Therapists in Virginia

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C), with many years of experiences, providing high-quality, personalized therapy for individuals seeking meaningful and lasting change. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, psychosis, substance use, relationship challenges, and personal growth. My approach is collaborative, insight-driven, and results-oriented—designed for clients who are ready to better understand themselves, break unhelpful patterns, and build a more grounded, fulfilling life.

Hi, I’m Anneka. I am a licensed therapist with a warm, down to earth style who believes in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion without stigmatizing labels. My practice focuses on helping individuals navigate anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, relationship difficulties, major life transitions, people pleasing, and self-worth challenges by increasing self-awareness, utilizing CBT and EFT techniques, and offering PREPARE-certified pre marital counseling.

Hello! I am Dr. Paula or Dr. Robinson. I am a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Florida and Licensed Professional Counselor via telehealth for clients in Arizona, Virginia, and Washington (state). I am a Black woman of faith who is also a veteran of the United States Army Reserves. I work with women, ages 18-64, living with mental health challenges who have experienced trauma from the general community as well as those who are active military and veterans, first responders, and law enforcement. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches to include Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, Christian Counseling, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Reality Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and more to empower clients to build resilience, develop and understanding of what they can do to cope effectively as they navigate this healing journey and achieve a sense of self-confidence and self-esteem. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can feel seen and heard, as well as unlock their potential and achieve positive change and growth.

Stephanie Green is a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC and LCMHC. She has an eclectic broad range of experience from Criminal Justice, Geriatric Care, Residential Treatment, Clinical Mental Health and Substance Abuse Therapy for over 18+ years. She has a Graduate Degree (Master’s) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Undergraduate Degree (Bachelor’s) in Criminal Justice both from Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA. She believes in Holistic Healing as the Trinity (Mind, Body, & Soul) are unified. You should find working with Stephanie as a genuine, non-judgmental, and at ease experience. Stephanie understands the need of flexibility is essential as what works for one individual may not necessary work for another. Stephanie's goal is to meet and accomplish YOUR goal(s), build self-autonomy, develop confidence, and to work as a team as you both collaborate on how you can get to living the life you desire and deserve. We all live in and ever changing world that have shifts, turns, hills, valleys, ups and downs. And, I am here to be an empowered support/source and assist you on your healing journey. I speak not from a textbook perspective but from experience as I countine to be a vessel serving people all over the world.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience providing mental health services to youth and adults. I am committed to promoting equitable access to quality mental health care. My areas of specialization include depression, anxiety, relationships, stress management, and aging issues. While I frequently utilize a solution-focused approach, I tailor each session to meet the unique needs of every client.

I believe therapy should feel like a conversation where you can be your authentic self - without judgement . I bring over 10 years of experience in the mental health field and use a person-centered, strength-based approach to help clients feel heard, supported, and empowered. I believe you are the expert in your own life, and my role is to walk alongside you as you work toward meaningful change. I work best with clients who ae ready to explore, grow, and actively participate in their healing. My goal is to create a safe, comfortable space where WE can work together at your pace while building on the strengths you already have.

Are you seeking to make life changes and fulfill a positive beginning? My mission is to empower and guide individuals through life transitions. My dedication to counseling is creating a supportive therapeutic environment for individuals to express their thoughts and feelings in addition to establishing a collaborative therapeutic relationship. My commitment to understanding and addressing the diverse needs of individuals reflects the compassion that I have for mental health and the emotional well-being of others. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I have a background in treating depression, anxiety, complex trauma and substance abuse. I focus on supporting individuals when life’s challenges begin to interfere with their daily lives.

Hello! My name is Douglas (Doug) Starliper and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW-C) licensed to practice psychotherapy in both Maryland and Virginia! Before becoming a licensed therapist, I spent a career as a Paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division where I deployed four times. The struggles many Veterans are facing today are what galvanized my interest and desire to begin my 2nd career as a therapist. I utilized my GI bill to complete my undergraduate degree at McDaniel College in Westminster, MD and my graduate degree at University of Maryland Baltimore. I recently completed the supervised portion of my career and am currently fully licensed to practice independently as a LCSW-C.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience providing therapy and case management in both outpatient and community-based settings. My approach integrates evidence-based and trauma-informed practices, including CBT, TF-CBT, and attachment-based therapy, to help clients build resilience, self-awareness, and healthier relationships. I speak both English and Amharic and value the importance of diversity, cultural humility, and representation in the therapeutic process. I strive to create a supportive, inclusive, and culturally responsive space where individuals and families can heal, grow, and connect with their strengths.

Greetings! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Virginia. I received my MS in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University. Although I recently became an LPC in 2025, I was formally trained and have worked as a Functional Family Therapy Counselor and Qualified Mental Health Counselor (for Adults and Children) since 2017. I also hold a Master of Education in Special Education and have worked for over 15 years as a Special Educator and Administrator. Since 2022, I have been an outpatient therapy clinician, working with clients from diverse backgrounds, ages, and mental health needs.

Welcome — this can be a safe space for you. With a background in education and current experience as a high school counselor, I understand the challenges individuals and families can face through different stages of life. I strive to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel comfortable being themselves, processing difficult emotions, and building healthy coping skills. Whether you are navigating anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationship concerns, or the pressures of academics and sports, my goal is to help you feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout the counseling process.

I am Kaneka Hall, a licensed clinical social worker. I have over 13 years of experience in various settings and various populations including military/veteran, children, adults as well as the geriatric population in community and hospital settings including long-term care/nursing homes. I specialized in disorders such as anxiety, depression and ADHD as well as situational challenges such as family conflict, relationship and peer challenges, life transitions, and religious and cultural challenges.

If you're ready to do the work, I'm ready to help you get unstuck. I'm Caitlin, a licensed clinical social worker in Virginia with three years of experience supporting clients ages 9 and up. I specialize in life transitions, stress, anxiety, and mild to moderate depression. My clients are ready and eager to make changes, and they're not afraid to put in the hard work. I meet them exactly where they are, and I'd love to connect.

Welcome… my name is Ife Michelle Milligan. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, as well as a Certified Holistic Life Coach. I graduated from Columbia University School of Social Work in 1996. In my 30 years of providing services and therapy for clients, I have enjoyed the opportunities to witness growth and transformation. I believe in the power of change. It has been and continues to be an honor to hold space for others, while they overcome challenges and improve their lives. ••• “ I will not rescue you, for you are not powerless. I will not fix you, for you are not broken. I will not heal you, for I see you in your wholeness. I will walk with you through the darkness as you remember your light.” Sheree Bliss Tisley ••• I look forward to supporting you on your journey of healing.

My name is Kate and I am Licensed Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania and Delaware. I have been in the counseling field for over ten years treating multiple different disorders through different modalities. I believe that every person is a unique individual therefore not every approach will work with everyone. I approach therapy through a nonjudgmental way of being. I meet you where you are and together we discuss ways to cope with difficult situations in life. Life can be difficult and therapy not only helps to manage any struggles but also an opportunity for you to become the best version of yourself you can be.

I firmly believe that every interaction we have in life has an impact on all parties involved, regardless of how insignificant the encounter may seem. Even if the client and I agree or disagree about us being a good fit, we are both changed. We might not notice the change at first, but it's there. I try to bring my 100% to every session, and I hope my clients do the same with the understanding that our 100% changes every day due to life situations. I do share personal experiences with clients if it is appropriate to do so and I feel it would benefit the client. I am a mom of three young children and a wife, so I understand how life can get busy and overwhelming at times. I love to call these times our Life's Storms. We are just getting through the day(s) even if it just barely. By clients choosing to try to continue on even at the hardest points in the Life's Storms, they are braving Life's Storms. This doesn't mean that there aren't times when clients will have thoughts of wanting to just pause life, or run away and start over because that is normal, and coming to counseling to seek help is brave and hard in and of itself.

Hello. I'm Joseph. Do you feel so anxious it is hard to leave the house in the morning? Do you feel so depressed and sad that it is hard to get out of bed in the morning? Anxiety and depression are common. You are not alone in feeling this way. I help people who struggle to deal with the stresses of life. Working together, we can identify what causes your depression and anxiety and work to find solutions which will make life easier for you. It is all about finding balance. My experience allows me to help you deal with your stress, relationship issues, anxiety, trauma, or depression. Some people worry about what others will think if they seek out therapy. You are not alone. Many people deal with the same kind of things you deal with. Therapy is a place where many people come to heal and grow. It is a safe place where you can talk about whatever is on your mind and know that everything is confidential. Through compassion, empathy, and evidence-based techniques, we will find solutions for your problems and worries. Look forward to working with you!

It's inspiring to see people thrive, especially when life presents challenges. Navigating tough times can feel overwhelming, and with the current global unrest, it's natural to question your path and place in the world. Coping with these pressures, whether they stem from emotional distress, anxiety, employment or relationship issues, or even trauma, is incredibly difficult. I'm here to help. Let's work together to transform your life experiences into a source of purpose and strength.

I am licensed in Virginia and Massachusetts as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.

Hi there, I'm Kwame! Licensed professional counselor in the state of Virginia. I have 9 years of experience in treating anxiety, trauma, and depression. Whether you are dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship challenges and/or simply feeling stuck. Seeking therapy can be anxiety-provoking I seek to create a safe space. Lastly, together we will develop goals, evidence-based techniques in effort to assist in overcoming any barriers!

Welcome! Seeking therapy can be intimidating, but you're making the right decision. Having personally navigated the challenges of mental health stigma, I'm acutely attuned to the diverse cultural backgrounds that shape individuals' experiences. This insight fuels my passion for breaking down barriers and fostering a safe, inclusive environment for everyone. I firmly believe that a strong therapeutic alliance is built upon feeling comfortable and understood, and I am dedicated to being that source of support for my clients. I'm committed to guiding you toward a more meaningful life, harnessing the incredible power of resilience and personal growth.

Do you feel at times your distressing emotions are a non-stop express train in that it seems impossible to stop the train? Are there times you feel overwhelmed by your negative thoughts? Is it a challenge for you to manage your emotions? As an LMHC, I help individuals develop healthy ways to cope with stress, regulate their emotions, and learn to identify/change unhelpful thought patterns that negatively influence their behavior and emotions.

My name is Angela and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I believe in finding the strengths in everyone. I have a lot of life experience that I bring with me, so making a connection and building rapport is usually pretty easy. I have no judgment and I am open to all kinds of situations that people are experiencing. I use person centered, mindfulness, and goal oriented therapy. I want to help you, make your life the best life that it can be. I have experience working with all types of populations. I enjoy working with all types of people. Anxiety, depression, ADHD, gender identity, career issues, personality disorders, and even those at risk of thoughts of harm to self or others. I have worked with them all. My goal is to help you identify your strenghts and skills so that you can use them to improve the quality of your life. This is your journey and I am just here to help quide you on your journey to happiness.

Hi! I am a licensed counselor in Florida and Georgia. I have been working as a counselor for 14 years, with a private practice for the past 9 years. I went to the University of North Florida for undergraduate and graduate school. I have worked with many populations including men and women, high achievers, professionals, veterans, who have dealt with anxiety, depression, life transitions, family and career issues, etc.

I’m Dr. Richard Davis, a Licensed Professional Counselor who believes healing begins with being heard, understood, and respected. My approach combines clinical expertise, compassion, and real-life perspective to help individuals navigate emotional challenges, rediscover their strengths, and create meaningful, lasting change while building confidence, resilience, self-awareness, and hope for the future.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida and Virginia with experience in child welfare, medical social work, family counseling, military life, couple/relationship therapy, and individual counseling. I have have experience working with various issues and age groups. I have had specific training to work with grief/loss, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, military life, and behavioral concerns with children. My approach is a strength based approach with goal setting and work in between sessions to help make progress with identified challenges, issues, and needs.

Therapy, to me, is about real human connection. It is about creating a space where you can show up as yourself without feeling judged, analyzed, or pressured to have everything figured out. You do not have to come into therapy with the perfect words or even know exactly what you want to work on. Sometimes the first step is simply having a place where you can slow things down, be honest about what is going on, and begin making sense of it. My approach is collaborative, down-to-earth, and built around curiosity. I want therapy to feel like something we are doing together, not something being done to you. We will look at the experiences, relationships, beliefs, habits, and patterns that have shaped your life while also paying attention to the strengths and resilience that have helped you get this far. My goal is to help you understand yourself more clearly, develop healthier ways of navigating challenges, and create changes that actually feel realistic/meaningful for your life. I work with individuals, couples, families, and teens dealing with a wide range of concerns, including relationship difficulties, anxiety, stress, trauma, life transitions, identity, confidence, communication, family dynamics, and personal growth. I also enjoy working with people who may not feel like they are in crisis but simply want to better understand themselves, strengthen relationships, or figure out what they want their next chapter to look like. I want my clients to feel seen, respected, and comfortable enough to be real. I strive to create an inclusive and affirming environment for people of all backgrounds, cultures, identities, sexual orientations, relationship structures, and life experiences. My role is not to tell you who to be. It is to help you better understand who you are, what matters to you, and how to move forward.

Hello!!! I'm a Christian Psychotherapist, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Miami, Florida. I received my Masters from the Florida International University in 2002 and have been practicing for 6 years. I assist young adults struggling with life choices, couples with relationship issues, family unit to function correctly, single parent with parenting skills all with biblically values. Individuals that suffer from anxiety, depression, or low motivation for the things that create a rich and meaningful life.

Alejandro is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who earned his Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins University. More importantly, he brings a warm, grounded, and genuinely human presence into the therapy room. Clients often describe him as approachable, easy to talk to, and deeply attentive. Alejandro believes that meaningful change occurs in a space where you feel both safe and understood while also being gently challenged. He meets you where you are, without judgment, and helps you explore patterns, emotions, and experiences with curiosity and compassion. Whether you are navigating stress, experiencing life transitions, or facing deeper emotional struggles, Alejandro is committed to walking alongside you at your pace. He aims to support you in building clarity, confidence, and a stronger connection with yourself.

Hello, I’m a licensed therapist with over a decade of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families. I work with adults and teens navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and acute crisis. A significant focus of my practice is relationship and family dynamics. Whether you are partners working through communication breakdowns, recurring conflict, and intimacy issues, or a family balancing generational differences and evolving expectations, I provide a grounded space to untangle these patterns. I am an Asian Indian male therapist and regularly work with clients from a wide range of diverse backgrounds. My approach is collaborative and tailored to what you need. You set the goals, agenda, and pace of our work together, ensuring therapy feels safe, relevant, and aligned with your life.

Greetings to you and all With a wish for good health and peace in your life. My name is Sherby John. I have been working and learning along this journey, we call life, just as you have. It can be a journey filled with joy and struggle. Have you reached a point where it seems there is more struggle than joy or feel stuck in the muck that seems to only get deeper or harder to transgress? Then maybe it is time to find new paths and options by having a guide on this journey. Therapy can be a vehicle for change and development of workable tools to assist in continuing with this journey. Whether you are dealing with Depression, Life changes, Anxiety, Relationships, Trauma, or a new medical or mental health diagnosis, therapy can be a useful mechanism for support, discernment, and information. I would like to provide you with a safe and welcoming environment and space to relieve yourself of these stressors through working on alternatives to current reactions to triggers or stressors in the way of continuing your journey, your way and at your own pace. Come in. Lets Talk. Lets get to work.

I utilize a positive theoretical orientation which assumes that all individuals possess an innate desire for well-balanced emotional/mental health. I believe a person enters therapy with a strong wish, whether conscious or unconscious, to overcome obstacles and free themselves from constraints that are holding them back. I find that everyone needs a slightly different approach to accomplish these goals, so I adjust in technique for each specific challenge. I truly enjoy the experience of guiding my clients through this process and consider it a privilege to play such an important role in a person's life. “Crying does not indicate that you are weak. Since birth, it has always been a sign that you are alive.” ― Charlotte Brontë, Jane Eyre

Amy is a dynamic and experienced practitioner with over 30 years experience. She works with diverse populations age 18 and beyond, and has specialized training in addressing grief and loss, trauma and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), dissociation, personality difficulties, chronic illness and parenting struggles. She is well-versed in addressing anxiety, depression, adjustment and life change issues, and is LGBTQ affirming.

I am a solution-focused and cognitive behavioral therapist, focusing on problem-solving and cognitive reframing. My goal is to empower my patients. My other specialties in working with patients, include training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness techniques, meditation, relaxation, bibliotherapy, music therapy, spiritual counseling, and many more eclectic techniques. Treatment plans are developed with flexibility and care towards a patient’s individual needs and expectations for therapeutic services.

I am Teri, a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and licensed substance abuse treatment practitioner (LSATP) with extensive experience in behavioral health, having worked in the field since 2018. My dedication lies in supporting individuals who are navigating mental health challenges and substance use disorders. I believe in the power of education, helping my clients understand how their behaviors and past experiences shape their present circumstances and future potential. I am now accepting clients in the State of Florida and Tennessee. My approach to therapy is rooted in empowerment. I work collaboratively with my clients to uncover the how, when, what, and why of their struggles, so they can better understand the underlying causes of their issues. By addressing these root causes, I believe individuals can begin to break the cycle of unhealthy behaviors and make meaningful changes in their lives. If you are struggling with emotional or behavioral challenges, I am here to help you gain clarity, learn new coping strategies, and create a path toward lasting change. Together, we can work toward understanding and healing so you can live a more fulfilling life.

Hi! My name is Auria and I am an LCSW licensed in NC, PA, VA, SC, and NJ. I have been in the field of social work for over 15+ years. I currently work in a hospital and jail setting. Both of these roles require me to provide support to patients and their families (where appropriate). Private practice is one of my passions, and I enjoy learning about people’s journey's! Let’s explore together!

I am Tawanna Pollock, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping adolescents, adults, and families improve their emotional well-being. My practice provides a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients can process life challenges, develop healthy coping skills, and achieve meaningful personal growth. I use evidence-based approaches, including CBT, motivational interviewing, trauma-informed care, while incorporating faith-based support when desired.

I began my journey as a therapist while I was Active Duty military and I saw firsthand how trauma was so prominent whether from childhood and/or combat related. With the different treatment options available, I feel that I have an opportunity to help in the healing journey for anyone seeking therapy. I have been licensed for 7 years and have experience treating individuals who have experienced trauma through work, childhood, or adulthood. I offer daytime availability to individuals who may work evenings, professionals, caregivers, or students.

My name is Lydia Peters, and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker . I've worked in many different settings with different populations of people. I possess a vast amount of experience with the elderly along with individuals living with developmental disability, traumatic brain injury (TBI), mental illness, chemically addiction, homelessness, individual’s accused of sexual offense or sexually deviant behaviors , adults admitted to acute medicine & Veterans. I currently only offer Individual therapy services to adults 18 years old and up. A healthy therapeutic alliance brings forth a different perspective & additional support. Let's work together towards your success.

Hi, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor working with clients in Virginia. I earned my Master's degree from Bowie State University and my Doctorate at George Washington University. I have been practicing for over 10 years. I help adults find their existing strengths and help develop a map to work towards their goals. I have worked in multiple settings which has helped me become a compassionate and attentive listener who intuitively identifies strengths, thoughtfully analyzes challenges, and supports others in finding meaningful, strengths-based solutions.

Welcome! I’m Christien Harden. Finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. I’m here to provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you can work through life’s challenges at your own pace. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, or identity-related concerns, my goal is to help you find clarity, healing, and balance in a way that feels right for you.

I received my bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Montclair State University and my master of social work from New York University. I have been practicing therapy for over 13 years and an additional three years in other realms of the helping profession. I have experience in a residential setting as well as various counseling centers & a private group practice. I spent numerous years working with trauma, as well as school-based health centers. I have specialized experience working with depression, anxiety, stress, relational and family conflict, and abuse.

As an Army Brat and Marine wife, I understand the unique challenges faced by military families. I'm also a mother of three young men, spending my weekends cheering them on at swim meets. Fully licensed in Georgia, Virginia and New Jersey, I offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space where you can share your experiences and work towards your personal growth. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to well-being.

Dr. James Morris is a licensed Clinical Psychologist in the states of Virginia and Louisiana. He is also a prescribing Medical Psychologist in Louisiana. Dr. Morris completed doctoral training in clinical psychology and neuroscience at the University of Wyoming, following completion of his undergraduate and master’s degrees in his home state of Connecticut. Dr. Morris completed specialty training in adult and developmental neuropsychology, and has extensive experience in those areas, as well as in forensic psychology and mental health administration. Dr. Morris was formerly Director of the Division of Forensic Services for the Virginia Dept. of Behavioral Health and Developmental services. He has also served as a Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry with the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. Dr. Morris has been providing clinical services for adults, children and adolescents for more than 30 years. In addition to his more recent role as a prescriber of psychotropic medications, Dr. Morris currently focuses his practice on individual and family counseling. Dr. Morris routinely conducts psychological and neuropsychological evaluations with his patients and provides forensic evaluation and consultation services in various legal matters for the Virginia courts. Dr. Morris and his family reside in Richmond, Virginia. He has been a volunteer service provider for a local healthcare program for indigent persons and has supported the state’s disability rights program as a member of its finance committee. Dr. Morris has also served as an officer of the Virginia Psychological Association and RxP Committee chair with the Virginia Academy of Clinical Psychologists. Dr. Morris is also a member of the American Psychological Association and the Louisiana Academy of Medical Psychologists

I am Nelva, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently living and providing services in Northern Virginia. Raised in Washington, DC, where I completed my studies, including my Masters in Social Work at Howard University. I understand the importance and courage of seeking professional help when there’s such a stigma associated with mental health. I believe in utilizing evidence-based practices to help individuals cope with mental health challenges in a meaningful way.

I am a Licensed Clinician Social Worker in the State of Virginia with over 3 decades of experience working with adults in a variety of settings. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Counseling and specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, and anger. I can also address the needs that patients may have who are struggling with a family member dealing with addiction to alcohol or drug use. My focus is on providing my clients an opportunity to develop healthy coping skills that allow them to become empowered to manage their own emotions and feelings and work on a recovery plan that allows them to move on successfully from painful or challenging emotions or experiences. I practice in a part time capacity and sessions are provided Sunday-Thursday 7p-9p and Fridays 4p-6p. I only provide teletherapy based therapy and this allows me to provide therapy in to patients who may be located in any area of the state of Virginia. I enjoy the telehealth platform and the flexibility it allows for me to help a wide variety of patients. I currently am located near Harrisonburg VA.

Hello - My name is Fidela E. Hinojosa, and I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish), Trauma-Focused, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas. I was born and raised in the Lower Rio Grande Valley next to the US/Mexico border and 22 minutes away from South Padre Island. I earned my first master’s degree in Education from the University of Texas which facilitated working in the public education system with a specialization in Autism, ADHD, Addictions, Grief, trauma, behavioral and anger management including children in juvenile justice for 35 years. Subsequently earning a second master’s degree in Social Work with a concentration in practice with Hispanic children and families from Our Lady of the Lake University which facilitated working with unaccompanied minors from Central America (Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, etc.) with specialized experience in complex trauma, complex PTSD, physical/sexual/emotional abuse, pregnancy, sex, and labor trafficking along with maladaptive behaviors (substance use, suicide ideations, self-harm, body dysphoria, and eating disorders) for the past 9 years. I have clinical experience working within the individual, group, and family structures, adults, veterans, couples and children ages 5-17.

Hello, I'm Mary Jo - I have extensive knowledge and skills in both outpatient mental health and school clinical practices, wellness interventions and programs, implementing mental wellness professional development and have provided training both locally and nationally regarding evidence-based practices in schools. I supervised clinicians in outpatient substance abuse for a hospital treatment program and was a supervisor for clinicians for Employee Assistance Programs. Most recently, I have been an administrator within a large school division supporting 187 school social workers, supervisors and several managers. I have received clinical training in DBT, solution-focused and CBT clinical modalities and I work with older children, adolescents, and families in my private practice. I am passionate about supporting individuals and families' mental health and wellness by assisting adolescents and families with finding solutions to improve their relationships, and moods and find more happiness in their lives. I specialize in supporting adolescents to find solutions for the next steps toward college and career success and manage their strong emotions such as anxiety, sadness and anger to have healthier relationships with their peers, teachers and within their families. In our counseling sessions we will focus on finding your goals for a more holistic health, better relationships and solutions for having peace and happiness in your life.

I am a graduate of Virginia Union University with a Bachelors degree in Criminal Justice and I later went on to receive my Master's degree in Social Work with a concentration in Mental Health from Howard University. Throughout my studies, my practicum experience consisted of working with the Maryland Truancy Court Reduction Program and Outpatient Behavioral Health Services at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. I received post-graduate, intensive training at the Immigration Evaluation Training Center in the area of extreme hardship waivers, domestic violence (VAWA) & asylum immigration evaluations in Virginia and Washington, DC. Thereafter, I later went on to work in a variety of settings that have afforded me the opportunity to diversify my work and skill set with different populations and individual needs. This includes addiction, foster care & adoption, community support and residential treatment. My experience has afforded me the opportunity to learn from and support individuals who struggle with everyday life stressors, those that are impacted by mild, moderate, severe and chronic mental illness. My background includes adolescents, young adults, adults, and geriatrics who are struggling with mental health challenges. In 2017 I began working in leadership at Gateway Homes, Inc. where I gained expertise with serving individuals with serious and persistent mental illness. My practice opened in 2020 and I continue to provide direct services to individuals in the community who are struggling with different social, emotional and behavioral issues that are causing discomfort.

When life feels heavy, confusing, or harder to manage than it used to, having the right support can make all the difference. I began working in the mental health field 20 years ago after earning my undergraduate degree from Averett University, and later returned to school to earn my Master’s in Counseling from Old Dominion University. Over the course of my career, I have worked with a wide range of individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, psychosis, crisis situations, and chronic stress. Many of the people I support come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, stuck in survival mode, or unsure how to move forward. My goal is to provide a steady, compassionate space where you can feel understood, build coping skills, and begin working toward greater clarity, stability, and emotional well-being.