Licensed to practice in Louisiana and accepts 9 insurances. Specializes in Trauma and PTSD, Depression, Anxiety and 5 more.
New to Grow
Hello and welcome! My name is Richelle Van Buren-Walls and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been working in the social work field for 16 years and directly as a mental health clinical since 2017. Over the years I have served a diverse range of populations. I began my career as a social worker providing treatment to underserved and at-risk populations in community mental health. My background also includes providing specialized treatment to first responders, veterans and active-duty military members. Life is beautiful but anxiety, stress, depression, and even trauma can make it difficult to live your life the way you want. Exploring your sense of self, finding coping skills, and getting support someone who wants to help can bring you to a sense of peace and self-satisfaction, putting you back in control of your own life. Whether you're new to therapy or you've been on this journey before, it can be nerve-wracking to reach out. I'm here to listen and support you as you find your path.
I understand starting therapy or meeting a new provider can be stressful. Our sessions will be conducted virtually, I encourage all to find a private, quiet space to conduct your sessions to provide you a sense of safety and security to speak openly and freely. Our first session will be used to discuss the expectations of therapy. The remainder of the session will be used to get to understand more about you, your story and your journey that lead you to therapy. We will also discuss your goals and expectations you hope to achieve from our sessions.
I utilize a strengths-based, holistic, and humanistic approach; meaning I value the whole person and the uniqueness of each individual. My approach is grounded in empathy and I aim to provide a safe, supportive, and trusting space for all. My goal is to empower and support you in identifying your strengths, navigating life’s barriers, and collaboratively working together to achieve your goals.
Other specialties
I identify as
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) means bridging clinical social work values with structured, evidence-based practices. You are treating the client holistically while focusing on the interconnectedness of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Acceptance and commitment (ACT)
As an LCSW, you can use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) by focusing on building psychological flexibility rather than trying to eliminate symptoms. You guide clients to change their relationship with painful thoughts and commit to actions that align with their personal values.
Dialectical Behavior (DBT)
As an LCSW, you can use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to help clients balance intense emotional regulation with behavioral change. The core structure involves a "dialectical" approach—accepting the client where they are while pushing for change—and is typically applied through a hierarchy that prioritizes safety, skill acquisition, and quality of life.
Cognitive Processing (CPT)
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a structured, 12-session protocol specifically designed to help trauma survivors reframe unhelpful beliefs. As an LCSW, you can use CPT to target PTSD and trauma-related symptoms by following the standardized manual, completing targeted worksheets, and focusing on five core themes.
EMDR
For an LCSW, using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) involves integrating a structured 8-phase protocol into your practice. It bypasses extensive talking and uses bilateral stimulation (like eye movements or tapping) to help clients naturally reprocess traumatic memories and stored negative beliefs.