Genevieve Thomas
Genevieve Thomas
My name is Genevieve (Gen) Thomas, LCSW-C. Starting therapy can feel difficult, confusing, or even uncomfortable — but it can also be the first step toward greater health, balance, and emotional freedom. Through secure telehealth sessions, you can begin this journey from the comfort and privacy of your own home. For over 21 years, I’ve helped individuals and couples successfully navigate the counseling process by identifying and shifting the unconscious beliefs that can hold us back from emotional well-being and healthy relationships. I believe in treating the whole person — emotionally, physically, and spiritually (if you choose) — and integrate this holistic perspective into our work together. My approach blends cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness and relaxation practices, trauma-informed care, and grief therapy strategies. Whether you’re managing anxiety, working through trauma or loss, or seeking deeper connection in your relationships, our work will be guided by your goals and your pace. Therapy is a collaborative process, and you are the expert of your own life. Together, we’ll clarify your vision for healing and growth, and create a clear path toward meaningful change — so you can begin to feel the difference in your day-to-day life. My areas of special interest and certification include trauma-informed therapy, complex grief and bereavement, anxiety disorders, veterans’ mental health, and telehealth services. I am licensed to provide care in Idaho, Maryland, and Virginia. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.
Get to know me
In our first session together, here's what you can expect
Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and I want you to feel as comfortable and informed as possible from the very beginning. In our first session together, we’ll start by reviewing the informed consent form and discussing your rights and responsibilities as a client — including confidentiality, boundaries, and what to expect from the therapy process. From there, we’ll talk about what brought you to therapy and what you’re hoping to get out of this experience. You’ll have space to share your story at your own pace, and I’ll ask thoughtful questions to help us begin understanding your needs and goals. Toward the end of our session, we’ll discuss what the path forward might look like — including how often we might meet and what approaches may be helpful. Most clients leave the first session with some initial "homework" — simple reflection or practical tools to begin the work between sessions. My goal is for you to leave our first meeting feeling heard, supported, and hopeful about the process ahead.
The biggest strengths that I bring into our sessions
What sets my approach apart is my deep understanding of how early experiences — especially childhood trauma or loss — can quietly shape the way we see ourselves and relate to the world, even years later. I work with adults who, on the surface, may appear successful and accomplished, yet carry an underlying sense of emptiness or a persistent belief that they’re “not quite good enough.” Many of my clients struggle with anxiety in its many forms — whether it's the pressure to be perfect, difficulty setting boundaries, or feeling overwhelmed in social situations. My style is compassionate, collaborative, and insight-oriented. I create a safe space to explore the roots of these struggles while also equipping clients with practical tools to find relief in the present. Together, we work to uncover and shift the beliefs and patterns that no longer serve you — so you can experience greater peace, self-acceptance, and fulfillment in your life.
The clients I'm best positioned to serve
I’m best positioned to help individuals and couples who are ready to explore what’s beneath the surface — those who may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected, and want to understand the deeper patterns affecting their thoughts, emotions, and relationships. Many of my clients come to therapy navigating the impact of trauma, anxiety, grief, or life transitions, and are seeking meaningful, lasting change. You might be someone who is: Struggling with anxiety or mood swings that feel hard to control Grieving a significant loss or trying to adjust after a life-changing event Coping with the effects of past trauma or complex life experiences Feeling disconnected in your relationships or overwhelmed by conflict A military service member, veteran, or family member facing unique stressors Curious about personal growth and looking for a safe space to reflect and heal Whether you're just starting out in therapy or returning to the process with new insight, I’ll meet you with compassion, respect, and a collaborative spirit. If you’re ready to do the inner work, I’m here to support you — at your pace — toward greater clarity, confidence, and emotional freedom.
About Genevieve Thomas
I identify as
Serves ages
Appointments
VirtualMy treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
For over 21 years, I’ve used Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients manage anxiety and mood disorders. CBT offers a structured, evidence-based approach to understanding how trauma can shape our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. My work integrates tools like psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, exposure therapy, and the development of practical coping skills — all grounded in a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship. I believe healing happens when clients feel safe and supported, so I pace treatment carefully, honor each person’s unique experiences, and always let clients take the lead when it comes to exploring difficult or traumatic memories.
Polyvagal Therapy
When working with trauma, I often draw from polyvagal theory to help clients better understand and regulate their nervous system. This approach focuses on activating the "social engagement system" — linked to the ventral vagus nerve — to foster a sense of safety, connection, and calm. By intentionally supporting this state, we can reduce the likelihood of triggering the body's fight-or-flight (sympathetic) or freeze (dorsal vagal) responses, which are often linked to trauma or chronic stress. When it comes to processing traumatic memories, I take a gentle, gradual approach. I guide clients through exposure work at a pace that feels safe and manageable, always ensuring they feel supported, grounded, and in control of the process.
Cognitive Processing (CPT)
I also incorporate Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) within a trauma-informed care framework. This means taking a client-centered, compassionate approach that helps individuals explore and challenge negative beliefs tied to their trauma. Through education, gentle exploration, and collaboration, we work together to understand how trauma has affected thoughts and emotions, and to develop healthier, more empowering ways of coping. Above all, I respect each client’s readiness and sensitivity — ensuring that the pace of therapy feels safe, supportive, and never overwhelming.