Holly Hartson-Bowyer, PHD

Holly Hartson-Bowyer, PhD, is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with more than 25 years of experience providing compassionate, thoughtful, and individualized mental health care. Compassion is at the heart of both who she is and how she works. Dr. Hartson-Bowyer is committed to helping clients feel understood and empowered as they pursue greater emotional balance, resilience, and personal growth.

Dr. Hartson-Bowyer earned her Master’s degree and PhD in Clinical Psychology from the University of Louisville in Louisville, Kentucky. She previously received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Certificate in Women’s Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her clinical background includes training in interpersonal therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy, which she draws upon within a trauma-informed approach.

From her earliest jobs as a young adult, Dr. Hartson-Bowyer felt drawn to healthcare and the helping professions. Supporting others allowed her to build a career that reflects her personal values and her desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. More than two decades later, that sense of purpose continues to sustain her. In the simplest terms, she finds happiness in being useful—helping, encouraging, and supporting others as they navigate life’s challenges.

Dr. Hartson-Bowyer centers her therapeutic approach on the needs, experiences, and strengths of each client as an individual. Rather than approaching care with a one-size-fits-all perspective, she seeks to understand each person’s unique circumstances, values, goals, and vision for the future. Her work is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and empowerment, creating space for clients to examine their experiences, recognize their existing strengths, and develop new ways of moving forward.

She believes that meaningful change becomes possible when people have the time and space to look inward and focus intentionally on their growth. With compassionate support, clients can build emotional balance, strengthen their resilience, and gain greater confidence in their ability to navigate difficult experiences. Dr. Hartson-Bowyer strives to provide an environment in which clients feel safe being honest with themselves, exploring what may be holding them back, and imagining what it could mean to thrive. Her goal is to help each person move toward the best and most authentic version of themselves—the version they envision and define.

Dr. Hartson-Bowyer grew up in Southwestern Virginia, which remains the home of her heart. Her parents are from the Midwest, and she describes her interpersonal style as a blend of Midwestern warmth and the friendly cheer of the South. After living in Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and California for many years, she returned to Virginia to be closer to her family. Coming home has helped her feel grounded and renewed, while reinforcing the importance she places on connection, belonging, and living in alignment with one’s values.

When she is not working, Dr. Hartson-Bowyer enjoys spending time with her family and cats. She loves hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, visiting the beach, and traveling throughout the region. She also enjoys escape rooms, cooperative tabletop games, and music. Her many creative and adventurous hobbies include 35mm photography, crafting, geocaching, and baking—all of which offer opportunities for curiosity, connection, and renewal.