http://Thriveworks%20wins%20Yahoo!%20award%20for%20best%20online%20therapy%20services%20two%20years%20in%20a%20row.

686,000 people sought help with Thriveworks in the last year

Discover how starting trauma therapy can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.

Meet with a therapist as soon as this week

109  therapists available in  Norfolk

Lynchburg

I can't fix your problems, but I can help you develop the tools you need to find a solution that works for you....

Read more
Newport News

As a military spouse and mother of 3 teenagers and young adults, I bring a deep, personal understanding of life transitions and th...

Read more
Chesterfield

As a black, African American woman, I understand the pressures of anxiety and the hopelessness of grief, depression, and trauma th...

Read more
Lynchburg

As a wife and a mom, I bring empathy, insight, and dedication to guiding individuals and families toward healing and growth....

Read more
McLean

As a woman who understands the struggles of anxiety, depression, and trauma, I can help in managing the symptoms of these concerns...

Read more
Lynchburg

As a working wife and mother of two adult children, I understand the struggles that life can bring....

Read more
Blacksburg

I believe that the greatest struggle in life is the battle within yourself and that the trials and tribulations you go through can...

Read more
Alexandria

With over 30 years of counseling experience, I look forward to assisting you in working through your issues to achieve positive ou...

Read more
Virginia Beach

Hi there! I want you to know that you are not alone in whatever you are facing....

Read more
Richmond

I am committed to offering a compassionate and nurturing space where clients feel safe to explore their feelings, heal from their ...

Read more
Lynchburg

Having 15 years of experience working in the field, I understand the need for others to improve the ability to cope and improve th...

Read more
Lynchburg

I enjoy forming open and empathetic relationships with my clients and walking with them through their path to healing and actualiz...

Read more
Richmond

I collaborate with my clients to promote healing in a safe and affirming space....

Read more
Midlothian

If you are looking for a 'Gifted Therapist' I have many skills to help you....

Read more
Reston

Making the decision to seek therapy is not an easy one. You are not alone and I'd love to be the support you are seeking to improv...

Read more
Lynchburg

Megan is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia who has 10 years of experience in working with youth, adolesce...

Read more
Williamsburg

I understand the intersectionality of age, gender, race, religion, and the various cultural differences that make up our very dive...

Read more
Blacksburg

I value honesty, inclusivity, and kindness. I believe the foundation of a successful therapeutic relationship requires empathy, un...

Read more
Fredericksburg

As a mother of 4 and a partner of a veteran, I understand the complexity of issues that can interfere with maintaining one's menta...

Read more
Blacksburg

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia with experience in a variety of mental health settings....

Read more
Henrico

Wendy Wasserstrom is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 9 years of social work experience. She has provided mental hea...

Read more
Chesapeake

As a PMHNP, I love helping people thrive in the present and heal from the past....

Read more
Lynchburg

As an individual actively engaged in an ever-changing world, I understand how difficult putting one foot in front of the other som...

Read more
Lynchburg

Life comes with struggles — at times we all need a safe place to be heard in order to understand how best to navigate emotions and...

Read more
Blacksburg

As a queer and trans-identified therapist, I know how vital it is to have someone who truly gets it and I'm here to offer a compas...

Read more
Roanoke

I'm a therapist in rural southwest Virginia known for my ability to establish strong connections with clients, especially children...

Read more
Lynchburg

As a recent counseling graduate passionate about mental health, I understand the challenges of navigating life transitions and fin...

Read more
Blacksburg

I understand how overwhelming life can be from personal experiences, so together we can navigate your journey....

Read more
Roanoke

Psychotherapy isn’t a twentieth-century artifice imposed on nature, but the reinstatement of a natural healing process....

Read more
Richmond

I understand the issues and struggles that many of us face, and I have a gentle but direct approach for those seeking services....

Read more
Lynchburg

I’m passionate about helping others tap into their inner strength and find healing....

Read more
Roanoke

As an eclectic therapist, I understand that not one approach works for everyone, and I will help find a style that works for you....

Read more
Richmond

My personal experience as a queer and trans individual combined with my professional experience gives me a unique understanding of...

Read more
Chesapeake

I believe working as a partner with my clients to address their concerns and include them in decision-making enhances outcomes for...

Read more
Roanoke

I help children and teens and their families sort out issues and overcome challenges that arise from the effects of trauma on brai...

Read more
Richmond

I will work to develop a space that allows clients to feel safe and secure to achieve their therapeutic goals....

Read more
Richmond

"For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers." –Proverbs 11:14...

Read more
Virginia Beach

I am passionate about aiding those in difficult situations to focus on their strengths and build on them....

Read more
Roanoke

Nytasia Dockery, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, is a mental health professional with over 6 years of professional experience hel...

Read more
Roanoke

As a Christian Therapist, I understand the importance of a holistic approach that includes mental, physical, and spiritual health....

Read more
Newport News

I believe you are the expert on your story, and our collaborative partnership will find effective ways to improve your quality of ...

Read more
Lynchburg

As an adult child of alcoholic parents, with over two decades of sobriety, I understand the insanity and struggle of addiction....

Read more
Virginia Beach

As a multi-ethnic black woman and a veteran of the U.S. Navy, I understand various perspectives from racial issues, trauma, sexual...

Read more
Roanoke

I strongly believe that every individual is different and has different needs in counseling and since the counselor/client relatio...

Read more
Chesapeake

As a black woman with many roles and responsibilities in my own life, I understand how to help meet your personal needs and accomp...

Read more
Midlothian

I believe self-understanding and empathy breeds healing and growth, and I'll walk alongside my clients through this journey of sel...

Read more
Charlottesville

I look forward to meeting you and assisting with your needs!...

Read more
Reston

As a survivor of domestic violence, cancer, and family members in active addiction, I understand the importance of having a safe s...

Read more
Chesterfield

As a Licensed Clinician with over 15 years experience working with children, adolescents, and families, I understand the unique ch...

Read more
Newport News

As a military spouse, mother, and first-generation college-educated individual, I understand what it is like to face unique challe...

Read more
Newport News

I look forward to cultivating and maintaining an inviting and supportive relationship with you in order to assist with fostering p...

Read more
Alexandria

As a therapist, it is my hope to work alongside my clients to discover practical solutions to life's problems....

Read more
Woodbridge

Whether you've consulted a behavioral health specialist before or this is your first time seeking care, my aim is to create an env...

Read more
Richmond

Life is full of different seasons – some are joyful, while others can feel more challenging. No matter where you are on your journ...

Read more
Newport News

Believe you are not defined by what happened to you. Let's heal and grow together....

Read more
Fredericksburg

Life can present with unique challenges and unplanned events. Individuals may want a competent and caring person to talk about the...

Read more
Virginia Beach

Therapy is a journey, not a destination. It is about learning and growing, and it is a process that never ends....

Read more
Richmond

As someone who has experienced the impact of mental health challenges, I provide a unique perspective, level of understanding, and...

Read more
Alexandria

I believe life is not without struggles and it is important that we have the necessary support and skills to help better navigate ...

Read more
McLean

Elizabeth (Liz) Malin is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 7 years of experience in treating adults, teens, and fa...

Read more
Alexandria

As a human being, it's hard to navigate the ups and downs of life alone. I can understand how difficult this can be....

Read more
Chesterfield

By providing a person-centered, strengths-based, holistic therapeutic experience, I hope to help you make positive, long-lasting c...

Read more
Virginia Beach

As a surviving victim of trauma and child of a violent broken home, I understand the growing stress and emotions children have now...

Read more
Newport News

I am a strong advocate of empowering my clients to be the best version of who they are in order to succeed and go far physically a...

Read more
Richmond

As a woman of color from a multi-ethnic background, I understand the importance of addressing one's mental health and finding heal...

Read more
Alexandria

There is hope in every situation and when there is no open door you can always find a window....

Read more
Charlottesville

Having been on the other side of the screen myself, wondering if I could truly open up to someone, I understand that this work req...

Read more
Blacksburg

As a young woman living in rural Appalachia, I understand the impact that social and cultural norms can have on our self-explorati...

Read more
Chesapeake

As a compassionate counselor, I understand the unique impacts of trauma and grief and the daily challenges they can leave you expe...

Read more
Arlington

First as an Occupational Therapist and then as a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have had the privilege to walk alongside clien...

Read more
Midlothian

Life and healing aren't always linear. As a human being first, and a therapist second, I offer a safe, compassionate, non-judgment...

Read more
Newport News

I am committed to providing a positive, empowering, and safe place that allows you to express and explore your thoughts and feelin...

Read more
Richmond

As a Black Christian woman, I understand the challenges of breaking through cognitive barriers to embrace your worth and feel empo...

Read more
Midlothian

I know therapy can be intimidating, but I will walk this journey of personal growth with you at your own pace and on your own time...

Read more
Lynchburg

I am looking forward to meeting with you to assist you in the healing process....

Read more
Chesapeake

As an African-American women, I understand the challenges of balancing family issues, career, and racial inequalities....

Read more
Richmond

My purpose is to support and guide you on your counseling journey and help you achieve your mental health goals....

Read more
Fredericksburg

I believe that when we feel comfortable enough to be vulnerable, treatment possibilities are endless....

Read more
Virginia Beach

Through mutual trust, respect and transparency, I find working collaboratively with clients lends to more meaningful connections a...

Read more
Midlothian

As a Latina woman, wife, and mother of 5, I understand the vast array of challenges that come with juggling different roles and re...

Read more
Chesterfield

As a neurodiverse woman from the mountains of Appalachia, I approach each new challenge with curiosity, humility, and humor....

Read more
Lynchburg

My goal as a counselor is to support my clients in developing practical skills to apply in their day-to-day lives so they can auth...

Read more
Williamsburg

I like to focus on the unique needs, strengths, and goals of each client I meet in order to get to know them as an individual....

Read more
Alexandria

I have many years of experience which makes me confident in my ability to help you achieve your goals and improve your life....

Read more
Virginia Beach

I am passionate about supporting individuals in their journey towards improved mental health and well-being....

Read more
Arlington

I believe the relationship between therapist and client is the key to progress, and I will be with you every step of the way as yo...

Read more
Chesapeake

Hi! I’m a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and I’m truly honored to support you on your m...

Read more
Lynchburg

As an experienced therapist, I will work to provide a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable environment for clients to achieve their th...

Read more
Richmond

Paula O’Leary is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has worked in the mental health field for 15 years in a variety of ...

Read more
Richmond

As a mother, wife, daughter, and college student, I have come to terms with the fact that all individuals are unique in their expe...

Read more
Woodbridge

As a woman of integrity, I understand the person-centered approach to be a way of respecting and placing people at the center of s...

Read more
Woodbridge

I understand that our society can view mental health negatively, but my goal is to redesign mental health care and make it assessa...

Read more
Midlothian

I believe that people can reach their goals when given the appropriate compassion, resources, and guidance....

Read more
Chesapeake

When "all the things" seem to cloud the way forward, help me help you make it make sense!...

Read more
Alexandria

Jessica Lee is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 3 years of experience working with children, adults, and familie...

Read more
Woodbridge

By practicing integrative psychiatry to treat the whole person, not just the symptoms, I want you to feel comfortable, welcomed, s...

Read more
Reston

Will Kapfer is a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in the Commonwealth of Virginia who has 4-plus years of experience wor...

Read more
Lynchburg

As a therapist, I consider it a great honor and responsibility to listen and share in the thoughts, feelings, and life experiences...

Read more
Midlothian

After 27 years, I have learned that everyone needs help. It can be difficult to ask for help, but I am here when you are ready....

Read more
Henrico

Patricia "Tricia" McCarty is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys helping people work through life transitions, addiction...

Read more
Chesterfield

Hello, I'm Shelby Pearce, a compassionate ally on your journey dedicated to providing a safe and understanding space where, togeth...

Read more
Woodbridge

As a blue-collar middle-aged native of Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia, I can relate to the cultural, vocational, famil...

Read more
Richmond

For over ten years, Johanna has supported clients with a wide range of needs. She has worked with individuals whohave diagnoses su...

Read more
Alexandria

Bridget U. Famogun is a compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. She holds a Master of Science degree as a Mental Health Nurs...

Read more
Alexandria

I am curious to listen to assess factors that contribute to the diagnosis, to establish priorities, discuss treatments, and provid...

Read more
Alexandria

Josephine Dakin- Davis is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHMP) in the of state Virginia. With ov...

Read more
Alexandria

“Feeling better often takes more than medicine alone. My approach is holistic, collaborative, and down-to-earth while sharing my c...

Read more
Midlothian

You matter. Your problems matter. Whatever you're dealing with, let's face it together....

Read more
Alexandria

As a woman who has treated patients in multiple specialties from all walks of life, I understand the unique yet common goal of eve...

Read more

Look for a confirmation email in your inbox shortly. We'll help find you a provider and guide you through everything you should know about starting care at Thriveworks.

Sue McCray

Hear from Sue McCray, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

View Sue McCray's profile

What is your go-to approach for PTSD/trauma therapy?

My go-to approach for helping people with PTSD/trauma therapy is to use a trauma-focused CBT approach. I feel it is important to have a gentle approach to PTSD because of the sensitivity involved with trauma. I allow my clients to guide how intensive the therapy sessions are with mindfulness around the touchiness of the subjects discussed.

What tools do you teach in PTSD/trauma therapy?

I teach the following tools in PTSD/ trauma therapy:

  • Mindfulness
  • Emotional regulation
  • Grounding
  • Coping skills
  • Relaxation techniques

How do you know when a client is making meaningful progress in PTSD/trauma therapy?

I know a client is making meaningful progress in PTSD/trauma therapy when the client has a decrease in symptoms via their self-report, a noticeable increase in functioning, and the ability to discuss trauma subjects with a decreased negative emotional response.

What can clients do in their personal time to supplement PTSD/trauma therapy?

Clients can supplement with time in PTSD/trauma therapy by:

  • Journaling
  • Reading “The Body Keeps the Score”
  • Spending time relaxing in nature
  • Practicing mindfulness
  • Working through a PTSD workbook

What should someone do to prepare for starting PTSD/trauma therapy?

To prepare for their first PTSD/trauma therapy session, someone can write down what they would like me to know about the experiences that have impacted them and what my clients have done thus far to cope with the trauma.

Starting Trauma therapy in Norfolk

What is trauma therapy?

Trauma therapy is a therapeutic approach that focuses on treating the psychological impact of traumatic events on individuals. Trauma therapy helps people process and heal from their trauma by guiding them through their trauma in a compassionate and supportive way, allowing clients to feel the full scope of what happened to them and eventually move on from the event(s). This process helps people who have experienced trauma find ways to feel safe in their lives.

How does trauma therapy work?

Trauma therapy will often require individuals to walk through their experiences in a controlled and compassionate setting (unless the client has a dissociative disorder) so that they can fully process the event, an activity that will allow them to move on from what happened and feel safe again. Thriveworks Norfolk therapists will also help clients learn healthy coping mechanisms to deal with their symptoms outside of therapy.

Is trauma therapy conducted in person or online?

Thriveworks trauma counseling in Norfolk, VA is conducted both in person and online through online therapy. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.

How long does trauma therapy last?

If an individual is working through a single event that occurred during adulthood, they may only need a few months of treatment. However, in instances of childhood trauma or repeated traumatic events, therapy may continue over the course of years. Trauma therapy usually ends when the client believes they have met their therapeutic goals, however long that takes to occur. Thriveworks therapists in Norfolk, VA will continue to provide care for as long as necessary to help clients meet their therapeutic needs.

Need more help deciding?

Trauma Therapy in Norfolk, VA — Trauma Therapists and PTSD Counselors

An abusive relationship is just an example of what a traumatic experience is. Maddie’s experience shows just some of the ways in which an abusive relationship can affect you during and after you’ve broken up. Trauma is associated with an event or experience that causes someone severe psychological distress. Like in Maddie’s case, it can also leave you struggling to move on.

If you are a victim and survivor of trauma, consider working with a trauma therapist at Thriveworks Norfolk Counseling. We have therapists, counselors, and psychologists who specialize in helping people heal from their traumatic experiences. We want to help you get back to a healthy, happy, and more successful version of yourself. If you are ready to get started, just give us a call.

What to Expect in Trauma Therapy

Trauma therapy is designed to create a safe and open place for clients to talk with their therapist, counselor, or psychologist. The process is often difficult because you will be sharing your thoughts and emotions associated with the traumatic event in your life. Trauma therapists and PTSD therapists have the same goal in mind: They want to help you heal and/or gain closure from your trauma.

Your Thriveworks Norfolk Counseling trauma therapist will guide you in opening up about your trauma, processing it, exploring your emotions, and coping with symptoms. Some common symptoms associated with trauma and PTSD include:

  • Flashback
  • Sleep disturbances such as insomnia, hypersomnia, and nightmares
  • Self-destruction
  • Hypervigilance
  • Emotional detachment
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Hostility
  • Mood swings
  • Irritability

The emotions you have may develop quickly or slowly. It all depends on your unique situation and the experience you had. Regardless, your therapist will work with you to process these difficult emotions safely and as slowly as you need. Let us help you navigate this journey.

How Can a Trauma Therapist or Psychologist Help Me?

As we just mentioned, we understand that every person’s situation is unique. That’s why your therapist will help you make important progress in healing from your past experiences and move forward at a pace that feels right to you. In addition, your therapist will help you:

  1. Identify your trauma and understand the psychology of trauma
  2. Open up and express your feelings related to your experience
  3. Better manage your symptoms associated with your trauma or PTSD
  4. Learn new tools and skills for coping and controlling your moods
  5. Feel happy and excited about life once again

In order to achieve these goals, your therapist may use a variety of different methods and techniques. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the more common methods used to help people in their healing journey. It allows the person to correct any harmful thought patterns and process their feelings related to the incident. Specific strategies such as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and prolonged exposure are just a few examples.

Get Started with a Trauma Therapist at Thriveworks Norfolk, VA

Trauma, regardless of the specific event, makes living your normal life very difficult. Don’t wait any longer to press play on the life you want. Let us help you start enjoying life again.

To get started, give us a call at (757) 317-4315 and a scheduling specialist will set you up with an appointment that fits your schedule. You can also schedule your appointment online through our booking portal. We offer our clients evening and weekend sessions in addition to our normal daytime hours. Also, we have online counseling available because we understand that sometimes it’s hard to find the time to get into a session.

We look forward to hearing from you soon and starting this journey of healing together.

Pricing & insurance

Our therapists accept most major insurances. We accept 585+ insurance plans, and offer self-pay options, too.
Learn more about pricing for therapy and counseling services at Thriveworks.

Our therapists and counselors in Norfolk accept 25 insurance plans

  • Aetna

  • Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Virginia Medicare Advantage

  • Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Virginia | BCBS HMO

  • Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Virginia | BCBS PPO

  • Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Virginia | Exchange

  • CareFirst Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Virginia | BCBS HMO

  • CareFirst Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Virginia | BCBS PPO

  • Carelon

  • Carelon | Medicare Advantage

  • Cigna | Evernorth

  • Cigna | Evernorth Medicare Advantage

  • Compsych

Show more
Self-pay costs at Norfolk
Talk therapy

Talk therapy

Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Talk therapy

Psychiatry

Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Hear from our clients

5.0 Learn about verified reviews
★★★★★
Sue is so kind and accommodating. Couldn't recommend her more. The thrive works system is easy to use and helpful.
Perry Mar 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
I love the professional location, atmosphere, and I enjoy each session being able to talk and work on goals
Emma Mar 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
Joseph is great, compassionate and a great listener. Thanks for everything you do.
Angel Mar 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
This was all new to me and so far it's been helpful and I'm enjoying it
Brian Mar 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
Sarah has been an amazing help and beacon of calm providing me with the tools I need . I'm ever so grateful. For her
Yulia Mar 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review

Where to find us

Getting here

Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Norfolk is located on Hampton Blvd, near the intersection with Redgate Avenue and the Midtown Tunnel. The building is nestled between the Elizabeth River and the historic Ghent residential district, just down the street from Sentara Norfolk General Hospital.

Phone number

(757) 280-4736

Languages spoken by VA providers

  • English
Thursday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Friday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Saturday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Monday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 9:00pm

Shown in ET

Thursday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Friday 12:01am - 11:59pm
Saturday 8:00am - 6:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 6:00pm
Monday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Tuesday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 9:30pm

Shown in ET

4 photos