Our therapists provide couples & marriage counseling in Charlottesville, VA

Gwendolyn Fisher is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has over 3 years of experience helping children and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, psychotic disorders, bipolar, oppositional defiance, trauma, PTSD, family relationships, and crisis stabilization.  

Gwendolyn earned her Bachelor's degree from Virginia Wesleyan University and her Master's degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Gwendolyn utilizes collaborative, positive regard, solutions-focused, cognitive behavioral (CBT), person-centered, mindfulness-based, and emotionally-focused approaches to meet clients where they are, and to promote a more meaningful life.

Gwendolyn seeks to empower clients by helping them meet the goals they desire in life. With her assistance, you'll begin recognizing that you are valuable while learning to live your best life—one day at a time. 

Dr. Tiffany Jackson is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 6 years of experience. She specializes in treating trauma and understands how traumatic events can impact our mental health. Tiffany typically treats children, teens, adults, and seniors with depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and major life issues/transitions.

In sessions, she uses culturally-sensitive (CST), solutions-focused brief therapy (SFBT), reality therapy (RT), and much more. Tiffany is perfect for individuals who have experienced some type of trauma within their lifetime.

Dr. Tiffany Jackson completed a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology at Old Dominion University. She also earned a Master's and Doctorate degree at Liberty University.

Most people have experienced trauma at some point in their lives. Tiffany is confident she can help assist and support you as you work through trauma and learn how past experiences can play a role in current mental health symptoms. She looks forward to seeing you in your first session together.

Patricia "Tricia" McCarty is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys helping people work through life transitions, addiction, grief/loss, chronic illness/pain, anxiety, depression, stress, and low self-esteem. Tricia uses a humanistic approach and a variety of therapeutic modalities, including cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based, strength-based, narrative, acceptance and commitment, expressive art as therapy, and positive psychotherapy. 

Tricia completed her Master of Social Work at Virginia Commonwealth University. She will actively listen, help you gain perspective, explore with you what is keeping you from becoming the best version of yourself, and make a plan that will empower you to reach your goals.

“In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety” (Abraham Maslow). Sometimes what feels safe, comfortable, and familiar, is actually unhealthy; change can be hard and the unknown scary. Do you feel stuck, repeating toxic patterns or negative thinking? Have life events or stress become overwhelming or seem unmanageable? Maybe you just need a supportive space to talk about what you’re going through and how you are feeling.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Resident with 2 years of experience in the mental health field. I work with individuals, couples, and families, supporting them through identity development, life transitions, trauma, and grief. I also have experience with ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and anger management. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate space where clients feel supported and empowered to reach their goals.

I received my Master of Arts in Counseling from Eastern Mennonite University, where I trained to work with diverse populations. I use approaches such as expressive arts, emotion-focused therapy, person-centered work, and dialectal behavior therapy. I tailor each session to meet my clients’ needs and honor their unique stories.

I believe that everyone has the ability to change and grow. My role is to walk alongside clients, meeting them wherever they are in their journey, and help them make empowered changes in their lives. I strive to support people through whatever challenges life may bring, ensuring they never have to face those challenges alone.

Blakely Baker is a Resident in Social Work with 2 years of experience helping children, youth, adolescents, adults, and seniors with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, trauma, and substance use. Blakely has spent time working in crisis stabilization and school counseling.

Blakely received her Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. She uses a variety of clinical approaches that are targeted to client needs such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, dialectic behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy.

Blakely strives to meet her clients' needs by providing a welcoming, safe, and brave space to process emotions and experiences. She cares deeply about each client's success and works to highlight strengths to overcome challenges. Blakely is ready to help you achieve your goals and conquer your battles.

Cassie Stolec is a Resident in Counseling with 2 years of experience helping clients navigate anxiety, stress, identity development, and significant life transitions. She is dedicated to fostering personal growth and emotional resilience in a safe, compassionate environment. Throughout her career, she has worked with children, young adults, and middle-aged adults, providing tailored support for each stage of life. Cassie’s personalized care empowers clients to gain insight and promotes long-term emotional well-being.

Cassie received her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. She uses cognitive behavioral therapy, rational emotive behavior therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy to help clients challenge negative thought patterns, build emotional resilience, and develop practical coping skills.

Cassie understands that seeking help can feel overwhelming, but she believes in the power of growth through support and self-discovery. With compassion and a client-centered approach, will work with you to navigate challenges and find balance. When you are ready, Cassie is here to help you take the next step toward healing and personal growth.

I am a resident in counseling with 3 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relationship stress, and major life transitions. I work with individuals who want to feel more grounded, confident, and understood as they move toward healthier patterns, stronger coping skills, and more meaningful connections.

I hold a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Walden University. I use a person-centered, trauma-informed approach that integrates cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based strategies, and strength-based interventions to support emotional regulation, self-esteem, and relational healing.

My goal is for you to feel supported, respected, and genuinely heard as you take steps toward healing and growth. I strive to create a warm, collaborative, and empowering space, and I would be honored to walk alongside you when you are ready to begin your therapeutic journey.

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!

Abel Juarez is a Resident in Counseling who specializes in depression, anger, anxiety, relationships, and addiction. In life, there will be obstacles and complications that can interrupt and affect how individuals cope with negative as well as positive outcomes. These outcomes can influence a person's thought process and have the ability to make them feel overwhelmed, powerless, and anxious. In counseling, these challenges can be handled in a manner in which individuals, couples, and families can address and begin to understand how such difficulties can result in the present situations.

"I am passionate about aiding those in difficult situations to focus on their strengths and build on them," says Abel. "In this, the counseling process becomes an understanding of several issues instead of focusing on the negative aspects that people find themselves in. Therefore, progress can move forward and the client and I can begin to address the issues at heart.

Furthermore, counseling sessions are a nonjudgmental arena in which the client is not thought of in a negative light. Being that, everyone experiences life and reacts to circumstances both negatively and positively. The extent of this reaction is where counseling starts to help those in need of a better understanding of how they conduct themselves."

April Gardner is a Resident in Counseling with 4 years of experience. She works with adults (and their loved ones) dealing with a variety of mental health problems including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia and related disorders. April also has experience working with the incarcerated and addiction disorders. She has worked in settings including hospice care, bereavement, community mental health, inpatient hospital, emergency service, and private practice.

April Graduated from Liberty University with her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She specializes in solution-focused brief therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness-oriented recovery enhancement. April is non-judgmental and believes that together people can impact the world for the better.

You are the master of your future, and April will partner with you to help set goals and take steps to a better tomorrow. No matter where you have been in the past, the path to healing is only a day away. April warmly invites you to schedule an appointment!

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 years of experience helping adults, adolescents, and children navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in supporting individuals who want to strengthen relationships, overcome trauma, or find peace while managing depression, anxiety, or fears. I have worked in community mental health and with faith-based organizations. My approach is compassionate, goal-focused, and rooted in building healthier connections so clients can enjoy life more fully.

I earned my Master’s in Counseling from Liberty University, where I gained a strong foundation in evidence-based practices. I integrate communication skills training, cognitive behavioral therapy, Christian interventions, and trauma reprocessing into my work. Upon request, I also provide faith-based counseling to support spiritual growth.

I believe in meeting clients with patience and understanding while creating a safe space for growth. Whether you are seeking peace, stronger relationships, or healing from trauma, I am here to walk alongside you. If you are unsure that things can improve, let’s talk, and I will hold hope for you until you are ready to believe in it yourself.

Brenda Naftel is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience. Brenda is passionate about helping young and older adults along their life journey. She has experience in anxiety, depression, domestic violence, couples, and grief.

Brenda completed her Master of Education (MEd) at Auburn Montgomery. She uses cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, and sometimes dialectical behavior techniques as the basis for most sessions. 

Along life’s journey there are times we need someone to be there. Brenda would be honored if you would allow her to be with you on life’s challenging journey. She will be your sounding board and offer you coping techniques to help you along the way.

I am a Resident in Counseling with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. My background includes counseling, social work case management, and compliance work with individuals experiencing serious mental illness. I have supported clients navigating trauma, grief, relationship challenges, and complex life transitions, offering care that is compassionate, grounded, and client centered.

I earned my master’s degree in professional counseling from Liberty University. I completed clinical training in both a women’s shelter for survivors of domestic violence and a private counseling practice. My approach is person-centered and trauma-informed, emphasizing safety, trust, collaboration, and emotional awareness.

I am especially passionate about supporting grief, including pet loss, and honoring experiences that are often overlooked or minimized. I strive to provide a warm, nonjudgmental space where you feel seen, supported, and empowered to heal at a pace that feels right for you.

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.

Aadirayana Joseph is a Supervisee in Social Work with 3 years of experience supporting adults navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges and working with diverse communities such as the military and LGBTQIA+. She provides a warm, collaborative space where clients feel seen, supported, and empowered to create meaningful change in their lives. She uses several approaches to help clients develop practical tools for managing emotions, improving communication, and navigating life’s challenges.

Aadirayana has a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Kentucky. She uses cognitive behavioral therapy and emphasizes a strengths-based approach tailored to each client’s journey. With a compassionate and evidence-informed lens, Aadirayana helps individuals build resilience, gain clarity, and move toward emotional wellness.

Aadirayana understands that reaching out for help can feel overwhelming. She helps clients feel empowered to navigate life’s challenges, reconnect with themselves, and take meaningful steps toward healing and growth. Aadirayana encourages you to reach out today!

Crystal Chafin is a Resident in Counseling specializing in marriage and family therapy with over 5 years of experience. She assists couples and individuals who have a range of concerns including chronic illness, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, behavioral problems, and substance use disorder. Crystal has experience working with adolescents struggling with gender and sexuality, and with those that have a diagnosis of ADHD and bipolar disorder. She has witnessed firsthand how mental health diagnoses impact the family system and uses that experience to provide a safe space for her clients to share.

Crystal graduated from Capella University with a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy and Addiction Studies. She utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy, Gottman therapy, collaborative therapy, narrative therapy, and mindfulness exercises.

Crystal strives to help others cope with difficult diagnoses and obstacles while creating obtainable therapy goals. She provides a safe space to share feelings, thoughts, and emotions without judgment. Schedule an appointment with her today!

Life's journey can rough. Not every path is smooth or easy and many are difficult and even dangerous. There are times we need someone to walk with us; perhaps help us find a new direction. Having someone that understands because they've been there, makes all the difference in the world. Brian Ede is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Commonwealth of Virginia, who has 30 years of experience working alongside individuals, couples and families seeking help with depression, anxiety, addiction, life transitions, relationship issues, men's issues, trauma and PTSD. He has completed his Bachelor of Social Work from Dordt College and received his Masters of Social Work from the University of Iowa.

Brian utilizes an eclectic approach including cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, mindfulness, solution focused approaches to therapy. He likes to incorporate unique and creative approaches in his practice that best meets the needs of every unique individual, couple and family.

Brian seeks to help you though those difficult paths, by offering a warm, caring and nonjudgmental relationship with you. He will build upon your strengths and help with tools that have you work toward your goals and working toward those things in life that you value.

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.

Marie Boyd is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has a wide range of experience working with children and adults who struggle with anger, depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. Marie has extensive experience in trauma-informed care and she strives to help those with healing from these experiences to create a safe space in processing trauma and developing coping skills to manage their symptoms and make strides in eliminating maladaptive behaviors.

Marie completed her Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology at Lynchburg College and her Master of Education (MEd) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Lynchburg. Marie’s clients are willing to invest in their growth and healing process and will complete any assigned "homework" which will help them reach their treatment goals outside of scheduled sessions. Marie also works with those who are interested in personal growth or struggle with life changes, but do not know where to start. She helps clients develop personal goals and create a plan of action in order to meet those goals as well as navigate the ever-changing journey that life takes them on. Marie believes that all clients are worthy of respect, a safe space to share their thoughts, emotions, and experiences, and they are worthy of living the life they have dreamed of.

Marie knows that starting therapy can be scary and difficult, but she would love to help you with your goals in either managing symptoms of your diagnoses or simply working through life struggles and changes. She will take her time and work at whatever pace feels comfortable for you. Marie uses an eclectic mix of person-centered therapeutic techniques such as psychoeducation, identifying helpful coping skills, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)- and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT)-informed techniques, art and play therapy-informed interventions, and trauma-informed care. She is client-focused and will adjust her counseling style to meet your needs. Marie will help you examine underlying thought patterns and core beliefs which lead to negative thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. She works on restructuring thought patterns in order to help clients live healthy and fulfilling lives. This is your time to heal and grow and Marie is happy to join you for that journey.

I am a Resident in Counseling with 3 years of experience supporting individuals through life’s challenges. In my work, I specialize in helping adults and teens navigate concerns related to trauma, depression, anxiety, and relationship stressors. My goal is to provide a safe and collaborative space where clients feel heard and supported as they work toward building healthier relationships, strengthening coping skills, and enhancing overall well-being.

I earned my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Norfolk State University. My approach integrates evidence-based practices, including cognitive behavioral therapy and family systems techniques, to address client needs while encouraging personal growth, resilience, and positive change.

I am passionate about creating a welcoming environment where your voice is valued. My focus is on empowering clients to recognize their strengths, embrace new perspectives, and take meaningful steps toward breaking cycles of stress or trauma. I am committed to walking alongside you on your journey to healing and lasting emotional wellness.

I'm Andrea Stephen, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 4 years of experience in the mental health field. I believe in utilizing a holistic approach that incorporations eclectic and holistic approach the incorporates interventions from Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Faith-Based. I focus on anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief/loss, PTSD, Bipolar & Borderline Personality.

I completed my Ed.S in Counseling at Old Dominion University, my master's in Human Services Counseling at Liberty University, and master's in Human Services at Capella University. I have over 30 years experience in higher education and over 25 years of ministry experience. 

Coupled with my professional experience, I am able to meet clients where they need to be met and provide the guidance and support they are seeking on their healing journey. I know how heavy life's challenges can feel, and I invite you to reach out so we can walk this journey together toward healing, hope, and wholeness.

Kandice Ketterling is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults in a variety of clinical settings. Her professional career consists of providing service with inpatient and outpatient services, In-home services, school settings, and hospice. 

Kandice received both her Bachelor's in Psychology and Masters of Professional Counseling at Liberty University. Her main approach to counseling is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) but also incorporates Gestalt therapy, solutions-focused therapy (SFT), and person-centered therapy to help improve quality of life, self-awareness, and coping skills.

Kandice believes in maintaining a safe space, encouraging each of her clients to share as they feel comfortable. She'll support you as the unique individual that you are, helping you to achieve your identified goals.

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.

Aaron is a Resident in Counseling with nearly 2 years of experience in the mental health field. He has been hit with various hardships and successes in life. This, coupled with his professional experience, enables him to equip his clients with skills to help them keep their heads up even when they feel they have fallen.

Aaron graduated with his Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University. He utilizes existentialism, Gestalt theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and other counseling models.

Aaron builds meaningful relationships with clients, gives them the tools and techniques to cope with life’s challenges, and enjoys watching people come out stronger than they started. If you are ready to take the journey with Aaron, book an appointment with him today!

Lisa Swann is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Virginia; has been a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Addiction Counselor II in the District of Columbia for the last 9 years. Lisa is also a National Certified Counselor (NCC) through the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). Her specialties include depression, suicide ideation, anxiety, complex trauma, PTSD, sexual trauma, substance abuse, support recovery, grief and loss, low self-esteem, chronic pain, and more.

Lisa holds a Bachelor’s in Human Development & Psychology and a Master’s in Counseling. She is a catalyst for change and helps people transform themselves by guiding them through their challenges and empowering them to reach their goals. Her role as a therapist is to ensure a safe, collaborative, and creative place to explore the complexities and challenges of life. She believes therapy is about guiding people to achieve goals they may not think were possible, and assisting clients to learn to recognize their strengths.

Lisa is committed to helping adults and takes a person-centered approach using a strength-based model in working with clients. She brings cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing to assist clients in their discovery, growth, and development.

Kathleyn Kornheisl is a Resident Licensed Professional Counselor with 4 years of experience and a diverse clinical background in community mental health settings. She specializes in supporting teens, adults, and seniors through anxiety, depression, anger, OCD, women’s issues, postpartum/pregnancy/postpartum, stress, coping skills, behavioral concerns, family conflict, grief, and life transitions. Kathleyn also has experience facilitating group counseling for substance use and dialectical behavioral therapy.

Kathleyn has her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Southern New Hampshire University. She utilizes a variety of clinical approaches that target client needs including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, and person-centered methods.

Kathleyn understands many factors contribute to overall wellness and is passionate about creating a holistic plan of care for her clients. She promises to meet you where you are to identify strengths, overcome challenges, and promote your greatest success. Schedule an appointment today!

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.

Sharon Looney is a Supervisee in Social Work with 1 year of experience in in-home, outpatient, and clinical care. They specialize in the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders, depression, neurodivergence (including OCD, ADHD, and ASD), and PTSD/trauma. Sharon also provides care for major life stressors including domestic and relationship issues, gender dysphoria/transition, and grief. Sharon has experience with behavioral interventions, crisis stabilization, case management, and individual psychotherapy.

Sharon received their Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. They utilize strategies from dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and other evidence-based practices to create a personalized experience.

Beginning therapy may not be an instant fix for life’s challenges, but it is the last step you’ll have to take alone. Sharon is ready to walk with you in this next stage of your recovery. Schedule your initial appointment today!

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.

Jessica White is a Resident in Counseling with 1 year of experience in the mental health field. She specializes in providing trauma therapy, anger management, career counseling, and grief support, as well as addressing mood disorders, anxiety, depression, stress management, and client advocacy. Jessica takes a holistic approach to wellness through a trauma-informed lens, understanding that each person’s journey is unique. with over 10 years of experience in education, Jessica has developed a strong understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that both adolescents and adults encounter.

Jessica has a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for any client, Jessica primarily utilizes trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and psychoeducation to guide clients toward healing and resilience.

Jessica understands that life can bring overwhelming challenges. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, grief, or past trauma, she creates a compassionate, non-judgmental space to work toward healing and growth. If you're looking for a therapist who listens and understands, don’t hesitate to reach out to her—she’s ready to walk alongside you.

Valerie Fowlkes, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over five years of experience helping adolescents, adults, and couples create meaningful, lasting change. She has served clients in outpatient mental health settings, therapeutic treatment programs, substance use recovery services, and community-based agencies, giving her a well-rounded understanding of diverse client needs.

Valerie specializes in supporting individuals who are navigating relationship challenges, childhood trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, women’s issues, parenting stress, and behavioral concerns. She also provides premarital, marital, and couples counseling, helping partners strengthen communication, rebuild trust, and reconnect with one another.

Valerie earned her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. She uses evidence-based approaches tailored to each client’s goals, including Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness-Based techniques, and the Gottman Method for couples.

Valerie believes therapy should be collaborative, goal-oriented, and empowering. She creates a secure, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and challenged to grow. Her focus is not just symptom relief, but equipping clients with lifelong skills for healing and success.

If you’re ready to gain clarity, build stronger relationships, and move forward with confidence, schedule a session with Valerie today.

Karen Todaro is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Virginia who has 41 years of experience working with adults, couples, teens, and children experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, unwanted behavior, and relationship issues. 

Karen completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology from the University of South Florida and her Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. She utilizes cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, relational, emotionally focused, and life coaching approaches to therapy while maintaining the flexibility, awareness, and creativity to best meet the unique needs of each client. Her focus is to be mindful of your prior life experiences, individual skillset, and timeframe in setting and reaching your goals in order to live your best life.

Karen is non-judgmental, warm, and caring and seeks to build a relationship with you based on mutual trust and respect through open communication. She will assist you with identifying your strengths and building on them so that you can reach your goals efficiently and move forward towards a more optimistic, productive, and rewarding future.

Sakura Pate is a Supervisee in Clinical Social Work with over 10 years of experience in healthcare, addressing mental and physical health needs. She has a passion for helping adults and couples take control and improve the quality of their lives. She benefited from talk therapy early in life and understands the life-changing experience it can be. From the beginning of her career in social work, she has used compassion and empathy to support and encourage her clients to live more meaningful lives. Sakura specializes in depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, grief, trauma, and major life transitions.

Sakura completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Virginia Commonwealth University. Sakura utilizes different treatment methods, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a person-centered approach, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, and motivational interviewing. She tailors her approaches to meet the unique needs of her clients.

The phrase "life is hard" can be a huge understatement for some of us. Life can feel like a boxing match, and the punches just keep coming. Sakura is here to empower you to fight back. If you are ready to transform your life and be the change you want to see, please allow Sakura the privilege of supporting you and schedule an appointment with her today!

My name’s Krista Hale, and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked in a variety of mental health settings for 45 years. At the age of 54, I went back to school to earn my Master's degree & become a licensed clinician. I am currently offering counseling to individuals, families, & couples via telehealth. I enjoy working with clients with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, & major life transitions, and I have a particular interest in working with older women, couples of all ages & persuasions, those struggling due to our current political climate, and those in the LGBTQ community. 

I obtained my Bachelor of Social Work in 1978, my Master’s in Mental Health Counseling in 2013, and I became a licensed counselor in Virginia in 2016. I use a person-centered approach, which involves being accepting, non-judgmental, and respectful of other worldviews. 

As a warm, intuitive, and empathetic counselor with a sense of humor, I help my clients flourish despite life’s setbacks. Book your appointment today and start your journey to a better life.

Erica is licensed in the state of Virginia as a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Addictions Treatment Practitioner, and a Board Certified Art Therapist. She has an extensive history of working with clients suffering from co-occurring disorders. Erica feels that the therapeutic value of art has the opportunity to heal, empower and engage those isolated due to their addiction, depression, anxiety, fears, anger, and pain.

Erica received her Master's degree in Art Therapy from George Washington University, with a focus on Trauma-Informed Care. Erica believes whole-heartedly in the healing power of creativity, incorporating both integrative and cognitive approaches to foster growth and empower clients towards obtaining their goals set forth in therapy. Her nurturing spirit helps clients discover their true potential. 

Utilizing an integrative approach that implements CBT, DBT, positive psychology, and person-centered care enables Erica to maximize the therapeutic value of an integrated approach to heal, empower, and engage those isolated by their addiction, depression, anxiety, fears, and self script to provide innovative therapy for her clients.

Nicolas Queen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Virginia with 6 years of experience working with clients seeking help addressing depression, anxiety, adjustment to life events, trauma, and other mental health issues. He is open to working with adults and teens. 

Nicolas completed his Master of Social Work at West Virginia University.He utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and solution-focused approaches in his practice. He believes it is important to develop a partnership with clients to work toward utilizing their inherent strengths to help them meet the challenges they are facing and to achieve their goals.

Nicolas feels strongly about building a caring and non-judgmental environment that helps the client feel comfortable engaging in the therapeutic process and provides room to safely process. He is LGBTQIA+ friendly.

Dr. Jennifer James is a Licensed Professional Counselor Resident with over 10 years of experience. She specializes in supporting adults, couples, and families dealing with a range of challenges including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment issues, separation, divorce, co-parenting, narcissistic abuse, and major life transitions. Dr. James takes a holistic and person-centered approach, tailoring treatment to each client's needs and goals. She believes in building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust by creating a safe non-judgmental space to form the foundation for meaningful change and personal growth.

Dr. James received her Doctorate in Counseling and Psychological Studies from Regent University. She combines evidence-based practices with a warm, authentic presence and a faith-inspired approach. Dr. James uses cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused techniques.

Taking the first step towards counseling is a courageous act. If you're ready to embark on a healing journey, Dr. James is here to support you! Together you will work towards creating the fulfilling life you deserve, honoring your unique experiences and aspirations.

undefined