Brenda Knierim, MSW, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
With over 20 years of experience, I provide compassionate, client-centered therapy for children, adolescents, adults, and families in the Wilmington and Hampstead areas.
My Approach
My treatment approach is strength-based and client-centered. I thoroughly enjoy assisting others in identifying and overcoming current life stressors in order to move forward and create positive change.
I work collaboratively with children and parents to treat childhood disorders including ADHD, ODD, adjustment issues, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. I also treat adults experiencing similar symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, and life changes.
I utilize an array of therapeutic interventions to treat one's specific needs. Some of my interventions include behavior modification, cognitive therapy, expressive play, role modeling, social skills training, and rational emotive therapy. I also use some dialectical behavior interventions including mindfulness and assertiveness training.
My goal is to further identify and enhance your coping skills to conquer existing challenges.
Divorce & Custody Expertise
I have a unique skill in connecting with families going through divorce and assisting parents and children in navigating emotional challenges while concurrently dealing with the court system.
I enjoy the collaboration with several attorneys in New Hanover, Pender, Brunswick, and Onslow counties. I am a sworn expert witness providing testimony for high-conflict situations and practice with ethical responsibility.
Areas of Expertise
Treatment Approaches
Who I Work With
I see individuals and families across a wide age range
Children (6-10)
Play-based and expressive therapy
Preteens
Supporting the transition to adolescence
Teenagers
Navigating adolescent challenges
Adults
Individual and couples therapy
Elders (65+)
Life transitions and support
Families
Family therapy and consultation
No-Cost Therapy with an MSW Intern
Accepting new clients through late October 2026
This fall, I'm pleased to welcome Keegan Burkart, a Master of Social Work intern from the University of North Carolina Wilmington, to my practice. Keegan provides individual therapy for teens and adults under my direct clinical supervision.
Sessions with Keegan are offered at no cost. They are not billed to insurance, making this a good option if cost has been a barrier to starting therapy or you're looking for support without a long wait.
To get started, send a message through the contact form or call the office and mention you'd like to work with Keegan.
- Intern
- Keegan Burkart, MSW Intern, University of North Carolina Wilmington
- Supervision
- Supervised by Brenda Knierim, MSW, LCSW
- Who He Sees
- Teens and adults, individual therapy
- Cost
- Free (pro bono) — not billed to insurance
- Locations
- Wilmington & Hampstead offices
Professional Endorsements
What colleagues say about working with me
“Brenda is a talented therapist who is known in the community for her excellent work with children and adults. I have known her for many years and consistently hear excellent feedback regarding her effectiveness and compassion.”Shelley ChambersLCSW, MSW
“Brenda is a skilled and compassionate therapist who brings immense expertise and dedication to her practice.”Natalie DavidLCSW
Office Locations
Two convenient locations to serve you
Office Hours: Tuesday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Ready to Get Started?
Call or email me today for a free 15-minute consultation to see if we're a good fit.