Erica Staton
I am a compassionate and dedicated mental health professional committed to helping adolescents, young adults, and families overcome challenges and create meaningful change in their lives. I specialize in supporting individuals who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, behavioral concerns, family conflict, low motivation, or legal involvement. Many of the clients I serve are navigating difficult life experiences and are searching for healthier ways to cope, communicate, and move forward with confidence. I work best with clients who may feel misunderstood, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to express themselves. My approach is centered on creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients can feel heard and empowered throughout their healing process. I believe in meeting individuals where they are emotionally while helping them build practical skills that can improve their daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being. The impact I strive to have is helping clients recognize their strengths, develop healthier coping strategies, improve emotional regulation, and build a stronger sense of stability and self-worth. Whether supporting youth who are trying to make better choices, families working to rebuild communication, or young adults seeking direction and independence, my goal is to help each client feel more confident, capable, and hopeful about their future.
First session
During the first session, clients can expect a welcoming, supportive, and judgment-free environment where they will have the opportunity to begin sharing their experiences, concerns, and goals at their own pace. The initial session is focused on building rapport, getting to know the client as an individual, and creating a space where they feel comfortable and heard. We will discuss what has brought them to therapy, current challenges they may be facing, important life experiences, family dynamics, emotional or behavioral concerns, and any goals they hope to accomplish through services. Clients are not expected to share everything immediately, and there is no pressure to open up before they are ready. The first session is simply the beginning of building trust and understanding. Clients can also expect to learn more about the therapeutic process, confidentiality, expectations for treatment, and how sessions will be structured moving forward. Together, we will begin identifying strengths, areas of need, and realistic goals that support personal growth, emotional wellness, and overall stability. My goal during the first session is to ensure clients feel respected, supported, and comfortable enough to begin their journey toward healing, growth, and positive change.
Strengths
My greatest strengths include my ability to build genuine connections with clients, create a safe and supportive environment, and meet individuals where they are without judgment. I am patient, compassionate, and understanding, which allows clients to feel comfortable opening up even when they may initially be guarded or hesitant about therapy. I also have strong skills in helping clients identify practical solutions to everyday challenges while encouraging personal growth and accountability. I am especially effective at supporting adolescents, young adults, and families who are struggling with emotional regulation, behavioral concerns, family conflict, stress, or life transitions. My ability to remain calm, empathetic, and consistent helps clients feel supported during difficult moments and motivates them to continue working toward their goals. Another strength is my ability to build trust and rapport with clients and families from diverse backgrounds and experiences. I understand that every individual’s journey is different, and I take a collaborative approach that focuses on each client’s unique strengths, needs, and goals. I strive to empower clients by helping them build confidence, improve coping skills, strengthen communication, and develop healthier patterns that can create lasting positive change in their lives.
Ideal clients
I am best positioned to serve adolescents, young adults, and families who are navigating emotional, behavioral, and life-transition challenges while working toward greater stability and personal growth. Many of my clients are dealing with issues such as anxiety, anger, depression, trauma, low self-esteem, family conflict, behavioral concerns, legal involvement, or difficulty coping with stress. I work especially well with individuals who may initially appear guarded, resistant, or unsure about therapy but benefit from a supportive, patient, and nonjudgmental environment where trust can be developed over time. My ideal clients are often youth and young adults who are struggling with emotional regulation, communication difficulties, strained family relationships, school or employment challenges, or uncertainty about their future. Many are trying to break unhealthy patterns, improve decision-making, and build healthier coping skills while learning how to better manage everyday stressors. I am passionate about helping clients identify their strengths, increase confidence, and create realistic goals that support long-term success and emotional wellness. I also enjoy working with families who are seeking guidance with improving communication, rebuilding trust, and creating healthier dynamics within the home. I understand that many clients come into services feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or disconnected, and I strive to create a space where they feel safe, respected, and empowered throughout the therapeutic process. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and goal-oriented. I focus on meeting clients where they are emotionally while helping them develop practical tools that can be applied in their daily lives. Whether a client’s goals involve improving relationships, managing emotions more effectively, staying on track legally or academically, or building independence and stability, I am committed to supporting them through meaningful and lasting change.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
There are times that we all encounter difficulties throughout our journey that we could use some support to help navigate through life’s difficulties. My goal is to help you identify and use your strengths to support you through these seasons in your life. I believe that how you think is directly connected to how you feel and ultimately behave. I am here to help challenge the way you think to ultimately live a more abundant life.
Location
Virtual sessions
In-person sessions10 San Jose Dr, Newport News, VA 23606, Suite 4B
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Licensed in
- VirginiaLicense 0701013042