I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia with 14 years of experience working with individuals, groups, and families. Certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (C-DBT) and Clinical Anxiety Treatment (CCATP), I also have advanced expertise in EMDR therapy and grief counseling. As a Board-Certified Christian Counselor, I offer faith-based care upon request. With a warm, energetic style infused with humor, I take a holistic, strength-based, and person-centered approach to therapy. I honor each client’s unique background and challenges while using evidence-based methods to foster healing and growth. My goal is to help clients build resilience, confidence, and meaningful change in their lives.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
In your first session, we’ll take time to explore what brings you to therapy and discuss your goals, challenges, and hopes for the process. I’ll ask questions to understand your background, strengths, and any concerns while creating a comfortable, judgment-free space. Together, we’ll begin shaping a personalized plan using evidence-based approaches that fit your needs. Most importantly, this session is about building trust and ensuring you feel heard, supported, and empowered to take the next steps in your journey.
Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.
My greatest strengths as a provider are creating a warm, engaging space and tailoring therapy to each client’s unique needs. I help clients navigate trauma, grief, and emotional challenges with effective, evidence-based strategies. I also offer faith-based counseling for those who wish to integrate their spiritual beliefs into the healing process. My holistic, strength-based approach—infused with energy, humor, and deep compassion—empowers clients to build confidence, resilience, and lasting change.
Describe the client(s) you are best positioned to serve.
I am best positioned to serve motivated adults facing anxiety, trauma, grief, and life transitions. My expertise in, trauma, and anxiety treatment allows me to support individuals struggling with past wounds, emotional dysregulation, and overwhelming stress. I also specialize in working with those seeking faith-based counseling, integrating Christian principles into therapy when desired. Whether navigating loss, building confidence, or developing healthier coping strategies, I provide a supportive and tailored approach to help clients find healing, clarity, and personal growth.
About Dr. Marlene L. Blyden
Serves ages
Licensed in
Appointments
VirtualMy treatment methods
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
In my practice, I integrate Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help clients develop psychological flexibility by accepting difficult emotions while committing to values-driven actions. I guide clients in identifying unhelpful thought patterns, using mindfulness to create distance from them, and fostering self-compassion. Through experiential exercises and between-session practices, I support clients in embracing discomfort as part of growth while taking meaningful steps toward their goals.
Christian Counseling
In my practice, I incorporate Christian counseling by blending psychological principles with biblical wisdom to support clients in their healing journey. I help clients explore their faith as a source of strength, using scripture, prayer, and spiritual reflection to navigate life’s challenges. Through a Christ-centered approach, I encourage grace, forgiveness, and purpose-driven living, aligning therapeutic strategies with their spiritual beliefs. This integration fosters emotional resilience, hope, and a deeper connection to God in the healing process.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
In my practice, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and reframe negative thought patterns that contribute to emotional distress. Through structured exercises, I guide clients in developing healthier thinking habits, improving emotional regulation, and building problem-solving skills. I assign between-session practices, such as thought records and behavioral experiments, to reinforce learning and encourage real-world application. This structured approach empowers clients to break unhelpful cycles and develop lasting, positive change.
Grief Therapy
In my practice, I support clients through grief by providing a compassionate space to process their loss while honoring their unique grieving journey. I use a combination of evidence-based approaches, such as grief counseling, narrative therapy, and mindfulness, to help clients express emotions, find meaning, and adjust to life after loss. Through faith-based or secular perspectives, I guide clients in embracing their memories while moving toward healing and renewed purpose. I also encourage between-session practices, such as journaling or creating rituals of remembrance, to foster ongoing emotional processing and resilience.