relatable and down-to-earth, but skilled and seasoned too. Ascend counselors come from a variety of backgrounds and training experiences. But we all share a core commitment to treating everyone with dignity and respect. We love what we do and are dedicated to helping our clients succeed!
Dr. David A Maxwell PHD.
Dr. Maxwell is a NC Board Licensed Psychologist and has been a member of the American Psychological Association since 2007.Dr. Maxwell has worked in the mental health field for approximately 25 years, with children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. Dr. Maxwell has training and experience in play therapy, individual counseling, couples counseling, family counseling, and group psychotherapy. Dr. Maxwell also has training and experience in psychological assessment. Please review Dr. Maxwell’s information on this website, and contact him via email (david@ascendpsy.com) or telephone at (704)279-0626 if he can be of further assistance.
Renee Skey, MA, NCC, LPC
I worked as an elementary School Counselor for 5 years, but my temperament and personality are better suited for private practice. I also have a Graduate Certificate in Play Therapy from UNCC. Child-Centered Play Therapy is my specialty area of practice where I work with children ages 2-10 or even 11 and 12, through play. Children don’t yet have the cognitive abilities to participate in traditional talk therapy the way adults do. It is a dynamic, transformational practice in which I help children learn to manage their emotions, self-advocate, increase their self-confidence, get along better with peers and so much more!
Anya Dobbs
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate with several years of experience, but more importantly, I am human with life experiences. I work with every person from a nonjudgmental, compassionate, and empathic approach as I understand that everyone’s story is significant. Although I take a Cognitive Behavioral approach to therapy, I understand that every person is different and requires me to be flexible and accommodating in my approach to help each individual person acquire the skills to create the life they desire, one void of overwhelming feelings of anxiety, depression, grief, loneliness, stress, and anger.
Christopher Lloyd
Chris is s licensed professional counselor who has been practicing counseling since 2008. He has worked in a variety of settings and has provided counseling to children, adolescents, adults, and couples ages 3 1/2-60’s. Chris has specific training in play therapy, working with military veterans, as well as in the treatment of trauma. He holds a Master of Science degree in Counselor Education from East Carolina University and an Educational Specialist degree from the University of Alabama.
Tim Truemper
I am a master’s level psychologist with 41 years experience in a variety of areas. One of my specialties is the assessment of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) for all ages. I also have experience in the treatment of these conditions and am providing consultation and guidance to clients who have been assessed and diagnosed on how to best receive intervention assistance.
Tonda Childers
Hello, my name is Tonda Childers. I graduated 2014 from Laurel University with a BA in Christian Counseling and graduated 2017 from Liberty University with a MA in Professional Counseling. My professional credentials include NC Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), and Registered Play Therapist (RPT). My specialty is Child Centered Play Therapy (CCPT) and my target population is children ages 3-11 years of age. In my spare time, I enjoy gardening, piano, spending time with grandchildren, and I have a serious reading habit.
Alexandra (Alex) Tuck
Hello, My name is Alex. I am the virtual therapist here at Ascend and I’m humbled you are taking your time to review my bio. I am a North Carolina, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, which licenses me to provide mental health therapy in person and online here in NC. I love working with adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and families whom are willing to meet over our secured portal for therapy. This flexible and time saving format has been proven effective for busy young adults, adults, people with disabilities, parents, and working professionals. Online services can be difficult for children, so we leave this up to the discretion of the parent.
Mary Swiatek
I received my Masters of Education in School Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2020. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (#A16429) in the state of North Carolina and a National Certified Counselor (#1534259). Additionally, I am a certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist.
I enjoy working with individuals ages 18 and older, including first responders, veterans, neurodivergent individuals, and LGBTQIA+ folks. I integrate a humanistic, strength-based, person-centered, and trauma-informed approach to my practice. I enjoy using Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Expressive Art. Individuals that struggle with family dysfunction, emotional neglect/abuse, physical abuse, narcissism, gaslighting, religious trauma, sexual abuse/assualt, emotionally immature caregiver(s), abandonment, household dysfunction, or any combination of these things are a best fit for my counseling style and focus. I am collaborative, informative, and authentic, while I let you – the client – lead the way.
Tiffany
Many clients seek therapy when they feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in their lives due to challenges like past trauma, anxiety, depression, or emotional struggles. They often experience self-doubt, a sense of disconnection from their core values, or a lack of direction in their lives. These feelings can leave them questioning their purpose or unsure of how to move forward. My approach focuses on helping clients reconnect with their values, develop clarity, and build the resilience needed to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and intention.
As a bilingual psychologist, I offer services in English and Spanish, creating a comfortable, culturally competent space for clients. My goal is to help them live authentically, aligned with their core values, fostering purpose and satisfaction. Therapy provides tools to break free from negative patterns, build healthier relationships, and find peace.
I know how overwhelming it can be when life's challenges leave you feeling disconnected or unsure of your direction. Whether it's trauma, anxiety, or self-doubt, you don't have to face it alone. Together, we'll explore your values, gain clarity, and work toward a more fulfilling and authentic life. Reach out when you're ready to start your healing journey.