Our counselors offer self-harm counseling in Alexandria, VA

My name is Esonija' Fulgham, and I'm a licensed clinical social worker practicing in VA, DC, and MD. I've been practicing clinical social work independently for almost 15 years. I enjoy the work that I do in helping families and individuals thrive and learn to articulate their lived experiences from a place of empowerment.

I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, empowerment approaches, and trauma-informed frameworks to help clients live their best lives. My focus is on equipping you with practical coping skills. 

I look forward to working with you and am humbled that you've chosen me to share your journey. 

Matthew is a Licensed Resident in Counseling (RIC) with years of experience. He has experience working in various settings, from out-patient college clinics to in-patient hospitals and outpatient community centers. He works with children, adolescents, and adults to address their unique needs and live their lives on their terms.

Matthew completed his Master's degree at Old Dominion University in 2022, and Bachelor's degrees in Criminal Justice and Psychology at the University of South Carolina Upstate in 2015 and 2016. He utilizes a person-centered and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach with his clients.

Life is a series of challenges and stresses. Matthew is confident that he can assist you in developing new ways of looking at and coping with the unique challenges that life gives you. If you are ready to get to work on changing you life, schedule an appointment today.

Hokunani Womack is a Resident in Counseling with over 2 years of experience working with adults dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and autism spectrum disorder. She comes from a diverse background and is LGBTQIA+-affirming, passionate about women's issues, and culturally sensitive. Hokunani has worked in community mental health with people experiencing homelessness and severe mental illness, as well as in inpatient and outpatient hospital settings treating a wide range of diagnoses. She has developed an eclectic trauma-informed approach to counseling and tailors care to the individual needs of her clients.

Hokunani graduated with a Master of Science in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University. Some approaches she uses include dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, narrative therapy, motivational interviewing, internal family systems, and attachment theory.

As a queer multicultural woman and mother, Hokunani understands what it is like to hold multiple identities and the unique challenges one faces at the intersection of those identities. Healing takes work, but she believes in the power of therapy and that it is absolutely worth the time and effort. Book an appointment with Hokunani today!

I am a Resident in Counseling with 3 years of experience, supporting women and children navigating anxiety, intrusive thoughts, depression, and major life transitions. Whether adjusting to motherhood, shifting roles, or emotional overwhelm, I help clients feel grounded, confident, and connected to themselves again. My approach centers on creating a safe, compassionate space where healing feels manageable and growth feels possible, allowing clients to reconnect with clarity and balance in their everyday lives.

I have a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University and integrate evidence-based modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and behavioral activation. These approaches help me tailor support to each client’s unique experiences and goals, fostering emotional awareness, self-compassion, and lasting resilience.

I know how overwhelming life’s changes can feel, and I strive to help clients discover strength and confidence through practical coping tools and self-discovery. You don’t have to have everything figured out to begin therapy, just a willingness to start. I’m here to walk alongside you as you take that first step toward healing, growth, and renewed hope.

Kayla Norris is a Licensed Resident in Counseling with 1 year of experience in the mental health field. She specializes in helping adults and seniors manage anxiety and heal from parental trauma. Kayla also has experience in supporting individuals as they manage depression, adjust to life changes, and recover from traumatic situations.

Kayla received her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University in 2024. She integrates a faith-based approach into cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused therapies to help clients achieve their goals.

Kayla believes that healing looks different for everyone, and collaborates with her clients to help them find solutions for their unique needs. She encourages you to reach out to schedule an initial appointment today!

Sarajayne Vanover is a Supervisee in Social Work with 5 years of experience in case management. She has worked with children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults from diverse backgrounds. Sarajayne has treated trauma histories and family instability. She enjoys helping clients develop coping skills for depression, anxiety, life transitions, and daily struggles. Sarajayne understands the impact that positive support can have and seeks to help clients meet their goals. She seeks to provide validation and support to clients by understanding who they are and what they’ve experienced.

Sarajayne completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) in Clinical Practice as well as her Master of Science in Conflict Analysis & Resolution from George Mason University. Sarajayne has received training in Motivational Interviewing and approaches conflict with a Narrative Practice lens.

We have all experienced the highs and lows of life. Sarajayne strives to provide a safe space and a welcoming environment for individuals as they talk through whatever is on their minds and process what life has brought their way. If you are ready to start your journey, schedule an appointment with her today! She is looking forward to meeting you!

Stephanie Pitts-Riley is a Resident in Counseling with 5 years of experience. Stephanie is trained in EMDR - She is dedicated to helping others navigate life transitions, process grief or trauma, and explore their identity. Stephanie’s ideal client wants to collaborate to regain control of their narrative. Motivated by her own experience navigating mental health, Stephanie is committed to supporting children, adolescents, and adults on the journey toward embracing their authentic selves. She works with all populations, backgrounds, and diagnoses.

Stephanie holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. She blends counseling theories and techniques to tailor interventions to meet each client's specific needs. As mentioned, Stephanie offers EMDR therapy, traditional talk therapy, and children's therapies and is bilingual in English and Spanish.

With an extensive background in mental health services and social work, Stephanie effectively advocates for clients in a hands-on manner. She fosters accountability and personal growth by creating a space of acceptance, respect, and kindness. Reach out to start your path to healing and self-discovery!

Bridgette is a Resident in Counseling with 2 years of experience. They have worked with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, and life transitions. Bridgette utilizes a client-centered approach to meet her clients where they are while providing a kind, safe, and gently challenging space to help them understand themselves and grow.

Bridgette has a Master’s in Forensic Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She uses emotionally focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, attachment-based therapy, art therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, and mindfulness techniques.

Intense feelings can be difficult to manage on your own and there is nothing wrong with needing help. Bridgette is here to build and foster skills, motivation, and the desire to make positive changes. She offers unconditional support and a nonjudgemental space to express yourself and your needs. Reach out today!

Diego Riverick is a Resident in Counselling with 2 years of experience and a wealth of understanding. He specializes in helping people of all ages who struggle with stress, ADHD, depression, trauma, and complicated family systems. Diego has spent time in adolescent behavioral health, the school system, and with survivors of sexual violence. He comes from a diverse background and is eager to serve a broad spectrum of clients.

Diego received his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University. He uses an eclectic approach and meets his clients where they are, allowing them to guide the journey toward achieving their goals.

Diego believes everyone desires to be their best self but sometimes needs help forming that vision. If you're ready to move toward healthy change, partner with Diego and take the first steps with confidence.

Kirstie James is a Supervisee in Social Work with 1 year of experience providing individual counseling to children, adolescents, and adults. She works with children through difficulties centered around behavior and emotional awareness, and with adults seeking grief support, stress management, and help adjusting to life transitions. Kirstie’s goal is to empower individuals to develop autonomy and self-reliance via an environment that provides safety and security. She offers active listening, reflection, and interactive feedback to her clients.

Kirstie received her Master of Social Work from Walden University. She utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy, emotionally focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness techniques. Kirstie makes the therapeutic environment fun for children by incorporating games and offers a calm, relaxed, and open environment for adults.

Kirstie is a warm, vibrant, and understanding therapist willing and eager to assist clients through the triumphs and difficulties of daily life. She will help you break down goals into manageable steps and support you every step of the way. Reach out to Kirstie today!

Ashley Floyd is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisee with 2 years of experience in the mental health field. She specializes in supporting individuals through depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, substance use, and life transitions. Ashley was inspired to return to school to study social work after spending 12 years in retail and meeting a wide variety of diverse people. She has worked with clients with intersectional identities including LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, and those in recovery. As a believer in flexible treatment, Ashley tailors her approach to each individual.

Ashley received her Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. Her favorite therapeutic approaches are parts work and internal family systems techniques, dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and traditional talk therapy.

These are challenging times for everyone. Despite being increasingly electronically "connected,” people feel more isolated than ever, but Ashley believes change is always possible! Reach out and find a strategy to work toward being the best version of yourself in a life that honors your values.

Meredith Golob is a Licensed Professional Counselor with an extensive history working with children, adults, and families dealing with depression, anxiety, crises, life challenges, and trauma. She is a firm believer in creating a mutually respectful and trusting therapeutic relationship in order to support clients in reaching their goals.

Meredith graduated from James Madison University as a "double duke," receiving her Bachelor's of Arts in Psychology and her MA, Ed.S in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She is a strength-based counselor, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, and person-centered approaches. Meredith has completed the Level 1 Training in Gottman Method couples therapy.

Meredith is originally from New Jersey. She came to Virginia for school and never went back! In her spare time, Meredith enjoys spending time with family and friends, cooking, listening to music, and spending time with her pet.

Shanita King-Miller is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisee passionate about promoting self-efficacy, resilience, and positive change. She was inspired to study social work after working in hospital settings with clients from various backgrounds. Shanita specializes in anxiety, stress, depression, anger, and coping skills.

Shanita received her Master of Social Work from Capella University. Her favorite intervention strategies used to address client needs are motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, art and play therapy, strengths-based approach, and narrative therapy.

Shanita believes in creating safe spaces for clients to share their experiences and foster and reach their maximum potential. Her goal is to support you on your journey to live a fulfilling and healthy lifestyle while recognizing the unique needs of each client. If you’re ready to take the next steps in your journey, schedule an appointment with her today.

Hudson Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 6 years of experience across the mental health crisis continuum, including inpatient care, community stabilization, and prevention. He works with diverse concerns such as substance use, life transitions, anxiety, and depression. Hudson centers marginalized and under-resourced individuals, using an intersectional approach to support resilience. He welcomes all clients, with a focus on LGBTQ+ folks, disabled individuals, and those impacted by their social identities.

Hudson earned his Master’s in Counselor Education from Virginia Tech. He uses an eclectic, client-centered approach to therapy. Grounded in empathy and nonjudgment, he sees the therapeutic relationship as a space to explore new thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, while supporting each person’s capacity to grow into who they need to be.

Hudson has dedicated his career to supporting historically silenced communities and supporting clients as they grow into their most authentic selves. If you're seeking a space where you can show up as you are, Hudson welcomes you to reach out and begin your journey.

I am a Resident in Counseling with 2 years of experience supporting individuals and families through life’s challenges. My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and collaboration, helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, family issues, and life transitions. I strive to foster resilience, self-awareness, and emotional balance while creating a safe and welcoming space for meaningful growth and healing.

I earned my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University and began my career as a community-based mental health professional. My work draws from cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic principles to help clients gain insight, strengthen coping skills, and create lasting emotional change.

I believe everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported. My goal is to walk beside clients as they pursue healing, personal growth, and peace. Together, we’ll create a path toward greater self-understanding and emotional freedom—one that honors your unique story and empowers you to thrive.

Stephanie Tingler is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 7 years of experience in the counseling field. She is extremely passionate about walking alongside clients and providing the support and tools to help them reach their personal goals and live the life they desire.

Stephanie completed her Master's degree in Professional Counseling at Liberty University. She has experienced many different mental health challenges and knows what it’s like to work through them and experience true happiness through hardship. She utilizes a variety of therapy methods including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), attachment-based therapy (ABT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).

Stephanie wants to help you take the first step to healing and living your best life. She looks forward to helping you gain new insight about who you are and help you learn ways to use new tools to reach your goals and grow in your own strength. If you’re ready to begin your journey schedule an appointment with her today.

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with 9 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in residential facilities, skills-building programs, case management, and crisis intervention settings. I specialize in helping individuals process trauma, manage anxiety and depression, navigate life transitions, and rebuild a sense of meaning and stability in their lives.

I earned my master’s degree in counseling from Oregon State University. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and client-centered, drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy, existential therapy, and person-centered therapy. I tailor treatment to each individual’s needs while honoring the client’s voice and personal strengths.

I believe healing happens in a safe, respectful, and supportive environment. While the work can feel challenging at times, it can also be deeply rewarding. I strive to build a strong therapeutic alliance and support you as you move through life’s challenges with greater clarity, resilience, and confidence.

Heather Duncan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia and an experienced counselor with 6 years of outpatient counseling and assessment experience and 14 years of experience working with severely mentally ill individuals within a variety of community mental health agencies. Heather graduated from Liberty University with a master’s degree focused on Professional Counseling. She is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and couples by approaching individuals uniquely while holding space and joining with individuals throughout their distinct healing journey as they work to live a more fulfilling life. Heather specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, major life transitions, men’s and women’s issues, life transitions and adjustments, peri and post-natal challenges, chronic pain, and chronic illnesses.

Heather Duncan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Virginia and a member of the Virginia Counseling Association. Heather has demonstrated work experience within the mental health industry. Heather is skilled in crisis intervention, premarital and couples counseling, grief/loss, group therapy, behavioral health, training, and psychotherapy. She is passionate about partnering with individuals and investing time in the development of a strong therapeutic rapport. Heather’s passion, supportive style, and unique clinical approach to individuals fuel the treatment and quality of care you will receive. Heather utilizes multiple therapeutic person-centered treatment approaches including mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, prepare and enrich, and family systems therapy.

One of the most challenging and important aspects of wanting to start the therapeutic process is finding a counselor that you feel comfortable with! You have already made THE most important decision regarding your well-being and that is simply to just begin. When you develop a relationship with a caring, attuned therapist, you will find new ways to solve problems, know and accept yourself, heal old wounds, and change the way you live your life. We all deserve a little help and support sometimes, and that’s what led you here! If you’re feeling like something is missing or needs to give, please reach out to Heather and schedule an appointment today. She would be honored to be of help.

Ruth Ware is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of Alabama, Mississippi, and Virginia. She is also Board Certified in Telemental Health. Ruth has 25+ years of experience helping adults and those with issues related to depression, anxiety, life transitions, and addictions issues find their way back to the road of recovery and happiness. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Oklahoma State University and received a Master of Human Relations from University of Oklahoma. She also has a Master of Business of Administration. Ruth utilizes collaborative, strengths-based, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based and experiential approaches to therapy to assist clients to meet their treatment objectives. She remains mindful of individual differences and needs in the process and brings years of experience that allow flexibility and alternatives to meet the needs of each individual. Ruth believes in meeting her clients where they are at the moment. She strives to help them to experience a therapeutic relationship that will allow them to grow and change in the direction they wish to go in their life.

Tammy Simms is a supervisor in Social Work who has worked in the mental health field for 10+ years, working with children as young as age 5 and adults up to age 99. She enjoys working in the mental health field assisting individuals in managing life issues including grief, anxiety, depression, anger, PTSD, and trauma.

Tammy completed her Master of Social Work at Our Lady of The Lake University. She is a widow and has experienced loss, and she understands the struggles of moving forward toward resilience. Tammy utilized various treatment approaches including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, and family system therapy.

We all come from different walks of life and may have similar, yet different, challenges or struggles. Tammy is confident she can support you by meeting you where you are currently in your journey, and help you move forward toward growth. If you are ready to take this journey, please schedule an appointment with her today!

I am a licensed professional counselor with 5 years of experience supporting people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and emotional overwhelm. I help clients who feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure how to move forward regain clarity and confidence. I use a warm, collaborative approach and evidence-based methods to support healing, self-discovery, and meaningful change. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, understood, and empowered.

I hold a master’s in clinical mental health counseling from Liberty University. My approach blends cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices, and solution-focused strategies to help clients build insight, develop new skills, and move toward emotional balance.

I welcome clients with compassion, curiosity, and respect. I want you to feel truly seen and heard, and to know that your feelings and experiences matter. We will move at a pace that feels right for you. If you are ready to begin, I invite you to reach out so we can take the first step together. You do not have to do this alone.

I am a resident in counseling with 2 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, mood concerns, trauma, identity exploration, relationship stress, and life transitions. I have experience working in inpatient and residential settings and provide care to individuals seeking clarity, coping skills, and emotional balance. I focus on helping clients understand patterns, develop practical tools, and create meaningful, sustainable change over time.

I earned my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from the University of Lynchburg. My clinical approach is informed by cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and Adlerian therapy, along with other evidence-based and integrative techniques.

I strive to provide a calm, validating, and collaborative space where you feel heard and supported. Together, we will explore your experiences with compassion and curiosity while working toward goals that align with your values. You do not have to navigate this journey alone, and I would be honored to support you as you move forward.

Madeline Garrett is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Virginia and Florida who has over 9 years of experience providing clinical assessments and therapeutic care to teens and adults seeking help with anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar disorder, addiction, co-dependency, grief and loss, parenting assistance, and sexuality issues. She identifies as an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community and affirms all spiritual beliefs.

Madeline completed her Bachelor of Psychology from Florida State University, Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California, and her Master of Leadership from Grand Canyon University. She is a compassionate counselor who utilizes strength-based, collaborative, relational, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based, motivational, solution focused approaches to therapy. She strives to remain current on creative interventions, flexible, and in tune to best meet the needs of every unique challenge and individual.

Madeline understands that it takes a lot of courage to reach out for help. She looks forward to getting to know you and is so glad you're here. She will meet you where you are to empower you to make lasting changes. Bring whatever you are carrying, and together you can begin to sort through it to get some well-deserved relief.

I am a Resident in Counseling with over 14 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges. I’ve supported clients in foster care, crisis stabilization, and substance abuse treatment, and work with people of all ages facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or major life transitions. My passion lies in helping others improve self-esteem, manage stress, strengthen relationships, and find healing from past experiences.

I earned my master’s in clinical mental health counseling from Norfolk State University. My approach is collaborative and supportive, using cognitive behavioral therapy to help you recognize and change unhelpful thought patterns. I focus on building resilience, self-awareness, and the practical tools needed to create lasting, meaningful growth.

Reaching out for support takes courage, and I want you to know you don’t have to do it alone. Healing and growth are possible, and I’m here to walk beside you as you take the next step toward a more balanced, fulfilling life. I invite you to begin your journey toward greater peace, strength, and self-discovery today.

Allie Wright is a Resident in Counseling with 1 year of experience helping teens and adults from diverse backgrounds. Allie specializes in treating clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and life adjustments. She is passionate about working with individuals from marginalized backgrounds, survivors of trauma and abuse, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Allie individualizes her treatment methods to meet each client's needs.

Allie has a Master of Education in Mental Health Counseling and a Master of Arts in Psychological Counseling from Teachers College at Columbia University. Her therapeutic approach is collaborative, affirming, strengths-based, and trauma-informed. Allie uses cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and narrative therapy.

Allie cultivates a compassionate, accepting, and empowering therapeutic space where she strives to meet clients where they are and work together to reach their personal goals. Schedule an appointment with Allie today!

Tertia Marshall is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 6 years of experience counseling teens, adults, and families in diverse populations with a variety of challenging issues including parenting difficulties, life stressors, low self-esteem, relationship issues, mood disorders, trauma, and anxiety disorders such as PTSD. 

Tertia's counseling approach is non-judgemental, respectful, genuine yet direct. She utilizes various therapeutic methods based on the needs of the client some of which include solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), and client-centered techniques, Tertia's goal is to provide a safe space for individual growth and to encourage those who may be having difficulties in various areas of their lives. If you are willing to do the work, she is willing to help support you through the process. 

With your knowledge and expertise in conjunction with Tertia's academic accomplishments and experience, you can create attainable goals to meet your needs. It takes a lot of courage to reach out and ask for help. She'd like to congratulate you on taking the next step towards healing and happiness. A quote that sticks in Tertia's mind is, "Change is hardest at the beginning, messiest in the middle and best at the end." -Robin S. Sharma

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) with 13 years of experience supporting adolescents, adults, couples, and families as they navigate challenges such as trauma, anxiety, body image, self-esteem, bullying, crisis management, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, eating disorders, and relationship concerns. I specialize in helping women build confidence, strengthen self-worth, and move toward meaningful, lasting change.

I hold a master’s degree in mental health counseling from Longwood University. I use a trauma-informed, strengths-based, and holistic approach that integrates cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mind-body practices to support emotional wellness, healthier habits, and balanced daily functioning.

I understand that life can feel overwhelming, and taking the first step toward support takes courage. I strive to create a safe, respectful space where you can explore patterns, challenge limiting beliefs, and reconnect with your sense of self. Together, we can work toward balance, confidence, and the life you’ve always wanted.

I am Dr. B, Dr. Bertresh, Dr. London or Dr. Nunez, and I have dual licenses as a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Virginia. I have been working with children, families, couples, and individuals for over 30 years. In that time, I have found from working with couples that I help serve as their translator to increase communication, understanding, and connection. With individuals, I've helped them thrive by overcoming and significantly decreasing anxiety, anger, depression, lack of motivation, social anxiety, and difficulties communicating.

As your clinician, we will personalize your treatment and utilize your strengths, resources, and passions to help overcome struggles. This means that I will help you manage unwanted thoughts, implement coping skills, learn social skills, reframe triggers, become more assertive, and increase mindfulness resulting in less unwanted symptoms.

Saying life can be heavy, draining, discouraging, and challenging is an understatement, especially when trauma and life circumstances are present. Let's start identifying ways that you can get out of the deep hole that you may be in. I can help you get out of the rut with supportive, unbiased observations to navigate through life's many changes.