WE’RE HIRING!
Come join our team of 2000+ clinicians
FEATURED ARTICLE
A comprehensive guide to starting therapy
Check my copay estimate
Sessions cost $24 on average with insurance
Book my first session
96% of clients feel supported and understood by their therapist
Get expert medication support, tailored to you
Discover how starting trauma therapy can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.
10 therapists available in Richmond
I understand the issues and struggles that many of us face, and I have a gentle but direct approach for those seeking services....
About
I understand the issues and struggles that many of us face, and I have a gentle but direct approach for those seeking services.
Kirstie James is a Supervisee in Social Work with 1 year of experience providing individual counseling to children, adolescents, and adults. She works with children through difficulties centered around behavior and emotional awareness, and with adults seeking grief support, stress management, and help adjusting to life transitions. Kirstie’s goal is to empower individuals to develop autonomy and self-reliance via an environment that provides safety and security. She offers active listening, reflection, and interactive feedback to her clients.
Kirstie received her Master of Social Work from Walden University. She utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy, emotionally focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness techniques. Kirstie makes the therapeutic environment fun for children by incorporating games and offers a calm, relaxed, and open environment for adults.
Kirstie is a warm, vibrant, and understanding therapist willing and eager to assist clients through the triumphs and difficulties of daily life. She will help you break down goals into manageable steps and support you every step of the way. Reach out to Kirstie today!
Education and training
View more therapists in Richmond
My personal experience as a queer and trans individual combined with my professional experience gives me a unique understanding of...
My personal experience as a queer and trans individual combined with my professional experience gives me a unique understanding of the daily stressors in life, as well as the frustration with systems outside of our control.
Kegan Anderson is a Supervisee in Social Work with 1 year of experience. His background is primarily working with children, adolescents, and parents using attachment-based, trauma-informed, and family therapy modalities in settings such as inpatient psychiatric units and intensive-in-home services. Now, Kegan is looking to expand his experience to work with adults and adolescents who experience depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, relationship challenges, and parenting challenges. Kegan would also like to work with the LGBTQ+ population to assist with barriers or challenges this population faces.
Kagan received his Master’s from Virginia Commonwealth University. He uses dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-informed practices, attachment-based practices, and motivational interviewing to help you discover your needs and how you would best like them met.
Kegan understands how beneficial the therapist-client relationship can be in reaching goals and discussing vulnerable topics. Together, you will identify strengths and address barriers to change while embracing passion and joy. Kegan knows that therapy is a unique experience for everyone, and looks forward to helping you create a life worth living.
I am committed to providing an empathic, warm, and judgment-free space where you can feel understood and empowered....
I am committed to providing an empathic, warm, and judgment-free space where you can feel understood and empowered.
Alex Johnson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of experience. She works with clients 18+, and specializes in anxiety disorders, depression, self-esteem issues, and ADHD management.
Alex has her Master's in Social Work from the University of Michigan. She holds a child welfare certificate from Michigan State University and has experience in crisis intervention, foster care systems, and trauma-informed care.
Alex believes therapy should be collaborative and rooted in trust. She creates a warm, judgment-free space and focuses on building strong therapeutic relationships as the foundation for meaningful change.
I am committed to offering a compassionate and nurturing space where clients feel safe to explore their feelings, heal from their ...
I am committed to offering a compassionate and nurturing space where clients feel safe to explore their feelings, heal from their past, and grow into the most authentic version of themselves
Nicole King is a Supervisee in Social Work with 1 year of experience working with women and individuals who experience sexual abuse, human trafficking, domestic violence, postpartum depression, and childhood trauma. She specializes in depression, anxiety, life transitions, post-traumatic stress, and complex stress. Nicole also has experience working with the geriatric population and is committed to empowering her clients by helping them recognize the inner strength that has carried them through difficult times. She encourages them to harness this resilience, fostering a sense of agency and control as they navigate their challenges.
Nicole received her Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California. She uses clinical approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, culturally sensitive therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, and Christian counseling.
Nicole encourages anyone needing help to schedule an appointment. Together, you will create a safe space for exploration and growth, empowering you to reclaim agency over your life.
"For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers." –Proverbs 11:14...
"For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers." –Proverbs 11:14
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.
As a survivor of many different life experiences, I am able to work with clients and understand the challenges that life can often...
As a survivor of many different life experiences, I am able to work with clients and understand the challenges that life can often bring them.
Stephanie Tingler is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 7 years of experience in the counseling field. She is extremely passionate about walking alongside clients and providing the support and tools to help them reach their personal goals and live the life they desire.
Stephanie completed her Master's degree in Professional Counseling at Liberty University. She has experienced many different mental health challenges and knows what it’s like to work through them and experience true happiness through hardship. She utilizes a variety of therapy methods including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), attachment-based therapy (ABT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).
Stephanie wants to help you take the first step to healing and living your best life. She looks forward to helping you gain new insight about who you are and help you learn ways to use new tools to reach your goals and grow in your own strength. If you’re ready to begin your journey schedule an appointment with her today.
My purpose is to support and guide you on your counseling journey and help you achieve your mental health goals....
My purpose is to support and guide you on your counseling journey and help you achieve your mental health goals.
Lyn Ames is a Resident in Counseling with 2 years of experience. She specializes in helping children, adolescents, and adults navigate challenges related to depression, anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, anger, relationship issues, parenting challenges, life transitions, behavioral problems, and mood disorders. Lyn has served clients in in-home therapeutic services, outpatient therapy, and family therapy. She views life's challenges as part of the human experiences that allow individuals to grow.
Lyn earned her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University. She uses a holistic, personalized approach that utilizes various clinical techniques, from cognitive behavior therapy to dialectical behavior therapy and person-centered techniques.
Lyn’s counseling style is characterized by collaboration, empathy, respect, and cultural sensitivity within an inclusive space for clients to share their emotions and experiences. She strives to ensure that individuals feel valued and understood. Lyn is dedicated to helping her clients find hope and healing life's journey. Schedule an appointment today!
It is my honor to listen and guide you as you embark on your journey of self-discovery, change, and gaining new skills and perspec...
It is my honor to listen and guide you as you embark on your journey of self-discovery, change, and gaining new skills and perspectives to thrive in your life.
Megan Essex is a Licensed Resident in Counseling with 2 years of experience. She specializes in helping individuals navigate life transitions, anxiety, depression, grief, stress, and trauma. Megan has worked in a psychiatric treatment facility as well as outpatient settings and blends her education, life, and professional experience to aid clients in easing emotional pain and gaining perspective. She is passionate about helping others address their unique challenges and explore the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
Megan completed her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Regent University. She utilizes multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and person-centered therapy.
Megan is committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, respected, and supported. She will meet you where you are and build a strong therapeutic relationship to help you grow. It takes courage and humility to ask for help, and Megan is here when you are ready.
As a Black Christian woman, I understand the challenges of breaking through cognitive barriers to embrace your worth and feel empo...
As a Black Christian woman, I understand the challenges of breaking through cognitive barriers to embrace your worth and feel empowered to create the life you deserve.
Shakarla Brown is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 7 years of experience. She works with young adults and adults to manage issues like depression, anxiety, ADHD, stress, life transitions, emotional dysregulation, and self-esteem. Shakarla focuses on improving clients' self-worth by challenging negative core beliefs and collaboratively understanding how other contributing factors impact their behaviors and intrapersonal relationships. She emphasizes that the progress made outside sessions is just as vital as the work done during them, empowering clients to take control of their healing journey.
Sharkla received her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health from Regent University. She uses treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, internal family systems, reality therapy, motivational interviewing, and Christian counseling.
Shakarla believes in celebrating daily victories as important steps toward achieving larger life goals. Seeking therapy can be tough but also the start of a transformative journey worth the time and effort. Shakarla looks forward to meeting you and helping you reach your treatment goals.
As a woman who has overcome multiple life challenges, I want to assist you with resiliency. I'm going to meet you wherever you are...
As a woman who has overcome multiple life challenges, I want to assist you with resiliency. I'm going to meet you wherever you are currently and help you thrive
Tammy Simms is a supervisor in Social Work who has worked in the mental health field for 10+ years, working with children as young as age 5 and adults up to age 99. She enjoys working in the mental health field assisting individuals in managing life issues including grief, anxiety, depression, anger, PTSD, and trauma.
Tammy completed her Master of Social Work at Our Lady of The Lake University. She is a widow and has experienced loss, and she understands the struggles of moving forward toward resilience. Tammy utilized various treatment approaches including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, and family system therapy.
We all come from different walks of life and may have similar, yet different, challenges or struggles. Tammy is confident she can support you by meeting you where you are currently in your journey, and help you move forward toward growth. If you are ready to take this journey, please schedule an appointment with her today!
You deserve dedicated time with a mental health professional — it can be life-changing.
Not ready to book? Contact me
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.
No membership fees or subscriptions
Evening and weekend sessions
Award-winning therapy & psychiatry
What support are you seeking?
You acknowledge that by submitting this form, you are providing what may be considered “sensitive data” and consent to Thriveworks Privacy Policy & Terms. By submitting this information, you consent to receive communication from Thriveworks about our services via automatic calls, artificial or pre-recorded messages, or texts at the phone number provided, or by email at the address provided. You have the option to opt out of communications.
We will contact you with availability updates based on the preferences you provided for up to six months.
My go-to approach for helping people in PTSD/trauma therapy is to ensure client safety, make sure that I foster a relationship built on trust, provide education for my clients on what they can expect, and make sure that I'm constantly assessing for safety and that we are progressing at a pace that is safely within their boundaries. I find the best benefit in this approach because it significantly decreases any chance of re-traumatization of the client and also helps restore trust and autonomy to the client; things that are often lost in trauma survivors. I find that clients are more successful in treatment when they are with a provider that they can trust and who they know will not “surprise” them.
I teach the following tools in PTSD/trauma therapy:
I know a client is making meaningful progress in PTSD/trauma therapy when they are demonstrating more willingness to face their stressors/triggers and are utilizing coping and distress tolerance skills with more regularity and with less clinician prompting. I also know when clients are making progress when they are reporting a significant decrease in the frequency and intensity of symptoms that are causing daily distress and disruption to their schedules and routines. Clients are continuing to make progress when they are visibly more comfortable identifying and healthily processing experienced emotions and have regularly incorporated healthy coping and emotion regulation skills into their daily routines and engage in them with minimal clinician prompting. I also look for increases in self-esteem and self-confidence as well as self-efficacy.
Clients can supplement their time in PTSD/trauma therapy by making sure that they are engaging in activities that are nourishing and are not isolating themselves. PTSD/trauma support groups are a great supplement to PTSD/trauma counseling as well as regularly engaging within your social support system. Making sure you're regularly engaging in your hobbies and other value-congruent behaviors can also significantly contribute to progress made in therapy.
To prepare for their first PTSD/trauma therapy session, someone can make sure that they are sleeping and eating well and also have time before and after sessions to decompress, as processing PTSD/trauma can be emotionally intense. Also, take time to identify and explore your personal boundaries, areas of your trauma, and any symptoms that you might not feel ready or able to discuss yet. This will help you identify treatment goals as well as any boundaries you might have for 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.
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 Richmond therapists will also help clients learn healthy coping mechanisms to deal with their symptoms outside of therapy.
Thriveworks trauma counseling in Richmond, VA is conducted both in person and online through online therapy. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.
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 Richmond, VA will continue to provide care for as long as necessary to help clients meet their therapeutic needs.
Are you a victim of physical or mental abuse? Have you survived a natural disaster like a hurricane or a fire? Did you get bullied as a child or teen? These experiences are all considered traumatic, and they can have long-term or lasting effects on your life. Trauma is debilitating and is accompanied by harmful symptoms that make day to day activities challenging.
If you answered yes to any of the above questions or have experienced another form of trauma, it is important that you get the help and support that you need. Consider working with a trauma therapist or PTSD therapist at Thriveworks Richmond, VA (Shockoe Bottom). These professionals specialize in helping victims of trauma, as they come equipped with knowledge, skills, and experience in working with people who have experienced trauma. Give us a call today at (804) 980-7242 to schedule a trauma therapy appointment.
Trauma is a distressing event or experience, such as physical assault, mental abuse, a natural disaster, bullying, and the loss of a loved one. Victims of trauma struggle to function normally on a day to day basis—for example, they cannot focus at work or feel paranoid about their relationships—and suffer with other harmful symptoms. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is diagnosed when an individual presents a given set up symptoms for a month or longer after their trauma. The primary PTSD symptoms include:
In addition, victims of trauma might feel detached from life, exhibit a reduced interest in the things and people they love, engage in reckless behavior, and experience feelings of guilt, fear, or anger. These symptoms can vary between individuals.
Trauma and PTSD therapy are designed to help victims of trauma process their experience and work through the psychological harm it has caused them. Their ultimate mission is to help their clients move forward with their life and function normally again.
As with the symptoms of trauma, treatment for trauma can vary too. This mostly depends on the specific individual’s needs. That being said, there are several common approaches to trauma and PTSD therapy, including:
If you’ve experienced trauma, remember: It is vital that you process the event and all of the emotions that accompany it. You don’t have to do this alone. A trauma therapist at Thriveworks Richmond, VA (Shockoe Bottom) can help.
The trauma and PTSD therapists and psychologists at Thriveworks Richmond, VA (Shockoe Bottom) want to help victims of trauma to process the event, feel their emotions, and heal. If you have experienced a traumatic event, consider working with one of our trauma therapists and give us a call today at (804) 980-7242 to schedule an appointment. We offer evening and weekend sessions, and we accept most major insurances.
Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy
Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management
Shown in ET
Call us to book
Our team is happy to help you schedule your first session.
Book online
Find the right provider for you. Book your session online yourself in just a few easy steps.