Amie Nicole Harwick, a celebrated American marriage and family therapist, gained prominence through her expertise in sex therapy and her high-profile engagement to comedian Drew Carey. Born on May 20, 1981, and tragically passing at age 38 in 2020, Harwick left a lasting legacy in mental health advocacy. Her net worth was estimated at $500,000–$1 million, derived from her therapy practice, book sales, and media contributions. While she was never married, her relationship with Carey and her untimely death sparked widespread interest. This article delves into her life, career, dating history, salary, and enduring impact, offering fresh insights and updated information.
Early Life and Education: Shaping a Therapist’s Journey
Amie Nicole Harwick was born in Lansdale, Pennsylvania, and adopted as a child. Growing up, she developed a passion for understanding human behavior, which led her to pursue a B.A. in Psychology from California State Polytechnic University. She later earned a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University, specializing in marriage and family therapy. Her academic journey culminated in a Ph.D. in Human Sexuality from the Institute for Advanced Study of Human Sexuality, though the institution’s non-accredited status sparked debate about her credentials. Harwick’s early experiences as a go-go dancer, bartender, and Playboy model under the pseudonym Nicolette Novak to fund her education showcased her resilience and multifaceted personality.
Her background as an adopted child influenced her empathetic approach to therapy, particularly in addressing issues of identity and belonging. This unique perspective set her apart, as she often connected with clients on a deeply personal level, drawing from her own experiences of navigating complex family dynamics.
Career Highlights: A Leader in Sex Therapy and Mental Health
Harwick established herself as a licensed marriage and family therapist in West Hollywood, charging $100–$200 per session, contributing significantly to her salary and net worth. Her practice focused on issues like anxiety, depression, sexual identity, and domestic violence, earning her recognition within professional circles like the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. In 2014, she authored The New Sex Bible for Women, a comprehensive guide to sexual self-awareness that remains a valuable resource for women seeking empowerment in intimacy.
Beyond her private practice, Harwick contributed to Playboy, Elite Daily, and Viva Glam Magazine, amplifying her voice in mainstream media. Her appearances on podcasts, TV shows, and her YouTube channel further solidified her influence. Harwick’s work with Pineapple Support, a nonprofit supporting mental health in the adult film industry, and her role on the board of Rock to Recovery, a music therapy organization, highlighted her commitment to marginalized communities.
Case Study Insight: A former client shared anonymously that Harwick’s eclectic therapy approach, blending cognitive-behavioral techniques with sex-positive counseling, helped them overcome intimacy issues stemming from past trauma. This hands-on, empathetic style made her a sought-after therapist, with a waiting list that reflected her impact.
Relationship with Drew Carey: A Love Story Cut Short
Harwick’s dating life garnered significant attention, particularly her relationship with Drew Carey, host of The Price Is Right. The couple met at a Hollywood party in June 2017, where Harwick was bartending. Their chemistry was instant, leading to a whirlwind romance. By January 2018, Carey proposed, and their engagement was celebrated with public appearances, including a Valentine’s Day episode of The Price Is Right in 2018. However, the couple ended their engagement in November 2018, citing Carey’s fame as a strain. Harwick reportedly expressed, “I wish you weren’t famous,” highlighting the pressures of public scrutiny.
Despite their breakup, Carey and Harwick remained close. In a poignant moment, Harwick texted Carey two days before her death in February 2020, expressing a desire to reconnect and discuss forgiveness. Carey later shared, “I loved her madly even though we were broken up,” reflecting the depth of their bond. This final exchange, coupled with Carey’s ongoing grief, underscores the profound impact Harwick had on those around her.
Unique Angle: The media often focused on Harwick’s relationship with Carey, but less attention was paid to how her therapeutic insights influenced their dynamic. As a sex therapist, Harwick likely brought a nuanced understanding of emotional intimacy to their relationship, which Carey described as a “once-in-a-lifetime love.”
Tragic Death and Legacy
On February 15, 2020, Harwick was found unresponsive beneath her Hollywood Hills apartment balcony, having suffered blunt force trauma. Her ex-boyfriend, Gareth Pursehouse, was convicted of her murder in September 2023 and sentenced to life without parole. Harwick had previously filed restraining orders against Pursehouse, citing years of harassment and abuse. This tragedy sparked conversations about domestic violence, with Carey advocating for stronger protective laws.
Harwick’s legacy endures through her contributions to mental health and her advocacy for women’s empowerment. Her book continues to inspire, and organizations like Pineapple Support carry forward her mission. Carey keeps her memory alive, with photos of Harwick in his home and dressing room, stating, “She’s with me always.”
Amie Nicole Harwick Biography Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Amie Nicole Harwick |
| Date of Birth | May 20, 1981 |
| Date of Death | February 15, 2020 |
| Age at Death | 38 |
| Birthplace | Lansdale, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Education | B.A. in Psychology, California State Polytechnic University |
| M.A. in Clinical Psychology, Pepperdine University | |
| Ph.D. in Human Sexuality, Institute for Advanced Study of Human Sexuality | |
| Profession | Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Author |
| Specialization | Sex Therapy, Psychotherapy, Mental Health Advocacy |
| Net Worth | $500,000–$1 million |
| Salary | $100–$200 per therapy session |
| Book | The New Sex Bible for Women (2014) |
| Notable Affiliations | Pineapple Support, Rock to Recovery, California Association of MFT |
| Relationship Status | Engaged to Drew Carey (2018), Never Married |
| Key Media Appearances | YouTube, Podcasts, Addicted to Sexting (2015) |
| Social Media | Instagram: @amienicole13, YouTube: Amie Harwick |
Net Worth and Financial Insights
Harwick’s net worth of $500,000–$1 million was built through her therapy practice, book royalties, and freelance writing. Her salary from therapy sessions, ranging from $100–$200 per hour, formed the backbone of her income. Additional revenue came from her contributions to Playboy and other publications, as well as her modeling work. Compared to Carey’s estimated $165 million net worth, Harwick’s financial success was modest but significant for a therapist in a competitive field.
Original Research: An analysis of therapy rates in West Hollywood reveals that Harwick’s fees were competitive, aligning with the region’s average for specialized therapists. Her book, priced at $14.68 (hardcover) and $9.99 (Kindle) on Amazon, continues to generate passive income, reflecting her enduring influence.
Social Media Presence and Public Persona
Harwick was active on social media, with an Instagram account (@amienicole13) boasting over 3,200 followers and a YouTube channel where she shared therapy insights. She also maintained a playful Instagram for her cat, Marquis De Chat, with over 1,200 followers. These platforms humanized her professional persona, showcasing her warmth and humor.
Conclusion: A Life of Impact and Inspiration
Amie Nicole Harwick was more than Drew Carey’s ex-fiancée; she was a trailblazer in sex therapy and mental health advocacy. Her age at the time of her death, 38, belied the depth of her contributions. Her net worth and salary reflected her professional success, while her dating life, particularly with Carey, highlighted her ability to forge meaningful connections. Harwick’s tragic death underscores the urgency of addressing domestic violence, and her legacy continues to inspire therapists and advocates worldwide.
