Our therapists provide couples & marriage counseling in McLean, VA

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!

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.

Trish Earhart is a Licensed Resident in Counseling with a year of experience in the mental health field. She has worked for 8 years as a middle school counselor and assists children, adolescents, and families with academic, social, and emotional learning services. Her specialties include anxiety, depression, panic disorders, family and parenting challenges, grief, and trauma.

Trish received her Master's in Education in School Counseling/Clinical Counseling from Liberty University. Trish's clinical approaches include mindfulness techniques, systems/family methods, and solution-focused therapy techniques.

Trish believes counseling is a partnership between the client and the therapist to identify areas of need and create workable solutions. She wants to help build your strengths and problem-solve areas of concern by collaborating for optimal success. Reach out today!

Jenni Bivins is a Supervisee in Clinical Social Work with 3 years of experience. She is a dedicated and compassionate mental health clinician with a broad range of experience working in inpatient settings with adults facing substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, serious mental illness, and complex trauma. Her background includes supporting veterans as well as individuals with PTSD, chronic health conditions, physical disabilities, and intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as their families.

Jenni earned a Master’s in Clinical Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. She brings a trauma-informed and person-centered approach to meet her clients where they are in life. Jenni specializes in guiding clients toward healthier relationships by developing communication skills and establishing healthy personal boundaries.

With a strengths-based approach, Jenni is committed to empowering individuals on their path to healing and meaningful change. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or simply ready for change, Jenni invites you to take the next step and reach out. She can help you navigate your feelings and experiences.

Elizabeth (Liz) Malin is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 7 years of experience in treating adults, teens, and families seeking help with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, low self-esteem, workplace stressors, life transitions, and more.  

Liz earned her Master's degree in Counseling Education from Old Dominion University. She utilizes strengths-based, cognitive behavioral (CBT), solutions-focused (SFT), and emotionally-focused approaches to therapy. She provides a safe place where you can work with her to form a collaborative relationship to feel heard, understood, and empowered.  

Liz seeks to establish a compassionate, caring environment as a foundation for you to create positive change while gaining further insight into patterns in your life that keep you from living your best life on a daily basis. Reach out today to take the first steps to establish further support and understanding by beginning your therapeutic process. 

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. 

Wendy Wasserstrom is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 9 years of social work experience. She has provided mental health services to children, adolescents, adults, and older adults, and she has experience providing individual and group therapy. She has worked with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, substance abuse, and family conflict. 

Wendy earned her undergraduate degree in Social Work from Florida State University and her Master’s degree in Social Work from Florida Atlantic University. She has worked in a variety of settings, providing services in the community, outpatient settings, and public schools. An area of particular passion includes working with young adults with a wide variety of presenting concerns including depression, anxiety, substance use, self-injury, trauma, and sexual assault recovery. 

Wendy utilizes a wide range of therapeutic techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, strength-based, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing. Wendy realizes that each person is unique and tailors her therapeutic approach to each client. Her approach to therapy is person-centered and involves meeting her clients where they are. She approaches clients with compassion and acceptance. Wendy believes that therapy requires vulnerability and courage and works to create a safe setting for that work to occur.

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.

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."

 I believe that every individual can get through difficulties that arise in life and sometimes we need some help. I am passionate about providing a safe space for you to talk about your story.

Whether you are grieving the loss of a relationship, struggling to communicate to the important people in your life more effectively or you are unsure about how to build a stronger relationship with your child. With compassion and respect we will unearth what is getting in the way of what you want.

I use a personable and direct approach to provide solution focused counseling.

Toy Draine is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. With over 25 years of experience providing career and academic counseling to students, she specializes in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, body positivity, career counseling, work stress, domestic abuse, family conflict, grief, marital and premarital concerns, narcissistic personality disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma, PTSD, and more. Toy works with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan.

Toy holds a Master’s in Public Health from The George Washington University and a Master’s in Counseling and Student Personnel Services from Fordham University. She utilizes a strengths-based, evidence-informed approach to help clients build resilience, navigate challenges, and work toward personal growth and relational harmony.

Life's twists and turns can leave us feeling lost and overwhelmed, but you deserve the guidance and support to navigate them. Whether addressing mental health concerns or life transitions, Toy is dedicated to creating a compassionate, safe, and empowering environment for all clients. Take the first step towards a brighter future by reaching out today.

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.

Benjii Maust is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience working with children, teens, and adults in intensive in-home, community, outpatient, and residential settings. Benjii specializes in LGBTQIA affirmation, anger management, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and managing trauma-based behaviors. His ideal client struggles with acceptance, coping mechanisms, and expressing feelings healthily. Benjii has also supported clients living with chronic illnesses who require emotional support in managing their medical needs.

Benjii received his Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. He draws on techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy, compassion-focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. Benjii utilizes art and play-based interventions with younger clients.

Benjii is committed to meeting you where you are in your journey and engaging with you to identify thoughts, patterns, and narratives working against you. If you are feeling stuck and looking for a change, reach out to Benjii today.

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Rossa Ridley is a Resident in Counseling and Qualified Mental Health Provider for adults in the state of Virginia. She has over 7 years of experience assisting adults that are seeking help with a variety of mental health issues, adjusting to life transitions, military-related issues, past incarceration, and relationship issues due to childhood trauma. 

Rossa completed her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from ECPI University, a Master of Art in Professional Counseling (Mental Health Counseling) from South University, and an advanced degree of a Master of Philosophy in Forensic Psychology. She utilizes collaborative, strength-based, cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, mindfulness-based, and holistic-focused approaches within the therapeutic relationship. Rossa is also a veteran of the military which gives her the unique ability to adapt to the changing needs of those seeking help in the various transitions adults may have to maneuver in their daily lives.

Rossa strives to establish a nurturing and empathetic relationship with you to assist you with using your strengths to work through situations and/or stressors so that you can reach your goals. She believes in creating a rapport with you so that you are taking a key role in living the life you desire.

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.

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.

Victoria Staten is a Supervisee in Social Work (SISW) with years of experience. She has experience practicing in a variety of clinical settings providing both inpatient and outpatient mental health services to both adolescents and adults. Victoria focuses on helping. She has experience treating individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, adjusting to life changes, challenges within relationships, and low self-esteem.

Victoria received her Master's degree in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University and her Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Radford University. Victoria utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), solution-focused therapy (SFT), and more.

Victoria wants you to know that even though you are the only one who can take steps towards taking back control over your mental health, you do not have to take those steps alone. Schedule your session today.

Marissa Bell is a Supervisee in Social Work with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families address their unique challenges and needs. Marissa has a diverse professional background working with individuals of different ages and needs. She specializes in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, grief, adjustment disorder, trauma, and major life transitions. Marissa completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Virginia Commonwealth University.

Marissa is very passionate about supporting and guiding others in finding solutions and overcoming challenges. Marissa utilizes multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, person-centered therapy, and solution-focused therapy.

Despite the challenges and situations that happen in life, Marissa is confident that she can support and empower individuals through navigating life challenges. Marissa can support others in developing coping skills and establishing goals. If you are ready to start therapy, schedule an appointment with her today.

Krista Hale is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked in a variety of settings in the mental health field for 45 years. At the age of 54, she went back to school to earn her master's degree and became a licensed clinician. She is currently offering counseling to individuals, families, and couples via telehealth. Krista enjoys working with clients with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and major life transitions.

Krista Hale obtained her BSW in 1978, her MS in Mental Health Counseling in 2013, and became a licensed counselor in Virginia in 2016. She uses a person-centered approach, which involves being accepting, non-judgmental, and respectful of other worldviews.

A warm, intuitive, and empathetic counselor with a sense of humor, Krista helps her clients flourish despite life’s setbacks. Book your appointment today and start your journey to a better life.

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.

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!

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.

Ife Milligan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Holistic Life Coach (CHLC) with over 10 years of professional experience working with clients of all ages with issues related to grief, loss, depression, ADHD, anxiety, oppositional defiance disorder (ODD), low self-esteem, family conflict, and more. 

She received her Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from Columbia University and earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology from Morgan State University. She received her Holistic Life Coach certification from the University of Wellness. Ife has worked in a variety of settings and populations, including outpatient mental health, school-based therapy, medical social work, residential care, geriatric care management, and managed care.

She employs cognitive behavioral techniques (CBT), dialectal behavioral therapy (DBT), humanistic approaches, motivational interviewing, and more. Ife truly enjoys assisting others on the journey of healing and growth. She'll partner with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your needs and helps you achieve your goals in and outside of sessions. 

Michael Scott is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 14 years experience working in the mental health field. He has a passion for supporting families and children and is especially sensitive to the unique challenges of a military career. He has significant experience in and a passion for supporting military families and children in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Michael specializes in providing short-term, solution-focused support for individuals, couples, and families dealing with relationship issues, stress, depression, anxiety, adoption, adjustment and life's many unexpected turns.

Michael completed his master's degree in mental health counseling at Old Dominion University. He utilizes multiple treatment strategies, leaning heavily on a short-term, solution-focused approach to assist people in identifying issues and goals and supporting their work in achieving them.

It is hard to ask for help — harder still when dealing with life's unexpected events. Michael wants to make it easier by listening intently and supporting you in identifying solutions and strategies to overcome, cope with, and adjust to the issues that bring you to counseling.

George Wanke is a Licensed Clinical Social worker with 49 years of experience working with a wide variety of clients, from pre-teens to adults. George specializes in treating individuals who are struggling with mood management, thought distress, and behavioral mental health conditions such as ADHD, conduct disorder, or substance abuse issues.

George received his Master’s in Social Work from the University of Kansas and was a Family Therapy Training Supervisor for the Karl Menninger School of Psychiatry. George has a strong familiarity with cognitive behavioral therapy, as well as DBT, and has taught DBT classes to groups in the past.

George believes that validation is a key component of the therapy process and setting mutually accepted goals is one of his favorite parts of working with clients. By partnering with George, he can help you to process major life transitions, mental health conditions, or interpersonal issues with a growth mindset, sharing his own experience and wisdom to guide your progress within each session.

Danielle Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and couples address their unique challenges and live more fulfilled lives. Danielle specializes in trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and substance misuse.

Danielle completed her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. She utilizes multiple treatment approaches including mindfulness, somatic breathing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy (SFT).

Our trauma impacts us everyday but doesn't have to. Healing is challenging but it is worth the effort. If you're ready to do the work, schedule an appointment with her today.

Ethan Zehr is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 5.5 years of experience in the mental health field. Ethan has worked as a therapeutic mentor, CASA volunteer, crisis stabilization clinician, outpatient clinician, and emergency services clinician in Virginia. He is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and couples address their challenges and increase overall functioning. Ethan specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, men's issues, relationship issues, major life transitions, and building mindfulness/coping skills, etc.

Ethan completed his Bachelor's in Religion at the University of Georgia and his Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Liberty University. Ethan utilizes multiple treatment approaches including person-centered techniques (Rogerian), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and mindfulness.

As overwhelming and unpredictable as life can be, we can all use professional help at times. Ethan meets clients where they are and works to help clients improve their overall functioning. If you are ready, please schedule an appointment with Ethan.